In this article, we profile the 30 best bachelor’s in engineering online degree programs.
The demand for highly skilled engineers has increased for decades. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a favorable job outlook for engineers of any kind over the next eight to 10 years. To accommodate employment growth, colleges and universities provide online options for students who want to major in engineering but have a difficult time balancing life or work obligations with on-campus class attendance.
30 Best Bachelor’s in Engineering Degrees Online Methodology
To find the 30 best bachelor’s in engineering degrees online, we reviewed 97 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered bachelor’s in engineering online degree programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News & World Report, and affordability. We then listed the top online engineering degrees according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 30 best online engineering degree programs.
Reviewing Each of the Top Online Engineering Degrees
#30 – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering
Daytona Beach, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $37,964
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is home to an online bachelor’s in engineering degree that is convenient, flexible, and multidisciplinary. The program prepares students to put engineering skills gained while earning their degree to work in a variety of industries. The program is ABET-accredited and recognized by major publications, such as U.S. News & World Report. In fact, Embry-Riddle ranks with U.S. News as the ninth best regional university in the South and fifth best college for veterans. In addition to school rankings, program rankings also yield favorable results. For the past year, Embry-Riddle has earned a number-one ranking for best online bachelor’s programs and best online bachelor’s programs for veterans!
#29 – Liberty University
Online Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
Lynchburg, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $21,587
The online bachelor’s in civil engineering degree from Liberty University consists of 130 credits and, on average, takes three to four years to complete. Liberty, which is accredited by SACSCOC, prepares students majoring in civil engineering for careers in this flexible discipline. In fact, the foundation students receive prepares them for work in all areas of modern engineering. Online courses cover topics like hydraulic engineering, project and construction management, surveying, and transportation engineering. Admission to the program is contingent on applicants having at least a 2.0 GPA from high school and/or any college completed. In addition to offering accredited engineering programs, Liberty ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. These rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #157 in best engineering programs.
#28 – ECPI University
Online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering Technology
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $16,639
ECPI University, a regionally ranked proprietary institution, offers an accredited online bachelor’s in mechanical engineering program. The program may be completed 100% online in just two to three years. Curriculum covers core areas of study that are applicable to a career in mechanical engineering, robotics, and advanced electronics. Courses include applied engineering programming, DC & AC circuits, electronic devices and operational amplifiers, engineering graphics communications, and introduction to 3D modeling. ECPI is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News & World Report. In fact, the school’s rankings include #103-#133 in best regional universities in the South and #211 in best online bachelor’s degree programs.
#27 – University of Massachusetts
Online Bachelor’s in Electronic Engineering Technology
Lowell, Massachusetts
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,698
If you love technology, design, and solving complex problems, the online bachelor’s in electronic engineering technology at UMASS Lowell might be an ideal fit. UMASS Lowell’s online engineering degree is fully accredited. It prepares students to succeed and make their way in a highly competitive industry. Courses are delivered online and taught by university professors. Courses cover topics like control systems, digital electronics, foundations of microwave design, introduction to ethics, and technical communications for engineering technology. UMASS Lowell, in addition to being fully accredited, has earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. Their most recent rankings include #176 in best national universities and #31 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#26 – Clemson University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Clemson, South Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,558
Clemson University offers an online bachelor’s in electrical engineering (BSEE) degree that is accredited by the prestigious Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Courses, though delivered online, are taught by the same esteemed Clemson professors who instruct on campus. In fact, the curriculum for this program mirrors that found in the on-campus degree. Courses cover subjects like computer engineering, controls, electromagnetic fields, power systems, and signal analysis. By earning a BSEE degree from Clemson, students graduate prepared for success in the industry. In addition to being ABET-accredited, Clemson University ranks as the 74th-best national university in the most recent edition of Best Colleges published by U.S. News & World Report.
