Best Online Bachelor’s in Electronics Engineering

What Is Electronics Engineering?

Electronics engineering dates back to the late 19th century when radios — and later televisions — emerged as new technologies and eventually became household staples. Work expanded rapidly during World War II as researchers and inventors searched for innovative ways to create defense systems. Today, the field encompasses an array of technologies and products that run on electricity.

Electronics engineering degrees focus on giving learners the skills required to design and build electronics from the ground up. While engineers are not responsible for the actual manufacturing of electronics, they must provide detailed plans and instructions on how their designs work. They must also effectively troubleshoot problems and make adjustments to their creations.

Electronics engineering is its own distinct field, but it fits under the umbrella of STEM. The discipline combines science, technology, engineering, and math in an effort to move electronics and electrical innovation forward.

Electronics Engineering vs. Electrical Engineering

These two titles often get thrown around interchangeably, but they are different fields. Electronics engineering focuses on small-scale engineering, including the development of circuits, microelectronics, transistors, semiconductors, computers, and consumer electronics. Conversely, electrical engineering is more of an umbrella field for large-scale electrical systems, including signal processing, communication, and grids.

When deciding which arena to pursue, individuals should think about how they want to spend their days. While many of the actual responsibilities are similar, the scope varies significantly. Electronics engineers get to bring products to market that provide easily identifiable benefits to consumers. Electrical engineers work more behind the scenes, creating large-scale systems that are not as consumer-facing.

In terms of salary, both positions offer substantial pay. The BLS found that electronics engineers earned annual median salaries of $102,700, while electrical engineers earned $96,640 during the same period.

What Is a Bachelor's in Electronic Engineering Degree Program?

Electronic engineering degrees combine education in general STEM topics with more specialized studies in industrial electronics engineering. Many programs require learners to complete coursework in calculus, analytic geometry, and statistics before diving into core studies. Degree-specific coursework covers signals and transformers, computer interface circuits, solid-state electronics, and digital signal processing.

Most programs require learners to complete experience-building courses, including lab-based and industry internships. At the end of their studies, learners often participate in a senior project that combines what they've learned in a culminating project.

Some individuals decide to move directly into a professional role after graduation while others pursue a master's in electrical engineering.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Electronics Engineering?

Electronic engineering degree timelines vary based on several factors. Most programs require learners to complete at least 120 credits. Full-time students typically need four years to graduate. Learners who have transfer or AP credits may graduate more quickly.

Accelerated programs typically offer shorter semesters, allowing students to complete more credits in less time. Some programs offer coursework on a year-round schedule rather than only during the fall and spring semesters.

Distance learners working a full-time job and studying on the side may want to find a school offering a part-time option. Timelines for these degrees vary based on how many credits a student takes per semester, but most require 5-6 years to finish.

Courses in an Electronics Engineering Bachelor's Program

Earning an electronics degree online requires completing both general education and core major-related courses. Course offerings vary by school, so prospective students should review several plans of study to get a sense of what they may learn. The following section covers common courses in an electronics curriculum.

Choosing an Electronic Engineering Degree Program

Before selecting an electronic engineering degree online, prospective distance learners should consider several important factors that can affect their decision. For many students, program cost is the most important factor. Between tuition, technology fees, online learning fees, laboratory fees, and books, costs can add up. Learners looking for a cost-effective option should consider a public college or university in their home state.

Transfer policies also matter, as learners sometimes need to transfer in or out of a school. Make sure any school you attend accepts transfer credits, and that it is properly accredited so that credits earned there will be accepted elsewhere. School size is another consideration. Some students may prefer the hustle and bustle of a large state school, while others need the small, intimate setting of a private liberal arts institution.

Factors affecting the specific program also matter. If a school only offers a part-time learning option, it may not work for a first-time freshman. Similarly, a full-time option probably will not fit a working professional's schedule. Distance learners should also investigate whether or not their programs include on-campus requirements.

What Does an Electronic Engineer Do?

The typical day for an electronic engineer varies depending on their specific work environments. Engineers who pursue research positions often spend their days in labs. Engineers in professional settings split their time between office work and manufacturing sites. Electronic engineers focused on repair may travel between homes and businesses.

While working in-house for an electronics company, these professionals often design, test, and develop new items and components. They work with manufacturers to ensure their plans are executed properly and report back to project managers about their progress.

Individuals who hope to work as electronic engineers must be detail-oriented and have an advanced understanding of mathematical principles, the ability to work with many different types of people, and a willingness to concentrate on a single project or problem for a long time.

Electronics Engineering Jobs

Electronic engineering technicians can pursue many interesting and growing roles based on their specific interests and career goals. We highlight a few of the most common positions available below, but individuals should research all options before making a decision.

Accreditation for Electronics Engineering Bachelor's Degrees

Before enrolling in any electronic engineering online degree, prospective distance learners must ensure the school holds proper accreditation. Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation is a voluntary process through which institutions of higher education demonstrate that they adequately meet student needs. Both national and regional institutional accreditation exists, though regional accreditation is the more rigorous of the two. Many trade and vocational schools hold national accreditation, while four-year institutions commonly hold regional accreditation. For an engineering degree, regional accreditation is preferred.

Programmatic accreditation evaluates how an individual department or degree prepares graduates for a specific field. Accreditors consider factors such as curriculum, faculty education and experience, and support services when deciding whether to award accreditation. In the world of electronics engineering, students should look for programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

Check with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) for the most up-to-date accreditation information.

Electronics Engineering Professional Organizations

Professional organizations help electronics engineering students connect with professionals and transition from college into the workforce. Many of these organizations offer resources designed for students, including scholarship opportunities. Professional organizations also set standards for the field, offer educational resources to keep professionals up to date, and provide continuing education opportunities for license maintenance.

Joining an electronics engineering professional organization can help students advance their careers and connect with future employers. Below are a few professional organizations for electrical engineers.

Frequently Asked Questions