
Choosing the right educational path in Control Systems Engineering can be overwhelming with so many degree options available. This field is rapidly growing, offering a wide range of exciting careers across various industries.
A control systems engineers will often get a degree in electrical engineering, with additional specialized training. But some will get a degree in mechanical, industrial, chemical, aerospace, computer, or even systems engineering. Each has its place depending on the work you prefer to do.
Our comprehensive blog post will guide you through different engineering degrees that focus on control systems and help you make an informed decision about your future education. Curious to learn more? Continue reading for expert advice and insights!
Key Takeaways
- Control Systems Engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on designing and optimizing systems with control components to achieve desired outputs in various industries.
- To become a Control Systems Engineer, you need to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, consider pursuing postgraduate education, gain work experience, decide on a specialty within control systems engineering, and develop both hard and soft skills.
- Types of Control Systems Engineering degrees include Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Systems Engineering. Each degree offers unique opportunities and focuses on different aspects of control systems.
What is Control Systems Engineering?

Control Systems Engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on designing, analyzing, and optimizing systems with control components to achieve desired outputs. Control systems engineers are responsible for developing and implementing control algorithms, designing sensors and actuators, and ensuring the smooth operation of automated processes.
With a strong emphasis on mathematics, physics, and computer science principles, control systems engineering plays a crucial role in various industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, robotics, and energy.
Duties and Responsibilities
Control systems engineers have many tasks. They design and make control systems for machines. These control how the machine works and keeps it safe. Engineers check these systems to see if they work well.
If there are problems, they fix them. Sometimes, the engineer will need to make a new system if the old one fails too often or doesn’t work as needed. The job also includes managing projects, working with other teams, and making sure safety rules are followed at all times.
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook and salary expectations for control systems engineers are heavily influenced by a variety of factors such as education, experience, industry, and location.
Job Outlook | Salary |
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Control systems engineers are in high demand across various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics. This demand is fueled by the need for specialists who can design, implement, and maintain control systems that regulate and automate processes and equipment. Additionally, these engineers play a crucial role in troubleshooting and optimizing existing systems to improve performance and efficiency. | Salaries for control systems engineers can range widely based on factors such as education and experience. Typically, those possessing advanced degrees or certifications, such as a master’s or PhD in control systems engineering, can expect higher salaries. The industry and location of employment also greatly influence earnings. For instance, engineers in the aerospace or robotics sectors, or those working in areas with high costs of living, may enjoy higher pay rates. |
How to Become a Control Systems Engineer

To become a Control Systems Engineer, you need to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, consider pursuing postgraduate education, gain work experience, decide on a specialty, and develop both hard and soft skills.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
First, aim to get a four-year bachelor’s degree in engineering. This degree is your ticket to becoming a control systems engineer. Most jobs want you to have this degree. It can be in any field of engineering like math or computer science.
But some areas fit better with control systems work. These include fields such as electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering. The things you learn will help shape the skills needed for the job later on.
College also offers chances for hands-on learning and internships at companies.
Consider Pursuing Postgraduate Education
You may want to think about pursuing postgraduate education in control systems engineering. While a bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, obtaining a master’s or PhD can provide you with additional skills and knowledge.
Advanced degrees can help you develop leadership abilities and gain expertise in areas like analysis, modeling, simulation, and design. This can open up more senior-level opportunities and increase your earning potential.
So if you’re looking to further enhance your career prospects and deepen your understanding of control systems engineering, postgraduate education is definitely worth considering.
Gain Work Experience
To become a control systems engineer, gaining work experience is essential. Work experience allows you to apply what you’ve learned in your studies and develop practical skills in the field.
It also demonstrates to potential employers that you have hands-on knowledge and are ready for real-world challenges.
There are several ways to gain work experience as a control systems engineer. One effective way is through internships or co-op programs offered by companies or organizations. These opportunities allow you to work alongside experienced professionals, learn from them, and contribute to real projects.
Internships can vary in length from a few months to a year, providing valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
Another way to gain work experience is through entry-level positions or junior roles in companies that hire control systems engineers. Starting at an entry level gives you the chance to learn on the job, collaborate with colleagues, and gradually take on more responsibilities as you gain confidence and expertise.
Decide on a Specialty
Once you have obtained your bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, it is important to decide on a specialty within control systems engineering. This will help you refine your skills and expertise in a particular area that interests you the most.
Some common specialties include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, computer engineering, and systems engineering.
Each specialty offers unique opportunities and focuses on different aspects of control systems. By choosing a specialty, you can better align your career goals with the industry demand and increase your chances of landing your desired job position.
