Author Topic: Old Dominion vs. TESC vs. Excelsior (Read 87504 times)

DRStevick · « **on:** Aug 15, 2005, 10:15 »

OK, I'm sorry... I know that this one hase been discussed, I'm just not sure that I have come up with a firm determination one way or another on which degree program is the way to go. Currently, I am an ETC(SS) nuke, 13 years in, finally planning on getting a degree.

I am currently enrolled in TESC to complete my ASAST/NET degree in January. At that point, do I

a) Continue with TESC for my BSAST/NET degree or
b) Switch over to Excelsior to complete a BSNET degree, ABET accredited?

I don't know what I plan to do when I get out. It may have NOTING to do with nuclear power! My concern is NOT getting the ABET accredited degree, then finding out that I need it for whatever reason, and being f$%@ed.

I've heard a couple of different versions, ranging from the ABET doesn't matter to the ABET is the only way to go. Just trying to get some more opinions before I dedicate myself to one program in particular.

Dale R. Stevick

JsonD13 · « **Reply #1 on:** Aug 17, 2005, 06:14 »

ETC,
I am an MM2 SPU on his way to sea (CVN70). I got the TESC degree while at prototype and I was able to gain entrance into Southern Methodist University's MS in Engineering Management program. Also I have talked to schools such as Oregon State (MS in Health Physics (RADCON)) and they don't seem to have any problems with the degree not being ABET accredited since the school is regionally accredited. A good thread to look at would be on the TESC website alumni moderated discussion. I think its called "BSAST Nuc Eng" or something close. I have heard of a few schools not letting people into their MS in Nuclear Engineering program unless they take more undergraduate courses. As far as job prospects in the nuclear industry, I havent seen anything personally but from what I hear it only makes a difference of a few bucks an hour if you start out in OPS. Hope this helps.

Jason

davioh · « **Reply #2 on:** Aug 21, 2005, 11:09 »

Quote from: DRStevick on Aug 15, 2005, 10:15

OK, I'm sorry... I know that this one hase been discussed, I'm just not sure that I have come up with a firm determination one way or another on which degree program is the way to go. Currently, I am an ETC(SS) nuke, 13 years in, finally planning on getting a degree.

I am currently enrolled in TESC to complete my ASAST/NET degree in January. At that point, do I

a) Continue with TESC for my BSAST/NET degree or
b) Switch over to Excelsior to complete a BSNET degree, ABET accredited?

I don't know what I plan to do when I get out. It may have NOTING to do with nuclear power! My concern is NOT getting the ABET accredited degree, then finding out that I need it for whatever reason, and being f$%@ed.

I've heard a couple of different versions, ranging from the ABET doesn't matter to the ABET is the only way to go. Just trying to get some more opinions before I dedicate myself to one program in particular.

Dale R. Stevick

Dale, I'd go with Excelsior:
#1. they have for the most part been very helpful to me.
#2. the abet accreditation MIGHT become a standard requirement sometime (I'm saying might but I really don't know).

I have no experience with tesc so for some reason it might be better after all (no real basis of comparison I've only seen tesc's website and not been a student there). I just know there are a number of things excelsior did for me that other colleges didn't (local community colleges).

SnToCiv · « **Reply #3 on:** Dec 28, 2005, 08:38 »

I am an ETSN and I am about to start working on my TESC BA but I heard the Excelsior is also a good way to go. Does anyone have any exsperience with Excelsior?

JsonD13 · « **Reply #4 on:** Dec 29, 2005, 12:56 »

I dont have any personal experience with Excelscior, but I did get my TESC degree. The only plus about Excelscior is that they are ABET accredited. I do not know how good of a school they are or how long it would take to finish, but I got my TESC in about a year.

dks860 · « **Reply #5 on:** Dec 30, 2005, 09:41 »

I got an associates from Excelsior when it was still Regents college. They work with all the miltary schools and take a host of independent and testing credits. The one thing I didn't like was the annual fee if you are not ready to graduate. That came at a time when we really didn't have the money to spare. My associates got me into school at another university and most of the credits did transfer. They have a lot of resources and if you are the type of person who can do independent study classes or over the internet or study and take tests, then it's a good deal. How long it takes to finish depends on how motivated you are. I took several CLEP and DANTES exams, as well and my Nuke school credits. I don't know if it's still true but when I was in the military, you could take independant study courses from accredited colleges and if you passed you got 90% back. You should go talk to your Education Officer. Regents/Excelsior has been catering to the military for a long time. I got my degree in the late 80's and I knew guys who were going through them in the early 80's.

