It's been a long time since Ben Franklin went out into that rainstorm with his kite and discovered electricity, but his discovery remains an important part of our daily lives. If you are interested in learning the ins and outs of electrical components and equipment, study at electrical engineering colleges to get started on one of a variety of electrical engineering careers.

When you become an electrical engineer, you will design, develop, test, and oversee the building and implementation of electrical equipment. Because the use of electricity is so widespread, there are many industries that hire electrical engineers. Wherever there are motors, controls, lighting, wiring, cars, aircraft, radar, and power generation, there is a need for electrical engineers.

Electrical engineering degrees range from associate degrees all the way up through doctoral degrees. The sky's the limit when it comes to advancing your engineering skills. Most start out by applying to a bachelor's degree program in engineering. Your math and computer skills will pay off immensely, as most programs have a heavy concentration in mathematics and computer science. Other classes in electrical engineering colleges include mechanics, digital design, signal processing, and circuitry.

Most undergraduate electrical engineering degrees provide instruction in the fundamentals of the field, equipping you for entry-level work in many technical industries. Through advanced coursework, like study within a graduate or doctoral degree program, you can further specialize in an area of electrical engineering, as well as advance into management levels as an engineer.

Electrical Engineering Careers Offer Electrifying Salary Potential
If you want to become an electrical engineer, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering for most entry-level jobs. But here's great news to consider as you enroll in a four-year program at one of the electrical engineering colleges-as a graduate, you'll be earning one of the highest starting salaries of any occupation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the lowest 10 percent of electrical engineers make around $50,000 each year, while the highest 10 percent-representing those with the most education and experience-can make upwards of $115,000.  

A 2006 BLS report indicated that there are around 1.5 million individuals employed as engineers. While civil engineers make up the largest portion, electrical engineering jobs measure up well (around 153,000 jobs). International competition may result in a slower growth of demand for electrical engineers, but the demand for electrical devices like power generators, wireless phone transmitters, and navigation systems should continue to ensure good prospects for electrical engineering jobs.

If Ben Franklin were  alive today, he would no doubt be impressed by the industry he helped create. Make an impression of your own when you become an electrical engineer and earn one of the most impressive entry-level salaries around.