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Dr. Connor Edson is an instructor and associate of engineering at Guilford Technical Community College. He recently earned his doctorate in mechanical engineering from the University of Minnesota, where his research focused on modeling, control, and optimization of autonomous off-highway vehicles for improved energy efficiency. He has published multiple peer-reviewed articles on vehicle dynamics and optimization, taught undergraduate engineering courses, and brings experience collaborating with industry and multidisciplinary research teams.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What do you believe are the key advantages and limitations of pursuing an associate degree in engineering?
Dr. Edson: A major advantage of an associate’s in engineering (AE) program is that community colleges are generally cheaper than four-year colleges and universities, both in terms of tuition and typical housing costs. Financial aid remains available to students pursuing an AE degree. The AE curriculum is (generally) equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree, with courses that are broadly standard across different schools.
In North Carolina in particular, all community colleges and state schools with engineering programs have a state-led standardization of those courses to ensure the content and education is equivalent and course credit transfers easily (I’m less familiar with other state’s systems). Another advantage is that it is more flexible. Many students attend part-time while working, filling in classes as it suits their schedule. This is especially helpful for non-traditional students who are older, still in high school, or simply unable to sacrifice income to attend school full-time. Class sizes are also often smaller than those at state schools, since there are simply fewer students enrolled. This allows instructors like me to dedicate more time to each student individually and support their learning.
However, one limitation is missing out on some of “the college experience” of a four-year institution. There are also fewer opportunities to get involved in research as a student in an associate’s program.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What advice would you give to students considering an associate degree in engineering as either a terminal credential or a transfer pathway to a four-year institution?
Dr. Edson: Students should consider the cost of their degree and how they plan to use it. They should be careful with the difference between an engineering program and an engineering technician/technology program.
Importantly, an AE program is not a good option as a terminal degree. Getting a job as an engineer typically requires a four-year bachelor’s degree in an engineering program. It is a great option as a transfer pathway, both to save money on the overall cost of the degree and to develop academic abilities without the more stringent admissions barriers at four-year programs.
They can then go on to get a job as an engineer with less need for student loans while pulling an engineer’s salary and getting engineering jobs. They’ll learn more conceptual and analytical skills for problem solving and design, plus apply them with hands-on labs and projects.
An engineering technology program is different. These are often terminal credentials that can be done in two years. They directly qualify students for jobs. Those jobs are not the same as the jobs that four-year engineering graduates get. These programs are more focused on developing particular hands-on skills, like machining, physically troubleshooting electronics, working with automation technology, land surveying, etc. They also require less math.
Overall, AE programs are great for transferring to a four-year institution and cut down on overall education costs with more flexibility. Engineering technology programs are better as a terminal credential leading to a job. The student’s choice depends on what kind of job they want and how much time and money they can dedicate to their education. To be “an engineer,” they’ll ultimately need that bachelor’s degree, which a transfer program can help with.
Aerospace engineers must understand math, physics, materials science, and aerodynamics. This engineering field is concerned with designing and building machines that fly within the Earth’s atmosphere (aeronautical engineering) and outside the Earth’s atmosphere (astronautical engineering).
Midlands Technical College offers an online associate degree in applied science in engineering fundamentals with a concentration in aerospace engineering. Designed for students who wish to transfer to four-year engineering programs, this pathway presents basic aerospace engineering courses and covers the process principles, fundamentals of engineering, and theory of mechanical systems. Graduates of this program will be well prepared for more advanced study in aerospace engineering at the bachelor’s degree level.
Made up of 72 credits, the program includes courses such as introduction to engineering, engineering statics, introduction to engineering mechanics of solids, engineering dynamics, and engineering thermodynamics fundamentals.
Although the work of architectural engineers involves working with architects, they are strictly referred to as engineers. Architecture is an engineering discipline that deals with the technological aspects and multi-disciplinary approach to planning, designing, operation, and construction of buildings, such as analysis and integrated design of environmental systems.
