Want to learn about degrees in electrical and electronics engineering, the different specializations available and potential careers? Then read our guide... Electrical power and systems are at the heart of modern society – and so too are electrical and electronics engineers. Engineers specializing in these fields are involved in everything from the latest smart phone, to ensuring a constant supply of energy to our homes and workplaces. The difference between the two – ‘electrical’ and ‘electronics’ – is often blurred. However, it’s generally true to say that electrical engineers are concerned mainly with the large scale production and distribution of electrical power, while electronics engineers focus on much smaller electronic circuits. These include the circuits used in computers and other modern technologies, and indeed electronics is often taught alongside computer science. Both electronics and electrical engineering also overlap with mechanical and civil engineering. To study any of these subjects at university, you will need a strong background in maths and physics. Many courses will start with some foundation modules designed to ensure this background knowledge is up to the required standard.

Prospects for electrical and electronic engineering graduates are very strong in many parts of the world. In Australia, for example, the government reports unemployment rates for electrical engineers below average, comparatively high earnings, and predicts continued strong jobs growth up to 2016-17. In the US, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted 6% jobs growth between 2010 and 2020. This is slower than the overall growth rate predicted across the economy, largely due to slow growth rates predicted in many manufacturing industries which employ electrical engineers. However, the Bureau forecasts rising demand in sectors such as computer systems design, wireless technology, and general research and development. Other major employment sectors for electrical and electronics engineers include: Power generation and supply Construction Transport infrastructure maintenance and development Manufacturing Communications and media Computer hardware and software design Healthcare Science and technology research Within each of these industries, positions are available in research and development, design, and testing and maintenance. Career progression could mean taking on supervisory and management roles. For both research and management roles, graduate-level education can help to accelerate career progression, giving students the chance to gain additional expertise and skills. In terms of salary expectations, those in the electronics sector tend to earn more. The US Bureau of Labor reports the average annual salary for electronics engineers in the US was just over $90,000 in 2010, compared to $84,540 for electrical engineers.