Although most companies prefer that you have a master's degree, you may be able to become a radio engineer after completing a bachelor's degree in an electrical engineering discipline. A radio engineer primarily works with machinery that send and receive radio waves and due to the technical nature of this job, you will need to have hands-on training to become a radio engineer. Some of the duties that you may need to perform once you enter this profession may include designing high-frequency circuits, repair antennas and radars, and signal processing.
An electrical engineering program will provide you with introductory electrical coursework but you will also need to enroll in classes that focus on specific topics in the field. Some of these courses may include digital signal processing, microwave circuits, stochastic processes, and electromagnetic fields. Classes in digital logic designs and circuits may include laboratory work which can provide you with some of the hands-on training needed to become a radio engineer. Although laboratory work may focus on basic theory, it can provide you with the technical experience needed to apply to most internships in this profession.
Internships will be extremely important to become a radio engineer because future employers may require that you have recommendation letters from supervisors. Most of these positions last an entire semester and may count as credit towards your degree. Some of the topics that an internship may cover include troubleshooting transmission equipment, constructing electronic equipment, and practicing encoding techniques. The opportunity to work closely with senior professionals will allow you to participate in projects that can help you become a radio engineer. You may also want to consider applying for part-time employment with an electronics company or a radio station to gain additional work experience.
There are certifications available for radio engineers and you may want to research local facilities that offer certification exams. Although a certificate in the field is not always required, it can be helpful; some employers may want you to display your written knowledge of the profession. After graduation, several places that you may want to seek employment include broadcasting stations, electronics companies, and phone manufacturers. Your resume should focus on your coursework and experience with coding, signal processing, and high-frequency equipment. Some students opt to work on a master's degree in electrical engineering to increase potential employment options and gain employment above an entry-level status.