wlrun3@aol.com · « **Reply #6 on:** Dec 30, 2005, 10:29 »

I earned the BS degree at Edison using the credit granted for the NRRPT after being a NY Regents (now Excelsior) student. Courses required by Regents (nuclear materials, plant systems overview and reactor core fundamentals) required attendance. Edison requirements did not.
Challenge exams with Edison fulfilled the electives requirements. I used traditional correspondence courses by mail to satisfy the calculus requirements.

graydragon67 · « **Reply #7 on:** Jan 30, 2006, 10:52 »

Howdy, I've read up on the TESC and Excelsior courses and have just perused the one at ODU. I was wondering if anybody else has heard of this program? I'm not really sure if it renders you with a Mechanical Engineering Technologies degree with Nuclear emphasis or if it's a Nuclear Tech degree like TESC?

Any help would be appreciated.

ciao
dave

DecommMan · « **Reply #8 on:** Feb 09, 2006, 01:00 »

How are the technician programs offered by T Edison and other junior colleges doing these days?

Kenny73 · « **Reply #9 on:** May 08, 2006, 04:06 »

I see that excelsior recently got a ABET accredited nuclear engineering program. Does anyone have any information on what type of job that degree would qualify you for?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #10 on:** May 08, 2006, 04:17 »

Kenny,
I don't see anything that the ABET accredited degree qualifies you for that you couldn't already qualify with the old degree. If I remember correctly, the new degree requires Calculus and Calculus based Physics. That can qualify you for STA (Shift Technical Adviser); this is just a collateral duty for qualified SRO's at many plants.

Kenny73 · « **Reply #11 on:** May 08, 2006, 05:02 »

Okay, so let's say I got out of the navy after just four years of service as an EM2 with a degree in nuclear engineering tech from excelsior. Would I be able to get a job at a plant?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #12 on:** May 08, 2006, 05:21 »

Absolutely!
You could get a job in OPS or in Electrical Maintenance. I would pursue both, then take the one most appealing to you.

You would probably have to go into OPS via NLO class, but the sky is the limit (actually, above Shift Manager they would want you to complete a Master's degree).

Kenny73 · « **Reply #13 on:** May 08, 2006, 06:34 »

Thanks for the help. I'm really glad there's good news. One last thing, what is OPS?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #14 on:** May 09, 2006, 07:01 »

OPS rules the nuclear universe!

OK, OPS is operations; this is like standing watch in the Navy. Maintenance handles the repairs and PM, OPS does the tag-outs.

Samabby · « **Reply #15 on:** May 09, 2006, 03:52 »

Quote from: Kenny73 on May 08, 2006, 05:02

Okay, so let's say I got out of the navy after just four years of service as an EM2 with a degree in nuclear engineering tech from excelsior. Would I be able to get a job at a plant?

Could you do this during a four year enlistment? I thought that the Nuke enlistments were a minimum of six years.

kydron · « **Reply #16 on:** May 09, 2006, 08:24 »

Is there a link anywhere that has more information about the new ABET accredited program Kenny mentioned? All that I see on the Excelsior site is the same degrees they previously offered. Thanks

illegalsmile · « **Reply #17 on:** May 10, 2006, 07:12 »

Quote from: Samabby on May 09, 2006, 03:52

Could you do this during a four year enlistment? I thought that the Nuke enlistments were a minimum of six years.

Kenny didn't say he was a nuke. Admittedly, his degree implies it, but only implies.

Kenny73 · « **Reply #18 on:** May 10, 2006, 01:12 »

I will have served a total of four and a half years in the navy. Two and a half as an EM2 and yes I'm a nuke. I meant that I'm getting out as an EM2 not that I served for years as an EM2. Oh, what's NLO?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #19 on:** May 10, 2006, 01:58 »

I assumed you had read the other posts. No problem. NLO = Non-Licensed Operator
RO = NRC Licensed Reactor Operator (the one licensed to operate the controls)
RCO = Reactor Controls Operator (same as RO)
SRO = NRC Senior Licensed Reactor Operator (licensed to supervise Reactor Operations); typically directs operations of 1 unit
SM = Shift Manager; SRO in charge of the shift (all units on the site); top shift-worker

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #20 on:** Jul 28, 2006, 05:05 »

Always with my ear to the ground...

