Now that you’ve made your decision, it’s time to get ready. Thorough preparation is particularly important if you’ve been out of school for quite a while, as getting back into “academic mode” can require a mental adjustment. Here are a few tips that can help you prepare:
No matter the specialization, engineers generally need to have a strong command of science and mathematics. You can prepare to go back to school for engineering by brushing up on science and math competencies.2 This is especially important if your bachelor’s degree was in a non-STEM field or if you’ve never been exposed to college-level academics before.
Look for online tutorials and classes you can take in subjects such as:2
- Statistics
- Calculus
- Physics
- Chemistry
Internships aren’t just for people currently in high school and college. They can also be a great way to explore a new field before going back to school. Consider applying to internships that are relevant to the engineering specializations you’re interested in.
During an internship, you’ll be able to gain some hands-on experience and get an inside look at what daily life is like in the field. It’s also an opportunity to work on building a professional network.
It can be challenging to pivot into a new field, especially if you’ve already been in the workforce for a few years. You may find it helpful to turn to a mentor for industry-specific guidance and general socio-emotional support.
If you do complete an internship, you may be able to find a mentor at that organization. Otherwise, after you’ve enrolled in college, you can take the initiative to ask your school’s student services department about the available resources.
Before going back to school for engineering, you’ll need to figure out exactly which specialization appeals to you. You should plan on spending plenty of time exploring the specializations and types of jobs that are available within those subfields.
Some examples of engineering specializations include:
- Biomedical engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Mechanical engineering technology
- Aerospace engineering
- Robotics engineering
- Software engineering
- Electrical engineering
Once you know which engineering degree program is right for you, you can work on putting together your college application. Research the school's requirements carefully, and don't hesitate to reach out to a university counselor if you have any questions. At GCU, our university counselors provide friendly, personalized assistance to our future students as they navigate each step of the admissions process.
