Which Degree is Right for Me – Engineering or Engineering Technology?
Students with the goal of becoming engineers often choose majors in either Engineering or Engineering Technology.
Engineers and engineering technologists are creative problem-solvers who shape the world through innovation and design. From towering bridges and smart buildings to advanced machines and energy systems, they transform ideas into practical solutions.
Whether it’s constructing a home, developing medical facilities, or building sophisticated robotics, their work directly addresses the challenges of everyday life.
While these degrees are closely related, these fields have different focus areas. Each area of study uses different skill sets, academic approaches and leads to distinct career opportunities.
Explore how Purdue University Northwest’s Engineering and Engineering Technology degree paths differ and how you can decide which path is best for you!
Engineering vs Engineering Technology
In general, engineering graduates lead the design and development of innovative, new technologies while engineering technology graduates build, maintain and improve existing systems.
Engineering
- Focus on expanding scientific, mathematical, theoretical and economic knowledge
- Careers focusing on researching, inventing, designing and building
- A broad discipline that encompasses specialized fields of engineering where strong, advanced math skills are essential
Engineering Technology
- Focus on design, construction and product improvement
- Careers focusing on development, building, implementation, optimization and problem solving
- Ideal for applying engineering and technology to create real-world solutions, where math and critical thinking play a key role
Engineering
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is based on advanced mathematics. As an engineering student, you will use calculus, theoretical concepts, science and complex problem solving to design and invent new solutions or structures.
Engineers create new solutions to complex problems through creation, design, development and system analysis.
Many PNW engineering courses include applied lab experiences that help students bridge theory and practice, like designing and building automobiles, testing circuits in electrical engineering courses or building scale-model bridges to study load distribution.
Engineers can also earn a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which boosts their credibility, opens doors to leadership roles, and offers greater career flexibility and opportunities. It’s a valuable step for those looking to advance and stand out in the field.
Engineering Degree Specializations
PNW offers a variety of programs in engineering, each with a different area of focus, so you can choose the one that fits your interests.
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering is one of the oldest engineering disciplines. Civil Engineers focus on designing and maintaining structures like bridges, roads and water systems. Civil engineers design structures that are safe, functional and long-lasting.
Study Civil Engineering at PNW
Top careers:
- Project management
- Field work
- Consulting
- Research
- Computer-aided design (CAD)
Computer Engineering
Computer Engineers combine knowledge of hardware (the physical parts of a computer) and software (the programs computers run on) to create new products. Computer engineers design and develop products such as computer networks, computer processors and memory devices.
Study Computer Engineering at PNW
Top careers:
- Software developer
- Systems software engineer
- Computer hardware engineer
Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineers use the principles of physics, math and programming to create systems that control, monitor and communicate. Electrical engineers work in the areas of control systems, communications systems, computers, automation, signal processing, microelectronics and power/energy systems.
Study Electrical Engineering at PNW
Top careers:
Scientific research and development
Electrical component manufacturing
Power generation, distribution and transmission
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineers use advanced math and hands-on experience to design machines, systems and operations. Mechanical engineers study how things move, transfer heat and work with fluids to create practical machines and devices.
Study Mechanical Engineering at PNW
Top careers:
- Design engineer
- Process engineer
- Systems engineer
Engineering Technology
A bachelor’s degree in engineering technology is hands-on, focusing on the construction of solutions using a range of technical tools. Engineering technologists bring designs to life, using a variety of tools, software, hardware, algebra and applied calculus.
In the classroom, PNW’s engineering technology courses emphasize the practical application of engineering principles with hands-on labs that have industry-standard equipment. Engineering Technology students design, build, and compete with projects like Hydrabikes, SAE Baja cars and robotics competitions.
An engineering technology degree focuses on applying, testing and maintaining technology in real-world settings, such as manufacturing or construction sites. Students learn to test systems, solve problems and keep processes running smoothly.
Engineering Technology Degree Specializations
PNW offers a variety of academic programs where you can dive into different areas of engineering technology, so you can find a path that matches your interests and career goals.
Construction Management Engineering Technology (CMET)
Construction Engineering and Management Technologists focus on the planning and management side of construction projects. They focus on ensuring that structures such as bridges and roads are built to the proper specifications, ensuring safe, functional and long-lasting features.
Study Construction Management Engineering Technology at PNW
Top Careers:
- Estimator
- Construction manager
- Field Engineer
- Superintendent
- Surveyor
Electrical Engineering Technology (EET)
Electrical Engineering technologists focus on the application, implementation and maintenance of electrical systems. They use engineering and technical skills to work with electrical systems such as power grids, electronics and motors. They build, collect data from, test and improve electrical equipment used in homes, businesses and factories.
Study Electrical Engineering Technology at PNW
Top careers:
- Design Engineering
- Electrical Machine Engineer
- Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer
- Industrial Process Engineer
- Instrument and Electrical Training
Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET)
Mechanical Engineering Technologists solve real-world problems by designing, testing, and improving machines and mechanical systems. They can create more efficient HVAC systems for buildings, develop robotic arms for manufacturing or refine engine components in automobiles to boost performance and safety.
Study Mechanical Engineering Technology at PNW
Top careers:
- Project Engineer
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Product Design Engineer
- Quality Assurance Manager
Mechatronics Engineering Technology (MECT)
Mechatronics Engineering Technologists blend mechanical, electrical and software technologies to create and build new systems in the manufacturing industry. They focus on automation, robotics and smart machines to design, build and maintain smart systems and automated processes.
Study Mechatronics Engineering Technology at PNW
Top Careers:
- Automation Specialist
- Electrical/Mechanical Engineer
- Field Service Engineer
- Robot Integrator
- Robotics Programmer
Which degree is right for me?
Projected outlook for careers in engineering and engineering technology
Thinking about a future in Engineering or Engineering Technology? Both offer exciting, in-demand careers but suit different strengths!
Engineering is ideal if you love problem-solving, math and theory. Engineers often lead innovation as they advance through their careers and into leadership roles.
Engineering Technology is a great fit if you’re hands-on and enjoy applying ideas in real-world settings. Technologists are key to building, testing and improving the systems that engineers design.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 200,000 engineering and tech job openings annually through 2033. Both paths are valuable, but it’s about what fits you best.
Why choose PNW for a degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology?
At PNW, students in Engineering and Engineering Technology get practical experience while learning the skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive industries.
Students in both programs have the opportunity to earn industry certifications and participate in student chapters of professional organizations while still in school.
These include the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, IEEE, the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Hispanic Engineers, and the Society of Women Engineers. It’s a great way to connect with peers, build your network and explore career paths.
Students learn in modern labs like the PNW Design Studio, the Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center and the Roberts Impact Lab. These spaces are designed to support firsthand learning across both fields.
These dedicated labs allow students to become familiar with equipment, processes and develop a common knowledge and language so they can begin work as an intern or employee without additional training, making them more attractive to potential employers.
By working with real equipment and processes in these lab spaces, students are able to gain the experience and confidence needed to step out of the classroom and into internships or jobs.
PNW Engineering or Engineering Technology majors can also apply what they learn in the classroom to projects with student organizations. From building a high-powered racing vehicle with Baja Motorsports or Formula SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) to designing and building a concrete canoe or projects with the Construction Club, there are numerous opportunities for friendly competition and professional development.
Engineering and Engineering Technology Degrees At PNW
PNW offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate Engineering and Engineering Technology degrees. Whether you are looking to major, minor or receive a certificate, there is a program for you!