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What Is Optical Engineering? (+ How to Become an Optical Engineer)
Use this article to explore the field of optical engineering and the career path of an optical engineer.
July 29, 2022
Article
Learn more about the skills and certifications you need for a career as a computer engineer, optical engineer, electrical engineer, and more.
Explore popular engineering courses
Georgia Institute of Technology
Skills you'll gain: Engineering Analysis, Mechanics, Torque (Physics), Engineering Calculations, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Analysis, Physics
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Leeds
Skills you'll gain: Engineering Design Process, Engineering Management, Product Lifecycle Management, Product Design, Product Development, Engineering Practices, New Product Development, Product Requirements, Conceptual Design, Teamwork
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Systems Engineering, Failure Analysis, Model Based Systems Engineering, Engineering Management, Requirements Management, Scope Management, Design Reviews, Change Control, Risk Management, Root Cause Analysis, Test Engineering, Program Management, Engineering Practices, User Requirements Documents, Cost Management, Requirements Analysis, Contract Management, Systems Design, Product Lifecycle Management, Organizational Leadership
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Engineering covers a wide variety of skills and careers. With so many options and opportunities available, it can be tricky to know where to start. On Coursera, you'll find expert resources to support your goals, whether you're just starting out or are ready to take the next step in your career. Explore engineering topics, including:
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth of 10% for mechanical engineers 2022-2032, with 19,200 job openings projected annually [1].
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary in the US for architecture and engineering occupations, which include electrical engineers, biomedical engineers, civil engineers, and more, was $83,700 as of May 2022 [2].
Computer engineering professionals work in research labs, private sectors, and federal, state, and local governments. To become a computer engineer, consider pursuing the specialization or focus area that interests you most. You can start researching engineering jobs by browsing job posts. Even if you aren't yet ready to apply, this exercise can help you understand the differences in responsibilities and pay from industry to industry.
Read more: What Is Computer Engineering? Career Guide + FAQ
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook, Mechanical Engineers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm." Accessed January 29, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook, Architecture and Engineering Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/home.htm." Accessed January 29, 2024.