To obtain in-depth training in an engineering specialty, many engineers pursue graduate study. Admissions requirements for either master’s or doctoral programs typically include good undergraduate grades, English proficiency demonstrated by taking the TOEFL, and sometimes scores on the GRE general and/or subject tests, along with letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.

In the United States, it’s possible to enter the field of engineering at the master’s degree level with an undergraduate major in another area. To do this, one must choose one of the limited number of graduate programs that focus on professional-entry education. Solid preparation in mathematics and the sciences will be expected. Such programs may longer than the standard two years to complete depending on the particular program’s curriculum and how much related study particular students have previously completed.

In most graduate programs, students choose an area of concentration, often a subfield of one of the five major engineering specializations (chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering). For example, a student with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering might pursue a master’s degree in environmental engineering or structural engineering. Students pursuing master’s degrees in engineering conduct research and participate in creative design projects.

Doctoral degree programs in engineering generally require two to four years of study beyond the master’s level and are intended for those engineers seeking positions in research, product development, or university teaching.

Engineering degree programs may receive professional accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET’s accreditation system may be confusing to those unfamiliar with it. ABET accredits only first professional degree engineering programs (intended for individuals preparing to enter the engineering profession). These are the bachelor’s degree level programs at most universities, but sometimes (as noted above) are also offered at the master’s degree level. Most graduate degree programs are not eligible to be professionally accredited because their instruction is at an advanced level. ABET lists professionally accredited engineering programs as well as engineering technology programs on their Web site at http://www.abet.org.