TESC has announced a partnership with a NJ utilities co. in creating a BSAST in Energy Utilities Technology. I spoke with a some TESC staff and the program is planned for FALL 06 enrollment.
They don't have it posted in their list of programs yet, however I was sent a credit breakdown for the General Education, Core, and Electives. I'd be glad to send this to you.

I contacted a Dr. Tillery, who is the program manager, and he directed me to Bismark State College (www.bsc.nodak.edu) to find online classes that satisfy the core requirements.

BSC offers 5 AAST programs covering nuc power, electrical transmission, process technology, power plant technology, and electrical power technology. The core requirements can be nearly satisfied taking various classes from the different programs. However, I cannot tell if the specific classes have their own pre-reqs.

As of the current list of TESC courses, about 6 can be taken directly via TESC OL/GS classes.

Of course TESC also does portfolio assessment, but I don't know what Navy Nuke training covers. I'll find that out after I submit my Navy training, degrees, and work experience for review.

Let me be clear that this is not a nuke degree of any kind; most of the core courses are electrical systems/distribution/management in nature.

The general education requirements are your ususal English, Math (Calc 1), STATs, Social Science, Natural Science, etc.

There are some oolie requirements covering labor management, collective bargaining, economic analysis, and other very specific courses not offered at your usual comm college (I think these are usually covered by prior work experience, though).

Let me know if you want some more info.

Jason

M1Ark · « **Reply #21 on:** Jul 29, 2006, 02:19 »

Why wouldn't I just get a TESC BSAST in Nuclear Engineering Technology?

How's is this different? or better?

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #22 on:** Jul 29, 2006, 02:32 »

I offer no judgement on the program, just relaying the facts.

The degree is definitely geared towards business/economics/finance/management in requirements with a focus on overal energy utilities. It does have a foundation in engineering subjects, but it deals with aspects of the energy utilities after the steam spins the turbines.

I personally don't plan on being a technician for the rest of my career. I'd like to move upwards into the business end of splitting atoms. For me this degree would provide the foundations for that aspiration.

real_mikejones · « **Reply #23 on:** Dec 13, 2006, 02:19 »

I am currently a Navy Nuke with two and a half years left in. I am looking at these different degree programs and was curious on your opinions. I have heard that the Excelsior program is better to get as far as getting into a Grad School. How does the Old Dominion degree compare to these? For those of you in the civilian sector, does it make a difference as far as getting a job when you get out?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

ChiefRocscooter · « **Reply #24 on:** Dec 13, 2006, 07:51 »

The question is more one of what fits your situation Mike not which is better. Both will get you into grad school, although I would guess the EXCEL degree might make abit eaiser. I have talked to guy with both in grad school so it can be done. The situation is more about how many classes you have already gotten and what do you still need. If you graded Prototype after 1990 Excellisor will give you more credtis, if pre 1990 you can add about 7 classes that you can only get with them (read $$$$$). The ABET thing is only a big deal (IMHO) if you are getting a "real" engineering degree. Face it, a technology degree is not an Enginering degree and in many satates you can not get PE on a tech degree, ABET or not! The Tech degree is normally only a stepping stone to help land a job, I have gotten interviews simpliy because of tech degree (and 23 years exp but degree was a go no go).
As for TESC vs Excell, I looked at both and picked TESC. Met my situation better. I think TESC is quicker and "eaiser" to complete. TESC only requires 4 course done with them (for active duty Navy) and the rest can be done at local CC. On top of that none of the courses were ones that "had" to be taken from them. Cost will be less to you and by taking local (and PACE) courses I think you will get better Ed in the long run. In short TESC will allow you to sit in more traditional classrom type classes. (I am not down on EXCELL, it just did not fit my situation. I am geting TESC degree with only 4 classes (and 1 of them is only to meet 4 class requirement) Excell would have me do about 12 or so and they are more expensive.

The ODU degree is an ME tech degree and require alot more class time than either of the other two. It may offer more opening down the line and of course you are jst about assured of getting in to ODU grad school, but just like other two you will be taking leveling classes before you can start a real ENG MS program.

So it all comes down to what your situation is and what you want to do in the long run!

