Engineering is one of the fastest-growing, most rewarding career areas in the world. Opportunities for young engineers are plentiful and pay above-average wages.

To earn the rewards of being an engineer, however, you must put in place some essential early building blocks, starting in school. Math and science courses will form the basis of your education. Every high school student who is even a little bit interested in a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) should take the following high school courses:

• Algebra

• Geometry

• Trigonometry

• Calculus

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

• English (at least three years)

• Social Studies

There are several paths you can follow to become an engineer after you graduate from high school. You may choose to enter a four-year program at a college or university to earn a bachelor’s degree. You could choose to get an associate’s degree at a two-year community college, then transfer to a four-year college. You can pursue advanced studies and get a master’s or doctoral degree. Ultimately, you should choose the pathway that’s best for your individual goals.

To find a college, check out the list of accredited engineering programs at colleges and universities across the country evaluated by the organization ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). You may also want to order a copy of The NACME Guide to Engineering Colleges.

Although colleges and universities are expensive, you have many financial options that can help with tuition and expenses. See Paying for College for more information.