Here, we will give you basic information on automotive engineering degree programs and the best schools in the world to earn them.
The automotive engineering field is relatively new, having only been in existence for 100 years. And, the way automobiles and highways have been integrated into various global cultures has led to a this sector’s popularity.
Following the rapid technological advances in the automotive industry, the field looks very different from what it was 20 or 30 years ago.
Therefore, this article will give you detailed information on the best automotive engineering degree programs and schools in the world. In addition, you will learn more about who an automotive engineer really is, how to become one, as well as, the salaries and job outlook.
What Is Automotive Engineering?
Automotive engineering is a branch of mechanical engineering. It is also a branch of vehicle engineering just like aerospace engineering and naval architecture. It deals with the design, manufacture, and operation of motorcycles, automobiles, and trucks and their respective engineering subsystems. Basically, the automotive engineering field covers the production, development, and manufacturing of automobiles by incorporating elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and safety engineering.
Who Is An Automotive Engineer?
An automotive engineer design the systems and mechanisms of cars. Automotive engineers are professionals who ensure that automotive designs and systems conform to budgeted quality and cost specifications.
What Are The Qualities Of Automotive Engineers?
Basically, automotive engineers design the system and mechanisms of a car. In order to carry out this function effectively, you need to have a creative mind. Generally, the whole automotive engineering process involves teamwork. Therefore, to work effectively as or with a team, you need to communicate well. In addition, you have to listen and also analyze different approaches made by your team members, and other experts to complete the task at hand. This skill helps you to apply basic engineering concepts and mechanical processes to the design of automobiles. Just like every other engineer, automotive engineers use the principles of calculus, statistics, as well as other advanced mathematical subjects for analyzing, designing, and troubleshooting in their work. Automotive engineers need good problem-solving skills to use scientific principles and discoveries to design and build automobiles
What Does An Automotive Engineer Do?
Apart from the basic responsibility of being in charge of the development of passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles or off-road vehicles, an automotive engineer also perform other duties.
Other responsibilities of the automotive engineer can cover any of the following:
How Can I Become An Automotive Engineer
To become an automotive engineer, you have to follow the steps below:
Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program
Currently, very few universities offer a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering. However, as an aspiring automotive engineer, you earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from a school that has a concentration in automotive engineering.
Participate In An Internship
Basically, an automotive engineering internship gives students experience in the field. It also provides an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to professional situations. Internships are usually offered by automotive suppliers or manufacturers and sometimes come with opportunities for students to specialize in a specific area. These specializations include but not limited to robotics, simulation software, and infrastructure.
Look For Employment Opportunities
As an automotive engineer, you can work in all aspects of an automobile’s design and performance. For instance, some automotive engineers are in charge of designing prototype cars. On the other hand, some may be responsible for improving fuel system performance or finding more cost-effective materials to use. Daily duties may include using computer-aided design programs to review projects and test features.
Participate in Continuing Education Opportunities
There are several continuing education options for automotive engineers. For example, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) offers continuing education opportunities for professionals in the field. They are available both online and in a classroom. Typically, most continuing education opportunities cover many areas in the automotive engineering field such as:
Become Licensed
If you really want to advance in your career as an automotive engineer, then, you should consider becoming professionally licensed. Basically, getting a license sets one apart from unlicensed engineers. It allows you to bid for government contracts, carry out consulting services and also provide services to the public. Although most states set their own requirements, the path to get licensure is a bit different. Typically, it involves the following:
Consider A Master’s Degree
Unlike the bachelor’s degree, there are many universities that offer master’s degrees in automotive engineering.
Earning a master’s degree in automotive engineering provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field. However, it is not required to work in the field as one can start a career with a bachelor’s degree.
Notwithstanding, students learn about innovative designs and systems in a master’s degree program. In addition, the program provides them with research opportunities and can also, lead to career advancement.
