The Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering offers two types of bachelor’s degrees: professional degrees that are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and non-professional degrees that are NOT accredited by the ABET.

 

The key difference is that graduates of the ABET-accredited programs will be able to take exams for becoming a registered professional engineer while graduates of the non-professional degree programs will have no means of becoming a registered professional engineer.

 

Each state gives a series of exams, successful applicants of which become registered professional engineers. This is particularly important if you are interested in seeking employment with an outfit which seeks construction permits. Before a construction permit is issued, a registered professional engineer must sign its design testifying to the soundness and code compliance of the design. For example, a registered professional electrical engineer may attest to the soundness and code compliance of the electrical distribution network for the building. Another important aspect of becoming a registered professional engineer in this age of startup companies is when you want to start a new small company, perhaps a company of one person, you. In such an occasion, it is not only important but required to come up with a good descriptive name for your company and register the name with your state. Here most states would not let you name your company if it includes the word “engineer,” “engineers,” “engineering” or any combination of same unless the purpose of your company is to practice professional engineering and one or more of the incorporators (registered founders) is a registered professional engineer. If you are not a registered professional engineer, you will need another person who is a registered professional engineer.