Develop Hard and Soft Skills
To excel as a control systems engineer, it is important to develop both hard and soft skills. Hard skills are technical abilities specific to the field of control systems engineering, such as proficiency in programming languages and knowledge of control theory.
Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal qualities that help you work effectively with others and succeed in your career. These include communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
By refining these skills through education, practice, and real-world experience, you will become a well-rounded control systems engineer who can tackle complex challenges and contribute to innovative solutions in your industry.
Types of Control Systems Engineering Degrees
There are several types of control systems engineering degrees, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, computer engineering, and systems engineering.
Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering is one of the types of degrees you can pursue in control systems engineering. With a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, you can become a controls engineer or a systems engineer specializing in control engineering.
You will learn about circuits, electronics, power systems, and digital signal processing. This knowledge will help you design and implement control systems to regulate processes and equipment.
As an electrical engineer working in control systems, you may also troubleshoot existing systems to improve their performance and efficiency. Salaries for control systems engineers can vary depending on factors such as education, experience, industry, and location.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering is a type of control systems engineering degree that focuses on designing and creating mechanical systems. You will learn about how things move, the forces that act upon them, and how to design machines and equipment.
It’s an exciting field with many job opportunities in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. By pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, you can gain knowledge in areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
With this degree, you could work as a controls engineer or a systems engineer, helping to develop innovative solutions for complex problems. Salaries for mechanical engineers can vary depending on your education level, experience, industry specialization.
Industrial Engineering
Industrial Engineering is another type of control systems engineering degree that you can pursue. As an industrial engineer, you will be responsible for improving the efficiency and productivity of operational processes in various industries.
This includes designing and implementing control systems that regulate equipment and optimize workflows. Industrial engineers often work in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or consulting sectors to streamline operations and reduce costs.
With a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, you can expect to earn a competitive salary and have opportunities for career growth in this field.
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is another type of degree you can pursue in control systems engineering. As a chemical engineer, you will use your knowledge of chemistry and engineering principles to design and optimize processes that involve chemicals and materials.
You may work on projects related to manufacturing, energy production, or environmental sustainability. With a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, you can enter entry-level positions in various industries.
However, if you want to advance your career and take on more senior-level roles, pursuing postgraduate education such as a master’s or PhD can be beneficial. Chemical engineers play an important role in developing new technologies and improving existing processes for a wide range of applications.
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering is a type of control systems engineering degree that focuses on designing and developing aircraft and spacecraft. As an aerospace engineer, you would be responsible for creating and improving the control systems that make these vehicles fly safely and efficiently.
This field offers exciting opportunities to work in the aerospace industry, including companies involved in manufacturing, aviation, and space exploration. With a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, you can enter entry-level positions in this field.
However, if you want to pursue more advanced roles or specialize in specific areas like aerodynamics or propulsion systems, you may consider pursuing postgraduate education such as a master’s or PhD degree in aerospace engineering.
Salaries for aerospace engineers can vary depending on factors such as your level of education, experience, location, and the specific industry you choose to work in.
By gaining practical work experience through internships or co-op programs during your studies, you can further enhance your skills and increase your job prospects as an aerospace engineer.
Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering is a type of degree that focuses on the design, development, and testing of computer systems and software. As a Computer Engineering student, you will learn about hardware components like processors and memory, as well as how to write software programs.
This degree is perfect if you have an interest in both computers and engineering. With a Computer Engineering degree, you can work in various industries such as technology, telecommunications, or even start your own business.
Salaries for computer engineers can be quite competitive depending on factors like experience and location. So if you enjoy working with computers and want to create innovative solutions using technology, then pursuing a Computer Engineering degree may be the right choice for you!
Systems Engineering
Systems engineering is a field of study that focuses on designing and managing complex systems. As a control systems engineer, having knowledge in systems engineering can be beneficial because it allows you to understand how different components work together to achieve overall system functionality.
In the context of control systems, this means considering not only the individual control elements but also their integration with other subsystems and processes.
By studying systems engineering, you will learn about system architecture, requirements analysis, modeling and simulation, risk management, and optimization techniques. These skills are essential for ensuring that the control system meets its objectives efficiently and effectively.
Additionally, understanding systems engineering principles can help you communicate with other engineers from various disciplines who may be involved in designing or implementing related subsystems.
If you decide to pursue a degree in systems engineering as part of your education in control systems engineering, it can open up more career opportunities for you. You could work not only as a controls engineer but also as a systems engineer responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of complex projects.
This could include tasks such as defining project requirements, coordinating with stakeholders from different departments or organizations, conducting feasibility studies, and managing project schedules.
Comparison of Control Systems Engineering Degrees
Explore the different control systems engineering degrees to find the perfect fit for your career goals and interests.