#25 – Southern Illinois University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering Technology
Carbondale, Illinois
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,104
Southern Illinois University offers a bachelor’s in electrical engineering technology degree designed for the AAS graduate or working adult. While the program delivers online classes, hands-on experiences allow students to utilize skills learned through software simulations and labs. Graduates of this program have gone on to pursue a number of career options as application engineers, field service engineers, or senior engineer technicians. The program is nationally recognized and fully accredited. According to major publications like U.S. News and World Report, Southern Illinois University ranks #258 in best national universities and #126 in top public schools. Also, for those considering a graduate engineering degree, SIU ranks #74-#97 in best online master’s in engineering programs.
#24 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering
University Park, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,988
Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers a 126-credit bachelor’s in software engineering program that has received ABET accreditation and is nationally recognized by U.S. News and World Report. The online program is in partnership with Penn State’s Behrend’s School of Engineering and provides highly focused curriculum through online delivery. Courses cover topics like communication networks, digital design theory and practice, introduction to programming techniques, microprocessors, and operating systems. To graduate with Penn State’s engineering degree, students must obtain a C or better in all classes. As far as rankings go, Penn State has received recognition from U.S. News and World Report as the 63rd best national university and 164th best value school in the country.
#23 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,320
National University offers an affordable engineering degree online for students interested in electrical and computer engineering. With classes delivered 100% online, busy and working students may benefit from the highly flexible format not often seen in engineering programs. Throughout the computer and electrical engineering program, students study both digital hardware systems and software that enables these systems. Classes cover topics like digital logic design, linear systems and signals, and object-oriented design. In addition to being fully accredited, National University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Some of the school’s rankings include #95-#124 in best regional universities in the West and #164 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#22 – University of Arizona
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Tucson, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,716
If you’re interested in energy-efficient systems, improved health care, and faster and safer computing and communications, the online bachelor’s in electrical and computer engineering program at University of Arizona might be an ideal fit. The program offers partnerships with companies such as Intel, Microsoft, Pixar, and Raytheon. Most graduates of the program receive job offers even before they finish their senior year. The program is designed to prepare students for long-term careers in the field. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like circuit theory, computer programming for engineering applications, and microprocessor organization. In addition to being accredited, University of Arizona ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #97 in best national universities and #121 in best value schools.
#21 – University of South Carolina
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology Management
Columbia, South Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,688
At the University of South Carolina, students may earn an online bachelor’s in engineering technology management. The program is uniquely designed for students who earned an associate’s degree in engineering technology. Considered to be a 2+2 program, students complete their bachelor’s in just two years following the completion of their associate’s degree. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like engineering cost analysis, engineering work analysis, quality practices, and systems decision making. The program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, which is among the most respected accreditation organizations in the U.S. Also, the school ranks #118 in best national universities and #178 in best value schools with U.S. News and World Report.
#20 – Colorado Technical University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,573
One of the most affordable engineering bachelor’s degree online program at Colorado Technical University (Colorado Tech) focuses on electrical engineering. Designed for students interested in an electrical-based engineering, the program covers courses applicable to the industry. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for work in the field. Online courses cover topics like circuit analysis, CMOS design, digital design, electronic design, introduction to engineering, and signals and systems. In addition to being fully accredited, Colorado Tech ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent Colorado Tech rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #192 in best engineering programs.
#19 – Ferris State University
Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering
Big Rapids, Michigan
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,376
Ferris State University is home to an affordable online bachelor’s in digital media software engineering. While enrolled in the program, students learn how to use code to solve complex issues, develop software applications, and dive in to machine learning and augmented reality. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same university faculty who instruct on campus. During the culmination of the degree, students create a professional project. Recent projects have included research in autoism, internet music database, and third-person VR via drone. Ferris State is affordable and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #116 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#18 – The University of Alabama
Online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,620
The University of Alabama offers an affordable bachelor’s degree in engineering program that can be completed primarily online. While the mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree can be completed almost entirely online, three on-campus lab requirements must be met. Students may choose from three Alabama locations to satisfy these requirements. However, all courses are delivered online and taught by the same university faculty who instruct on campus. These courses include engineering foundations, fluid mechanics, fundamentals of electrical engineering, and modern manufacturing practices. The ABET-accredited program also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent rankings include #143 in best national universities and #127 in best value schools.
