Becoming a Professional Engineer

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>Hey all</p>

<p>In researching my options upon exiting college (Im an EE major) I have come across the Professional Engineer certification. I have done a little research on the topic and know that I will need to take the FE exam, work for approximately 4 years (under the supervision of a PE), and then take the 8-hour PE exam. However I still have a few questions that I couldn't conclusively find on the NCEES website. As an electrical engineer (I read that for civil engineers it is more useful), would it be a worthwhile pursuit? What exactly could I do as a PE that I couldn't as a regular engineer, and would it open up more career options to me? What is the typical salary an EE PE could expect? In addition, I also hope to earn a masters degree directly after my bachelors (if possible). In your opinion, is all of the time and energy spent on this worth the reward?</p>

<p>Thank You</p>

2

<p>A PE is a liscense to practice engineering, and dependent on your state and field of work you may or may not need a PE. A PE is required to submit drawings for construction, which is why civil engineers are really NEED one. Drawings EEs submit are generally for items that will undergo quality testing before it gets into the hands of the general public. PE is also generally required if you will practice engineering as a consultant.</p>

<p>I would wait and see what career you land in and choose to pursue and then see what the requirements will be. However, it may be a good idea to get the EIT/FE out of the way right after college, since it tests general engineering knowledge which can be lost after years of specialization.</p>