Much of the smooth running of modern life depends on electronic systems and components that electrical engineers build. As a profession they are involved in the designing, developing and maintaining of electrical systems used in the building, transport, energy, manufacturing and power distribution industries.
Being an electrical engineer is a rewarding career, but to become one takes time, effort and commitment. That’s because there are a number of qualifications, certifications and accreditations you need for this role. Combined all of these will equip you to meet the technological challenges of this very exciting sector.
By: Iejaz Uddin – 2 August 2024
Why are electrical engineering qualifications important?
This is a constantly evolving field where you have to keep your skills and qualifications up to date and relevant.
Furthermore, being an electrical engineer means having to work with a wide range of modern technologies, that required highly trained people. This is where training and qualifications come in, which is by the way what a prospective employer will want to see in any electrical engineer CV you submit to them.
Advantages of having qualifications:
- Can lead to you getting a higher salary.
- Makes you stand out from other candidates who do not have similar qualifications.
- Will help you to carry out your duties successfully, on time and to budget.
- Broaden your horizons with study in related subjects.
Where to get qualifications from
Becoming an electrical engineer requires a lot of studying and training. To become one, you need relevant qualifications from academic institutions that are affiliated with professional bodies such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or the or the Institute of Measurement and Control (InstMC). You need these to gain chartered status as an engineer.
However, there are also alternative pathways to becoming an electrical engineer, where you do not have to attend university. For some people going to university isn’t an option, in this situation there are alternative ways of becoming an electrical engineer, such as through diplomas at colleges of apprenticeships with employers.
Not all qualifications are the same, some are suitable for experienced professionals, whilst others cater for entry-level electrical engineers looking to improve their CV.
Any training or course you undertake should contain a mixture of theoretical skills and practical experiences, which can be applied to real-world situations. The require qualifications can be attained via a:
- University course
- College course
- Apprenticeship
The good news is that there are many universities and colleges which offer electrical engineering as a higher education course, meaning you have a wide choice to chose from.
Degrees
You need a first degree in electrical engineering or a related subject such as electronic, production or software engineering, mechatronics or applied physics. Degrees should be accredited by professional bodies and reputable institutions such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or the Institute of Measurement and Control (InstMC). An Electrical engineering course lasts 3 years full time.
Degrees you can enrol on:
- Applied physics
- Aeronautical engineering
- Electromechanical engineering
- Building services engineering
- Mechatronics
- Mechanical engineering
Many of these degrees require students to attend secure work placements where they can build up their practical experience as well as knowledge.
Diplomas
For those who don’t want to go to university, they could do a Level 4 and 5 Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at college. This can lead to a higher national certificate or diploma in electrical and electronic engineering. Bear in mind that you may need to attend a specialist college or training provider in order to become an electrical engineer. Higher National Diploma’s (HNDs) take about two years to complete.
A level requirements
To apply for an HND programme, you will need one or two A levels and a level 3 diploma or relevant experience.
Apprenticeships
If you don’t want to go to college or university, you can also complete an apprenticeship in order to become an electrical engineer. This way you’ll get some practical experience while studying. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16, and as one you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. This option allows you to learn on the job and earn a salary while doing so.
They will lead to:
- Electrical or Electronic Technical Support Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer Level 6 Apprenticeship
Accredited courses
Before enrolling on any course of study, check with The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) to ensure your qualification is accredited.
Modules learnt on a degree, diplomas or training course
These courses will introduce you to the fundamental principles of electrical engineering. They are designed to expand your knowledge by helping you to delve deeper into electronics theory and then put these skills into practice in practical lab sessions.
Taught modules:
Analogue electronics
Circuit Analysis
Computational Problem Solving
Digital System Design
Engineering design
Electrical and Electronic Engineering principles
Electronic Engineering Fundamentals
Engineering Mathematics
Electronic Circuit Design
Electronic Materials
Energy Transport and Conversion
Electromagnetic Fields
Electronics Project
Engineering Projects
Electrical Principles
High frequency electronics
Measurements & Analytical Software
Microcontroller Engineering
Power systems
Physical Principles
Electrical engineer certifications
These can demonstrate your expertise, reinforce your credentials and designate your competency in a variety of engineering skills. They are earned by completing training programs followed by a written, oral or practical exam.
Through them engineers can learn new or specialist skills and have something that will be a great addition to their job application.
Here is a list of some in demand certifications that peoples can pursue:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Engineer in Training (EIT)
Certified Technical Professional (CTP)
Professional Engineer (PE)
Certified Systems Engineer Professional (CSEP)
Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
A well-recognised and respected body that accredits BEng and MEng programmes. Any degree you take with this accreditation will equip you with the creative, professional and technical skills that employers value. Successful completion of their degrees can also equip the candidate with the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Professional engineering institutions
Here is a list of some relevant professional engineering institutions that are licensed to award professional registration.
Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
Institution of Engineering Designers (IED)
Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE)
Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)