What is the difference between engineering and engineering technology?

Engineering and engineering technology are separate but closely related professional areas.

Engineering programs often focus on theory and conceptual design, while engineering technology programs usually focus on application and implementation. Engineering programs typically require additional, higher-level mathematics, while engineering technology programs typically focus on courses that are more practical than theoretical in nature.

Graduates from engineering programs often pursue entry-level work involving conceptual design or research and development. Graduates of two-year engineering technology programs likely assume engineering technician positions in maintenance, production or product development. 

Why did COTC redesign the engineering technology program?

The short answer is to better serve students and to fulfill demand in the local workforce. COTC determined a general engineering technology degree was necessary based on observations of student behavior and feedback from local employers. Many students double-majored in engineering technology or came back to complete additional courses after graduating to gain new skills. COTC also gathered input from another important source — central Ohio industries. Local employers need associate degree graduates with a wide range of engineering skills. The result was to create an engineering technology degree that provides a breadth of skills and knowledge related to the various roles of engineering technology.

How quickly can I complete the engineering technology program?

The amount of time it takes a student to complete the engineering technology associate degree depends upon how many courses are taken per semester. A student attending full time can complete the degree in two years. 

Students who attend full time (and take 3-5 classes on average per semester) will complete quicker than students who attend part time (and take 1-2 classes on average per semester).

Can I take classes online or face-to-face?

Students at COTC have the flexibility to take classes face-to-face or online. The engineering technology program has courses that must be completed face-to-face for students to learn through hand’s-on experience and using equipment and technology in the engineering technology program.

Are there any student organizations on campus related to engineering? 

Society of Engineering Technology (SET)

Current students in any engineering technology program can join the Society of Engineering Technology (SET), a student organization for both COTC and Ohio State Newark students. Students who are part of SET can gain awareness of education and career opportunities available to their preferred engineering technology field. Advisor: Whitney Tussing.

What type of financial assistance is available to help me pay for college? 

COTC awards $1 million in scholarships to students each year!

Every student is encouraged to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for grants, scholarships and loans. 

Students who complete a FAFSA are automatically considered for some scholarships. Other scholarships require an application. 

Connect with the Office of Student Financial Services at 740.366.9435 or email NWK-studentfinancialservices@mail.cotc.edu.

Can I pursue a bachelor’s degree after I complete an associate degree?

Students interested in continuing their education to pursue a bachelor’s degree can consider transferring to a four-year college or university. Many of COTC’s general education courses are transferrable to public universities in Ohio. Some universities also accept transfer credit of technical courses in engineering technology. Graduates may consider:

• Miami University Bachelor of Applied Science completion degree in engineering technology

How do I get started at COTC?

Help us learn more about you by visiting our Future Students webpage, then follow the COTC Steps to Enroll to get started.