Associate in Engineering FAQs

1) Is there an admission process for the Associate in Engineering Degree?
Currently there is not an admission process for the AE degree. The AE degree is a rigorous academic program so we do encourage students to reflect on their ability to complete the curriculum

2) What is the difference between the Associate in Engineering degree and the Associate in Science degree?
Besides the three required engineering courses, the AE degree has significantly more math required for completion of the program.

3) What is the Associate in Engineering to Bachelor in Science Engineering Articulation Agreement (AE to BSE AA)?
The agreement presents a uniform, statewide academic progression agreement that will promote educational advancement opportunities for Associate in Engineering degree completers moving between NC community colleges and the member institutions of The University of North Carolina in order to complete Bachelor of Science in Engineering degrees.
The AE to BSE AA is a plan that includes required general education and prerequisites courses that are acceptable to all state funded Bachelor of Engineering programs. Students who follow the progression degree plan will meet the entrance requirements at all of the UNC Bachelor of Science Engineering programs. Associate in Engineering graduates may then apply to any of these programs without taking additional and sometimes duplicative courses.
Because engineering program admissions are competitive, no student is guaranteed admission to an engineering program.

4) Which UNC Schools are participating in the Associate in Engineering to Bachelor in Science Engineering Articulation Agreement (AE to BSE AA)?
There are five UNC schools of engineering participating in the AE to BSE Articulation Agreement. The schools are NC State University, NC A&T, East Carolina University, UNC Charlotte and Western Carolina University.

5) Can I find employment with just the Associate in Engineering degree?
Yes, view sample jobs and starting salaries for Associate degree level positions in engineering. 

6) Can I attend part time or must I be a full time student?
Yes, you can earn an engineering degree as a part-time student. However, because of prerequisite requirements, you should be careful about what courses you take and talk to an advisor every semester so that you can earn the degree as quickly as possible. If you attend as a part-time student, please understand that the degree will take longer than 4 semester.

7) Is this an on-line degree program?
No, this is not an on-line degree program. Most courses will be offered in a traditional classroom and laboratory setting. You may have the option of taking some general education courses completely on-line or hybrid, if they are available, but most of your classes will be seated face to face with your instructor.

8) When will AE classes be offered?
Classes will be scheduled to accommodate the needs of as many students as possible. All required classes have been scheduled within two time blocks AM courses 8am-12noon and PM courses 12:30 – 4:45pm and offered Monday – Friday. We hope this schedule will help students better balance their schedule with their other responsibilities. As the number of students attending the program increases, additional sections will be offered. A number of the math and science courses are regularly offered in the summer as well.