#17 – Arizona State University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,338
Arizona State University offers one of the most affordable engineering online programs on our list. The online bachelor’s in engineering with an electrical engineering concentration requires 40 classes that each run 7.5 weeks. A total of 120 credit hours are required to satisfy program requirements. Online courses cover topics like circuits, digital design fundamentals, introduction to engineering, random signal analysis, and senior design. All classes are taught by ASU’s esteemed and experienced faculty. In addition to ASU’s full accreditation, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report, making it a top choice for an online engineering degree. Recent rankings include #103 in best national universities, #6 in best online bachelor’s programs, and #2 in best online master’s in electrical engineering programs.
#16 – Old Dominion University
Online Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering Technology
Norfolk, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,800
Students with military training, or those looking to balance work and school, may pursue an online bachelor’s in civil engineering technology degree at Old Dominion University. To earn this degree, students must complete at least 30 credits with the ODU. The bachelor’s in civil engineering requires a total of 120 credits. Courses cover topics like advanced technical analysis, engineering economics, ethics and philosophy in engineering apps, and fluid mechanics. While classes are delivered online, some require regular meeting times. In addition to offering accredited programming, ODU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent ODU rankings include #258 in best national universities, #126 in top public schools, and #86 out of 1,200 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#15 – University of North Dakota
Online Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,276
The University of North Dakota offers an online engineering bachelor’s degree with a focus on chemical engineering. The same lectures, coursework, and class materials are offered to online learners as are delivered on campus. In fact, the same professors who instruct on campus also facilitate courses online. Required courses for the chemical engineering program include chemical engineering reactor design, chemical engineering thermodynamics, introduction to transport phenomena, and process dynamics and controls. For those looking to specialize their degree even further, concentrations are offered in energetics, energy sustainability, and petroleum engineering. UND is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #258 in best national universities and #126 in top public schools.
#14 – Stony Brook University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Stony Brook, New York
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,091
Accreditation and affordable put Stony Brook University on our list of schools offering top online engineering degree programs. The school offers an online bachelor’s in electrical engineering degree that is designed for students who want to continue working full time while attending school. The program is ideal for those seeking long-lasting careers in electrical engineering. Required courses, taught by the same university professors who instruct on campus, include digital logic design, digital signal processing, electronics circuit, electronics laboratory, and engineering design. In addition to offering ABET-accredited engineering programs, Stony Brooke ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 88th best national university and 139th best value school.
#13 – Eastern Kentucky University
Online Bachelor’s in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology
Richmond, Kentucky
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,876
The fire protection and safety engineering technology degree from Eastern Kentucky University focuses on safety engineering and the comprehensive study of fire protection. The accredited bachelor’s in fire protection and safety engineering technology program is offered entirely online. Also, an accelerated option allows students to earn their degree in just over two years. Courses run eight weeks in length and cover various topics in fire protection, safety, and engineering technology. These courses begin six times per year, making it convenient for recently admitted students to jump in and begin taking classes. In addition to offering ABET-accredited programs, Eastern Kentucky ranks with U.S. News and World Report. The most recent publishes rankings include #51 in best regional universities in the South and #36 in best value schools.
#12 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,650
The job outlook for software engineers is highly favorable, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a result, Southern New Hampshire University prides itself in offering a unique program designed to prepare students for this viable career. The program offers 100 percent online classes taught by SNHU faculty. Course materials are available 24/7, making the program ideal for working students. Online courses cover topics like client server development, full stack development, mobile architecture and programming, and software security. In addition to offering accredited engineering online degrees, SNHU has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent published rankings include #75 in best regional universities in the North, #71 in best value schools, and #1 in most innovative schools.