Hudson Valley Community College
The Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing Department at Hudson Valley Community College’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math offers an associate in applied science degree in architectural technology preparing students to explore innovative technologies and ideas that impact the society and environment. Graduates of this program will be qualified for employment in architectural planning and design firms as well as for positions in engineering firms, architectural preservation, construction companies, surveying firms, and development corporations.
This 64-credit program includes courses such as architectural forum, architectural fundamentals of design, history, theory, and criticism in architecture and design, construction materials, global history of architecture, digital constructs and visualization, statics and strength of materials, architectural media, and structural steel design.
A branch of vehicle engineering, automotive engineering is concerned with the manufacturing and designing motorcycles, trucks, and cars. Interdisciplinary in nature, this engineering field requires professionals to understand a wide range of engineering elements such as software, mechanical, safety, and electrical.
Seminole State College of Florida
Seminole State College of Florida offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in Automotive Engineering Technology that has been recognized as the No. 1 automotive educational program in the U.S. Combining the latest automotive technology education, strong academic coursework, and relevant industry internships, this associate degree gears students up for successful careers in the automotive industry.
This 68-credit program includes courses such as applied concepts in automotive electronics, introduction to vehicle systems and minor service, engine diagnosis and repair, steering and suspension systems, brake systems, anti-lock brakes, and traction control systems, chassis electronics, driveability diagnosis, engine control systems, and alternative fuel and propulsion systems.
Combining the disciplines of biological science, engineering, and medicine, biomedical engineering is the engine behind advances in the equipment, systems, software, technology, and devices that enable improved diagnosis and treatment in healthcare. Biomedical engineers must understand physics, math, biology, chemistry, computer science, and physiology concepts.
Miami Dade College offers an associate of science degree in biomedical engineering technology preparing students for employment as biomedical engineering technicians and in related occupations in health-related fields. Assembly, operations maintenance, installation, troubleshooting, calibration, elementary design, and repairing of medical systems are taught using an integrated, applied, and theoretical approach.
Comprising 60 credits, the program includes courses such as applied pneumatics and hydraulics, theatre appreciation, digital circuits, direct current circuits, alternating current circuits, electronics, programmable logic controllers, and trigonometry, among others.
Applying the principles of chemistry to problem-solving, chemical engineering is a discipline that examines the design, building, and function of machines or plants that perform chemical reactions. Chemical engineers must have a high-level understanding of math, physics, chemistry, and in some circumstances, biology, and economics.
Atlantic International University
Atlantic International University offers an online associate of chemical engineering program that does not require all students to use the same books, take the same subjects/courses, or learn the same materials. Instead, this program’s curriculum is designed individually by the student and academic advisor. It specifically addresses weaknesses and strengths with respect to market opportunities in the student’s major and intended field of work.
The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to chemical engineering thermodynamics, chemical process modeling, chemical engineering design, differential equations, thermodynamics and kinetics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, transport processes, unit operations of chemical engineering, and polymer science.
Civil engineering involves the construction, design, maintenance, and operation of physical infrastructure, such as bridges, dams, energy systems, and roads. It requires proficiency in physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, fluid dynamics, mechanisms, and systems.
New England Institute of Technology
New England Institute of Technology offers a civil engineering technology associate degree program, preparing students to become an integral part of an engineering and construction team.
Emphasizing the practical application of engineering principles and construction technology, this program allows students to concentrate on civil engineering fundamentals such as construction documents, computer-aided drafting geared for the civil engineering industry, construction materials, construction estimating, surveying principles for land measurement, soil mechanics, and structural analysis and design. Additionally, students in this program will also conduct field and laboratory testing on civil engineering materials and use computer applications to solve technical problems.
The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to computer-aided design for civil engineering, construction fundamentals and materials, transportation design, civil documents and design, environmental & sustainable design, estimating for heavy construction, materials testing & quality control, surveying & civil technology, building science, and safety in construction.
Computer engineering lies at the nexus of computer science and electronics engineering. Using knowledge of microcontrollers, microprocessors, programming, supercomputers, circuit analysis, and more, computer engineering is the foundation for the design of computer software and hardware.
