Engineering Technology

Associate Degree 4 months per semester

Associate Degree in Engineering

In our Associate Degree in Engineering Program, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to start a new engineering career. Self-paced, online courses help you develop in-demand skills, preparing you for an entry-level job market.

Helps prepare students for entry-level positions working in mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering.
Potential for employment in emerging fields such as automation, 3D printing, and alternative energies.
Accredited degree awarded under licensing from the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education.
Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.

Accredited

Online

Self Paced

First Semester

$1,299

$1,699 Save $400

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

Enroll Now Request Info

1-800-471-3232 (9AM - 9PM ET)

engineer professional working on laptop.

What You Will Learn

How to read and interpret technical drawings, including those used in engineering applications, and understand the basics of computer-aided design (CAD).
The manufacturing processes of equipment, as well as how to use measuring devices and quality control equipment.
How to interpret the basic concepts of pneumatic systems and how they compare and contrast with hydraulic systems.
What are the safety facts and practices associated with electrical, chemical, fire, material-handling, and machine hazards.

Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Engineering Technology Career Outcomes

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

AVG SALARY*

$61,990/yr

NUMBER OF JOBS

41,100

JOB GROWTH

Our programs are designed with job-readiness in mind. Study the engineering technology skills you need while preparing for any required industry certifications and state licenses.

State Licensing Requirements

Professional licensing requirements vary greatly from state to state throughout the United States and may contain specific educational course approvals. You should contact your state's appropriate licensing bureau for the current requirements, or your state legislature for pending legislation. See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

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What is an Engineering Technology Degree?

Engineering Technology Degree Curriculum

4 semesters
64 credits
31 exams

Estimated completion time per semester:

Fast track = 4 months
Average time = 10 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times per semester are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from November 2020 - October 2021, excluding withdrawals.

Our comprehensive online Engineering Technology Degree curriculum is designed to help students familiarize themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to prepare to gain entry-level positions as engineering technicians.

Drafting with AutoCAD®
Engineering Mechanics
Quality Control Systems
Computer Applications
Precision Machining Operations
AutoCAD® Applications

Show Full Curriculum

Engineering Technology Student Stories

Penn Foster’s Engineering Technology Associate Degree can help prepare you for the first step toward a new career. This program has helped recent graduates learn at their own pace, find new jobs, and advance in their current roles. Learn more about Penn Foster graduates' experiences and how Penn Foster worked for them.

View Student Success Stories

Jennifer C.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2023

“The program is easy to follow. The site is very easy to navigate. I love all the resources Penn Foster offer.”

Looking for skilled trades training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.

Learn More

Engineering Technology Associate Degree Tuition

Take the first steps toward a new career with our Engineering Technology Associate Degree Program. Simply choose from one of our low-cost customized payment plans below and get started today!

Option 1: Pay semester in full

First Semester

$1,299

$1,699 Save $400

Best price. Best value.
Pay the full cost today
No monthly payments

Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

First Semester

$1,699

Pay $59 per month
Start for $20 down
All major credit and debit cards accepted

Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

First semester

$1,699

Pay $59 per month
Start for $39 down
Mail your payments

Enroll Now

Our Proven Engineering Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

Start any time
Self-paced learning
Payment plans

Interactive

Live support
Supportive instructors
Goal tracking

Connected

Student community
Digital textbooks
Career support

Supportive

Career services
Academic guidance
Counseling

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Engineering Technology Degree FAQs

What is engineering technology?

Engineering technology is all about using science to problem solve. The main focus centers on how to apply actual engineering techniques to solve real-world problems.

What is the career outlook for a mechanical engineering technician?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for mechanical engineering technicians is expected to remain steady over the next 10 years.

What skills are required to become an engineering technologist?

If you're looking to become an engineering technologist, it is best to earn an associate degree. The basis of this degree should focus on computer skills and math skills like algebra.

How long does it take to become a mechanical engineering technician?

Typically, a mechanical engineer is expected to hold at least an associate degree. This means that it can take up to two years to earn your qualifications. However, Penn Foster allows self-paced study, which means you can work faster or slower. It all depends on what works for you and your schedule!

Sources:

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Mechanical Engineering Technicians." Accessed October 4, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.