You are thinking about college and know what you like to do. You like hands-on work with measurable goals and you like to see the benefits of your hard work, but can’t drive to campus to take your classes.
You know you like the fields of construction, engineering, and technology but are not sure how to mix all of your “likes” into your career goals. That is why you need to know the difference between a fully online degree in CET, Construction Engineering Technology, and IET, Industrial Engineering Technology.
CET and IET sound a lot alike: Do any classes cross over?
Yes. While each major has their own targeted coursework, both majors involve Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD).
CET vs. IET: What does this all mean?
The abbreviations might sound confusing, but actually it is easy to tell the two majors apart.
CET teaches you about architectural CADD, estimating, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, engineering economics, applications of construction law, specifications and contract documents, surveying construction safety, and so much more.
IET courses include statics and strength of materials, quality control, cost control, engineering economic analysis, global supply chain, lean production systems, automation, simulation and modeling, operations and human resource management, and many more.
In depth: Construction Engineering Technology
All you have to do is drive down a busy road to see the positive impact of construction engineering technology on your local community. Emerging retail developments involve complex construction projects. This requires increasingly specific skills and more knowledge than ever before. If you are thinking about a future working with a team of experts who can manage the entire construction design and building process, CET might be right for you.
What types of things does a Construction Engineering Technologist do?
- Estimate the cost of completing construction (estimator)
- Manage workers and quality of construction on the job site (field supervisor)
- Mitigate and control the hazards and ensure the safety of workers (safety manager)
- Organize and optimize construction project resources; 3M: Materials, Machinery, Manpower (project manager)
What does my fully online CET degree prepare me for?
When you graduate from a Construction Engineering Technology program, you possess the necessary skills to enter the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry capable of performing entry-level tasks at the office and in the field. You learn all about critical thinking, develop discipline and strong work ethics, and are prepared to succeed in training and development programs offered by your employer.
Seeking an Accredited Program? Choose Wisely.
If you choose CET, you need to be sure you choose the right program for you. Southern Miss offers the only accredited online Construction Engineering Technology Degree (BS) in the nation. The Construction Engineering Technology online program is accredited by “Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission” of ABET, abet.org.
RELATED: Learn more about ABET Accreditation.
What is the difference between Engineering and Engineering Technology?
Did you know? Engineering vs. Engineering Technology. According to ABET.org:
- 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, including multiple semesters of calculus and calculus-based theoretical science courses, while engineering technology programs typically focus on algebra, trigonometry, applied calculus, and other courses that are more practical than theoretical in nature.
Now you have learned about CET, what about IET?
Industrial Engineering Technology (IET) is a great choice if you are interested in a career that allows you to be front and center in the industrial sector.
In depth: Industrial Engineering Technology
Are you interested in manufacturing and service industries? The fully online IET program provides graduates with the opportunity to obtain high-level planning and supervisory positions in the workforce. IET classes are infused with industrial applications that give you the skills and education needed to be able to identify problems in local industry.
IET is a multidisciplinary field concerned with the application of engineering and management principles to solve problems in industry. The primary emphasis is on improved productivity and efficient use of resources.
What does an Industrial Engineering Technologist do?
- Identify and analyze needs and requirements of industry
- Improve efficiency and effectiveness
- Develop and design logistics and supply chain strategies
- Establish continuous improvement and support
- Integrate to cost-effectiveness and quality solutions
- Use current tools and technology to perform discipline-specific functions effectively
Choosing the right IET program:
If you are going to spend the time and financial investment to complete an industrial engineering technology degree online, you want it to be worth it. Make sure you choose an accredited program that stands apart from the crowd. The Industrial Engineering Technology degree at Southern Miss is accredited by “Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission” of ABET, abet.org.
RELATED: Looking for a career in logistics? Check out the fully online industrial engineering technology degree with an emphasis in logistics.
Now You Are Ready to Choose: CET or IET?
Now you know the difference and are ready to start your online degree in CET or IET. But there is one more thing that might help you with your career goals.
After you have earned your construction engineering technology online degree or your industrial engineering technology online degree, you need one more thing. A job!
When you are searching for construction engineering technology and industrial engineering technology jobs, Southern Miss can help! For busy students like you, we have a career services program that assists students in finding jobs post graduation.
Put your industrial mind to work. Begin your online degree in CET or IET today at Southern Miss.
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