What it is
The Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) — also awarded as a BS in Engineering (BSE) or a discipline-specific BS — is the four-year undergraduate degree for engineers. It builds a strong math, science, and engineering-design foundation in a discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, or computer engineering.
The degrees & designations
The BEng covers the engineering disciplines:
How long it takes
About four years of full-time study (roughly 120 credit hours); some fields run to five with co-ops or intensive sequences.
What you study
Students take calculus and advanced math, physics and chemistry, core engineering science, discipline courses, labs, and a capstone design project. Many programs are ABET-accredited and include co-ops or internships.
Getting in
Admission requires a high school diploma or GED, transcripts, and often essays, recommendations, and (sometimes) tests. Selectivity varies by school and program.
Cost & funding
Cost ranges widely — from lower-cost public in-state tuition to private universities — with grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans commonly used. Starting at a community college can reduce cost.
Where it leads
A BEng leads to engineering careers and is the first step toward professional licensure (EIT then PE). It also feeds graduate study.
How it compares
The BEng/BSE label varies by school; the content is what matters (ABET-accredited engineering). It's more sequenced and lab-heavy than a general BS.
Is it right for you?
A BEng fits students who want to practice engineering in a specific discipline and value hands-on design and problem-solving.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe four-year undergraduate engineering degree (BEng/BSE)
- FoundationMath, science, engineering design, labs, capstone
- DisciplinesCivil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, computer, and more
- NoteOften ABET-accredited; path to the PE license
- Leads toEngineering careers and graduate study
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the resource: