Do you enjoy the challenge of creating solutions? Can you imagine yourself working at the forefront of technology? If so, a major in general engineering could be the right choice for you.

PLNU’s general engineering program interweaves classical and modern physics, computer science, and mathematics with engineering, providing you with an opportunity to gain both breadth and depth in the field. Some of our students with this degree will enter the job market immediately, while others will earn a master's degree in a specific engineering field upon graduation.

PLNU offers three emphases of the general engineering major: computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering-physics. Each emphasis augments a solid base in physics and mathematics with a selection of engineering courses that will prepare you to work in the private sector, in national laboratories at the very forefront of technology, or to pursue an advanced degree in engineering.

The emphasis in electrical engineering explores analog and digital electronics, computer interfacing, and even mobile robotics, helping to prepare you for careers in fields like solar technology, aerospace, satellite or cellular communications, nuclear power, and many more.

Spotlight

Michelle Chen, Ph.D.

To explain her field of study, Dr. Michelle Chen, PLNU associate professor of physics, refers to a ball on her desk. It is hand-sized and made up of hexagons, like a soccer ball you can see all the way through.

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For information about the courses required for the Engineering, B.S.E Electrical Engineering Concentration program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Are you curious about the driving forces behind machinery and infrastructure? Utilize a degree in electrical engineering to learn about power generation, digital interfacing, and much more so that you can flourish in the engineering industry. 

What type of engineering is right for you?

While both play a significant role in mathematical and creative problem-solving as well as communication and leadership skills, electrical engineers focus on power generation - such as electricity, mechanical engineers focus on - getting physical parts, motors, and components to behave or act in a desired manner, and computer science engineers focus on the programmable components that make the systems run.

At PLNU, our electrical engineering program focuses on two goals:

• Giving you experience in analog and digital electronics, computer interfacing, and even mobile robotics
• Helping to prepare you for careers in fields like solar technology, aerospace, satellite or cellular communications, nuclear power, and many more

Job outlook for electrical engineering careers

Employment in careers related to a degree in computer science engineering is projected to remain steady yet still competitive. For computer engineers, overall employment is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). However, for software developers (one of the careers pursued by graduates of the PLNU electrical engineering program), employment is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

What can you do with an engineering degree with a concentration in electrical engineering?

Many PLNU graduates have gone on to work in careers in academia, aerospace, computer technology, nuclear power, quantum information science, research, satellite or cellular communications, semiconductors, and solar technology (just to name a few). All are equipped with thorough knowledge and tools for their roles within these industries. 

Some of the positions PLNU graduates currently hold:

Electrical Engineer

2020 Median annual salary: $103,390

Electrical engineers create, develop, and test electrical equipment. These engineers work in a wide range of equipment and systems such as automobiles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, or power generation equipment. 

Necessary skills and attributes:

• Creativity to design new ways to use electrical power to develop or improve products
• Performing detailed calculations
• Directing the manufacture, installation, and testing of electrical equipment 
• Investigating problems and recommending solutions
• Working with project managers on production efforts 

Aerospace Engineer

2020 Median annual salary: $118,610

Aerospace engineers design primarily aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they create and test prototypes to make sure that they function according to design. They often specialize in areas such as aerodynamic fluid flow; structural design; guidance, navigation, and control; instrumentation and communication; robotics; and propulsion and combustion.

Necessary skills and attributes:

• Leadership for the direction of design and manufacturing teams of aircraft and aerospace products
• Efficiency in analyzing numbers and costs for projects 
• Attention to detail for evaluating designs and whether they meet engineering principles, customer requirements, and environmental regulations

Industrial Engineer

2022 Median annual salary: $96, 350

Industrial engineers devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.

Let your ideas spark and make them a reality with a degree in electrical engineering

PLNU’s Engineering, B.S.E Electrical Engineering Concentration will set you up for success in the wide-ranging opportunities available post-graduation. Whether you pursue aerospace, computer technology, research, or an intersection of these and more, you will be well prepared with creativity and skills fostered on PLNU’s campus.

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.