Electronics Engineering or Electrical Engineering: What Are the Differences?

By Brandon Swenson October 2, 2024

Many prospective students who are interested in the UA Grantham fully-online bachelor’s degree program in Electronics Engineering Technology often ask what are the differences between Electronics Engineering and Electrical Engineering. These two fields, of course, are closely related, and overlap to a certain degree; however, they differ in focus, applications, and the skills they develop in students.

What Topics are Covered in an Electronic Engineering Technology Degree Program?

The ABET-accredited UA Grantham online bachelors degree program in electronic engineering technology focuses on the technology at the foundation of electronics engineering, a field primarily concerned with the design and development of electronic circuits, devices, and systems, through the study of semiconductors, microprocessors, embedded systems, digital and analog electronics, communication systems, and signal processing. Electronics engineers are typically involved in creating and refining products such as smartphones, computers, wearable technology, medical devices, and communication equipment. The focus is often on small-scale systems where intricate circuitry and precise functionality are crucial.

In an Electronics Engineering degree program, students typically take courses in digital and analog circuits, microelectronics, embedded systems, signal processing, and communication systems like wireless and satellite technologies. Through these courses, students develop expertise in circuit design, microcontroller programming, hardware-software integration, and the underlying principles that govern electronic devices.

What Topics are Covered in an Electrical Engineering Degree Program?

Electrical Engineering, in contrast, encompasses a broader range of topics. It deals with the study and application of electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics, with a particular focus on the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical power. Electrical Engineering also covers large-scale electrical systems, such as power generation plants, electrical grids, and motors. Professionals in this field typically work on power systems, renewable energy projects, industrial machinery, and electrical infrastructure, focusing on managing and distributing electrical energy on a larger scale.

Students in Electrical Engineering programs typically study power systems, electrical machines and drives, control systems, power electronics, electromagnetic fields, and high-voltage engineering. These courses equip them with the knowledge needed to design power generation and distribution systems, manage electrical energy, and understand the fundamental principles of electricity.

The primary distinction between the two fields lies in their scope and scale. Electronics Engineering is more specialized, with a focus on electronic devices and systems, while Electrical Engineering covers a broader range of topics, including power systems and electrical machinery. It deals with small-scale, low-power electronic systems, whereas Electrical Engineering is concerned with larger-scale, high-power systems.

Electronics Engineering vs. Electrical Engineering Differences in Places of Work

In terms of industry applications, Electronics Engineering graduates are more likely to find work in industries related to consumer electronics, telecommunications, and computing. In contrast, Electrical Engineering graduates might pursue careers in energy generation and distribution, manufacturing, and heavy industries. Both degrees offer excellent career opportunities, but the choice between them ultimately depends on your interests. If you are more inclined toward working with electronic devices and systems, Electronics Engineering might be the right path for you. However, if you are interested in larger-scale electrical infrastructure and power systems, Electrical Engineering could be a better fit.

About the Author

Brandon Swenson
Brandon Swenson, communications manager, is on University of Arkansas Grantham’s editorial board. A veteran and college graduate himself, he understands the benefits and intricacies of government education programs, such as veteran education benefits. Brandon earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City toward the end of his nearly two-decade tour in the United States Marine Corps.
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