Associate degree programs in engineering

Make a career solving problems or designing products with the help of online associate degree programs in engineering. Accredited colleges and universities offer a range of engineering degree programs that can prepare you for a fascinating career in a cutting-edge field.

Online associate degree programs in engineering: First steps

While associate degree programs often tackle subjects in a more general way, many students use this opportunity to find their niche. Core specialties in engineering include:

• Industrial engineering
• Computer network engineering
• Software engineering
• Electronics engineering technology
• Mechanical engineering

According to The National Association of Colleges and Employers, graduates with engineering degrees are among the top three majors most in-demand by potential employers. With an associate degree, you could enter one of the fastest-growing job markets available to new graduates.

Coursework in engineering degree programs

Online associate degree programs in engineering establish a strong foundation in math and science, plus key instruction on specific engineering principles. Take a look at typical coursework found in engineering associate degree programs:

• Mechanics, electricity and magnetism
• Modern physics
• Industrial systems
• Pulse and logic circuits
• Calculus and differential equations

By the time you reach the end of your two-year program, you should be able to take an engineering idea from the design stage to production.

Careers for engineering associate degree graduates

Engineering and surveying firms head up the list of employers looking for associate degree graduates, the National Association of Colleges and Employers reports. Here are some popular careers for graduates of engineering associate degree programs, including salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Engineering technicians work in a range of engineering fields, including civil, electrical, electronic, industrial, mechanical and more. May 2009, mean annual salary for electrical engineering technicians: $55,410.

Drafters create technical drawings and plans, which are then used by construction workers and others to create anything from microchip devices to towering skyscrapers. May 2009, mean annual salary for drafters: $48,210.

Production managers coordinate, direct and plan the production activities of a range of goods. This top job typically requires experience in the field and education beyond the associate level. However, online associate degrees can serve as an excellent starting point. May 2009, mean annual salary for industrial production managers: $93,650.

In addition to the careers above, many engineering associate degree graduates go on to earn a bachelor's degree in engineering, opening up even more career possibilities. While no degree program can guarantee a particular job or salary, engineering careers typically require formal education, and an associate degree is a great place to start.

Explore online associate degrees in engineering

Online associate degrees can help take much of the stress out of earning a degree. With online education, you don't need to worry about commuting to campus or making time for class meetings; you can log on from anywhere to complete your coursework. Online education is perfect for students with full-time jobs, family commitments or the need to travel. Learn more about engineering programs in the Majors in Engineering section of our Guide to College Majors.