University of Arkansas Grantham
The University of Arkansas Grantham offers an online associate of science program in electronics and computer engineering technology that emphasizes hands-on experience, the enhancement of critical and creative thinking skills, and effective written, verbal, and visual communication.
The completion of this program establishes a foundation for further study, as it satisfies the first two years of the bachelor of science in electronics engineering technology and the bachelor of science in computer engineering technology degree programs.
Made up of 60 credits, this online program includes courses such as engineering and ethics, electronics, fundamental properties of DC circuits, fundamental properties of AC circuits, and programming essentials.
Computer science is the study and development of algorithms for the storage, processing, manipulation, analysis, and communication of information.
Southern New Hampshire University
With an online associate of science in computer science program from Southern New Hampshire University, graduates will be well prepared to become software analysts, designers, or developers. By learning applied programming skills using Java, C++, and Python, and using design and testing tools such as Netbeans and Eclipse, graduates will have the knowledge needed to support all aspects of the software development life cycle.
Focused on applied and experiential learning, along with courses that highlight the development and design of computer software, this program enables students to work on real-world problems while building a digital portfolio. After graduation, their portfolio can serve as a way to showcase the technical skills they’ve acquired to potential employers.
This 60-credit program includes courses such as fundamentals of programming, programming languages, object-oriented programming, data structures and algorithms, introduction to structured database environments, operating systems, the software development lifecycle, software testing, automation, quality assurance, and foundation in application development.
Construction Management is considered a specialized field within engineering that focuses on overseeing the execution, completion, and planning of construction projects, combining project management principles with technical engineering knowledge to ensure projects are delivered within budget, on time, and with the required quality standards.
National American University offers an online construction management associate degree program, helping students build the skills and knowledge needed to manage key aspects of residential and commercial construction projects effectively. This program is also an excellent foundation for those who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in construction management.
Made up of 90 credits, the program includes courses such as introduction to construction management, construction materials and methods, construction documents and graphics, building codes and inspection, construction estimating, construction planning and scheduling, and construction safety.
Cybersecurity is concerned with protecting interconnected systems from digital attacks through strategies that involve the strengthening and defense of online and digital entities.
American Military University offers an online associate of science program in cybersecurity that enables graduates to obtain a specialized skill set, serve a critical need, gain exposure to how cybersecurity is applied across industries, and learn by doing through hands-on experiences.
Graduates may use this credential as an entry point into the cybersecurity industry or transition to the university’s bachelor of science in cybersecurity program. Graduates can also use course credits to jump straight into junior-year coursework toward a bachelor of science.
Comprising 60 credits, the program includes courses such as intermediate computer systems, networking concepts, hardening operating systems, red and blue team security, cryptography concepts, law, privacy, and digital data, and statistics.
Data science involves extracting meaning from large quantities of data. Data scientists analyze structured and unstructured data sets using algorithms, processes, and scientific methods.
St. Petersburg College offers an online data science associate in science degree preparing students for a career in data science. Students in this program will learn techniques for cleansing, analyzing, and manipulating large data sets. This degree provides students with an advanced statistical skill set for true data analysis. This associate degree in data science transfers to the college’s bachelor of applied science degree in technology development and management.
This 60-credit program includes courses such as introduction to computer programming, spreadsheet techniques and programming, data visualization techniques, introduction to business intelligence, data modeling and logical design, introduction to data mining, elementary statistics, data analysis & statistical modeling, and introduction to data science using Python.
Electrical engineering is concerned with applying and studying electricity in small-scale systems, large-scale systems, energy transmission, information processing, and more. Electrical engineers must have advanced physics, mathematics, electromagnetism, and electronics knowledge.
Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University offers an online associate of science degree in electrical technology, providing students with the highly sought-after knowledge they need for a career in the electrical industry. Designed for electrical power or machinery workers and electricians, this program explores topics such as general electronics and electrical fields and prepares graduates for success in the residential, industrial, and commercial electrical industries.