Curriculum and Focus Areas
To become a control systems engineer, you need to understand the curriculum and focus areas of different degrees. There are several types of control systems engineering degrees that you can pursue, such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, computer engineering, and systems engineering.
In an electrical engineering degree program, you will study subjects like circuits and electronics. This knowledge is important for designing control systems that use electricity. Mechanical engineering degrees focus on topics like mechanics and materials science.
These skills are valuable when designing control systems for machinery or vehicles.
Industrial engineering programs teach students about efficiency and optimization in manufacturing processes. Chemical engineers learn about chemical reactions and how they can be controlled to design efficient processes.
Aerospace engineers specialize in designing controls for aircraft or spacecraft.
Career Opportunities and Industries
Control systems engineers have a wide range of career opportunities in various industries. They can find employment in fields such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics.
These industries rely on control system engineers to design, implement, and maintain control systems that regulate and automate processes and equipment. Control systems engineers may also work on troubleshooting and optimizing existing systems to improve performance and efficiency.
The salaries for control systems engineers can vary depending on factors like education, experience, industry, and location. It’s an exciting field with plenty of potential for growth and advancement.
Salary Potential
Control systems engineering offers excellent salary potential for professionals in the field. Depending on factors such as education, experience, industry, and location, control systems engineers can earn competitive salaries.
Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 to $70,000 per year on average. With increased experience and expertise, control systems engineers have opportunities for advancement into senior-level roles that offer higher salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $100,000 per year.
Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in control systems engineering can open up avenues for higher-paying leadership roles within the industry. Overall, a career in control systems engineering can provide financial stability and growth prospects for individuals passionate about this field.
Choosing the Right Control Systems Engineering Degree
When choosing the right control systems engineering degree, you need to assess your interests and goals, research programs and universities, and consider your skillset and future plans.
Assess Your Interests and Goals
To choose the right control systems engineering degree, it’s important to assess your interests and goals. Think about what aspects of engineering you enjoy the most and what career path you want to pursue.
Consider whether you prefer working on electrical systems, mechanical equipment, or computer programming. Also, think about the industries that interest you, such as manufacturing, aerospace, or robotics.
It’s crucial to research different programs and universities offering control systems engineering degrees. Look into their curriculum and focus areas to see if they align with your interests and goals.
Check out the skillset they aim to develop in students and consider how well it matches your own capabilities.
Lastly, take into account your future plans when choosing a control systems engineering degree. Think about whether you want to specialize in a specific area within control systems engineering or if you have aspirations for leadership positions or advanced research roles.
Remember that pursuing postgraduate education can provide additional skills and knowledge that may be valuable for your future career advancement.
Research Programs and Universities
To choose the right control systems engineering degree, it’s important to research programs and universities that offer this field of study. Look for reputable institutions with strong engineering departments.
Consider factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources. You can also look into internship or co-op opportunities that the university may provide, which can help you gain practical experience in the field.
Additionally, researching alumni success stories or industry partnerships can give you an idea of the opportunities available after graduation. Remember to consider your own interests and goals when conducting your research so that you find a program that aligns with your career aspirations in control systems engineering.
Consider your Skillset and Future Plans
When choosing the right control systems engineering degree, it’s important to consider your skillset and future plans. Think about your strengths and what areas of control systems engineering you excel in or have a strong interest in.
Consider the types of projects or industries that you want to work in, as different degrees may offer specialization options that align with your career goals. Additionally, think about any additional skills or knowledge that you may want to develop through your education.
This could include technical skills like programming or analytical skills like data analysis. By considering your skillset and future plans, you can choose a control systems engineering degree that best fits your individual goals and aspirations.
Importance of Specializing in Control Systems Engineering
Specializing in control systems engineering is crucial due to the high demand for professionals with specialized skills, providing opportunities for career advancement and staying ahead of technological advancements and innovations.
Demand for Specialized Skills
Control systems engineering is a field that requires specialized skills, and there is a high demand for professionals with these skills. Companies in various industries, such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics, rely on control systems engineers to design and develop systems that regulate and automate processes.
As technology continues to advance, the need for control systems engineers will continue to grow.
To meet this demand, it’s important for aspiring control systems engineers to acquire the necessary knowledge and expertise in this field. Pursuing specialized degrees or certifications can provide you with the skills needed to excel in your career.
By gaining a deep understanding of control theory and advanced engineering concepts, you’ll be equipped to tackle complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
Furthermore, by specializing in specific areas within control systems engineering like electrical engineering or computer engineering, you can set yourself apart from others in the field.
