To work as a fuel cell engineer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have a bachelor's degree in chemical or mechanical engineering.

Education after high school

Most students prepare for this field by earning a bachelor's degree in chemical or mechanical engineering. Many four-year colleges and universities offer these programs of study. You may need between four and five years to complete one of these programs. Some two-year colleges have agreements with the engineering departments at four-year schools. These agreements allow you to take your first two years of courses at the two-year college. Then you move to the university for the last two years. Some liberal arts schools have similar programs to prepare you for engineering schools.

Some jobs require a master's or doctoral degree (PhD). For instance, if you are interested in teaching fuel cell engineering at a college you need a PhD. Also, many student engineers go to graduate school to specialize or work in advanced positions.

Work experience

It is helpful to have technical or related engineering work experience. Working as an intern during college is a great way to gain experience.

On-the-job training

New workers often learn additional skills on the job. The length of training may vary.