Rob

baronbrady · « **Reply #25 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 05:47 »

Hey,
I'm a surface ET who's been on the ship for a little over two years. I've made some decent headway on the Excelsior ABET degree, but I ran into a problem this weekend while I was looking at the degree plan I had printed out: I can't find any mention of the degree on the Excelsior.edu website OR the Navy College site! Do you know if it's still available. Excelsior wasn't available today, due to the holidays, and I imagine they'll be closed Monday and Tuesday like most colleges. Do you have any info? I hope they didn't just drop the degree altogether.

baronbrady · « **Reply #26 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 09:04 »

Do you have a link to the degree plans for nukes? I used to be able to find them pretty easily, even though they're separated from all the conventional navy degree plans. Out of curiosity, also, does anyone know of a chem lab you can take through distance learning? I've heard of it from several people, but no one knows which colleges offer it. I looked at Troy, Excelsior, and U of Phoenix to no avail.
Thanks for the help!

special-k-440 · « **Reply #27 on:** Feb 09, 2007, 01:33 »

I am an NLO. I am thinking about applying to Excelsior for the Associates in either Power Plant Tech or Nuclear Tech. Any othe NLO's (or know some) that have gone this route? How many credits do they give for initial NLO training, how hard is the online training, I want to get as much info as I can. Thanks nuclear community...

Roll Tide · « **Reply #28 on:** Feb 09, 2007, 08:41 »

In most circumstances, Excelsior follows the ACE guide credit recommendations. Your training department probably has the info on your specific program. The only exceptions I know of are when Excelsior evaluates a program separately, and then gives more credit.

One of the benefits of Excelsior is that you can consolidate credits earned from any other regionally accredited program. You may want to take some of the classes at a nearby community college (online or in person) and then transfer them all.

Roll Tide · « **Reply #29 on:** May 10, 2008, 05:58 »

Quote from: kydron on May 09, 2006, 08:24

Is there a link anywhere that has more information about the new ABET accredited program Kenny mentioned? All that I see on the Excelsior site is the same degrees they previously offered. Thanks

It took a while, but here is the answer:

Follow this link to one of our excellent advertisers:

http://www.epceonline.org/programs/bs-nuclear.html

It has a link, but it is kind of buried:

https://www.excelsior.edu/Excelsior_College/Partnerships/EPCE/WAYS_TO_EARN_CREDIT

Then here is this really useful chart showing credit for INPO accredited training programs (like every commercial nuke in the US)

https://www.excelsior.edu/Excelsior_College/Publications/Nuclear_Technology_Degree_Programs.pdf

Watch the fine print, but some people are quite close to a degree.

number41 · « **Reply #30 on:** Jan 26, 2009, 08:58 »

Yeah, I know this topic is OLD, but I've been busy OK! Anyway, at my site, you won't get a position as an STA with Thomas Edison/Excelsior/University of Phoenix; it has to be an ABET accredited program. Having said that, I don't know if we changed our position with the change at Excelsior. I think it would depend on whether the degree was an "Engineering Technology" degree or a B.S. in a normal field. The best I could say is to practice interviewing and hope for the best.

JustinHEMI05 · « **Reply #31 on:** Jan 27, 2009, 03:08 »

Quote from: McLovin #41 on Jan 26, 2009, 08:58

Yeah, I know this topic is OLD, but I've been busy OK! Anyway, at my site, you won't get a position as an STA with Thomas Edison/Excelsior/University of Phoenix; it has to be an ABET accredited program. Having said that, I don't know if we changed our position with the change at Excelsior. I think it would depend on whether the degree was an "Engineering Technology" degree or a B.S. in a normal field. The best I could say is to practice interviewing and hope for the best.

I guess your site is different that everyone else's. Are you seriously still butt hurt that no one gives a s**t about your RPI degree?

Justin

PS My plant manager has a thomas edison degree.

number41 · « **Reply #32 on:** Jan 27, 2009, 03:55 »

No, I'm not butt-hurt about my degree. I just thought I'd throw my $0.02 into the discussion because the guys that just got hired with me are having this same discussion right now. I guess we are being more restrictive than any ACAD requirements or INPO recommendations. But my buddy went to the Citadel and you already know where I went because I'm so proud of it

and we both got hired as STA's. Two other retired Navy Chiefs and a 6 & out ET1 got hired for the same license class that we did and they run the gamut (one has U of Phoenix Nuke Eng Tech, one has Thomas Edison Nuke Eng Tech, and one has an Excelsior Degree), and none of them got picked-up as an STA. Then again, that may not be a bad deal for them because we don't pay overtime for STA's, but straight RO/SRO's do (after a 45hr carve-out.) I must say though, I know two of those guys finished their degrees "years ago", so maybe that has something to do with it. Who knows? Maybe it's more related to the "Engineering Technology" stigma, but as has been said on here many times, the degree matters alot less than what you do when you go to work. By the way Justin, our Site VP has a B.S in Mech Eng, but he's never been in operations, so I guess that goes to show that none of this crap matters as much as your ability anyway!

