The Benefits of an Engineering Career: Stability, Flexibility, and Impact
Engineering is an exciting field where creativity meets problem-solving. Engineers design bridges, develop software, create sustainable energy solutions, and build the technologies we use every day.
Considering engineering? It offers strong job stability, flexible careers, and the chance to make a real impact. This guide explains what engineers do, the main specialties, and the steps to start your journey.
Choose a discipline that excites you, such as mechanical, civil, or biomedical engineering. Explore different fields through courses, student organizations, and industry discussions. Consider emerging areas like sustainable systems or robotics for growing opportunities.
Where you are in the journey:
Freshman/Sophomore: Explore broad engineering areas, take foundational math and science courses, join clubs, attend events.
Junior: Choose (or confirm) your major and begin deepening coursework in your chosen discipline.
Earn a Degree
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program is often required for entry-level positions. Many students enhance their education with minors or certifications. Consider a master’s degree for deeper expertise and advancement. Licensure exams are important milestones in your journey.
Where you are in the journey:
Freshman–Senior: Progress through your degree requirements, selecting electives or minors that support your goals.
Get Hands-On Experience
Hands-on experience through internships, labs, and projects is crucial. These experiences build your résumé and confirm your choice of discipline. Plan your education strategically, aligning courses and experiences with your career goals to enter a dynamic, impactful field.
Where you are in the journey:
Sophomore/Junior: Pursue internships, co-ops, lab assistant roles, or early research projects.
Junior/Senior: Complete capstone projects and higher-level labs aligned with your career goals.
Continue Learning
Engineering is always evolving, so it’s important to keep building your skills. Many engineers pursue graduate degrees or certifications in areas like robotics, sustainability, or project management to stay current and advance their careers.
Where you are in the journey:
Junior/Senior/ Early Career: Consider graduate school, certificate programs, or specialized training. Widener’s 4+1 programs can help you save time and money by allowing you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years.
Mid-Career: Earn professional certifications or take professional development courses to expand your expertise. Widener alumni can save 20% on tuition for a master's degree.
Engineering Fields
Biomedical Engineering
Integrates engineering with biology and medicine to create medical devices, diagnostics, and technologies that improve healthcare.
Civil Engineering
Involves the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
Chemical Engineering
Applies chemistry, physics, and math to transform raw materials into valuable products like fuels, pharmaceuticals, and food.
Computer Engineering
Combines electrical engineering and computer science to design and develop computer hardware, software, and networks.
Mechanical Engineering
Focuses on the development and optimization of machinery and mechanical systems.
Electrical Engineering
Deals with the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.
Environmental Engineering
Applies science and engineering principles to protect the environment, manage natural resources, and improve public health.
Robotics Engineering
Integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to design and build automated systems and intelligent machines.
The demand for engineers remains strong across industries, offering opportunities for growth, leadership, and career flexibility. With an engineering degree, you can pursue roles in manufacturing, consulting, research, and government, gaining job stability and professional growth.
What You Can Do Now to Prepare to Become an Engineer
Getting a head start now can help you build the skills, experience, and connections needed for a successful engineering career. Here are some ways you can prepare for a career in engineering:
Take advanced courses in math, science, and technology.
Join STEM or engineering clubs and participate in robotics competitions.
Enter science fairs and work on hands-on building or coding projects.
Attend summer engineering programs, workshops, or seminars.
Seek mentorship from engineers or college students in the field.
Research scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support your education.
Use these experiences to explore different engineering paths and decide if the field is right for you.
Widener Engineering graduates are hired by a variety of leading companies across multiple industries. Recent employers include Deloitte, Siemens, The Boeing Company, and Northrop Grumman. Many graduates also pursue co-op experiences, research opportunities, and professional development while at Widener, which helps them secure competitive positions after graduation.
Widener University helps engineering students move from classroom learning to professional success through hands-on projects, industry partnerships, and career-focused support. With experiential learning, modern labs, and strong internship and co-op pathways, students graduate prepared for real-world engineering careers.
Earning an engineering degree from Widener University is worth it long-term because students graduate with:
• In-Demand Technical Skills: Hands-on labs, real projects, and industry-standard tools prepare students for the workforce.
• Strong Career Preparation: Small classes and faculty mentorship help students build confidence and problem-solving abilities.
• Real-World Experience: Internships, co-ops, and applied learning give students practical experience that stands out on resumes.
• Valuable Industry Connections: Widener’s partnerships and alumni network open doors to meaningful internships and full-time roles.
Start planning for graduate school in engineering during your junior year. This timing allows you to explore programs, meet with advisors, prepare for required exams, gain research or internship experience, and build a strong application well before deadlines in your senior year.
Get in Touch
School of Engineering Undergraduate Programs Office
