Is an Associate Degree in Engineering Worth It? (In-Depth Guide)

An associate degree in engineering can open doors to rewarding entry-level jobs in the engineering field. However, it typically does not qualify graduates to become licensed professional engineers. This guide examines the pros and cons of earning an associate degree versus a bachelor’s degree, common career paths, expected salaries, and tips on choosing the right program.

An associate degree in engineering technology provides students with technical and applied math and science skills for assisting engineers. Coursework focuses more on practical aspects rather than theory.

While less extensive than a 4-year engineering degree, a 2-year associate can still prepare students to begin stable engineering careers. Graduates may work under the supervision of engineers as engineering technicians and technologists in research, design, manufacturing, product testing, and other hands-on roles.

However, there are some downsides to only having an associate degree:

• Most engineering jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree
• Associate degree holders are not eligible for professional engineering licensure
• Starting salaries tend to be lower than those with a B.S. in engineering

So is an associate worth the investment in time and tuition fees? Here is an in-depth look at the key considerations.

Career Options and Salaries

Common job titles for associate degree holders include:

Engineering Technician

Engineering technicians assist engineers with tasks like conducting tests, collecting data, calculating results, documenting findings, and preparing reports. They typically earn around $56,000 per year early in their careers.

Electro-Mechanical Technician

These technicians install, maintain, and repair electronic and mechanical equipment. Initial salaries average approximately $47,000 annually.

Civil Engineering Technician

Civil engineering techs support civil engineers in planning and supervising construction projects. Entry-level pay starts around $41,000 per year.

Surveying or Mapping Technician

They collect data and make maps of construction sites or geographic areas. Early career earnings are about $46,000 on average.

While these salaries are decent, they pale in comparison to many bachelor’s-level engineering roles. For example, the average starting salary for mechanical engineers is $68,000 per year. Architectural and civil engineers begin around $57,000, while electrical engineers start at $66,000 on average.

So financially, there is a clear benefit to getting a 4-year engineering degree if possible. However, an associate can still be a worthwhile stepping stone on the path to a bachelor’s.

Pros of an Associate Degree

There are some solid advantages to earning an associate degree, including:

Shorter Time Commitment

You can complete an associate degree in just 2 years full-time. This gets you out into the workforce more quickly than a 4-year program.

Lower Cost

Associate degrees typically cost far less in tuition fees than bachelor’s degrees. This makes them more accessible for budget-conscious students.

Develop Technical Skills

You will gain broad technical knowledge and applied engineering skills for assistant-level positions.

Hands-On Training

Associate programs emphasize practical training with more labs and projects compared to theory-focused bachelor’s degrees.

Transferable Credits

Many (though not all) credits can transfer towards an eventual bachelor’s degree at another school.

Foundational Knowledge

You get early exposure to the engineering field, allowing you to determine if you wish to continue.

Cons of an Associate Degree

However, there are also some distinct disadvantages, such as:

Fewer Job Prospects

While technician jobs exist, most engineering positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. Opportunities can be limited with “only” an associate.

Lower Salaries

As shown earlier, average pay for assistant roles with an associate is considerably below engineering positions needing a B.S. or higher.

Not Eligible for Licensure

Professional engineering licensure requires a bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited program. An associate does not qualify.

May Need More Education Later

To advance into higher engineering roles, you will likely need to go back for a bachelor’s degree anyway.

Potentially Wasted Credits

If your associate degree does not transfer well, you may lose credits towards a future B.S. This effectively sets you back.

Weighing these pros and cons depends largely on your career goals. If you wish to become a licensed engineer, a bachelor’s degree is essential. However, an associate can be a great start if you want to begin working more quickly as an engineering technician.

Tips for Choosing an Associate Program

If pursuing an associate degree in engineering, here are some tips for selecting a quality program:

Check for ABET Accreditation

ABET is the primary organization accrediting engineering degree programs. Accredited programs meet strict quality standards for curriculum, faculty, and facilities.

Confirm Transferability

Verify that your target bachelor’s degree schools accept transfers from the associate program. Ask about transfer credit limits too.

Evaluate Specializations

Common associate specialties include electrical, mechanical, civil, architectural, environmental, manufacturing, industrial, and chemical engineering technology. Pick an area of interest.

Research Career Prospects

Make sure your planned career path actually requires an associate. Some companies hire technicians with only a high school diploma plus on-the-job training.

Consider Community Colleges

Public community and technical colleges often offer associate degrees in engineering technology at a fraction of the cost of universities.

Compare Hardware and Facilities

Look for modern equipment, machinery, software, and labs closely matching what you will encounter in the working world.

Assess Faculty Experience

Professors with industry backgrounds can provide invaluable insider perspectives on real engineering projects and challenges.

Is an Associate Degree in Engineering Technology Worth It?

Overall, an associate degree is most beneficial for those seeking hands-on technician roles, rather than higher-level engineering positions. It can serve as an affordable stepping stone towards a future bachelor’s degree as well.

However, an associate alone may limit advancement opportunities. Weigh the pros and cons against your career goals. If aiming for management, design, research, or licensure, a bachelor’s remains the far better option. Yet an associate can still open doors to engaging technical positions with decent initial salaries above national averages.

FAQ

Can you become an engineer with just an associate degree?

No, you cannot become a licensed professional engineer without a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program. However, you can find work as an engineering technician or technologist assisting engineers with various technical tasks.

Is an associate degree in engineering worth it financially?

It depends. Average starting salaries for engineering technicians with associate degrees tend to be around $45,000-55,000 per year. This is decent but much less than typical entry-level pay for engineers holding bachelor’s degrees ($65,000+).

What jobs can I get with an associate degree in engineering?

Common jobs include engineering technician, electrical or electro-mechanical technician, CAD designer, surveying or mapping technician, plant operator, product tester, and quality inspector. Associate degrees focus on hands-on engineering support roles rather than professional-level engineering positions.

Should I get an associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering?

If your goal is to become a licensed professional engineer, you will need a bachelor’s degree at minimum. However, if wishing to work as a technician under and engineer, an associate may be sufficient for starting out. You can always go back for an engineering bachelor’s degree later.

How long does it take to get an associate degree in engineering?

Typically 2 years if attending full-time or 3-4 years part-time. Programs require about 60 semester credit hours in technical coursework, lab work, and some general education.