Electrical (and Electronic) engineering is the study of electrical systems. This engineering discipline is concerned with the design and application of systems that incorporate electricity, electronics and electromagnetics. It uses the knowledge of physics and mathematics to solve problems by creating and maintaining electrical devices that impact our everyday lives. Electrical Engineering is at the forefront of the creation of efficient and affordable sustainable green energy production.
How do you become an Electrical Engineer?
You must obtain the degree in order to become an electrical engineer. The entry requirements are an A level in mathematics, physics and preferably another science. Most universities will accept you if you have a minimum of 3 B grades in your A levels.
What are the career prospects for an Electrical Engineer?
The career prospects for an electrical engineer are excellent. Similar to mechanical engineering it is a discipline that is a very practical degree because of the influence of electricity in our everyday lives. With an electrical engineering degree, you will be in demand in the automotive industry, energy sector, aerospace, oil and gas and furthermore. The need for electrical engineers is set to grow as automation continues to grow in all of the world’s major industries. In the manufacturing industry the need for electrical engineers is also increasing; machines are often run by Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) that are typically used for automation of industrial electro-mechanical processes globally. The earning potential for electrical engineers are great too. Graduate starting salaries range from £24,000 to £28,000 and with more experience you can earn upwards of £60,000.
What is an Electrical Engineering course like to Study?
An electrical engineering course is a demanding course in which you will learn about the principles of electronics and electrics as well as how these systems are used to power machinery. Mathematics is likely to be a core first year module of the course and you are also likely to have design modules in which you design and construct an electrical product, or at least test something you have learnt how to create. Computer programming is also something you will be taught if you choose to study an electrical engineering degree.
Electrical Engineering Modules
Potential electrical engineering modules:
- Analogue Integrated Circuits and Systems.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Biomedical Electronics.
- Communication Networks.
- Communication Systems.
- Control Engineering.
- Digital Signal Processing.
- Electrical Energy Systems.
Electrical Engineering Chartership
The most suitable chartership body for an electrical engineer is the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET). In order to become a Chartered member of the IET you will be assessed on a range of criteria including knowledge, commitment, interpersonal skills, development of processes and design. If you want to learn more about becoming a chartered electrical engineer visit the IET official website.
If you are not sure if this is the right degree for you have a look at our career advice article for helping you pick the right engineering degree.
