Guide to electrical engineering: courses, careers, and earnings

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Key takeaways about an electrical engineering major

Electrical engineering majors study how electricity, electronics, and systems power modern technology.
You’ll take core courses like circuits, digital systems, and electromagnetics.
Electrical engineering can lead to careers in tech, energy, aerospace, and more.
Salaries are strong, with many grads earning six figures mid-career.
Scholarships and financial aid are available to support your journey.

What is electrical engineering?

Electrical engineering is all about designing, building, and improving the systems that power our world—from smartphones and satellites to renewable energy grids. As an electrical engineering major, you’ll learn how electricity and electronics work and apply that knowledge to solve real-world problems.

What do electrical engineers do?

Electrical engineers design, test, and improve electrical systems. That can mean creating medical devices, working on sustainable energy solutions, or developing next-gen communication networks. If you like math, science, and problem-solving, this field can be a great fit.

Electrical engineering vs. other types of engineering

So, is electrical engineering a good major compared to others? Here’s the deal: it overlaps with mechanical and computer engineering but focuses more on energy, electronics, and systems. For example, electrical engineering vs. computer engineering is a common debate—computer engineering leans into software and hardware integration, while electrical engineering dives into circuits, power, and communications.

Specializations within electrical engineering

Once you’re in the major, you can choose from areas like power systems, robotics, microelectronics, telecommunications, and renewable energy. These specializations let you focus on the parts of technology that excite you most.

Core courses for electrical engineering majors

The electrical engineering degree requirements usually include classes like:

Circuit analysis and design
Digital logic and systems
Electromagnetics
Signals and systems
Control systems
Programming for engineers

Popular double majors and minors to pair with electrical engineering

Many electrical engineering majors pair their degree with:

These combos strengthen technical skills and open more career options.

Skills I’ll gain studying electrical engineering

Along the way, you’ll sharpen skills like problem-solving, coding, data analysis, teamwork, and project management. These skills transfer well into many industries—even beyond engineering.

Careers for electrical engineering majors

Graduates find work as:

Design engineers
Systems engineers
Research scientists
Project managers

Industries hiring include aerospace, tech, automotive, renewable energy, and more.

How much can I earn with an electrical engineering degree?

An electrical engineering degree offers strong earning potential. Entry-level positions typically start around $74,670, while experienced engineers can earn over $175,460. The job outlook is positive, with steady demand driven by advancements in technology and energy sectors. In certain industries, such as aerospace and research and development, salaries can be even higher—$136,570 and $130,840, respectively.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025

Notable schools for electrical engineering majors

If you’re thinking about an electrical engineering degree, some schools are especially well-known for their programs:

But don’t overlook state schools and regional universities that also offer strong, affordable programs. Use Scout College Search to explore schools that fit your needs.