Electronics Engineering is a subset of electrical engineering. Electronics engineers focus on the design and manufacture of electronic devices such as portable music players and GPS (global positioning system) navigation utilities. They may specialize in areas such as communications, signal processing, or control systems.
An electronics engineering degree program offers training in the design and function of electronic circuits and assemblies. Electronics engineering curricula vary, but may include courses in: Electronics Principles, Digital Technology, Analogue Applications, RF Technologies, Power & Electronic Systems, Alternative Energy Systems, Electronic Industry Practices, Simulation & PCB Development, Embedded Controllers, Gate Array Technology, Photonics, and Computer Hardware Interfacing.
The standard entry-level degree for professional electronics engineers is a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering. Electronics engineering positions differ by role and industry. Engineers may be involved in the planning, design, analysis and testing, or implementation phase of an electronic device. They may work in manufacturing, consumer electronics, broadcast and communications systems, aviation, or computers. The telecommunications industry collectively employs the greatest number of electronics engineering degree holders--17.5%. The federal government is also a major employer, accounting for 14.4% of jobs.
Job outlook remains positive despite increasing competition from foreign product development. Demand for electronic goods, especially advanced communications equipment, defense-related electronics, and medical electronics should drive growth in the field. The strongest growth should be in engineering consulting services, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median salary for electronics engineers was $75,770 in 2004, among the highest of the various engineering sectors.
An electronics engineering degree offers the specialized training necessary to start a career in this lucrative field.
