Quality Control Engineers

High School

To prepare for a career in quality control engineering, take high school classes in mathematics (including algebra, geometry, and statistics), physical sciences, physics, and chemistry. You should also take shop, mechanical drawing, and computer courses. In addition, take English courses that develop your reading skills, your ability to write well-organized reports with a logical development of ideas, and your ability to speak comfortably and effectively in front of a group.

Postsecondary Training

Quality control engineers generally have a bachelor's degree in engineering. Many quality control engineers receive degrees in industrial or manufacturing engineering. Some receive degrees in metallurgical, mechanical, electrical, chemical engineering, or in business administration, depending on where they plan to work. A master’s or doctoral degree is required for most jobs in research and higher education, and for supervisory and administrative positions.

ABET sets minimum education standards for educational programs in engineering. Graduation from an ABET-accredited school is a requirement for becoming licensed in many states, so it is important to select an accredited school. Visit the ABET Web site, https://www.abet.org, for a list of accredited schools.

College engineering programs vary based on the type of engineering program. Most programs take four to five years to complete and include courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Other useful courses include statistics, logistics, business management, and technical writing.

Training

Several associations offer continuing education opportunities. The American Society for Quality provides a variety of seminars, workshops, and courses on the basics of quality control and management, how to develop and prosper in a consulting business, and leadership and problem-solving skills. ASTM International offers seminars and other training programs for those involved in testing materials and quality assurance. Contact these organizations for more information.