Engineering Technology Degree vs. Bachelors of Engineering https://floridapolytechnic.

org/engineering-technology-degree/

(https://floridapolytechnic.org)

An Engineering Technology degree and Bachelor of Science in Engineering are closely

related fields of study with noticeable differences in learning curriculum. Most notably, a
Bachelor of Science in Engineering emphasizes theories and advanced concepts while an
Engineering Technology degree emphasizes hands-on application and implementation. At
Florida Polytechnic University, the Bachelor of Science degree integrates applied and
hands-on learning with theoretical and conceptual curriculum.

A Bachelor of Science in Engineering, such as the degree programs offered by Florida

Polytechnic University, focuses on the cross-disciplinary application of science and
mathematics on structures, machines, systems and processes. This type of engineering
degree prepares students to enter the workforce as professional engineers with skills
that are applicable to a wide variety of industries. Students pursuing a Bachelor of
Science in Engineering typically focus on disciplines such as computer, electrical,
mechanical or industrial engineering (https://floridapolytechnic.org/academics
/mechanical-industrial-engineering/).

A Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree program often includes more advanced

levels of applied science and mathematics than are taught in an Engineering Technology
degree program. Some examples of real-world challenges graduates with a Bachelor of
Science degree in Engineering may explore include:

Apply analysis and modeling to design engineering based solutions

Identify emerging techniques, skills, methods and theories to solve engineering

problems
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Design infrastructure such as buildings, highways and bridges

An Engineering Technology degree emphasizes the application of specific engineering

techniques. Graduates with an Engineering Technology degree often seek employment in
fields such as production, design, manufacturing and operations. Some examples of
real-world challenges graduates with an Engineering Technology degree may explore
include:

Consulting development for electronic designs for commercial purposes

Research capabilities and implementation for current technologies

Exploring tracking technology in space exploration, consumer electronics and

defense

The degrees of Engineering Technology and Bachelor of Science in Engineering contain

some overlap, but they also have important characteristics that make them unique.

Students who obtain a Bachelor of Science in Engineering begin their careers as

entry-level engineers. They typically do not have extensive experience in the field but
are very knowledgeable about cross-disciplinary applications and processes. In addition,
entry-level engineers usually report to a supervisor or manager while developing, testing
and designing products that incorporate the use of a system, machine or structure.
Bachelor of Science in Engineering degrees can be highly specialized, and students may
graduate with concentrations like nanotechnology (https://floridapolytechnic.org
/academics/mechanical-industrial-engineering/nanotechnology/), magnetics
(https://floridapolytechnic.org/academics/electrical-engineering/magnetics/),
electrodynamics (https://floridapolytechnic.org/academics/electrical-engineering
/electrodynamics/), semiconductors (https://floridapolytechnic.org/academics/electrical-
engineering/semiconductors/) or digital logic design (https://floridapolytechnic.org
/academics/computer-engineering/digital-logic-design/).

Graduates with an Engineering Technology degree are often called technologists, while
students who complete two-year engineering technology programs are called
technicians. These individuals begin their careers in entry-level positions that may
involve the design and application of engineering concepts or techniques. Projects may
include designing an automated system or a programming language to optimize a
process system.

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Its never too early to start preparing for your college career. While in high school,
students should pay close attention to required coursework, as these classes will likely
be integrated into college. For example, math concepts taught in classes such as algebra
and pre-calculus will carry over into more advanced courses at the collegiate level.

Universities across the nation recommend that students take the following courses
during their high school career if they are interested in an Engineering Technology or
Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree:

Algebra I and II

Geometry

Trigonometry

Pre-Calculus, Calculus AB (if offered)

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Universities seek students who are well rounded and can offer a wide range of
experiences and knowledge. Involvement in extracurricular activities, sports or clubs can
showcase your interaction beyond the classroom, and colleges often prefer these
candidates.

Before applying to any college, students should consult their high school counselors and
mentors for guidance during the application process. Students should also research the
universities they plan to attend and determine if those schools are a good academic,
social and cultural fit.

Floridas top engineering schools (https://floridapolytechnic.org/about/) have specific

required and elective courses needed for graduation as an engineering technologist.

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These courses are typically STEM based and can include subjects such as:

Calculus

General Physics

Introduction to Technology

Computer Applications

Computer Programming

Applied Math

Innovation & Emerging Technologies

A Bachelor of Science in Engineering typically includes a well-rounded engineering

curriculum with an opportunity to specialize in concentrations. Some of the classes
offered at a top STEM University such as Florida Polytechnic University, include:

Calculus II and III

Advanced Physics

Computer Programming

Digital Logic Design

Differential Equations

Circuits and Analog Electronics

Hybrid Devices and Systems

Magnetics

Unique Nanoscale Phenomena and Interfaces

Students should take full advantage of their educational opportunities because they can
be critical to their future success. Many universities offer the chance to work in lab
environments. During a students undergraduate career, they should use all of the
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Engineering Technology Degree vs. Bachelors of Engineering https://floridapolytechnic.org/engineering-technology-degree/
resources provided by the university including: advanced tools, textbooks, internships
and labs. Students who engage with employers through internship opportunities are well
ahead of the curve compared to other graduates when seeking employment.

Beyond the advanced and rigorous curriculum in the college classroom, students are
encouraged to engage with their peers, faculty and other influencers outside of the
classroom. Experiences outside the classroom can help build a portfolio or open the door
for further opportunities.

Engineering technology graduates are in high demand to fill the jobs that require an
advanced skill set or knowledge of specific technologies. The following links are available
for students to access if they are interested in an engineering technology degree. These
links may help students while in school and in their career search.

National Society of Professional Engineers (http://www.nspe.org/resources/issues-

and-advocacy/take-action/issue-briefs/engineering-technology)

Try Engineering (http://tryengineering.org/become-an-engineer/engineering-

technology-majors)

IEEE (https://www.ieee.org/index.html)

ASEE (https://www.asee.org/)

STEMStudy.com (http://stemstudy.com/)

To pursue a degree in Engineering Technology or a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, it

helps to understand the required coursework and projected career path. To determine
whether a career in engineering or technology is right for you, ask yourself if you have
an aptitude for math, science, technology and problem-solving.

In addition, it helps to have interests in:

Using scientific principles and methods to solve real-world problems

Forming conclusions from lab experiments, data or reports

Improving processes and systems that are in place

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Conducting testing methods to maintain quality

Finally, gain direct exposure into the field. Attend career days, shadow a professional or
engage in Q&A sessions with industry experts. During college, students will have the
opportunity to gain internship experience and meet industry partners who are leaders in
their fields.

To gain employment with a degree in engineering technology or a bachelor of science in

engineering, graduates should possess several skills, which include:

Creativity think outside the box incorporating new, innovative ideas

Strong mechanical skills understand mechanical concepts and tools

Problem-solving skills develop new solutions to problems. Identify the source and
offer solutions

Communications communicate plans even to other members on the team such as

project managers

Teamwork collaborate and work effectively with others

If you are interested in learning more about the Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Degrees offered at Florida Polytechnic University, please visit our academics page
(https://floridapolytechnic.org/all-academics).

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