button button button button button button button button button button button button

Engineering versus Engineering Technology


Which path will you take?
Not sure which program to choose? We suggest you check out this Web page from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The information presented by ASME will help you to compare various aspects of mechanical engineering and mechanical engineering technology programs and careers. Both programs represent viable professional paths, and it is important that you assess your abilities, interests, and personal career objectives before selecting a specific program.

 

The undergraduate engineering technology programs1 at MSOE:

  • introduce and integrate math and sciences as needed in the curricula
  • contain technical courses that occur in virtually every quarter of the programs
  • have an intensive laboratory and applications focus
  • have a moderate emphasis on theory and the design process
  • appeal to the student who learns best in an experientially based (hands-on) environment
  • culminate in a senior project experience

The undergraduate engineering programs2 at MSOE:

  • begin with an emphasis on calculus and calculus-based sciences
  • have engineering courses later in the curricula that build on the calculus/sciences base
  • integrate design and applications into engineering lecture and laboratory course work
  • have a stronger emphasis on theory and engineering design
  • culminate in a major senior design experience

Additional advice
Enroll in an engineering technology program if you:

  • desire or need the associate of applied science (AAS) degree to enter the workforce as a technician with the option to continue in a BS in engineering technology program3
  • desire to continue your education in a program that extends and expands the educational approach of your existing AAS in engineering technology degree

Enroll in an engineering program if you:

  • desire or will need to pursue registration as a Professional Engineer (PE)4
  • plan to pursue a career in research and development (R&D)
  • plan to continue your education at the graduate level in engineering (MS and/or Ph.D.)

Choose the type of program that is consistent with your talents and interests, learning style and career goals. Please visit MSOE by contacting the Admission Office at (800) 332-6763 or explore@msoe.edu .

 

1 The engineering technology programs at MSOE are normally offered during evening hours.
2 The undergraduate engineering programs at MSOE are normally offered during daytime hours.
3 Engineering Technologists may become registered professional engineers in many states; however, the requirements are usually different than those for engineers. Prior to pursuing this degree ensure the state you intend to practice in allows PE registration.
4 Engineering Technologists may become registered professional engineers in many states including Wisconsin;  however, the requirements are often different than those for engineers. Prior to pursuing this degree ensure the state which you intend to practice allows PE registration.













"Graduates of engineering programs apply scientific concepts to develop solutions to real world problems. Their job is more theoretical, involving the design of new products such as a robot that will be used in an auto manufacturing plant. Engineers require more theoretical, scientific and mathematical knowledge. At the same time, some colleges and universities offer two- and four-year engineering technology programs that prepare students for practical design and production work. Graduates of four-year engineering technology programs may get jobs similar to those obtained by graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering."

- Source: ASEE Web Page