Electrical Engineering Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

Getting an Electrical Engineering Degree in St. Petersburg, Florida

Electrical Engineering is a dynamic and essential field that powers modern life. From designing cutting-edge electronics to developing sustainable energy solutions, electrical engineers play a critical role in shaping the future. If you’re considering pursuing an Electrical Engineering degree in St. Petersburg, Florida, this guide will help you understand local educational opportunities, career prospects, and resources to set you on the path to success.

About St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, located in Pinellas County, Florida, is known for its sunshine, vibrant arts scene, and thriving business community. Often referred to as “The Sunshine City,” it offers a unique mix of cultural landmarks and economic opportunities, making it an attractive location for aspiring electrical engineers. Learn more about the city by visiting the City of St. Petersburg official website.

Electrical Engineering Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas provide access to several reputable Electrical Engineering programs. Below is a list of local and nearby universities offering Electrical Engineering degrees:

1. University of South Florida (USF) – Tampa Campus

   • Location: Tampa, FL (Approximately 30 miles from St. Petersburg)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering
   • Highlights: USF’s program is ABET-accredited and offers specializations in areas such as power systems, telecommunications, and embedded systems. The school has strong industry partnerships and a focus on hands-on learning through labs and internships.
   • Website: USF Electrical Engineering Department

2. Florida Polytechnic University

   • Location: Lakeland, FL (Approximately 60 miles from St. Petersburg)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
   • Highlights: Florida Poly offers a modern campus dedicated to STEM education. The program emphasizes innovation and prepares students for cutting-edge careers in robotics, circuits, and microelectronics.
   • Website: Florida Poly Electrical Engineering

3. University of Central Florida (UCF)

   • Location: Orlando, FL (Approximately 100 miles from St. Petersburg)
   • Program: BSEE, MSEE, and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
   • Highlights: UCF is one of the nation’s largest universities and offers diverse research opportunities in fields like power systems, signal processing, and renewable energy.
   • Website: UCF Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering Employment Opportunities in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg boasts a range of engineering and technology firms that provide employment opportunities for Electrical Engineering graduates. Below are some notable employers in the area:

1. Jabil Inc.

   • Location: St. Petersburg, FL
   • Description: A global manufacturing solutions provider headquartered in St. Petersburg. Jabil specializes in electronics design and production, offering roles for electrical engineers in product development and innovation.
   • Website: Jabil Careers

2. Raytheon Technologies

   • Location: Largo, FL (Approximately 10 miles from St. Petersburg)
   • Description: A leading defense contractor and technology company. Raytheon offers opportunities in electrical systems design, radar technologies, and advanced signal processing.
   • Website: Raytheon Technologies Careers

3. Honeywell Aerospace

   • Location: Clearwater, FL (Approximately 15 miles from St. Petersburg)
   • Description: Specializes in aerospace systems and advanced technologies. Electrical engineers are employed in roles related to avionics, navigation systems, and control technologies.
   • Website: Honeywell Careers

Prerequisites for Electrical Engineering Programs

To enroll in an Electrical Engineering program, you will typically need to meet the following requirements:

• Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent with coursework in advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus), physics, and chemistry.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs; GRE scores for graduate programs.
• Minimum GPA: Varies by institution but is often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Additional Requirements: Letters of recommendation, personal statements, and application fees.

Professional Certification for Electrical Engineers in Florida

In Florida, professional licensure is overseen by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE). Licensure is essential for engineers who plan to offer their services directly to the public. Key steps include:

1. Education: Completion of an ABET-accredited Electrical Engineering program.
2. Exams: Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and, after gaining sufficient work experience, the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
3. Experience: Typically four years of work under a licensed engineer.

For more information, visit the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE).

National certifications, such as those offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), can also enhance your credentials. Learn more about IEEE membership and resources at IEEE.

Get Started Today

Pursuing an Electrical Engineering degree in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a rewarding step toward a fulfilling career in technology and innovation. With a range of educational programs, career opportunities, and professional resources, the area provides a strong foundation for future engineers. Take the first step by reaching out to an institution to learn more about their programs and application process. Your journey toward becoming an electrical engineer begins today!