Does a Company Care if You Took Longer than 4 Years to Complete an Engineering Degree?

Whether a company cares if you took longer than four years to complete an engineering degree can depend on various factors, including industry norms, experience and skills, personal explanations, job requirements, and company culture.

Industry Norms

Some industries like tech and finance place a strong emphasis on academic performance and completing a degree in the standard timeframe. In these highly competitive fields, employers may view a longer completion time less favorably. However, in more flexible or creative industries, the length of the degree might not be as critical.

Experience and Skills

Companies increasingly value real-world experience and practical skills over the strict duration of the degree. If you gained valuable knowledge, hands-on experience, or relevant internships during the extended period, this might be seen positively.

Explanation

Reasonably explaining the extended timeframe can help. If you faced personal circumstances, worked part-time, or pursued a dual degree, providing this context can help the employer understand your situation better.

Job Requirements

Sometimes, the company might prioritize specific skills and experience over the degree duration. If you demonstrate strong technical abilities and problem-solving skills through relevant projects or work experience, the length of your degree might not be as significant.

Company Culture

Every company has its own set of values and priorities. Some may prioritize educational achievements, while others focus more on fit within the team. Understanding the company's culture and showing how you align with their values can be crucial.

What HR Teams Want to Know

Hiring managers and HR teams often look for candidates who can contribute positively to the company. They recognize that a gap in the degree timeline is common and that it says little about the candidate's potential or suitability for the role.

Common Scenarios:

Part-time Work: If you took longer because you were working part-time or full-time, this is actually seen as very commendable and can positively impact your candidacy. Companies value candidates who can balance education and work effectively. Poor Time Management: On the other hand, if you took longer because you had to retake courses or didn't prioritize your studies, it may still affect your application. Employers expect candidates to be proactive and manage their time wisely.

Interview Focus

When interviewing you, I am more focused on understanding your values, your work ethic, your commitment to your team, and your potential. I don't place significant weight on academic achievements that slowed you down. This is a common issue and doesn't necessarily reflect your current capabilities or future potential.

It's important to note that few engineering students in the US complete their degrees in exactly four years. Over the past four decades, engineering programs have added significant content, making it challenging for many students to finish in the traditional time frame.

Many who struggle to meet the four-year deadline turn out to be excellent employees once they find a position in industry. The key is to show that you're a hard worker, a problem-solver, and a team player.