In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, electrical engineers are at the heart of shaping the technology that powers our lives. Electrical Engineering degree outcomes prop up modern innovation, from developing clean energy systems and improving telecommunications infrastructure to creating cutting-edge consumer electronics.
Earning a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering degree is one of the first steps toward entering this dynamic field, preparing students with the technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills needed to meet the complex challenges of today’s engineering landscape.
What is a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering?
Electrical engineering focuses on the study, design, and application of different products that use electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism, including equipment, devices, or systems. One of the oldest and most diverse fields of engineering, Electrical Engineering dates back to the invention of the electric telegraph, the first commercial use of electric power in the 19th century.
Today, electrical engineers support many crucial industries, including power generation and distribution, robotics, telecommunications, and consumer electronics. Their work involves designing everything from microchips and embedded systems to large-scale energy grids and communications networks. Thanks to their broad skill set, electrical engineers are highly sought after across both the public and private sectors.
Types of Electrical Engineering programs
Because Electrical Engineering career outcomes are vast and diverse, many schools offer different formats for Electrical Engineering programs that allow students to tailor their education to match their career goals and interests. Two common types of programs include:
Electrical Engineering BS
A traditional four-year undergraduate degree, the bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering covers foundational and advanced topics with a curriculum designed for students who want a strong technical foundation in mathematics, circuitry, signal processing, and computer systems, to name a few.
Electrical Engineering BS to MS accelerated degree program
Some universities offer a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering coupled with a Master’s degree track, allowing students to earn both degrees alongside one another in a shorter time. These programs are ideal for those planning to pursue specialized research or leadership roles and want to deepen their expertise without taking a break between degrees.
What does a BS in Electrical Engineering entail?
A Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering is designed to give students a solid foundation in the principles of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism, as well as how these principles are applied in real-world engineering solutions. The Electrical Engineering bachelor’s degree is well-suited for individuals who enjoy math, science, and technology, solving complex problems, and designing innovative systems.
The program typically emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical experience. Many schools incorporate project-based learning, lab work, and simulations that replicate challenges students might face in the workplace. Electrical engineering career outcomes allow graduates to leave with not just technical skills but also the ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with diverse teams, and adapt to the rapid changes in the engineering industry.
What’s the curriculum like?
Electrical engineering curricula vary by school, but most programs cover a wide range of foundational and advanced topics. Students can expect to complete coursework in areas such as:
- Engineering Mathematics: Advanced mathematical concepts like linear algebra, differential equations, and calculus that form the backbone of engineering analysis
- Microprocessor and System Design: Learn how to design and work with microcontrollers, processors, and embedded systems
- Network Analysis: Study of electrical circuits, including AC and DC systems, and their behaviors
- Probability and Statistics: Essential for modeling systems and analyzing performance data
Other staple courses may include control systems, signal processing, digital communications, and renewable energy technologies. Some programs also offer elective courses or concentrations in specialized areas like biomedical engineering or sustainable energy. Leave no stone unturned; check with your institution to understand your options and what works best for you.
BS in Electrical Engineering degree outcomes
Electrical Engineering outcomes include being prepared to pursue a variety of careers in both established and emerging industries. Whether working in aerospace, power systems, electronics, or even healthcare, electrical engineers are known for their problem-solving abilities, technical acumen, and collaborative mindset.
Professionals in this field often take on roles where they design, develop, test, and manage the production of electrical equipment and systems. They may also work on improving existing technologies, conducting research, or overseeing complex engineering projects.
Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers are responsible for designing, testing, and supervising the manufacturing of electrical systems and components. They often work on large-scale infrastructure projects, such as electrical grids, or develop the internal components of consumer devices.
- Median Salary (2023): $106,905
- Work Environment: Office-based or on-site, depending on the project; may involve travel. Exposure to diverse industries like manufacturing, energy, defense, and even automotive technology makes it one of the most versatile career paths for engineering graduates.
Systems engineer
Systems engineers focus on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems over their life cycles. They ensure that various engineering components—hardware, software, infrastructure—work together seamlessly to meet organizational goals.
- Median Salary (2023): $114,000
- Work Environment: Office-based, often in tech, defense, manufacturing, or IT sectors. Frequent collaboration across departments to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance. System engineers are essential in industries that require precise coordination of technology, such as aerospace, defense, healthcare, and information systems.
Telecommunications specialist
Telecommunications specialists design, install, and maintain communication systems, including networks, satellite systems, and fiber optics. They play a key role in ensuring reliable, high-speed communication across multiple platforms.
- Median Salary (2023): $62,350
- Work Environment: Office-based or on-site, depending on the project; may involve travel or fieldwork. Partnering with internet service providers, government agencies, or large corporations to maintain secure and efficient lines of communication. Their expertise supports remote connectivity, emergency systems, and digital infrastructure.
Earn your Electrical Engineering Bachelor’s degree
Each school has its admission requirements, but most will expect standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT, along with letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay. If you’re considering this path, dedicate some time to different programs and institutions and find one that aligns with your goals. Advisors offer excellent counseling when figuring out your future.
So, what is a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering? More than just a degree—it’s a gateway into a challenging, rewarding, and future-proof career. The knowledge and skills you gain through this program can open doors to high-paying roles in industries that are shaping the future of technology and infrastructure.