Several engineering degrees are believed to help graduates secure some of the highest-paid positions among those with a bachelor’s degree, despite the economic downturn.
The Winter 2010 issue of the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ (NACE) Salary Survey found that students that earn a degree in engineering can expect their average salary offers to increase by 1.2 percent to $59,245 per year. Although the increase is modest, NACE reports that engineering majors account for eight of 10 top-paid bachelor’s degrees.
The study found that graduates with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering can expect average salaries of $86,220 per year, chemical engineering majors can expect to make $65,142 per year and mining and mineral engineering majors can expect to make $64,552 per year.
Other engineering majors, including computer engineering, electrical and communications engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering as well as aerospace/aeronautical engineering were also among the top-paid bachelor degree programs. Many online schools offer degree paths in these subjects, offering students a convenient way to earn the education necessary for a very lucrative career.
Civil engineering graduates posted the largest increase among the engineering disciplines. Their average offer rose 3.6 percent to $52,605 per year in 2010 compared to last year.
Individuals who wish to accelerate their career development and earning potential may want to consider enrolling in similar classroom-based or online degree programs.
March 2, 2010
Considering engineering degrees have been steadily on the decline in this country, this is not surprising at all.
June 19, 2010
It’s a lot of math, but it is worth it in the end
Thanks for the post!
June 21, 2010
I have alway thought I would enjoy a career as an architect. Is a career in engineering something that can lead to building design as well?
June 22, 2010
wow the salaries for engineers are great. are there scholarships available for people interested in studying engineering at on online college?
July 5, 2010
I have found this article very informative. I already have my bachelors degree and have been thinking about taking some online classes in petroleum engineering. Thanks for the information.
July 14, 2010
I am about to finish my second year of college. I am considering getting my bachelors degree in civil engineering. I was wondering if most schools have an office to help their graduates find a job?
August 4, 2010
Wow, engineers make such great salaries, but are they still as much indemand as in the past.
August 7, 2010
I really hope that the job market starts picking up. I have my degree in enginering, and I have been taking online classes to get my MBA, but I cannot find a job. Any suggestions?
August 7, 2010
I have been looking for a job for 15 months. I finally got one by going much lower in expectations. Try it, and work you way back up.
August 8, 2010
This is such a great ideal. I alrady know that engineers can work from home. My husband recently became crippled and it is really hard for him to get around. If he can get his degree online, and then a job online, it would be a miracle.
August 8, 2010
It would seem that civil engineers will be in great demand in the future, with all of the cities that have been in decline and need to be reinvented. How long does it take to earn a degree in civil engineering online?
September 1, 2010
I am interested in getting involved in green energy. What kind of engineering degree would I need for that?
September 20, 2010
If I wanted to major in engineering, what are some good online colleges to look for and how would I go about getting financial aid?
October 8, 2010
By matching your needs and interests the right online college is only a few clicks away. After choosing one, you can research what financial aid they have available as well other forms of federal and state funding.
October 8, 2010
The amount of time it takes for a Civil Engineering degree online depends on you and how many courses you choose to take each quarter or semester.
December 11, 2010
I am and have always been interesed in engineering. How do I find out about all of the different careers there are in engineering?
December 11, 2010
No matter which flavor of engineering you end up doing you better really love math and logic. However the payoff is well worth it and its great to see that there doesn’t seem to be hiring discrimination for those who chose to get their degrees online rather than at traditional campuses.
December 30, 2010
Is there a field of engineering that is more lucrative than others?
January 13, 2011
Hey Jack. Most schools have a career center than can help you with your resume, cover letter and job postings. Another great resource is your professors and fellow students who could have connections to help you out in your job hunt.
February 21, 2011
Hey Milly. Many schools offer career centers where students can get more information about finding a local job. It is one of the best resources out there. You can also continue to try using websites like Monster or Career Builder to find employment. Good luck!
March 4, 2011
Engineers are always coming up with new innovations, whether it’s in computer technology or any other field.
March 29, 2011
Hey Leonard, if you’re interested in the average earnings of engineers in different fields, check out the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Engineers.
June 22, 2011
Hey Rod. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a great resource for finding out about different engineering related careers and further information on them. Go here to learn more.
January 20, 2012
Hi Cara. You may want to consider pursuing a degree in environmental engineering. Speak with a career advisor to learn more about what programs may be right for you.