Engineering and engineering technology

In summary: The engineering technologist is more likely to get 'hands-on' jobs...Thanks for the information BillBLack. It was very helpful.
  • #1
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Can someone explain the differences between engineering and engineering tech?

--thanks
 
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  • #2
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.
 
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  • #3
Thank you for the reply BillBLack. It was very informative.

The mathematics is not as hard in engineering technology. A significant level up through calculus is required, however.

For my BS in Engineering Technology , I have to do the following math:
Calculus 1-2
Linear Algebra
Differential Equations

What other math courses are taken for a BS in Engineering?

Engineering Technology
Graduates are eligible to become registered professional engineers in most states

Does anyone have a list of states?

--thanks agian
 
  • #4
Generally, engineering requires 3 semesters of calculus, one of differential equations, and one of linear algebra. Some of the other courses you will take are almost entirely math as well.

Engineering is a better degree than engineering technology - a significant fraction of engineering technology people are ones who couldn't do the math of engineering (for that matter, I switched to Mechanical Engineering from Aerospace because I couldn't handle the math of Aerospace). An engineering degree is worth more in the job market.
 

What is the difference between engineering and engineering technology?

Engineering is a field that involves the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, develop, and maintain structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes. Engineering technology, on the other hand, focuses more on the practical application of engineering principles and is often more hands-on and less theoretical.

What are the different branches of engineering?

There are many branches of engineering, including civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, aerospace, biomedical, environmental, and computer engineering, among others. Each branch focuses on different areas of study and applications.

What skills are important for a career in engineering?

Some important skills for a career in engineering include problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, communication, teamwork, and technical knowledge. It is also important to have a strong foundation in math, science, and computer skills.

What is the role of ethics in engineering?

Ethics play a crucial role in engineering as engineers are responsible for designing and creating products and systems that impact people's lives and the environment. Engineers must consider ethical principles and values, such as safety, sustainability, and social responsibility, in their work.

What are some examples of real-world applications of engineering?

Engineering has a wide range of real-world applications, including designing and building bridges, roads, and buildings, developing new technologies and devices, creating sustainable energy solutions, improving transportation systems, and many more. Engineers play a critical role in solving problems and making advancements to improve our daily lives.

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