Why many engineering roles need an accredited degree or a license.
Engineering is one of the more regulated STEM fields, because designs can affect public safety. Many roles expect:
- An ABET-accredited engineering degree (ABET is the accreditation body that signals a program meets the standard).
- For roles that sign off on public work: the FE exam (Fundamentals of Engineering) after graduation, then experience, then the PE (Professional Engineer) license.
Not every engineering job needs a PE, but knowing the requirement for your target role before you choose a program saves years. Check the specific occupation on O*NET and real job postings.