Engineering vs. Engineering Technology
Engineering vs. Engineering Technology
Distinction between Engineering and Engineering Technology Degrees
Engineers and engineering technologists perform similar but different functions. The Engineering Technology Council of ASEE lists Engineering Technology as a career in Engineering. Engineers apply scientific and theoretical knowledge through their education to invent, design, and build systems, structures, and devices primarily to solve societal or economic problems.
In contrast, engineering technologists apply their practical skills to develop and implement engineering solutions to today’s technological challenges.
ABET defines Engineering as careers leading to the professional practice of engineering. It further defines engineering technology as leading to careers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, product design, testing, technical services, and sales. The level of activities and responsibilities of the engineering technologists go far beyond the ABET description today. Activities of the engineering technologists are much closer to that of the engineer. ASEE recognizes that engineering technology and engineering are two distinct disciplines with distinct career paths.
Differences in preparation for engineering and engineering technology careers can be found in the curricular content and focus of study. These begin with admission requirements and curricular content. Beyond these, the career paths of the engineer and engineering technologist typically follow different trajectories.
Curricular differences
The level of math and science preparation is different for engineering and engineering technology programs. There is a focus on advanced mathematics and science courses in engineering programs, as engineers are responsible for research, analysis and design to accomplish their work. The engineering technologist must be knowledgeable in the design principles, with a focus on implementation which requires the practical application of math and science.
Career paths and responsibilities
In a typical career, an engineer applies their innovative and theoretical skills to design and create devices, model, and simulate operations that provide solutions to engineering problems, public safety, or address societal needs. Most of their time is spent conceptualizing, developing, simulating, and modeling prototypes rather than building devices or systems. Engineering Technologists design devices and systems, with an eye in maintaining and ensuring their smooth operation. They also consider ways to improve efficiency and performance.
Major career activities are shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Typical career activities
| Typical Career Focus |
| Engineering | Engineering Technology |
| Research and design of structures and devices | Implementation of structures and devices |
| Research and development | Product improvement |
| Project supervision and management | Manufacturing and testing |
| Modeling and simulation | PCB Designer |
| Shop-floor Management |
Industry requires both skill sets for project success. Engineering companies that are involved in developing new and complex products requires the skill of an engineer in concert with an engineering technologist to improve the performance of the product. However, an engineering company that does not develop new products will only require the services of an engineering technologists. In many instances, the experiences of the engineering technologists have enabled them to function as engineers.
Choosing an Engineering Career
For a successful and satisfying engineering career, prospective students should consider their level of interest as conceptual designers, or a hands-on builder. It is important to recognize the similarities and differences and to choose the satisfying option. Please contact us so that we can discuss our programs and your interest in greater detail.