Engineering vs. Engineering technology Degrees.

In the US, ABET accredits engineering and engineering technology degrees. What is the difference between these degrees? Can one become a state licensed engineer with an engineering technology degree? When a US graduate engineering program asks for an ABET accredited engineering degree, will an engineering technology degree meet this requirement?

(In Ontario a technology degree only leads to registration as a technologist. For licensing as a professional engineer, an engineering degree is required)

Thanks----Jim

 

It all depends on the state, each one is different. I know that here in Alaska, one can use the engineering technology degree to become licensed. It is a little more work though. If I remember correctly, someone with a normal engineering degree can become licensed as an engineer after four years of work experience. This contrasts to the person with the engineering technology degree, which if I remember correctly, requires six years of work experience. The regular engineering degree is clearly the best option if that route is available.

 

Here are the requirements for New York.

http://www.op.nysed.gov/pe.htm


Education and Experience Requirements
Eligibility for licensure is based on a combination of education and experience. The credit awarded for education determines the number of years of experience required.

Six years of education/experience credit is required for admission to the Fundamentals of Engineering examination (Part A).

A total of 12 years of education/experience credit is required for admission to the Principles and Practice of Engineering examination (Part B) and for licensure.

Education/experience credit may not be earned for more than one academic program, except that a graduate degree (or degrees) in engineering may be credited as one year of education/experience credit in addition to any credit earned for undergraduate study.

Use the list below to determine your eligibility and the number of years of experience you need to take Part A or Part B of the examination.

Degree: Bachelor
Field of Study: Engineering
Accreditation: ABET/EAC - 8 credits
Accreditation: Regional - 6 credits

Field of Study: Engineering Technology
Accreditation: ABET/TAC - 6 credits
Accreditation: Regional - 4 credits

Field of Study: Architecture
Accreditation: Regional - 4 credits

Field of Study: Science related to engineering
Accreditation: Regional - 3 credits

Field of Study: Not directly related to engineering
Accreditation: Regional - 2 credits


Degree: Associate
Field of Study: Engineering Science, Pre-engineering equivalent
Accreditation: Regional - 3 credits

Field of Study: Engineering Technology
Accreditation: ABET - 3 credits

Field of Study: Technology
Accreditation: Regional - 2 credits

Field of Study: Not directly related to engineering
Accreditation: Regional - 1 credit
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Web site www.abet.org lists currently accredited academic programs.


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