What Are the Requirements for Becoming an Engineer?

Engineering is one of the most structured career paths in the U.S., with education and licensing requirements that vary by field. Whether you’re drawn to civil, mechanical, electrical, or another specialty, you’ll need strong skills in math and science, a college degree, and often a professional license. 

We’ll cover engineer education requirements and provide a step-by-step guide to becoming licensed. We'll also discuss typical engineering major requirements and the career paths you can pursue.

Engineer Education Requirements

Most engineers earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in engineering from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This degree ensures that coursework meets industry standards and prepares you for licensure. Classes include advanced math, science, and engineering topics, along with hands-on labs and projects.

Some engineers continue their education with a master’s degree or doctorate for research, leadership, or academic roles. Many programs also encourage or require internships to help you gain real-world experience before graduation.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Become an Engineer

Students often ask what the journey looks like from high school to licensure. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.

Step 1: Graduate High School and Build a Strong STEM Foundation

Engineering starts with a solid background in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Courses in advanced math, physics, chemistry, and computer science are especially valuable for building problem-solving skills.

Beyond coursework, extracurricular activities can strengthen your college application. Joining robotics clubs, participating in STEM competitions, or taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes shows initiative and prepares you for college-level engineering work.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Nearly all engineers begin with a BS in engineering from an ABET-accredited program. These programs ensure that graduates meet the academic standards required to enter the profession.

Students typically take a mix of general education courses, prerequisite math and science classes, and introductory engineering courses. As you advance, you’ll focus on your chosen discipline through specialized classes and labs.

Step 3: Complete Internships or Co-Op Programs

Internships help students connect classroom learning to real-world applications. You can gain practical experience working with companies or research labs while building your professional network.

Some universities offer co-op programs that alternate semesters of coursework with full-time employment in engineering. These programs can extend your graduation timeline, but often lead directly to job offers after graduation.

Step 4: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the first step toward licensure. Most students take it soon after graduation while coursework is still fresh. It tests general engineering knowledge across multiple fields.

Passing the FE exam qualifies you as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI). This status signals to employers that you are on the path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).

Step 5: Gain Work Experience Under a Licensed Professional Engineer

Licensure boards in most states require about four years of supervised work under a licensed PE. During this time, you apply classroom knowledge to real projects while developing specialized expertise.

Supervised experience prepares you for the PE exam by building technical knowledge in real projects. It also develops the confidence and judgment you need to handle greater responsibility as an engineer.

Step 6: Pass the Professional Engineer (PE) Exam

The PE exam is the final step in achieving full licensure. Once passed, it allows you to approve projects, offer engineering services directly to the public, and take on leadership roles.

Requirements vary by state and engineering discipline, so it’s important to review your state’s licensure board guidelines. Specializations. like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, often have tailored exams.

Step 7: Pursue Advanced Education or Certifications (Optional)

While not required, many engineers choose to pursue advanced education. A Master of Science (MS) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) can open doors to research, teaching, or executive leadership.

Professional certifications also add value. Credentials in project management, safety, or software tools highlight expertise and can improve your career opportunities and salary potential.

Engineering Major Requirements

Engineering majors share a common set of requirements. These include math, science, computer science, and core engineering courses. Programs are typically ABET-accredited and combine classroom learning with labs, projects, and a senior capstone experience.

Mathematics (Calculus and Beyond)

Most engineering students complete several semesters of calculus, including multivariable calculus. These courses build the foundation for analyzing changes, modeling systems, and solving design problems across multiple disciplines. Calculus helps engineers design bridges that can withstand variable loads, analyze fluid flow in pipes, or determine how signals change over time in electronic systems.

Many disciplines, such as mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering, also require linear algebra and differential equations. Linear algebra provides the tools to work with matrices and vectors, while differential equations model how systems change over time. Together, these courses prepare you for advanced topics like control systems, thermodynamics, or structural analysis.

Physics

Physics courses cover fundamental concepts like mechanics, electricity, magnetism, and thermodynamics. These topics are at the heart of how machines, structures, and systems function, making them essential for every engineering field. For example, civil engineers apply mechanics when calculating load-bearing limits for bridges, while mechanical engineers use thermodynamics to design engines and heating systems.

Labs tied to physics courses allow you to apply theory to practice. You’ll conduct experiments that build skills in measurement, data analysis, and error evaluation. These experiences not only strengthen problem-solving abilities but also mirror the investigative work engineers do in professional settings.