Thomas Edison State University also offers an online associate degree with an area of study in electronics engineering technology. This 60-credit program includes courses such as DC circuits, AC circuits, solid-state devices and circuits, linear and integrated circuits, industrial electronics, electronic assessment/career planning, and digital electronics.
Bridging the gap between business and engineering, engineering management is an attractive option for engineering- and business-minded students. Engineering management requires the mastery of engineering fundamentals as well as business fundamentals.
University of Arkansas Grantham
The University of Arkansas Grantham offers an online associate of science degree in engineering management technology that focuses on helping students enhance their technical capabilities and business management skills. Graduates will learn how to understand complex engineering technology concepts and apply them in real-world situations, as well as how to manage projects, budgets, and personnel.
Ideal for working professionals in a variety of entry-level management positions in engineering technology, this program establishes a foundation for further study as it satisfies the first two years of the bachelor of science in engineering management technology degree program.
This 60-credit program includes courses such as managerial accounting, digital electronics, engineering and ethics, precalculus, principles of business management, fundamental properties of DC circuits and lab, and fundamental properties of AC circuits and lab.
While an associate degree in engineering focuses on the theories and concepts surrounding the subject, a degree in engineering technology concentrates much more on the hands-on application of engineering. Engineering technologists typically work in product design, fabrication, and testing.
DeVry University offers an online associate in engineering technology program providing students with foundational knowledge and hands-on learning in the measurement, testing, and implementation of secured digital devices and systems. Graduates will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals they need to develop a versatile skill set that helps them become adaptable and agile in today’s quickly evolving tech space, from data management and programming languages to security protocols and interconnected devices.
In addition to the general track, the program offers three specialization options in machine learning and design techniques, medical technology and healthcare systems, and renewable energy and sustainable power.
Made up of 64 credits, the program includes courses such as electronic device and system foundations, automation and controls, introduction to computer-aided design, generative design, manufacturing processes and systems, electromechanical systems, fundamentals of information technology and networking, introduction to cloud computing, and fundamentals of information system security.
Environmental engineering protects infrastructure and health from environmental dangers, such as waste and pollution, by applying scientific and engineering principles. It requires a thorough knowledge of math, thermodynamics, chemistry, biology, mechanics, physical sciences, hydrology, statics, and fluid dynamics.
Western Dakota Technical College
Western Dakota Technical College offers a two-year associate of applied sciences degree in environmental engineering. Students in this program will gain experience in a broad range of environmental sampling and monitoring technologies and techniques and will be prepared for entry into a wide variety of specialties within the field including careers related to waste disposal, recycling, water and air pollution control, public health, construction materials testing, and compliance.
Made up of 67 credits, the program includes courses such as wastewater collection & treatment, environmental geology, construction materials sampling & testing, air quality, water treatment and distribution, hydrology & stream field methods, water quality, and fundamentals in soil science.
Geographic information systems are a type of technology that is useful for modern civil engineers. Engineers can use GIS to collect and evaluate geographic data. Digital geographic maps can then showcase the data in layered visuals. A geographic information system or GIS engineer is a specialist who manages spatial databases to create maps and undertake urban planning projects.
Columbus State Community College
Merging geography and computer technology, Columbus State Community College offers an online geographic information systems associate degree providing students with the knowledge and skills to become professionals who use, edit, and make better decisions using GIS.
Made up of 65 to 66 credits, the program includes courses such as introduction to GIS, acquiring GIS data, planning and implementing GIS, mapping for everyone, discrete mathematics for computing, elements of cartography, introduction to spatial analysis, and image management and analysis.
By applying science, engineering, and math, industrial engineering strives to make complex systems, organizations, and processes function more effectively and efficiently. In addition to engineering fundamentals, industrial engineering requires a mastery of knowledge that is specifically related to the systems, processes, or organizations being optimized.
