Online Master’s In Engineering Programs 2021
Earning an online master's in engineering can lead to new career opportunities. Here, we outline everything you need to know to get started.
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Engineers design nearly everything people use in their day-to-day lives, such as automobiles, airplanes, buildings, and computers. These professionals master engineering fundamentals during their undergraduate education. Furthering their education with a master's in engineering provides multiple specialization options and may qualify graduates for management-level positions.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that architecture and engineering positions pay a median $83,160 annual salary. This figure exceeds the national median salary by over $40,000. The BLS projects the need for engineers to grow 3% from 2019-2029, approximately the same as all professions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Engineering
An engineering master's degree may qualify graduates for a career as a biomedical, chemical, or mechanical engineer. Learners prepare for a specific job by working with a career counselor and selecting a specialization.
A typical online engineering degree takes 2-3 years for full-time students. Part-time learners and those in programs with additional graduation requirements may need an extra year to earn the degree.
Engineering features numerous specializations, such as electrical, civil, and environmental engineering. Job growth projections and median salary vary for each engineering subfield.
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Why Get a Degree in Engineering?
Master's in engineering programs' numerous specializations let learners customize the educational experience and prepare for a career. Many engineering jobs feature a high median salary, making a degree a wise financial investment. The BLS projects a growing need for highly trained engineers from 2019-2029.
Master's degree-holders may also work as a college lecturer, imparting knowledge and skills to the next generation. Some professionals with a master's degree return to school to earn a Ph.D. Professionals with a Ph.D. can apply to tenure-track teaching and research positions at four-year colleges and universities.
How Much Does an Engineering Degree Cost?
Although tuition varies among universities, students at out-of-state public schools should expect to pay more than in-state degree-seekers. However, some public schools waive out-of-state tuition for online learners. Private universities cost more, but do not charge residency-based tuition rates. Other typical costs include course fees.
An online engineering degree features financial advantages for learners, such as not needing on-campus housing or meals. Degree-seekers continue to save money by not commuting. Asynchronous programs allow students to continue working while in school, letting them set aside a portion of their income for school.
No matter their university, students save money on an engineering master's degree by applying for institutional and private scholarship opportunities. Typical application requirements include a competitive graduate GPA, recommendation letters, and an essay. Graduate students may also qualify for a fellowship opportunity involving original research.
Additional Online Student Fees for Engineering
Earning a master's in engineering may feature more fees and additional costs than other online graduate degrees. Degree-seekers need a stable internet connection and a computer capable of running the latest drafting software and other industry tools. Some textbooks cost hundreds of dollars. Learners save money on textbooks by buying used copies.
Recent graduates increase their employability by earning one or more professional certifications. Joining the issuing organization can save current or aspiring engineers money on a certification. Members may save considerably on the certification process and receive other benefits, such as a mentorship program or a job board.
How Much Do Engineering Majors Make?
Top-paying careers for engineering majors include petroleum engineer, computer hardware engineer, and aerospace engineer. These professionals garner median annual salaries between $118,610-$137,330, significantly higher than the typical U.S. engineer. Attaining one of these positions may require a degree, license, certification, and professional experience.
Engineers increase their salary potential in more ways than just selecting an in-demand subfield. Petroleum engineers working in New Jersey, Texas, Florida, Colorado, and Oklahoma earn more than peers in other states. Jobs in Beaumont, Houston, and Wichita Falls, Texas offer the highest petroleum engineer salaries in the nation.
In addition to engineering subfield and geographic location, engineers make more money by gaining on-the-job experience. Other methods include earning a professional engineer (PE) license or an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)-accredited master's in engineering.
Courses in Engineering
Online engineering master's degree-seekers complete a curriculum emphasizing advanced mathematics, scientific skills, and interpersonal communication. Other learning outcomes vary by specialization. Students complete courses in a synchronous or asynchronous format, depending on the school. Some programs offer both thesis and nonthesis options. Learners who write a thesis can include the final product in a doctoral program application.
The following sample curriculum features three foundational courses typical to most master's in engineering programs. Please keep in mind that course offerings and graduation requirements vary among schools. Consult a university's online academic catalog or contact an admissions advisor for more on their school's program.