JustinHEMI05 · « **Reply #33 on:** Jan 27, 2009, 04:27 »

Exactly man. I don't mean no disrespect, just giving you some of that "piss and vinegar" you brought.

number41 · « **Reply #34 on:** Feb 03, 2009, 07:58 »

Well, you must admit that I had grounds to get a little mad at you................you actually used the word "STOW"!!!!! I'm surprised you didn't throw-up trying to use a Navular term like that. By the way, it looks like we got out of NY at the right time. You wouldn't believe all of the crap that's going on up there right now. Something about XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX and 4 section shiftwork!!

Moderator modification ...Please be careful about operational information of Navy facilities and/or vessels.

JustinHEMI05 · « **Reply #35 on:** Feb 03, 2009, 08:28 »

Quote from: McLovin #41 on Feb 03, 2009, 07:58

Well, you must admit that I had grounds to get a little mad at you................you actually used the word "STOW"!!!!! I'm surprised you didn't throw-up trying to use a Navular term like that. By the way, it looks like we got out of NY at the right time. You wouldn't believe all of the crap that's going on up there right now. Something about XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX and 4 section shiftwork!!

Ya I have heard all about it. There is a large contingent of people from NY at Peach Bottom, we all have some contacts there so we get the whole story most of the time. I didn't think it was possible to get any worse up there when I left!

BTW, I have become quite the diggit again post Navy.

Justin

Preciousblue1965 · « **Reply #36 on:** Feb 04, 2009, 07:59 »

Quote from: JustinHEMI on Feb 03, 2009, 08:28

BTW, I have become quite the diggit again post Navy.

Justin

Yea it is a little easier to move that shovel once you get out of the hole and aren't really moving dirt anymore.

empills · « **Reply #37 on:** Apr 01, 2009, 12:29 »

I applied for the Excelsior Nuclear Technology degree and am waiting on the evaluation to see what I need. I would like to get a head start by enrolling for the classes I need at my local community college. Can anyone tell me what credit I will get as a Navy Nuke Electrician type and what credit I will still need? Thanks in advance for the the help.

formerET1Han · « **Reply #38 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 05:51 »

I've been researching why the ABET matters and this is the answer that I have found. I have the Excelsior degree, though I chose mine just to hedge the bets (what was one more class if ABET ever mattered...ever).

1) as for MS in anything technical - you're kinda jacked. I have found only a couple of schools that would consider it, and even then, there will be remedial work - see the University of North Dakota. An example of how that might NOT work is the University of Tenn. They will consider you, but they generally don't accept technology degrees (they usually don't have enough math). If you took extra math, you might have a shot (like I have diffEQ, and they said we'll consider it on a case by case).

2) If you ever decide to get a PE license (that's the guys who design for a living) which is standard, the ABET is REQUIRED in the state of Texas. The technology degree will still set you back (you will require more experience before you can take the exam), but that's the only way. The non-ABET degree will NOT suffice. This is important if you are considering the possibility of not being a nuke.

3) There are a few jobs out there that the technology degree would be sufficient (though the straight engineering degree is preferred), and the lack of ABET accred. might be the deciding factor there too.

I hope that helps.

formerET1Han · « **Reply #39 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 06:16 »

I said ND, but I meant the Univ of NC. They have an online MS Nuclear Engineering degree...my bad.

thenuttyneutron · « **Reply #40 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 06:44 »

I sometimes wonder if taking the EIT would even be useful for me. I have a NRC RO license at a Power Reactor, but I don't want to be in OPS forever. If I take the FE exam, would that help as a notch on the resume?

jgpwest · « **Reply #41 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 09:15 »

I would recommend taking the FE only on the fact that if you ever decide to pursue your PE you need 5 years of experience after taking the FE. I also don't recommend taking a prep class for the exam as the study guides and the reference book should be enough to get you ready. I only would recommend the class if your company will pay for it. As far as your resume..only the PE would look good, as EIT's are a dime a dozen, and most college grads are EIT's.

