Education · 1 of 5

The path

An accredited engineering degree is the whole gate. Everything after it is optional.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Calculus, physics and chemistry. Strong math grades are what get you into an engineering program.

2. 2

   Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

   4 years

   Four years, accredited by ABET (the body that accredits engineering degrees in the United States). Embry-Riddle's aerospace degree runs 129 credits with tracks in aeronautics, astronautics, jet propulsion and rocket propulsion.

3. 3

   Internships or co-op

   Summers, or a six month term

   A paid placement at a manufacturer, a research lab or a government center. This is how most graduates get hired.

4. 4

   First engineering job

   Year 1

   You work under experienced engineers on one small part of a huge system. Expect two years before you own anything.

5. 5

   Optional license or master's

   4 or more years

   The Fundamentals of Engineering exam, four years of experience and the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam gets you a Professional Engineer license. Most aerospace engineers never need it.