#11 – Indiana State University
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology Management
Terre Haute, Indiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,466
Indiana State University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in engineering technology management program designed for transfer students with an associate’s degree in engineering, or closely related technical area. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like CAD fundamentals, electronic fundamentals, engineering design and management, lean manufacturing systems, and production planning and control. Graduates of the program may seek employment as tech-savvy engineers or pursue graduate school for additional training. Indiana State is a public institution that is accredited and ranked. In fact, ISU ranks with U.S. News and World Report among the top national universities and public schools. ISU’s online bachelor’s programs rank #179 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#10 – Bemidji State University
Online Bachelor’s in Applied Engineering
Bemidji, Minnesota
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,076
Bemidji State University’s engineering degree online programs include the bachelor’s in applied engineering. The BAS engineering degree is offered entirely online, with courses taught by the same engineering professors who teach on campus. Required courses cover topics like economic and cost analysis, industrial design and innovation, materials science and metallurgy, and service process and improvement. All courses prepare students for careers in various areas of engineering. Bemidji State has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s most recent rankings with U.S. News include #86 in best regional universities in the Midwest, #22 in top public schools, and #17 in top performers on social mobility.
#9 – University of Southern Mississippi
Online Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering Technology
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,896
The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online bachelor’s in industrial engineering technology that is both affordable and conveniently designed. Through this online engineering program, students earn a quality education without having to set foot in the classroom. Southern Miss faculty infuse courses with contemporary industrial applications, providing students with the knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. Course topics include engineering economics, engineering project management, global supply chain management, plant layout and material handling, and production and inventory control. In addition to offering affordable online engineering programs with career-focused coursework, the school has received rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Southern Mississippi’s rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #154-#209 in top public schools.
#8 – Saint Cloud State University
Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,779
St. Cloud State University offers low tuition and quality engineering programming. In fact, the online bachelor’s in software engineering costs less than $9,000 per year. The BS in software engineering is the only program of its kind available in the Minnesota State system. It is designed to equip students with unique software engineering skills and provide exposure to contemporary technologies in game design, mobile applications development, and software cybersecurity. Once equipped, graduates may pursue careers in software engineering or its subfields, or seek a master’s degree in engineering management or software engineering. St. Cloud State University is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #86 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#7 – Lamar University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Beaumont, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,591
Through the Phillip M. Drayer Department of Electrical Engineering, Lamar University offers a hybrid online bachelor’s in electrical engineering program designed for students interested in EE careers. All course activities are distance-friendly, giving students flexible learning options. Additionally, all in-class sessions are either recorded or their content is made available to all students, in or out of class. There is also a 2+2 degree path that offers online options. All BSEE courses can be taken online through this unique pathway. Students earn their first two years of credits at a community college or home institution, then transfer to Lamar’s online engineering program. In addition to Lamar being fully accredited (ABET), it ranks with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #154-#209 in top public schools.
#6 – University of North Carolina
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology
Charlotte, North Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,096
UNC-Charlotte is home to an online engineering bachelor’s degree designed for students seeking studies in engineering technology. The engineering technology program allows students to hone their engineering degree even further by offering a concentration in electrical engineering. The ELET program is fully accredited and 100% online. However, two summer labs require face-to-face on campus instruction. Courses cover topics in control systems, digital logic and systems, electronic circuits and systems, and power systems. In addition to offering affordable tuition, UNC-Charlotte ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top institution. In fact, rankings include #227 in best national universities and #113 in top public schools.
#5 – Florida International University
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
At Florida International University, students can earn a 128-credit bachelor’s in electrical engineering online. From nanotechnology to power and energy systems, students receive training in a wide range of engineering areas. The online program helps graduates become critical thinkers and life-long problem solvers. Some of the courses offered in the program include applied software techniques in engineering, circuits analysis, engineering economy, introduction to linear systems in engineering, and signals and systems. FIU is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #187 in best national universities and #117 in best value schools.