Why Are The Educational Requirements For Automotive Engineers? | Automotive Engineering Degrees
Basically, the entry requirement for a career in automotive engineering is a bachelor’s degree. However, to advance or get an edge over others, you can earn a master’s degree.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering
As said earlier, most schools do not offer a bachelor’s degree program in automotive engineering. Therefore, a good number of automotive students enter a mechanical engineering program with an automotive concentration. Typical coursework in a bachelor in automotive engineering program will cover: Basically, a bachelor’s degree program in automotive engineering can be completed in 4 years. Furthermore, during the last semester, most programs cover senior design projects and internships in automotive work experience. These programs, in turn, contribute to securing a full-time position shortly after graduation.
Master of Science in Automotive Engineering
A master’s degree program offers students an opportunity to focus on a particular aspect of automotive engineering. Common specialization tracks include manufacturing processes, electrical and computer systems, mechanical systems and materials science. Typical master’s degree in automotive engineering include: Basically, it takes about two years to complete a master’s degree in an automotive engineering program. In addition, students must present a final project or thesis paper in order to complete the degree.
Why Do I Need To Attend An Automotive Engineering School?
Generally, engineering students must choose a college or university recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Reason being that when evaluating an applicant for an automotive engineer position, some employers consider the reputation of the engineering school that the student attended more than any other factor.
How Much Does It Cost To Earn An Automotive Engineering Degree?
According to CollegeCalc, the average annual out-of-state cost for a bachelor program in Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician is $31,798. In other words, an estimated average of the four years to complete the program will cost a total amount of $127,192.
What Are The Best Automotive Engineering Schools?
In selecting our best automotive engineering schools, we will be considering several factors. They include:
Accreditation
This shows whether the program is approved by the right accrediting body. It also lets the student know if the can pursue the program in the school or not.
Number of Programs
Here the student gets to know the number of degree programs the school offers.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of the school shows the student how competitive the school is in terms of admission. The higher the acceptance rate, the higher a student’s chance of getting admitted. However, the lower the acceptance rate, the lower the chances of getting admitted. For instance, schools like MIT have a very low acceptance rate because of its global ranking.
List of The Best Universities In Automotive Engineering In The World
In no particular order, here are 13 best schools where you can earn a degree in automotive engineering: Austin Peay State University offers both associate in applied sciences (AAS) and Bachelor in Science (B.Sc) in automotive engineering technology. Basically, the program prepares graduates for work in automotive service, as well as the design and manufacturing of automotive components and systems. Furthermore, the bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering program has a total of 123 credit hours and 7 full-time faculty. Founded in 1865, Indiana State University is one of the best schools for automotive engineering. The B.SC in automotive engineering technology program is basically concerned with all areas of the automotive and the wheeled transportation industries. In addition, it combines the needed experiences from theory, laboratory, and practicals to help students pursue a career in the automotive field or related industries. Formed in 1817, theUniversity of Michigan is one of the best schools where you can study automotive engineering. With a focus on current development in engineering fundamentals and practice, this degree prepares students to be innovators who can address global problems in this technologically dynamic and compelling field. The Master of Engineering (MEng) in Automotive Engineering consists of 30 credit hours and can be completed in 1-2 years on a full-time basis. however, it can be completed in 2.5-5 years on a part-time basis. With a student to faculty ratio of 16:1, Ferris University is one of the top accredited schools for automotive engineering. Basically, the Ferris State University’s Bachelor’s in automotive engineering program prepares students to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills to develop, manufacture, and test self-propelled ground vehicles and their systems. This process is however carried out with the help of other engineers and professionals in the team. Previously known as Mankato State University, Minnesota State University is one of the best accredited automotive engineering schools in the world. Founded in 1868, the school offers both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in automotive engineering technology. With a total of 128 credits, the BSC in automotive technology teaches students the design, development, testing, application, modification, and maintenance of vehicles and their components for use in transportation systems. On the other hand, the MS Automotive Engineering Technology degree program prepares graduates for careers in product research, design, and development. In addition, they are trained for manufacturing in the original automobiles and also, aftermarket industries. Established in 1888, Brigham Young University Idaho is one of the best schools to earn automotive engineering. The school’s bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering Technology combines automotive and engineering coursework to prepare students for careers such as service engineers, test engineers, or engineering technicians. Formed on 11 April 2013, the University of South Wales is one of the best schools to study an automotive engineering program. It provides both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in automotive engineering. Basically, the degree programs provide students with the knowledge and skills needed in the modern automotive industry, with a focus on autonomous vehicle technology. Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee is one of the best schools that offer a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with an automotive engineering concentration. Basically, the mechanical engineering program covers the design, analysis, testing, and manufacture of mechanical and thermal systems. Furthermore, it consists of a total of 128 credit hours and takes about four years to complete. The Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER) is one of the best schools to get an automotive engineering degree. It offers B.Eng degrees in automobile engineering as well as a B.Eng in Mechanical engineering with a concentration in automotive engineering. Established in 2003, the automobile engineering program covers the entire process of vehicle development from the design stage to the manufacture, maintenance, and service of automobiles. Founded in 1984, the VIT university is one of the top automotive engineering schools in the world. The School of Mechanical and Building Sciences (SMBS) at VIT offers a 4-year B.Tech (Mechanical Engineering) degree program with a concentration in automotive engineering. Here, students learn basic mechanical knowledge and automotive skills for higher education and also an advanced career in the field. Established in 1896, Shanghai Jiao Tong University is one of the best schools that offer automotive engineering programs. The School of Mechanical Engineering (ME), Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) however dates back to 1913. The School is a world-class engineering school committed to high-level education and topnotch research. In line with the school’s vision, the Institute of Automotive Engineering of Shanghai Jiao Tong University was founded in 2006. The institute was formed to provide a unique platform for automotive engineering research. Also, with about 20 full-time faculty members, administrative staff and researchers, the institute boasts of about 100 graduate students. With its establishment in 1911, Tsinghua University is one of the best schools that offer automotive engineering programs. The school offers a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering with a focus on automotive engineering. The department of automotive engineering uses a student-oriented education method to meet the great demand of the automobile industry and deal with the social problems caused by automobiles. Here, they also offer high-quality courses and create a good academic atmosphere to train students for the automobile industry. The University of Texas at Arlington is one of the best automotive engineering schools. However, there is no accredited automotive engineering degree program here. Notwithstanding, the department of mechanical and aerospace engineering offers an undergraduate certificate in automotive engineering. Furthermore, the mechanical and aerospace engineering programs have been accredited by ABET since 1967 and 1968.
What Do Automotive Engineers Earn?
According to Glassdoor, an automotive engineer earns a national average salary of $76,430 On the other hand, payscale reports that the average salary for an Automotive Engineer is $76,513. Also from payscale, below are the popular employers of automotive engineers and their pay:
Job Outlook Of Automotive Engineers
According to Chron, the employment rate of automotive engineers is expected to increase by 9 percent between now and 2026. It also projects that in the USA, Texas, Michigan, and California provide the most positions for automotive engineers.
Automotive Engineering Resources
Below are some resources that will be useful to a prospective automotive engineer. Theses resources include accrediting body and association. Do well to click on any of them for more information.
Typically, it takes about 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering. On the other hand, it takes 2 years to get a master’s degree in automotive engineering.
Basically, the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the body in charge for approving engineering programs in the world
Below are some of the schools for automotive engineering program:Austin Peay State UniversityIndiana State UniversityThe University of Michigan Minnesota State University, Mankato Ferris State University Brigham Young University IdahoUniversity of South Wales University of Tennessee Bharath University (Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research)VIT University (Chennai) Shanghai Jiao Tong University Tsinghua University
According to CollegeCalc, the average annual out-of-state cost for a bachelor program in Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician is $31,798. In other words, it will cost a total amount of $127,192 on average to complete a four year program in automotive engineering
According to Glassdoor, an automotive engineer earns a national average salary of $76,430 On the other hand, payscale reports that the average salary for an Automotive Engineer is $76,513.
Conclusion
As the automobile world continues to grow rapidly and advance in technology, there is a need for more automotive engineers. However, these engineers need to attend ABET-accredited universities and also become licensed in order to advance in their careers. I hope the schools and guidelines provided above helps you in your decision making. Good Luck And Success!!!
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