Engineering at Los Angeles Trade Technical College

The value of the General Engineering Associate's degree at LATTC hinges on your career goals. As a community college program, its tuition is significantly lower than a four-year university, potentially costing $5,000-$10,000 for the degree. While specific post-graduation earnings data for LATTC's program are unavailable, national averages for similar Associate's degrees in engineering technology fields hover around $55,000-$65,000 annually. This suggests a potentially positive return on investment, especially if the degree serves as a transfer pathway to a Bachelor's program, which typically leads to higher salaries ($70,000+ entry-level). If your goal is direct entry into a technical role or a smooth transition to a Bachelor's, it can be a worthwhile investment. However, the very low completion rate (1 student) warrants direct inquiry into program support and outcomes.

An Associate's degree in General Engineering from LATTC can open doors to various entry-level technical positions. Graduates often find roles such as Engineering Technicians, assisting engineers in design, development, and testing across industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and construction. Other potential jobs include Drafters and CAD Operators, responsible for creating technical drawings and models using specialized software. Laboratory Assistants are also a common path, supporting scientific research and development. These roles typically require a strong foundation in math and science, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with technical data and equipment. Many graduates also use this degree as a stepping stone to pursue a Bachelor's degree in a specialized engineering field.

While specific earnings data for LATTC's General Engineering program are not provided, national averages for Associate's degree holders in related engineering technology fields offer a benchmark. Entry-level positions for Engineering Technicians or CAD Operators typically range from $35,000 to $50,000 annually. With a few years of experience and potentially further specialization or a Bachelor's degree, mid-career professionals can expect to earn between $60,000 and $85,000 per year. Senior technicians or those in highly specialized roles, particularly in high-demand industries, may earn upwards of $90,000. The earning potential is significantly boosted by obtaining a Bachelor's degree, with starting salaries often exceeding $70,000.

The General Engineering program at LATTC aims to equip students with a broad set of foundational engineering skills. You will develop a strong understanding of core scientific principles, including mathematics (calculus, differential equations) and physics, which are crucial for any engineering discipline. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking, teaching you how to approach complex technical challenges systematically. You'll gain introductory knowledge of engineering design processes and potentially learn to use essential software tools like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs, depending on elective choices. Furthermore, the program fosters technical communication skills, enabling you to articulate technical concepts clearly, and often includes opportunities for teamwork and project-based learning.

The demand for graduates with a General Engineering Associate's degree is generally moderate, with significant variation depending on specialization and industry trends. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for engineering technicians (around 5% through 2032), who often hold Associate's degrees. Industries like aerospace, defense, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing are experiencing growth and require skilled technical support. However, the 'General' nature of the degree means graduates may need further specialization or a Bachelor's degree to access higher-paying or more advanced roles. The increasing complexity of technology and infrastructure projects suggests a continued need for individuals with strong technical foundations.

LATTC's General Engineering program, as an Associate's degree, is designed primarily as a foundational or transfer degree. Compared to Bachelor's programs at universities, it offers a more focused and cost-effective introduction to engineering principles. Nationally, many community colleges offer similar Associate's degrees in General Engineering or specific engineering technology fields. LATTC's program is situated within the large and diverse Los Angeles job market, potentially offering unique local internship and transfer opportunities. However, the reported low annual completion rate (1 student) is a significant point of difference and suggests a much smaller cohort size than typical programs at other institutions, which could impact peer learning and program visibility.

Admission requirements for the General Engineering Associate's degree at Los Angeles Trade Technical College typically align with general community college admission standards. Prospective students usually need to be at least 18 years old or have a high school diploma or GED. You'll likely need to complete an online application through the college's admissions portal. Placement testing in mathematics and English may be required to determine appropriate course placement, ensuring you have the necessary foundational skills. Specific prerequisite courses for engineering might not be mandatory for admission into the general program itself, but strong high school math and science performance is highly recommended. It's advisable to consult the official LATTC Admissions and Records office or the Engineering department's website for the most current and detailed requirements, including any specific GPA or coursework prerequisites.