Purdue University Fort Wayne’s School of Polytechnic offers an associate degree in industrial engineering technology, providing students with the basic communication and practical engineering skills they need for entry-level IET positions. Polytechnic programs at Purdue emphasize practice-based learning via hands-on laboratory applications using state-of-the-art equipment. Some courses may be available through online, distance, and hybrid learning; however many incorporate an on-campus laboratory element.
Made up of 60 credits, the program includes courses such as Introduction to engineering technology, industrial management, maintaining quality, applied statistics for engineering technology, ergonomics, plant layout and material handling, production planning and control, and introduction to computer-aided modeling and design.
Often referred to as IT, information technology is applying technology to solving organizational and business problems. This engineering field uses computers, networks, storage, and other technical infrastructure both hardware and software, for dealing with and manipulating information or data.
Franklin University offers an online transfer-friendly information technology associate degree program that covers the fundamentals of technology-based problem solving, including configuring computer networks, programming, administering database systems, and cybersecurity. With this program, graduates will be well-prepared to tackle a wide variety of technology challenges, including using algorithms to solve problems, resolving database and distributed data performance and capacity issues, and troubleshooting network performance.
This 64-credit program includes courses such as problem-solving with computing, principles of computer networks, database management systems, principles of programming, computer networks, management information systems, introduction to web page construction, and cybersecurity fundamentals.
Engineering mathematics is a branch of applied mathematics that concerns mathematical methods and techniques typically used in engineering and industry. Applied mathematics is the application of mathematical methods in different fields, such as physics, engineering, medicine, biology, business, finance, computer science, and industry. Therefore, applied mathematics is a combination of specialized knowledge and mathematical science.
Liberty University offers an online associate of science program in STEM mathematics. Students in this program will be equipped with the computing and mathematical training needed to be competitive in today’s digitally advanced world. Throughout this degree, graduates will study solving problems using appropriate technological, scientific, and mathematical methods.
This 60-credit program includes courses such as introduction to computing sciences, calculus and analytic geometry, introduction to statistical analysis, and introduction to discrete mathematics, among others.
Graduates will be ready to take up roles such as systems engineers, software development engineers, engineering technicians, logistics analysts, researchers, and data analysts.
Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering that fuels the design, research, manufacture, development, and testing of mechanical systems. Proficient mechanical engineers are well-versed in thermodynamics, mechanics, structures, materials, math, physics, and electricity.
University of Massachusetts Lowell
University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an associate of science degree in mechanical engineering technology that is available as a mix of on-campus and online courses. Through this program, students will gain the necessary skills to specify, install, test, operate, maintain, and document basic mechanical systems.
Courses completed in this program may be counted toward UMass Lowell’s bachelor of science in mechanical engineering technology program, making it more convenient for students to progress in their education and career.
Made up of 65 credits, the program includes courses such as engineering design and graphics, introduction to solidworks, elements of thermodynamics, applied fluid mechanics, introduction to automated control programming, mechanics of materials, and electric circuits.
Based on nuclear physics principles, nuclear engineering is concerned with operating, maintaining, and designing technology related to nuclear processes and reactions. Nuclear engineering requires physics, systems, applied thermodynamics, safety, computer applications, electronics, and plant systems expertise.
Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University offers an online associate of science program in nuclear engineering technology designed for reactor operators and other workers in the nuclear industry. Students will be able to jumpstart their journey toward their degree by turning their professional Navy Basic Nuclear Power School training into college credits at Thomas Edison State University.
This 60-credit program includes courses such as nuclear physics for technology, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, primary reactor systems, radiological, reactor, and environmental safety, nuclear rules and regulations, radiation interactions, and nuclear materials.
Operations engineering and management is an area of technical management dealing with the design and analysis of production and service processes.
Atlantic International University
Atlantic International University’s School of Business and Economics offers an online associate of operations management program, providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the operations management profession, including supply management, quality management, inventory management, and planning and scheduling.
The program’s curriculum includes courses such as macroeconomics, managerial communications, microeconomics, international management, principles of management, financial accounting, business finance, managerial accounting, and social sciences.