HockeyFan · « **Reply #42 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 06:33 »

Quote from: formerET1Han on Sep 10, 2009, 05:51

2) If you ever decide to get a PE license (that's the guys who design for a living)

P.E. has nothing to do with whether you are qualified to design. P.E. only matters if you consult or work for a consulting company, i.e. you offer engineering services to another company. If you work directly for a manufacturing company or an OEM, you do not need a P.E. license. It has everything to do with offering engineering services. The only company that will care on a resume is a consulting company.

You are exempt from needing a license for "services performed by employees of a business organization engaged in utility, industrial or manufacturing operations." Therefore, you can do design if employed by the utility or vendor, but not a consulting engineering firm.

Preciousblue1965 · « **Reply #43 on:** Sep 10, 2009, 10:15 »

Quote from: HockeyFan on Sep 10, 2009, 06:33

P.E. has nothing to do with whether you are qualified to design. P.E. only matters if you consult or work for a consulting company, i.e. you offer engineering services to another company. If you work directly for a manufacturing company or an OEM, you do not need a P.E. license. It has everything to do with offering engineering services. The only company that will care on a resume is a consulting company.

You are exempt from needing a license for "services performed by employees of a business organization engaged in utility, industrial or manufacturing operations." Therefore, you can do design if employed by the utility or vendor, but not a consulting engineering firm.

Not 100% true, in order to build ASME Section VIII Div 2 vessels you(until recently) have to have the design done by a PE certified person. Soon it will be someone certified that they know what they are doing. But this is a very small number of businesses so it is about 99% accurate. Most of the engineers I work with don't have PE licenses, but do have the no-crap engineering degrees, although they aren't really in the field they are working(what does a EE know about buidling mechanical portions of a boiler).

HockeyFan · « **Reply #44 on:** Sep 11, 2009, 07:10 »

Quote from: Preciousblue1965 on Sep 10, 2009, 10:15

but do have the no-crap engineering degrees

I just want to state that an EET is a no crap degree. Yes there are a very small number of tasks you cannot do because the drawings must be sealed, but my goodness, hinting that a degree is crap is not fair. I've never encountered this in my day to day life. The only place I've seen it exist is on the internet. And I've done firmware design, circuit board design, PLC programming, electric panel design, approved drawings, done seminars on UL requirements, and have been published in a trade magazine. The degree was the ticket for entry into the field. Experience took care of the rest.

By the way, for the drawings that must be sealed, you just need a P.E. to review them. The P.E. can be one person who works at the company or it can be contracted out. By law, any P.E. will do (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.) It doesn't even have to be someone who is in the same field. Also, only a P.E. can testify in court as an expert witness. The P.E. community is very small compared to the engineering community. OEMs, which are companies that make products, do not require sealed drawings.

As far as knowledge goes, explain to me what an EE learns in school that an EET does not. The EET learns current technology and how to use and apply it. It's much more practical for current jobs in the field of engineering. Besides, any job that requires advanced knowledge is going to require a master degree or PhD. An EET is every bit as valid as an EE. I've read a study that shows that EET's out earn EE's in the long run.

Dave

tr · « **Reply #45 on:** Sep 11, 2009, 10:54 »

Quote from: HockeyFan on Sep 10, 2009, 06:33

P.E. only matters if you consult or work for a consulting company, i.e. you offer engineering services to another company. If you work directly for a manufacturing company or an OEM, you do not need a P.E. license. It has everything to do with offering engineering services. The only company that will care on a resume is a consulting company.

The above is not true. Each utlitiy is different - the ones I have worked for have either desired, or REQUIRED, their engineers to have a PE if they want to get promoted above the first level or two. PE rules also vary from state to state. For example, my understanding is that all engineering work done by Diablo Canyon is stamped by a PE, due to some specific statements in CA law.

Preciousblue1965 · « **Reply #46 on:** Sep 11, 2009, 05:38 »

Quote from: HockeyFan on Sep 11, 2009, 07:10

I just want to state that an EET is a no crap degree. Yes there are a very small number of tasks you cannot do because the drawings must be sealed, but my goodness, hinting that a degree is crap is not fair. I've never encountered this in my day to day life. The only place I've seen it exist is on the internet. And I've done firmware design, circuit board design, PLC programming, electric panel design, approved drawings, done seminars on UL requirements, and have been published in a trade magazine. The degree was the ticket for entry into the field. Experience took care of the rest.

