Find your degree

Online College Plan is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

The field of electrical engineering spans a wide range of technologies, including:

  • Power systems and equipment
  • Circuits
  • Electronics
  • Embedded systems

Indeed, electrical engineers shape and influence our daily lives. And they are well-compensated for it, too – their median wage was $111,910/year (BLS, May 2024). With extensive work experience, electrical engineers can earn over $175,460/year.


Do you want to enjoy these high salaries, among other benefits? If yes, you should start earning electrical engineering certifications ASAP. As an undergraduate, doing so can improve your technical skills and job readiness.

Many of the best certifications for electrical engineering students are accessible, too. You can choose between online and in-person programs. Regardless of your choice, you’ll enjoy hands-on training for practical skills development.

Here, we’ll discuss the best technical certifications for electrical engineering students, including:

  • Electrical systems
  • Software tools
  • Safety
  • Project management

So, keep on reading and take your first step toward job readiness.

Related:

Why Certifications Matter for Electrical Engineering Students

Of course, earning certifications for engineering students isn’t an easy task. But if you look beyond the challenges and see their benefits, you’ll be more motivated.

Competitive market and the need to stand out.

Your bachelor’s degree is the bare minimum. If you want to boost your competitiveness, earn certifications.

Yes, there’s a high demand for electrical engineers. The projected job growth rate is 9% (BLS, 2023-2033), much faster than average.

Employers value certifications that demonstrate applied knowledge.

But not just any certification either. You must choose industry-relevant certifications that highlight your job readiness.

Certifications reinforce academic concepts with practical skills.

You’ll be able to bridge the gap between what you know (theory) and what you can do (skills).

Some certifications align with career paths in power, electronics, automation, or renewable energy.

Are you still unsure about your specific career path? If you are, earning a certification can clarify it.

Of course, the best certifications for electrical engineering undergraduates aren’t a guarantee. You must leverage whatever certifications you’ve earned early on.

Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) – Electrical and Computer Exam

Of all the engineering certifications for college students, it’s a must-have. Think of passing the FE exam as the springboard upon which your career can soar.

The NCEES administers it. Undergraduates usually take it in their final year in an ABET-accredited program.

Why is it the must-have of all entry-level certifications for electrical engineers? Here are a few reasons why you must pass it.

  • It’s the first step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. You’ll earn the designation of Engineer-in-Training (EIT) when you pass it. Then, you must gain at least four years of qualified work experience under a licensed PE. You’ll then be eligible to take the PE exam.
  • It validates your foundational knowledge in electrical engineering. This covers circuits, systems, electromagnetics, and digital logic, among others.
  • It’s a highly respected credential across industries. You’ll find it a valuable asset on your résumé and LinkedIn profile.

The FE Electrical and Computer Engineering exam has a 70% pass rate. Indeed, it’s neither an easy nor an extremely difficult exam. But intensive preparation is a must if you want to pass it on your first try.

So, take full advantage of online prep courses. The School of PE and Coursera offer comprehensive review courses.

Key Technical Certifications for Electrical Engineering Students

Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD)

National Instruments offers the CLAD credential that confirms LabVIEW skills. LabVIEW is a graphical programming environment useful in:

  • Data acquisition
  • Signal processing
  • Test automation

Test engineering, industrial automation, and embedded systems are among its applications.

AutoCAD Electrical Certification

It is among the most popular online electrical engineering certifications for these reasons.

  • It’s a widely used design and drafting specific to electrical systems.
  • It confirms your knowledge of electrical-specific tools, such as schematic design.
  • Its tools are used in control systems, lighting design, and panel layouts, among others.
  • It covers working with IEC, JIC, and NFPA, among other industry standards.

You can complete the certification program online, too. Autodesk offers it along with online training.

MATLAB Certification (MathWorks)

MathWorks offers respected electrical systems certifications for students. You can earn their certifications directly through MathWorks, too.

There’s no need to go through a third-party provider. As such, candidates enjoy a streamlined application-to-certification process.

MATLAB certification itself is a staple credential among electrical engineers. You’ll find valuable uses for it in, among others:

  • Signal processing
  • Power systems modeling
  • Algorithm development

Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA – Electrical)

Dassault Systèmes awards the CSWA – Electrical designation. Candidates must apply to its SOLIDWORKS Certification Program.

