The associate degree in engineering will prepare you for a career in many different technician types of work. It is possible to obtain an open-end degree or tailor the degree to a specific field of technology. You could specialize in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, software or computer network engineering, or computer electronics engineering.

The engineering degree prepares you for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering. However, students can find work with the associate degree in engineering and further their education along the way. There are many areas of engineering to enter. You can choose the basic engineering degree and tailor it to a specific field when you study for your Bachelors degree or tailor it when you study for the associate degree.

Core courses for a software engineering degree are Introduction to computers, Operating Systems, Software development, JavaScript, Database Management, SQL and Database Management Systems and Programming with HTML. Other courses are Visual basic, C Programming, C++ Programming and Java Program as well as Technical Writing I and II, and Physics I.

 Introduction to Computers teaches the fundamentals of software, hardware, Windows, Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint, printers, graphics and the Internet. For some that are already familiar with these fundamentals, it can be a refresher course.

The basic engineering degree requires Introduction to Engineering, Programming for Engineers, CAD and Microcomputer Graphics, Metallurgy for Engineers and Engineering Statistics and Computations. You also take Statics, Dynamics, Circuit Analysis I and Mechanics of Materials. There are also general studies that include Introduction to Psychology and Introduction to Sociology, Written Communication and Oral Communication.

Introduction to Engineering teaches the requirements and the environment that engineers work with and understand the engineering disciplines. Students also learn the ethical practices of an engineer. Metallurgy for Engineers teaches material properties using the terminology engineer's use as well as how the materials performance is affected by the service conditions and environment. The student also learns the types of materials used in engineering design.

Dynamics teaches the student about constructing free body drawings and how to analyze the mechanical dynamics using vectors. The student learns to problem solve using rigid bodies and kinetics of particles. You will learn how to use what you learn to create three-dimensional applications.   

Careers in Engineering

After earning an associate degree in engineering, you will be able to look for positions in technical engineering or in a specific field, depending on how you tailor your degree. You could work as a technician in an industrial setting or in an environmental setting. Many companies look for onsite engineers rather than outsourcing the work. You could work for government agencies or in the private sector. Electronic engineering, software engineering and network engineers are popular fields of work today.

Software engineers can work for insurance providers, financial institutes, computer and electronic manufacturers or software publishing companies. Many students find work with consulting companies, municipalities, utilities and manufacturing companies.