drummerguy
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« on: June 20, 2011, 09:08:38 PM » |
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I know that the math is more advanced, as well as the physics, but I have noticed many similarities between my program, industrial electronics technology, and electrical engineering. For my major, I will be taking courses in AC, DC theory, solid state and digital fundamentals, sensors, motors and transformers, PLCs (3 classes covering everything about PLCs to date), residential wiring, and more. I have looked at the curricula of Auburn University's EE program, and they seem to study the same, with, of course, more advanced math and physics. Therefore, the question remains, what is the difference?
By the way, I am not asking for the differences in job possibilities or salaries, simply studies.
Thank you
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GibsonEssGee
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« Reply #1 on: June 27, 2011, 09:49:46 AM » |
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You've hit it on the head. The math gets worse (if you aren't into math). You start at what you know about calculus then go to first principles (which isn't what you've done before, lots of sigma signs and stuff) then on to triple integrals, divs, curls, Fourier and Laplace transforms some of which you may just use in a career as a design engineer but will more likely use a development program that does it all for you. Physics follows a similar pattern, you write up the experiment then write a book on error calculations as to what might have gone wrong and by what percentage. Zero fun.
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John_Doe
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« Reply #2 on: June 27, 2011, 05:19:53 PM » |
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In Canada, all engineering programs must be certified by the Order of Engineers. To be certified, the engineering programs must meet some requirements including 1 semester-worth of math courses, 1 ethics course, and 1 engineering economics course. The rest of the courses usually is field specific.
From my experience, electrical engineering seems to offer a much broader study of old school electrical engineering concept. That is, most of the things I learned are either out-dated or idealistic. So, with a technical degree, you might learn about different components and how they can be applied in real life. With a university degree, you will learn about the theory (from over a decade ago) behind the component and nothing much else. However, the aim of the university degree is not to learn about recent electrical engineering technologies, but more about learning the principles behind electrical engineering and developing the fundamental skills needed for future electrical engineer.
All this to say: Most of what I learned in electrical engineering cannot be applied to a real life situation. However, most real life applications are advanced/complex tweaks of what one learns in university.
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Devin
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« Reply #3 on: June 29, 2011, 04:36:36 AM » |
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Based on the higher level of math, science, and theory, engineers can do scientific research in addition to getting jobs in industry.
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Micro_engineer
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« Reply #4 on: June 29, 2011, 11:18:05 AM » |
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An EE bachelor's degree program will cover additional engineering courses that are not geared toward the practical "skilled worker" (read: specific to your field) training you'll have.
In other words, the EE degree covers a very broad range of subjects, and is not too specific to any one field.
Courses such as probability/statistics, signal domain analysis, embedded (digital) design, analog design, etc. are also a part of the curriculum. Elective courses may include the same or other material.
The difference is an electrical engineering graduate may begin work in a very, very large number of areas related to engineering, not just design. Also, undergraduates have a foundation for pursuing an MS or PHD degree.
Unlike more specific training, an EE graduate is quite often found working in a very different field than where they started. For example, you may find an EE grad working in software design, or as a semiconductor company's in-field sales or support person, or much more.
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