Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering involves the design, construction, and testing of systems that usually involve electricity, electronic components, and sometimes electromagnetism. It is the foundation of the construction of the integrated circuits, chips, and circuit boards and power most electronics we use, as well as computers themselves. Typical topics within electrical engineering are power, work, controls, electronics microelectronics, solid-state electronics, signal processing, and computers.

What is Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the technology of electricity. It includes the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.

The field of electrical engineering dates back to the late 19th century, when electrical engineers were responsible for the design and installation of the first electrical power systems. Today, electrical engineers are involved in a wide range of activities, from the design of electrical components and systems to the development of new energy-saving technologies.

In order to become an electrical engineer, one must complete a four-year bachelor's degree program in electrical engineering. During their studies, students take courses in physics, mathematics, and computer science, as well as electrical engineering. After completing their degree, electrical engineers must pass the Engineer in Training (EIT) exam, which is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Upon passing the EIT exam, electrical engineers are then eligible to take the Professional Engineering (PE) exam, which is required for licensure in most states.

Electrical Engineering Resources

Electrical engineering

Electrical engineering

See a summary of the math and science preparation that will help you have the best experience studying electrical engineering on Khan Academy. Gain an intuitive understanding of the two most important electrical quantities: current and voltage....

Introduction to electrical engineering

Introduction to electrical engineering

A summary of the math and science preparation that will help you have the best experience with electrical engineering taught on Khan Academy. Become familiar with engineering numbers and notation, and learn about the two most important electrical qua...

Engineering Circuits

Engineering Circuits

This activity introduces students to electric circuits through a number of hands-on activities utilizing copper tape, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and other basic components. A number of concepts are introduced, including electrical flow, polarity,...