Is a Master’s of Electrical Engineering Program Right for You

Are you interested in a career in electrical engineering? If so, consider the benefits of enrolling in a master’s of electrical engineering program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2021 to 2031 overall employment of electrical and electronics engineers is projected to grow by 3%? That may not seem like a lot, but when you consider the contraction happening in many other industries, a career in electrical engineering might not be such a bad idea.

Also, consider the level of pay electrical engineers enjoy. According to the same BLS statistics, electrical engineers start out in six figures with a degree in hand. In 2021, the average median pay for an electrical engineer was $101,780 per year, certainly nothing to shake a stick at. Yet, a career in electrical engineering may not be for everyone. It is important you do a careful evaluation of your career goals to determine whether the field is right for you.

A Masters of Electrical Engineering as a Forever Career

Can you imagine a world without the use of electricity? There is little doubt that electricity is one of the most civilization-changing inventions of humankind. Today, in the 21st century, electricity touches every aspect of our lives. From the moment you wake up until you go to bed, electricity is with you. And because electricity is so ubiquitous in our lives, there are a lot of different types of electrical engineers and electrical engineering professionals.

Hence, there is a lot of scope for professionals holding an electrical engineering degree from a top engineering university in San Francisco. The fact is electrical engineering is a promising career option for young professionals as there are literally thousands of job opportunities available in the field. You can work in any field that uses electricity. Just consider that electricity touches almost every field and industry. No matter where you want to work, chances are electricity is used in some fashion.

Today, job security is on everyone’s mind. With inflation hitting 40-year highs and instability plaguing the globe, everyday people worry about whether their job is on the chopping block. Fortunately, for electrical engineers, job security is virtually guaranteed. Those who obtain a master’s in electrical engineering degree can rest assured that their skills will be in high demand for a long time to come. Of course, if you have already obtained your bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, then you probably have already done your career due diligence. You’ve already chosen this field of study. Now, you may be wondering what’s next. What can you expect to learn as you take your electrical engineering studies to the next level?

What Will You Study as You Pursue Your MSEE?

The Master of Electrical Engineering is a 2–3-year degree (full-time) depending on your prior study. In your first year (or equivalent) you’ll complete foundation engineering subjects. These subjects are specifically tailored to students from non-engineering backgrounds. If you’ve completed the Electrical Systems major in the Bachelor of Science at another university, plus the required math and science subjects, then you will get credit for these foundation engineering subjects.

By your second or third year of studies, it will be time to dig into your area of specialty. It will be time to put some time into your desired discipline. Your professors will guide you in acquiring and honing the core skills you need to excel in your chosen discipline. You can expect to study things like:

• Embedded Systems Engineering
• Embedded Software Design
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Machine Learning & AI
• Python Programming
• Advanced Digital IC Design
• Multi-core Computing

As part of your advanced studies, you can also expect to be assigned an industry, design, or research project. This project will be used by your professors to evaluate the knowledge you’ve gained and retained.

Is a Master’s in Electrical Engineering Worth It?

It is important to remember that an MSEE is not usually a career requirement. However, it is recommended if students and professional engineers want to enhance their skills. Of course, undergraduate degrees are important, as they help students gain a fundamental knowledge of basic sciences. This generally includes physics, mathematics, and engineering. And while many engineers go on to get great jobs with just a bachelor’s degree, it may limit the scope of positions they may qualify for.

That’s where a master’s degree comes in. Master’s programs are specifically designed to help students hone skills that will be essential for a long and lucrative career in electrical engineering. The skills learned in a master’s program include strong technical, creative, communication, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. They will serve the master’s graduates in more than just their engineering field. These are life skills that will come in handy in numerous circumstances.

Beyond learning new skills, graduating with a master’s in electrical engineering can boost a candidate’s job prospects. For those looking for new or enhanced career opportunities and a higher salary, an MSEE will provide them. It is also important to remember that employers may require specialized electrical engineering applicants to have a master’s degree with a specialty in the area of focus they are looking for.

The same goes for leadership positions. Many employers require a master’s degree for project manager or senior engineer positions. Not only is a wealth of experience important, but that advanced degree may be just what is needed to get that lucrative leadership position. In the end, earning a master’s degree can improve an individual’s employment opportunities and income potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median weekly earnings for individuals with a master’s degree were nearly $250 greater than for those with just a bachelor’s, while the unemployment rate for master’s holders was almost 1.5% lower.

Here at San Francisco Bay University, we proudly offer MSEE programs designed to help students accelerate their careers and reach new heights. We also offer generous scholarship programs and tuition assistance for students who need it. Contact our admissions office to learn more!