How Online Programs Support Electrical Engineers at Work

Getting your BS in electrical engineering is one of the best ways to advance your career and open new opportunities. However, if you’re already working as a technician in the field, it can be hard to find time to go back to school. Online programs provide flexible electrical engineering career pathways you can complete around your work schedule.

This article will cover how online electrical engineering programs can help you make the technician-to-engineer transition without taking time off work.

The Flexibility Working Professionals Need

Traditional engineering programs typically require you to attend full-time classes in person. This is impossible for many working people, who need the income from their jobs to support themselves or their families. With an online program, most, if not all, classes are asynchronous, self-paced classes that you can complete when it’s convenient for you. If your only free time is early in the morning or late at night, you have the option to work on your assignments then, as long as you have your work finished and submitted by the deadline.¹

Additionally, many online programs offer the option to attend part-time, so you can still have downtime and time to spend with your family. Although working full time and attending school part time will still make for a busy schedule, it’s not as hectic as working full-time and going to school full-time.

Another benefit of upskilling in electrical engineering through an online program is that you don’t have to relocate. If you live and work in an area without an accredited engineering school, attending online can make the difference between advancing your career and staying in place.¹

Applying What You Learn in Real Time

If you’re currently working on electrical engineering projects, you may have the opportunity to apply your coursework to your professional responsibilities. Concepts such as circuit analysis and embedded systems can be observed in practical, real-world settings, enhancing their relevance and applicability. This alignment between theory and practice not only accelerates your learning but also deepens your understanding by reinforcing classroom instruction through hands-on experience.²

For example, if you’re experiencing a power-supply issue on the job and you learn about feedback control systems in class, you’ll experience firsthand the practical application of your academic theories. Your projects and labs will be more relatable because you’ll likely have experienced similar situations in your work as a technician. Together, this work/school feedback loop will sharpen your problem-solving and innovation skills.²

Online Programs Designed with Technicians in Mind

Not all online electrical engineering career pathways are equally useful for working technicians. The best programs consider both the strengths you bring to the program and the challenges you face. Look for online programs that offer the following features:

Built-In Support

Because your time is scarce, you need a program offering comprehensive support that’s available when you need it. When you’re looking into online engineering degrees, ask about faculty access. Your instructors should respond promptly when you have a question or issue. Also, tech support is extremely important when you’re taking online classes. If you’re having problems with the platform, you may end up wasting valuable study time. You should also ask about advising help to ensure your course plan aligns with your career goals.

Bridge Programs

If you already have an associate's degree or certification, bridge programs allow you to complete your bachelor’s degree faster. These programs allow you to skip courses you’ve already covered and immediately begin working on more advanced engineering concepts that will build on your existing skills and professional experience.³

Career Growth Without Career Disruption

You don’t have to put your career on hold while you earn your degree. An online electrical engineering degree allows you to continue working during your studies. You can take advantage of this opportunity in the following ways:

Prepare for Higher-Level Positions

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited program is a requirement for you to take the exam to become a Professional Engineer (PE). Furthermore, it will help you qualify for leadership positions that are only available to licensed engineers or those with a bachelor’s degree. Regardless of how much experience you have, your career could stall if you don’t have a degree. You can use your bachelor’s degree as a stepping stone to your master’s degree if you want to work in cutting-edge research or lead large teams.⁴

Build Your Resume While Working

Instead of losing ground by quitting your job while you attend school, an online program lets you earn a degree as you gain work experience. Obtaining your degree shows initiative and dedication, which employers value. You’ll increase your professional value in your current job and qualify for other roles, expanding your options for career advancement in electrical engineering.

Qualify To Work in Recent and Emerging Technologies

The field of electrical engineering is evolving. Technological advances in artificial intelligence, smart systems, renewable energy, and automation are driving innovations. A BS in Electrical Engineering can prepare you for a career in these rapidly expanding sectors, whether you want to work on smart cities that incorporate Internet of Things sensors and wireless connectivity to allocate resources more efficiently or work with renewable energy options to reduce carbon emissions.⁵

Make the Technician to Engineer Transition 

With the right program, you don't have to choose between your job and your future. An online format lets you achieve both. You can apply what you’ve learned to the challenges you face every day on the job.

A BS in Electrical Engineering from Bradley University will help you qualify for advanced positions and allow you to earn your professional licensure. You can learn the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to electrical engineering’s innovative future.

Our rigorous curriculum includes timely and valuable topics such as electric machines, electric power systems, autonomous robots, and renewable energy systems. With expert faculty to guide you through the program, you’ll learn everything you need to know to advance in your career.

Bradley’s electrical engineering program is ABET-accredited to meet the educational requirements for obtaining your PE license. Take the next step by contacting one of our Admission Advisors today to learn more.