Chemistry

Chemistry is a cornerstone for chemical, biomedical, and materials engineering majors. It introduces concepts needed to design and test new compounds, materials, and processes. For example, chemical engineers may study how catalysts affect reaction rates, while biomedical engineers might learn how chemistry applies to drug development.

Even fields like civil or mechanical engineering often require at least one chemistry course. Understanding chemical principles helps with materials selection, corrosion prevention, and environmental sustainability. These skills are especially important as industries work toward greener processes and renewable technologies.

Computer Science and Programming

Engineers frequently use programming to solve problems, analyze data, and model systems. Commonly taught languages include Python, C++, and MATLAB, which are chosen because they support mathematical modeling and engineering simulations. For instance, MATLAB is often used to simulate electrical circuits or analyze vibration data in mechanical systems.

Programming also allows engineers to automate tasks and test designs efficiently. Whether you’re writing code to run simulations, creating control systems for robotics, or developing algorithms for data analysis, programming skills expand your ability to innovate across different engineering branches.

Core Engineering Courses

All engineering majors take courses like statics, dynamics, and materials science. Statics introduces the analysis of forces in stationary objects, while dynamics extends these principles to moving systems. Materials science examines the properties of metals, polymers, and composites, helping engineers select the best materials for specific applications.

These courses are usually paired with labs or projects, ensuring you can apply concepts directly. They also set the stage for advanced electives in areas such as fluid mechanics, circuits, or structural design.

Capstone Project/Senior Design

Most programs conclude with a capstone or senior design project. These projects bring together all of the knowledge you’ve gained throughout your degree and challenge you to solve a practical engineering problem. Teams may design renewable energy systems, prototype medical devices, or develop new software tools for industry use.

Working in teams mirrors the collaboration expected in the workplace. Capstone projects also require written reports and oral presentations, which develop communication skills alongside technical expertise. This final step demonstrates to employers that you can manage deadlines, budgets, and complex design requirements while producing a real-world solution.

Engineering Specializations and Career Paths

Engineering offers many branches, each with unique career opportunities. Each path has its own electives, lab requirements, and career outcomes.

• Civil engineering: Civil engineers design and build infrastructure such as bridges, roads, and water systems that communities rely on every day.
• Mechanical engineering: Mechanical engineers develop machines, engines, and manufacturing systems that power industries and improve efficiency.
• Electrical engineering: Electrical engineers work with power systems, electronics, and communication technology to keep modern life running smoothly.
• Chemical engineering: Chemical engineers create processes that improve materials, energy production, and manufacturing practices.
• Biomedical engineering: Biomedical engineers design medical devices and innovations that improve health care and patient outcomes.
• Software engineering: Software engineers build and maintain technology solutions and computer systems used across nearly every industry.

With so many options, you can select a specialization that matches your strengths, interests, and career goals.

FAQs About Becoming an Engineer

Before choosing engineering, many students want to know how long the process takes and what courses are required. Here are answers to some common questions.

How Many Years Does It Take To Become an Engineer?

Most engineers spend about four years earning a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Licensure adds time since you must complete four years of supervised work experience before taking the PE exam. Altogether, it often takes seven to eight years to reach full licensure, though you can work in the field before becoming a PE.

Do You Need a Master’s Degree To Work as an Engineer?

You do not need a master’s degree for most entry-level engineering jobs. A bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited program is enough to qualify you for many positions. However, pursuing a master’s can help you specialize, move into management roles, or prepare for academic and research careers.

What Math Is Required for Engineering?

Engineering majors typically take multiple semesters of calculus, often extending into multivariable calculus. Courses in linear algebra and differential equations are also required for many fields. These classes give you the tools to analyze systems, model change, and solve the complex problems engineers face every day.

What Are Typical Engineering Major Requirements?

Most engineering programs include calculus, physics, chemistry, computer science, and foundational engineering classes such as statics, dynamics, and materials science. Lab courses, design projects, and a senior capstone project are also common. Together, these requirements ensure you graduate with both technical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills.

What’s the Difference Between an Engineer and an Engineering Technician?

Engineers are trained to design, analyze, and lead projects, while engineering technicians focus on implementing and testing those designs. Technicians often earn an associate degree, whereas engineers usually need a bachelor’s degree or higher. Both roles are essential, but engineers carry greater responsibility and often hold licensure.

Explore Engineering Programs

Explore ABET-accredited engineering programs on Learn.org to compare degree options and requirements. Connect with schools to find the path that best matches your strengths and career goals.