By the way, for the drawings that must be sealed, you just need a P.E. to review them. The P.E. can be one person who works at the company or it can be contracted out. By law, any P.E. will do (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.) It doesn't even have to be someone who is in the same field. Also, only a P.E. can testify in court as an expert witness. The P.E. community is very small compared to the engineering community. OEMs, which are companies that make products, do not require sealed drawings.

As far as knowledge goes, explain to me what an EE learns in school that an EET does not. The EET learns current technology and how to use and apply it. It's much more practical for current jobs in the field of engineering. Besides, any job that requires advanced knowledge is going to require a master degree or PhD. An EET is every bit as valid as an EE. I've read a study that shows that EET's out earn EE's in the long run.

Dave

Sorry, what I mean by "no-crap engineering" degree was simply that it was just an engineering degree in which they went through the full blown math classes and all that other jazz. From what I gather, most Engineering Tech degrees do not require Calc III or Differential Equations whereas full blown engineering degrees do. Didn't intend to cause a fuss. I am 4 classes away from NET from TESC so it isn't like I am down on those degrees myself.

HockeyFan · « **Reply #47 on:** Sep 11, 2009, 07:57 »

Quote from: tr on Sep 11, 2009, 10:54

The above is not true. Each utlitiy is different

This is a good discussion, but we're splitting hairs. I was wrong to say the "only" company that cares is a consulting company. Obviously, I cannot speak for every company or hiring manager, just my experience in my career. Also, different disciplines have different requirements, and I'm only knowledgable about electrical.

State laws vary greatly for requirements for P.E. A few states allow EET's the same credit as EE's, while others give half credit, and others don't give any credit or bar EET's from P.E. The engineering degree gives 4 years experience credit towards the requirement in the states I've looked at. If I were to desire a P.E., it would take an extra 4 years. In the meantime, I could still do design while working toward the credential. Because circuit board design and PLC programming don't require P.E., it was a non-issue for me.

When I was deciding on a degree, I talked with the design engineers at the company I worked for and asked them if I went for a BSEET, could I do design. They all told me yes and a few of the engineers had a BSEET themselves. Hence, I finished the degree and was picked up in R&D engineering doing new product development immediately.

My point is that an engineering technology degree is viewed the same as an engineering degree at every company I have ever talked to, and I've talked with over 100 companies in the course of my work. Having an engineering technology degree, skills such as AutoCAD and programming, a good attitude, and experience were all that mattered.

Dave

edited to add quote

HockeyFan · « **Reply #48 on:** Sep 11, 2009, 08:19 »

Quote from: Preciousblue1965 on Sep 11, 2009, 05:38

most Engineering Tech degrees do not require Calc III or Differential Equations

Yes. At an IEEE meeting, my one friend admitted he knew a ton of math he will never use.

My program had Calc I and Calc II plus statistics. We covered Laplace transforms, Fourier series, and linear algebra. We used MATLAB quite extensively for signals and digital control systems. Circuit analysis was calculus based and included some easy differential equations. I know of another program that has differential equations for technologists.

Quote from: Preciousblue1965 on Sep 11, 2009, 05:38

I am 4 classes away from NET from TESC so it isn't like I am down on those degrees myself.

Congrats on your upcoming graduation. I know of a few people who completed that program and did very well for themselves.

Dave

edited to expand on math topic

formerET1Han · « **Reply #49 on:** Sep 14, 2009, 05:24 »

Actually, the informatoin on licensure is pretty easy to obtain. Visit http://www.ncees.org/licensure/licensing_boards/ and click on your state. For example, in TX, the requirements are listed here: http://www.tbpe.state.tx.us/lic.htm.

The short of it is that if you do not have an ABET degree (which includes the Engineering Tech aka accredited by TAC/ABET), you will need 8 years of experience to be eligible for the license.

richardm82 · « **Reply #50 on:** Jul 29, 2010, 07:39 »

Does anybody have a link or can post a degree roadmap for ODU and Excelsior for Navy Nukes?

How many more classes are required for ODU and Excelsior than TESC?

I am two classes shy of getting my BSAST in NET at TESC but am concidering transfering those credits to ODU or Excelsior to get the ABET. I know Excelsior has no minimum credit requirements, you just have to pay more.

co60slr · « **Reply #51 on:** Jul 29, 2010, 09:03 »

Quote from: richardm82 on Jul 29, 2010, 07:39

I am two classes shy of getting my BSAST in NET at TESC but am concidering transfering those credits to ODU or Excelsior to get the ABET.