#4 – Kennesaw State University
Online Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering Technology
Kennesaw, Georgia
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,436
Kennesaw State University offers a bachelor’s in engineering online degree that emphasizes skills necessary to work in the industrial engineering technology field. The program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, making it a top choice for individuals seeking quality online engineering programs. Successful degree candidates earn an online BS in industrial engineering technology. To receive the degree, students must satisfy all requirements. These include taking courses in advanced statistics with application, engineering economy, human resource management for engineers, operations research concepts, product and process costing, and statistical quality control. In addition to its ABET-accreditation, Kennesaw’s online bachelor’s programs rank #227 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News and World Report.
#3 – University of the Virgin Islands
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Technology
Charlotte Amalie, Virgin Islands
Undergraduate Tuition: $5,235
One of the most affordable schools on our list for offering online engineering degrees is the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). The institution offers a fully-accredited online bachelor’s in computer engineering technology that can open doors to careers in architectural engineering, industrial engineering, and more. Classes are delivered entirely online and cover a number of relevant topics to the field of computer engineering technology. The program takes about 38 months to complete from start to finish, which is quicker than most traditional bachelor’s degree programs. In addition to being accredited, UVI has received rankings with U.S. News and World Report. Some of the school’s recent rankings include #36 in best colleges in the South and #7 in top public schools.
#2 – Western Carolina University
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $4,285
Western Carolina University offers one of the most affordable engineering bachelor’s degrees online. In the engineering technology program, students gain a flexible learning environment that is ideal for balancing work and outside obligations. Online courses are taught by the same instructors who instruct on campus. Some of the required courses cover topics like engineering economic analysis, engineering logistics, engineering materials, occupational safety standards, and technology and civilization. Western Carolina University has earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s most recent rankings include #25 in best regional universities in the South and #9 in best value schools. In addition to school rankings, the online bachelor’s programs rank #164 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#1 – Seminole State College of Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology
Sanford, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $3,131
The most affordable option for a bachelor’s in engineering online degree on our list is the bachelor’s in engineering technology at Seminole State College of Florida. This ABET-accredited program prepares students for engineering careers by offering studies that explore contemporary topics and hands-on experiences. Online courses cover relevant topics like computer-aided design, fundamentals of DC circuits, introduction to the engineering profession, principles of computer programming, and statistics. In addition to the esteemed ABET accreditation, Seminole State has earned rankings with major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report lists the school as the 70th-91st best regional college in the South. Additional rankings include #22-#28 in top public schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an online engineering degree?
Engineers work in a variety of industries. The kind of online engineering degree you earn will determine what industry you land a job in. For example, petroleum engineers work primarily in the gas and oil extraction industry, while mechanical engineers work in manufacturing industries. Below are several job options and career pathways for individuals pursuing online engineering degrees.
Biomedical Engineer
The role of a biomedical engineer is to combine engineering principles with science to create and design equipment and devices. They work in manufacturing and research facilities.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers design and develop chemical engineering processes by applying chemistry, physics, and math principles to solve issues and problems. They may work in the production of chemicals, food, fuel, or medicine.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers are responsible for constructing and maintaining infrastructure projects and systems. Projects may include airports, buildings, dams, roads, and water supplies.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers design, develop, and test electrical equipment like communication systems or power generators. They perform engineering tasks and design software and equipment to carry out those tasks.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest fields of engineering. These engineers are responsible for analyzing problems to see how mechanical devices might help. Computer use is essential for this role.
What is the job outlook for individuals with an online engineering degree?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment in architecture and engineering occupations is expected to grow three percent through 2029. The growth is about as fast as the average for all occupations and will add approximately 74,800 new jobs to these industries. Most of the anticipated growth is found in engineering occupations. It is in these occupations that demand will surge. In fact, growth is expected in areas like oil and gas extraction, rebuilding of infrastructure, renewable energy, and robotics.
Below are job outlooks for specific engineering jobs, as reported by BLS.
Aerospace engineers – A three percent projected growth is expected for this occupation, which is on par with the average for all engineering jobs.
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers – A five percent anticipated employment growth is expected for this occupation, which is faster than the average for other engineering roles.