There are no strict eligibility requirements. But you’re well-advised to have:

  • Basic knowledge of electrical design using SOLIDWORKS Electrical software; and
  • Completed SOLIDWORKS Electrical software training

Are you interested in mechatronics or electro-mechanical design? It’s among the most sought-after electronics certifications for students. The training covers 2D and 3D schematics, circuit layout, and harness design.

PCB Design Certifications

The PCB design certifications include Altium Designer and KiCad courses. You can also find online options at Udemy and Coursera.

Note that Printed Circuit Board design is vital in hardware engineering. Earning PCB design certifications confirms your proficiency in schematic design and circuit layout.

Power and Safety Certifications

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification

Are you interested in working in power plants, substations, or industrial environments? Consider the OSHA 10-hour Industry Certification now. This is an introductory safety training program available in online and in-person formats. You’ll receive an official OSHA 10-Hour Wallet Card after completion.

It is also among the must-have electrical systems certifications for many reasons. For starters, it emphasizes electrical safety and workplace standards.

Certified Energy Manager (CEM) – Student Pathway

The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) offers the CEM- Student Pathway certification. This enables students and recent graduates to earn a certification without work experience.

The CEM credential is among the most sought-after power engineering certifications because it:

  • Focuses on power engineering and energy systems
  • Shows understanding of energy efficiency, load analysis, and power systems

Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll become a CEMIT.

PV Installation and Solar Design Basics

Earn the certification through Solar Energy International, among other providers. This is an introductory-level solar energy certification ideal for students. You’ll get a basic understanding of PV system design and solar installation.

The certification aligns with growing interest in renewable energy and smart grid careers.

Programming & Automation Certifications for Electrical Engineers

Python for Electrical Engineers

Python is an easy-to-learn and versatile programming language. Electrical engineers increasingly use it for a wide range of tasks, including:

  • Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Automation
  • Simulations

Python certifications are among the popular online electrical engineering certifications. You’ll find online programs at Coursera, edX, and IEEE Learning Network. These certification courses are tailored to electrical applications, too.

PLC Programming Certifications (Allen-Bradley or Siemens)

These are also popular engineering certifications for college students because of their:

  • Wide range of applications. These include automation, manufacturing, and industrial control, to name a few.
  • Accessible format. Many online and hybrid courses are available.
  • Beginner-friendly content. These include PLC hardware and architecture, and ladder logic programming.

How to Choose the Right Certification

The best certifications for electrical engineering undergraduates aren’t a one-size-fits-all. You must choose certifications that will serve your best interests. Here’s how you can do so. 

  • Consider your specific interest first. Is it in power, circuits, control systems, electronics, or embedded design? You can then choose certifications for engineering students that align.
  • Balance between technical depth and accessibility as a student. You’ll want a solid learning experience at an affordable cost.
  • Prioritize certifications recognized by industry professionals. Your certifications should add real value to your job applications.
  • Use certifications to complement internships or coursework. You should be able to apply your certification-based lessons outside of the program.

Tips for Success in Earning Certifications

Earning electrical engineering certifications has its challenges. Cost and time limitations are foremost among them. But with these tips, you should be able to overcome these challenges.

  • Use student discounts or free trials. Many programs offering certifications for electrical engineering students do them. Autodesk, MATLAB, and Coursera are primary examples.
  • Join professional societies like IEEE for certification guidance and discounts. You’ll get access to mentoring services and exam prep resources, too. Plus, the career support and networking opportunities work in your favor.
  • Schedule certification studies during lighter academic terms. This way, you don’t have to sacrifice your grades while pursuing certifications.
  • Highlight certifications on your résumé and LinkedIn. You can leverage their value by doing so.

Conclusion

Of course, certifications for electrical engineering students don’t guarantee success. But earning them during your college years builds your technical edge. You’ll also be able to show your initiative, commitment, and readiness for a successful career.

But don’t just earn electrical engineering certifications just because it’s a cool thing to do. You must identify your interests and goals first. Then, match your choice in certifications with your passion.

Most importantly, embrace continuous learning throughout your career. It’s the hallmark of successful engineers.

Spread the love