In this article (and video above), I dive into a topic that many aspiring engineers often wonder about: Can you take the Professional Engineer (PE) Exam if your bachelor’s degree is not accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) or the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)?
Before diving into the details, it’s important to understand why EAC/ABET accreditation matters. A degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program is highly respected in the engineering profession because it shows that the program meets rigorous academic standards and equips graduates for professional practice.
Can You Take the PE Exam Without an EAC/ABET-accredited Bachelor’s Degree?
The short answer is yes! The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), which administers the exam, does not strictly require candidates to hold a degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program.
However, there are alternative pathways for candidates with degrees from non-accredited programs. These pathways typically involve additional steps, such as:
- NCEES Credential Evaluation: Candidates may need to submit their academic credentials for evaluation to NCEES to determine if their education meets the required standards.
- Additional Experience: Candidates without an accredited degree may need more years (often around 8 years instead of the standard 4 years) of professional experience to compensate for the lack of accreditation.
- Examination: All candidates, regardless of their educational background, must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam before they can take the PE Exam.
- Master’s Degree: Pursue a master’s degree from an ABET-accredited institution. This can streamline the process.
- State-Specific Requirements: Visit the NCEES website for a breakdown of each state’s licensing board requirements.
Here’s an example:
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