Obtaining an Online Associate Mechanical Engineering Degree
A mechanical engineer is responsible for researching and developing tools, machines, and other components and mechanical devices. They are concerned with the planning, design, and development of equipment and machines ranging from surgical instruments to jet engines. Obtaining an online Associate mechanical engineering degree will allow students to begin their career in this field or pursue further education in this field.
Required Courses
When pursuing an Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering online students will need to take certain courses. These often include statics, heating and air conditioning, materials strengths, math, robotics, machine design, computers, quality control systems, industrial practice, autoCAD, mechanics, fluid mechanics, manufacturing processes, drafting, materials, heat transfer application and theory, vibration analysis and design in mechanical engineering.
Average Completion Time
This degree will take students approximately two years to complete when they pursue it full-time. Students pursuing this online degree part-time may take three or more years to complete it.
Top Online Schools
Penn Foster College offers an online Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering. They are accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Students will pay $90.00 per credit hour and they can pay for each semester in full or they can utilize the payment plan. Students will also pay a registration fee of $200.00, a technology fee of $35.00, a credit set-up fee of $25.00 and a shipping and handling fee of $25.00.
Possible Careers
There is a variety of career paths for those who possess an Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering. The most popular career paths in this field include drafters, electronic and electrical engineering technicians, engineering technicians, civil engineering technicians, aerospace engineering, industrial engineering technicians, operations technicians, mechanical engineering technicians, electro-mechanical technicians and environmental engineering technicians.
Career Outlook
Mechanical engineering career opportunities are expected to grow between now and 2014. Those who complete an Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering online can expect an average annual salary of $40,000.00. Those who pursue drafting often make approximately $41,960 per year while those who work as engineering technicians often make $45,850.00 per year.
Why is it Better to Obtain this Degree Online?
Obtaining an Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering online allows students to obtain their degree while still keeping their current job. It allows them to open up new career opportunities without sacrificing time with their family and friends. It also allows them to break into a field that has a variety of career opportunities.
Resources
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2007). Engineering Technicians. Retrieved on December 12, 2009 from Website: https://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos112.htm
Degree Directory. (2009). Mechanical Engineering Technology: Online Associate’s Degree. Retrieved on December 12, 2009 from Website: https://education-portal.com/articles/Associate_of_Mechanical_Engineering_Technology:_Online_Degree.html