Why?

Get the BSAST and get going on Grad School. Get Excelsior (with the ABET blanket) and get to Grad School.

I'd leave the Navy with a BS degree and shoot for grad school "in progress"....it all depends on how much time you have left.

from Co60

SA82 · « **Reply #52 on:** Jul 29, 2010, 09:08 »

Here is a link to Excelsior's degree program, in their catalog, and a list of credits that you will receive from the navy. Pages 53 to 58....

https://www.excelsior.edu/Excelsior_College/Publications/Technology_Catalog.pdf

Hope this helps. I just finished the Excelsior degree (EM1(SS)). Send me a message if you have more questions.

nuke_girl · « **Reply #53 on:** Jul 31, 2010, 02:05 »

Interesing topic...Im about a year and a semester away from graduating a program that combines an AAS in radiation protection and 2 extra years for a BAAS in Industrial Engineering Technology..my focus is on ALARA, as that i am an HP. I did notice that the majority posting here are Ops.

The program is through Tarleton University in Texas and is called 2 for 2 . Tarleton is partnering with TSTC's AAS program.

Just some information for those looking for HP/ Engineering degrees.

Preciousblue1965 · « **Reply #54 on:** Oct 07, 2010, 11:16 »

Just some information to put out there.....

I just received an email from TESC in which they are looking for students to participate in a pilot class called Nuclear Engineering Captsone. This class is in addition to the current class work for Nuclear Engineering Technology and the entire program is going to be submitted for ABET accrediation in 2011. So basically, TESC is looking to get their ABET accrediation for their NET degree. I will let you guys know more when I hear more. I have signed up for the pilot and will let you know how it works out.

kingdom dweller · « **Reply #55 on:** Dec 23, 2010, 11:26 »

Hello All and Merry Christmas!

I just graduated from Excelsior with the BST with a specialty in Nuclear. My experience dealing with Excelsior was good. I have a AAS in Rad protection, have the NRRPT and completed an Initial RP training program with a commercial nuke plant. All of these pieces added up as I enrolled at Excelsior. I only needed 8 courses to complete this degree. I used CLEP and Dantes to complete most of these requirements. Took 6 months to knock this out.

This is a good route in order to get a BS using previous training.

nuke_girl · « **Reply #56 on:** Dec 23, 2010, 01:57 »

Congrats on completing your degree ! Its quite an accomplishment

Now get to work on that Masters ! LOLOL just kidding..seriously , Congrats ! What a great Christmas present to yourself

sarpedon · « **Reply #57 on:** Oct 17, 2013, 07:37 »

Bringing back to life an old thread here... but, time has passed, so it may be worth revisiting.

I'm an ex navy nuke submarines ET, and I've been going to community college for a few years ready to graduate with an associates (I'm pursuing business administration). I've realized as of late that I probably have all kinds of prerequisites done for the Nuclear Engineering Technologies degree either at Thomas Edison or Excelsior.

Both TESC and Excelsior now have ABET accredited programs. Looking at their websites, they look like they provide basically the same thing.

What are the comparative differences between the two, today?

Thanks guys.

KBNCO Director · « **Reply #58 on:** Nov 17, 2013, 11:15 »

As a person who works with Sailors every day in IDing what will work best for them, I would recommend you go to two places...

1st - Begin talking with and researching the companies you'd like to work for. Ask them what they consider acceptable. To learn how to play basketball, you can talk to a Nike shoe salesman, or talk with Michael Jordan.

2nd - Use the ABET website to ID what schools have ABET accredited degrees. http://main.abet.org/aps/Accreditedprogramsearch.aspx.
While I'm not a "Nuke" I have been told by many in the field that ABET is one of the more sought after specialized accreditation. You'll see that TESC ABET degree is "energy engineering technology". You'll have to put the two schools degree's classes and requirements side by side to see the real difference.

You have many options and I see you are pursuing an associate level degree. Thats good to get your basics taken care of but make you you are looking forward then planning backward so as much or all of your classes will be accepted later.

Don't forget to your Navy College Office to learn about the many options and programs that may help you reach your educational goals.

GW

Author Topic: Old Dominion vs. TESC vs. Excelsior (Read 87504 times)

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