Quality engineering is an engineering discipline that creates and implements strategies for quality assurance in product development and production as well as software development. A quality engineering degree equips students with technical and leadership skills and offers career advancement opportunities in several service-based and manufacturing industries. Programs in quality engineering integrate the disciplines of mathematics, engineering, leadership, and technology.
Fox Valley Technical College offers an online associate in applied science degree in quality engineering technology, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in continuous improvement activities and traditional quality and inspection duties. Students will learn to use structured problem-solving methodologies such as Six Sigma, PDSA, and 8D to identify root causes and implement corrective actions. This program allows specialization in either food and paper processing, where laboratory work is more common or in industrial manufacturing, where product inspection and measurement take place.
This 60-credit program includes courses like interpretation of engineering drawings, quality audits, project management, applied statistical analysis, manufacturing processes, transformational leadership, problem-solving methodologies, metrology, inspection & testing, and advanced inspection techniques.
Software engineering is developing, designing, testing, improving, and programming computer software.
Rasmussen University offers an online associate of science degree in software application development that is designed to help students gain the software technology and programming skills that employers are seeking. Students in this program will use in-demand software engineering and development techniques and tools, and apply industry best practices to software design, analysis, development, and deployment.
In this associate’s degree, students will have the option to choose a general track or hone their studies with a specialization in data analytics. This 90-credit program includes courses such as mobile application development, foundations of software design, software application development capstone, networking fundamentals for programmers, introduction to object-oriented programming, JavaScript, database fundamentals for programmers, programming data structures, and C++ programming.
Systems engineering, an interdisciplinary field of engineering and engineering management, focuses on integrating, managing, and designing complex systems over their life cycles. At its core, this engineering field utilizes systems thinking principles for organizing this body of knowledge.
Systems engineers are involved in creating, implementing, and designing new systems to help businesses flourish. They can also maintain, improve, and manage existing systems based on the organization’s changing needs. Additionally, systems engineers work as project managers who are responsible for overseeing a team of IT professionals.
Polk State College offers an online associate of science program in network systems engineering technology, preparing students for various computer-related careers such as network engineers, network specialists, and network administrators.
Focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to administer, maintain, and install computer network infrastructures across a variety of industries. This associate degree has specialization options in security or infrastructure.
Made up of 60 credits, the program’s core courses include network fundamentals, routing, switching, enterprise networking, security, and automation, computing infrastructure, operating systems and security, Microsoft Azure Administrator, firewall services, and cybersecurity essentials.
The security specialization includes courses such as artificial intelligence for cybersecurity, computer forensics, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Courses in the infrastructure specialization include artificial intelligence on AWS, modern desktop administrator, virtualization concepts and implementation, and cloud security.
With a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities in higher education, Kimmy Gustafson regularly contributes insightful articles to OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com, providing readers with a comprehensive view on the evolving landscape of engineering education since 2019. She has intervi...
Farheen Gani has researched a wide array of topics related to engineering since 2018. She has written about electrical and computer engineering programs, structural engineering programs, mechanical engineer salaries, environmental engineering programs, and many other subfields of engineering. She...
Software powers a large part of today’s world. From hailing taxi cabs to ordering food, there is an app for everything. As a result, there is a growing demand for software engineers to develop new applications and websites.
Technology and the internet have enabled numerous entrepreneurs to see their ideas come to fruition. It is no surprise that many universities now offer courses and degree programs in technology entrepreneurship.
In a world largely powered by software, there is a high demand for those trained in web development. A bachelor's degree in web development can allow students to gain a fundamental understanding of software as a whole and confidently launch their career in this exciting field.
An online bachelor’s program in project management generally comprises 120 credit-hours and can be completed in four years. A few courses that students study include estimating and scheduling, project contracting, foundations of project management, international business, and project planning.
An online bachelor's degree in business data analytics provides students with a strong foundation in data analytics and prepares them for a promising career in this burgeoning field. Students become well-equipped in data mining, data storage, and data analytics.
