From the UNC Charlotte website..
This is from the UNC Charlotte website :http://www.et.uncc.edu/comparison.html
I hope this might help.
Program Graduate
Engineering
An innovator - one who is able to interweave a knowledge of advanced mathematics, the natural and engineering sciences, and engineering principles and practices with considerations of economic, social, environmental, and ethical issues to create new systems and products. The engineering graduate can develop new procedures to advance the state of the art.
Engineering Technology
A doer or implementer - one who is able to apply a basic knowledge of mathematics, the natural and engineering sciences, current engineering practices, and an understanding of economic principles to the solution of design problems and to the operation or testing of engineering and manufacturing systems. The engineering technology graduate can apply established procedures which utilize the current state of the art.
Program Objective
Engineering
To provide the knowledge necessary to design and manufacture state of the art products and systems needed to meet the current and future needs of society.
Engineering Technology
To provide the knowledge required to apply state of the art techniques and designs to meet the current needs of society.
Program Emphasis
Engineering
Emphasis is on developing methods of analysis and solutions for open-ended design problems.
Engineering Technology
Emphasis is on applying current knowledge and practices to the solution of specific technical problems.
Expertise Objective
Engineering
To develop conceptual abilities.
Engineering Technology
To develop application abilities.
Program Length
BS in Engineering
Four years.
BS in Engineering Technology
Four years. (2 years for an Associate of Applied Science Degree)
Degree Awarded
Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
(For example: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering)
Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a major in ________.
(For example: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a major in Civil or Electrical or Fire Safety or Mechanical ET)
Academic Terminology
Engineering
Graduates are referred to as engineers. Professional examination & certification is required before title 'Engineer' can be used in private practice.
Engineering Technology
Associate Degree graduates are referred to as engineering technicians.
Bachelor Degree graduates are referred to as engineering technologists, however it should be noted that the actual job title given to graduates depends solely upon the employer, and is usually based upon the graduate's degree, experience, and the specific job position assigned by the employer.
Transfer Potential
Engineering
Transfer from an engineering program to an engineering technology program is possible with a minimum loss of credits and time.
Engineering Technology
Transfer from an engineering technology program to an engineering program generally is not done without a significant loss of credits and time.
Transfer from a community college with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Engineering Technology to the BSET program at UNC Charlotte generally results in admission with Junior standing.
Typical Aspirations of the New Graduate
Engineering
The engineering graduate would most likely aspire to an entry level position in conceptual design, systems engineering, manufacturing, or product research and development.
Engineering Technology
The engineering technology graduate entering industry would most likely aspire to an entry level position in product design, development, testing, technical operations, or technical services and sales.
Adaptability to Current Industrial Practices
Engineering
The engineering graduate typically requires a period of 'internship' since engineering programs stress fundamentals.
Engineering Technology
The engineering technology graduate is prepared to immediately begin technical assignments since technology programs stress current industrial practices and design procedures.
Professional Registration
Engineering
Graduates are eligible to become registered professional engineers in all states by a process of examination and documentation of experiences.
Engineering Technology
Graduates are eligible to become registered professional engineers in most states, with wide variation in the qualification requirements.
Graduate Education Opportunities
Engineering
Graduate study in engineering is available to qualified bachelor of science engineering graduates.
Engineering Technology
Graduate study in engineering is available to qualified bachelor of science engineering technology graduates. However, it usually requires significant preparatory courses (especially in advanced mathematics) prior to graduate studies.
Many BSET graduates continue their education with graduate study in areas such as Computer Science, Engineering Management, Masters of Business Administration (MBA), and Technical Management.
Starting Salaries
Nationwide, the typical starting salary differential is $200/month or $2400/year less for the engineering technologist.
In a Nut Shell
The decision factors often used by those not sure of the path to choose usually boil down to:
(1) The mathematics is not as hard in engineering technology. A significant level up through calculus is required, however.
(2) The engineering technologist is more likely to get 'hands-on' jobs, working in a laboratory or field position, as opposed to a design/desk job.