Chemical engineers – Employment for chemical engineers is projected to grow by four percent over the next decade, according to BLS. Growth will surge in the fields of alternate energies, biotechnology, and nanotechnology.
Civil engineers – A slightly lower-than-average job growth is expected for civil engineers. BLS reports a two percent anticipated growth for this occupation.
Industrial engineers – One of the most favorable job growths in engineering careers is for industrial engineers. A 10 percent growth is expected for this occupation, which is much higher than the average for all engineering roles.
Mechanical engineers – Those in mechanical engineering should see a four percent employment growth over the next several years as new advances are made in technology.
How much money can you earn with an online engineering degree?
How much money one can earn with an online engineering degree depends on the area of discipline, the industry chosen to work in, and the job’s geographic location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for architecture and engineering occupations is $83,160. Wages are higher than the average for all occupations, as the median wage for all jobs reported to BLS is $41,950. Below are several types of engineering careers and their corresponding median wages, as they are reported by BLS.
Agricultural Engineers
BLS reports that the median annual wage for agricultural engineers is $84,410. Top-paying industries for this occupation include the federal government and engineering services.
Biomedical Engineers
Biomedical engineers earn a median annual wage of $92,620, according to BLS. The highest-paying industry for this occupation is navigational, measuring, and control instruments manufacturing.
Chemical Engineers
Some of the highest-paid engineers on our list are chemical engineers. The median annual wage for this occupation is $108,540. The highest-paying industries include petroleum and coal products manufacturing and engineering services.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers make a median annual wage of $88,570, with the highest 10% of earners making over $144,000 per year. Federal and local governments are among the highest-paying industries for this occupation.
Mechanical Engineers
BLS reports that the median annual wage for mechanical engineers is $90,160. Top-paying industries include scientific research, computer and electronic product manufacturing, and transportation equipment manufacturing.
What specializations are offered in online engineering degree programs?
Specializations in online engineering programs provide students with focus in a particular niche. Specializations provide the ability to tailor an engineering degree to align with an area of interest or to meet career goals. Popular specializations include the following:
Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineering combines science and engineering. This emerging industry is the application of engineering principles to biology and medicine for healthcare purposes. In some schools, this specialization is referred to as medical engineering.
Electrical Engineering
The engineering discipline that focuses on the study, design, and application of systems and devices that utilize electricity and electronics is electrical engineering. Electrical engineering is one of the most popular specializations within the academic engineering umbrella.
Industrial Engineering
The engineering profession and industry concerned with the optimization of complex systems and processes that are central to manufacturing operations is known as industrial engineering. Academic programs explore how products are created, as well as the quality of those products and the cost it takes to manufacture them.
Mechanical Engineering
In mechanical engineering programs or engineering programs with this unique specialization, students learn about energy and motion. Time is spent in labs where problem-solving skills are honed.
Software Engineering
This is more than the study of computer software. Software engineering delves into programming languages and how to analyze, design, and maintain software. Software engineering combines computer science with engineering.
What professional associations can I join while earning an online engineering degree?
Professional engineering associations are not only for professional engineers. College students can join, too. In fact, many professional associations offer students membership discounts and numerous other benefits. Even before graduation, students may take part in the offerings of a professional engineering association. Some of the most popular associations for aspiring engineers are as follows:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers is a large association, with over 90,000 members. The association offers access to certification, provides learning and development opportunities, and has annual conferences and events. Members can access journals and publications or simply enjoy the vast networking opportunities.
National Society of Professional Engineers
The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) is an established national organization that is committed to addressing the needs and professional concerns of licensed professional engineers in all disciplines. NSPE boasts 26,000 members and offers benefits like advocacy tools, continuing education, PE/FE exam preparation, and professional engineers conference access.
Society of Women Engineers
For over seven decades, SWE has offered a unique place for women in engineering to have a voice. The mission of the organization is to empower women to achieve their full potential in engineering careers and leadership. Membership benefits include networking opportunities, professional development, and more.
BDP Staff
August 2021
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