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Engineering is a well-known field of study offering education and training on designing and improving several organisations' systems, products, and processes. The right engineering program allows exploring and grabs exciting opportunities to help you achieve your personal and professional goals in life.
An engineering program covers a wide range of subjects, from Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Science. The curriculum covers design theory, advanced mathematics, core engineering principles, diagrammatic representations, etc.
A student who receives the right direction will become a good engineer. Therefore, it is important to ponder certain points before opting for an undergraduate engineering programme. Even if you are meticulous and dedicated, the right engineering program will propel your career toward excellence.
How to Choose the Right Undergraduate Engineering Program?
Accreditation
Go for engineering programs only if they come with certified accreditation. The presence of an accreditation implies that the institute or university meets the global or national standards of that particular academic field. For example, if you are looking for jobs in the field of mechanical engineering, many employers consider this a point while recruiting candidates only from NBA (National Board of Accreditations). Besides this, if you are applying for an education loan for your mechanical engineering degree, a NBA accreditation makes the process seamless and effective.
Specializations and Sub-Specializations
Studying the various specializations and sub-specializations that the engineering colleges/universities around you offer is crucial. Students can now pursue engineering programmes in varied specializations – thanks to the new National Education Policy (NEP 2020) in force in various states of the country!
Curriculum
Every student interested in engineering must research the curriculum of any prospective school or institute before applying. As the curricula for engineering programme is diverse concerning the range of topics, electives, and practical elements, one must ensure that the programme they are opting for covers the topics of their interest and need.
Growth Opportunities
Every student studies any course to fulfill their goals in the end. Be it a good job, higher studies, or any entrepreneurial venture, your engineering programme should provide you with potential growth opportunities post the completion of the degree.
Reputation
One must consider the reputation of any engineering program that one opts for. You can do this by researching the professional reputations of the professors teaching the program. Quality engineering professors are always more than just ‘graduates’ and possess great years of experience. Researching notable alums can also testify to the programme’s reputation and quality.
Internships
An engineering programme without internships is like a boat without a sailor. It would be best if you had practical training and exposure from industry experts to sharpen your technical skills and help you score a good post-graduation job. Always opt for schools or institutes with tie-ups with prominent corporations or organisations willing to provide internships to undergraduate engineers.
Affordability
An expensive undergraduate programme can often lead to long-term debts even after graduation. Therefore, it is very important to compare and contrast the cost of the affordable and cost-effective curriculum. No programme should have opted that can create a hole in your pocket for the next ten years. Even if you are going for an engineering programme with higher fees, the quality and outcome of the programme should compensate for the same.
Infrastructure and Ancillary Support
A good engineering institute or school provides students with infrastructural support to help them excel in their studies. This includes access to the well-equipped library, laboratory, practical rooms, sports room for extra-curricular activities, a medical room for emergency first-aid, and financial aid such as scholarships to help the students during their financial crunch.
Location
Location is important in determining the programme you are opting for (unless it is an online course). Spending hours in travel will affect the productivity of the students and can also impact your networking initiatives post-study hours. A student must opt for programmes close to their residence or easily accessible, whichever is earlier.
As engineering is a domain area with lucrative career opportunities, it is advised that one research a college or institute properly and consider the pointers mentioned above before selecting their undergraduate engineering programme.