This specialization allows you to focus your studies on particular technologies or industries that align with your interests and goals. It also opens up opportunities for advancement into senior-level positions where you can take on more challenging projects and lead teams.
Opportunities for Advancement
As a control systems engineer, there are plenty of opportunities for advancement in your career. With experience and further education, you can climb the ladder and take on more senior-level roles.
Many engineers choose to pursue postgraduate degrees or certifications in control systems engineering to gain additional skills and knowledge in leadership, analysis, modeling, simulation, and design.
By specializing in a specific area of control systems engineering, such as controls engineer or systems engineer, you can open doors to higher-paying positions and more challenging projects.
The field of control systems engineering is constantly evolving with new innovations and technological advances. By staying updated on the latest industry trends and advancements, you’ll have even greater opportunities for growth in your career.
Innovations and Technological Advances
Control systems engineering is a field that is constantly evolving due to innovations and technological advances. With the rapid growth of technology, control systems engineers have access to new tools and techniques that enhance their ability to design, implement, and optimize control systems.
For example, advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning have revolutionized the way control systems operate. These technologies enable engineers to develop smarter and more efficient control systems that can adapt to changing conditions in real-time.
Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) has opened up exciting possibilities for remote monitoring and control of systems from anywhere in the world. As technology continues to advance, control system engineers will need to stay updated with new developments and embrace innovation in order to thrive in this field.
Resources for Control Systems Engineering Students and Professionals
You can find valuable resources for control systems engineering students and professionals through professional associations, online courses and certifications, as well as industry publications and journals.
Discover the tools that can help you succeed in your career.
Professional Associations and Networking Opportunities
There are several professional associations and networking opportunities available for control systems engineering students and professionals. These organizations provide valuable resources, support, and networking platforms to help you enhance your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and connect with other professionals in the field.
One prominent professional association is the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). They have a Control Systems Society that offers conferences, workshops, publications, and technical committees focused on control systems engineering.
The American Automatic Control Council (AACC) is another reputable organization that provides resources like journals, conferences, awards programs, and technical committees for control systems engineers.
Networking opportunities can be found through online platforms such as LinkedIn or industry-specific forums where you can connect with fellow professionals in the field. Attending conferences or joining local chapters of professional societies can also provide opportunities to meet experts in control systems engineering.
Online Courses and Certifications
To enhance your knowledge and skills in control systems engineering, you can consider taking online courses and certifications. These resources provide a convenient way to learn at your own pace and expand your expertise in specific areas of control systems engineering.
Online courses offer a wide range of topics, such as control theory, system dynamics, instrumentation, and automation. You can choose courses that suit your interests and goals. Additionally, many universities and reputable educational platforms offer certifications that validate your knowledge and proficiency in control systems engineering concepts.
By enrolling in online courses or obtaining certifications, you can acquire valuable industry-relevant skills that will make you more competitive in the job market. These credentials demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and showcase your expertise to potential employers.
Industry Publications and Journals
To stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in control systems engineering, it’s important to explore industry publications and journals. These resources can provide valuable insights, research papers, case studies, and best practices from experts in the field.
Some popular publications include “IEEE Control Systems Magazine,” “Control Engineering,” and “Journal of Process Control.” Reading these publications can help you expand your knowledge, learn about new technologies and techniques, and discover opportunities for professional growth.
Additionally, joining professional associations like the International Society of Automation (ISA) or Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) can give you access to their newsletters, conferences, workshops, and networking events where you can connect with fellow professionals in the industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding which control systems engineering degree to pursue, it’s important to consider your interests, goals, and future plans. Research different programs and universities to find the best fit for you.
Also, take into account your skillset and the industries you’re interested in working in. By specializing in control systems engineering, you can tap into a field with high demand for specialized skills and plenty of opportunities for advancement.
So choose wisely and embark on an exciting career that combines your love for engineering with cutting-edge technology.
FAQs
1. What is control systems engineering?
Control systems engineering involves designing and implementing systems that regulate and control various types of processes, such as manufacturing operations or traffic flow.
2. What degrees are available in control systems engineering?
Degrees in control systems engineering include Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate programs in fields like Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Control Systems Engineering itself.
3. How do I choose which degree to pursue in control systems engineering?
When choosing a degree in control systems engineering, consider your interests and career goals. Research the curriculum of each program to see which aligns best with your desired specialization.
4. Are there online programs available for studying control systems engineering?
Yes, there are online programs available for studying control systems engineering at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs offer flexibility for those with work or personal commitments.
5. What career opportunities can a degree in control systems engineering lead to?
A degree in control systems engineering can lead to careers as a controls engineer, automation engineer, process engineer, robotics engineer, or research scientist in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy.