Which Electrical Engineering Degree to Choose

Situation: I’m in the Marine Corps and currently work as an Avionics electrical engineering tech repairing helicopters. I love what I do and want to some day work as an engineer when I have to leave the service. I have tons of college credits from my schooling in Avionics. UMUC took 42 credits towards a Computer Science degree and now I have 60 credits with them, having taken a few classes. Computer Science is pretty fun, but electrical work is what I enjoy more. Excelsior took 10 credits towards an EET program. They are RA, and the EET program is ABET. Though, I feel that if I pursue EET vs. EE that I will be held back. I feel that an EE would be better. Arizona state has an EE that is ABET, and American Public has an EE that is “apparently being looked at” by ABET but claim that they can’t obtain ABET until someone graduates in 2016 - 2017. I like American Public’s program more than Arizona’s. So, I will not be going to Arizona. I also have a family to take care of and my job does not allow me much free time as it is. So, a traditional B&M will not work. Really, I just want to complete my degree. So, even though electrical is what I love. Computer Science sounds better and better every day ( having 60 credits towards it all ready ). My wife tells me not to do CS if it is not what I love. She tells me to do EE. Which, I want to …but I’m stuck (indecisive).

PS: APU took 11 credit towards EE

I’m currently pursuing engineering right now (prior Air Force). If you go with EE go to an ABET accredited school-don’t chance it on a “maybe”. Computer Science is not engineering (no licensing required) so the ABET accreditation isn’t such a big deal. EE is more math and science intensive, so be prepared for that. Engineering curriculum are a long and arduous, and the military is a full-time job, its going to be tough to find balance. If you’re getting out use that GI Bill and look out of state for EE degrees (in-state tuition everywhere starting in July 2015). if you plan to stay in and get a degree, Computer science might be your best option. Both degrees pay well, so no biggie there. Hope this helps.

Good Luck, and thanks for your service.