Program management principles for engineers and professionals confers the leadership skills graduates need for a management-level position. Course topics include technology program management best practices, programming planning fundamentals, and organizational structure. Professionals use these techniques to keep projects on schedule, limit expenses, and communicate with stakeholders.Program Management Principles for Engineers and Professionals
Students in operations and supply chain management learn how to apply strategic thinking in the workplace. Coursework involves supply chain fundamentals, such as how companies control the flow of goods and services to ensure on-time delivery. This knowledge helps professionals contribute to a company or organization's decision-making process and improve overall performance.Operations and Supply Chain Management
No matter their specialization, engineers must know how to analyze spreadsheets and use data to solve engineering problems. Course topics include linear programming, forecasting, regression, and distribution models. Other requirements involve marketing and finance fundamentals. Engineers use what they learn in data and business analytics to track data and present information to managers and stakeholders.Data and Business Analytics
How to Become an Engineer
Aspiring engineers first earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Some schools offer a 4+1 engineering program, conferring both a bachelor's and a master's degree in just five years. Engineering programs should possess programmatic accreditation from ABET, as graduates from unaccredited programs may not qualify for licensure.
Students increase their marketability by either completing an internship or enrolling in a program requiring on-the-job training. Both experiences enhance learners' resumes, helping them stand apart from other job applicants. New engineers working toward licensure explore continuing education opportunities, such as certifications, to improve their career trajectory.
Certifications and Licensure for Engineering
Some graduates need more than a master's in engineering to qualify for their dream career. Many positions require candidates to possess a state-issued license or professional certification. Already employed engineers may receive a raise or promotion by attaining either. Typical requirements include a degree, professional experience, and an examination.
Online Master's in Engineering Degrees 2022
#1
University of California, Riverside
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Riverside, California |
| Admission Rate | 57% |
| Graduation Rate | 76% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
6%
|
The engineering programs at the University of California, Riverside prepare graduates for new job opportunities and career advancement. In the accredited master of engineering program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Test scores may strengthen students’ applications. The school provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help online students. In online courses, learners interact with faculty and peers in a virtual classroom setting.
Since the institution is accredited, it can issue federal financial aid.
University of California, Riverside Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,514
Number of Master's Programs Online: 1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,442 in-state; $26,544 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Student: $20,189
Average Net Price: $13,045
The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
#2
University of California, Los Angeles
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Admission Rate | 12% |
| Graduation Rate | 92% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
5%
|
Graduate programs at the University of California, Los Angeles prepare students for new career opportunities and advancement. This institution offers online and on-campus graduate degree options. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners. The online master of science in engineering program uses video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
Master's students use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to help cover tuition expenses.
University of California, Los Angeles at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,153
Number of Online Master's Degrees: 1
Grad School Tuition: $11,442 in-state; $26,544 out-of-state
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $18,613
Average Cost With Financial Aid: $15,718
The school has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
#3
University of Wisconsin Madison
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Madison, Wisconsin |
| Admission Rate | 54% |
| Graduation Rate | 88% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
18%
|
Graduate programs at the University of Wisconsin Madison prepare students for new career opportunities and advancement. Students learn from experts during the master's in engineering management program, which uses a rigorous curriculum. Graduate students learn through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. It takes full-time students about two years to complete the degree. A part-time enrollment option gives students more time to complete the program.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. Prospective learners can expect an admission rate of 54%.
University of Wisconsin Madison Numbers:
Total Number of Online Learners: 8,064
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 3
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,728 in-state; $24,054 out-of-state
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $9,754
Average Cost With Aid: $16,103
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
#4
North Carolina State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Raleigh, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 45% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
41%
|
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from North Carolina State University. The public institution offers 54 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus in Raleigh. Degree-seekers can enroll in a variety of master's programs, including a master's in aerospace engineering program. The online engineering program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
The master's program features core coursework, which helps learners prepare for high-level engineering classes. Graduate students can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their engineering degree in 1-2 years. Prospective learners can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Residents of North Carolina pay an average graduate tuition rate of $9,095 at the institution, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $26,421 in tuition. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. According to the school, 68% of students fund their education through financial aid.
#5
Louisiana Tech University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ruston, Louisiana |
| Admission Rate | 64% |
| Graduation Rate | 60% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
17%
|
Based in Ruston, Louisiana Tech University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Learners can pursue any of the school's three online bachelor's programs and eight online master's programs.
Distance degree-seekers can earn an online master's degree in industrial engineering from the institution to prepare for engineering careers. After earning the master of science in engineering, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. Students enrolled in the school's master's programs can access academic advising, faculty mentorship, and career counseling.
The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Louisiana Tech University Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 33%
Total Master's Programs: 31
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Awards Transfer Credits: No
#6
Arizona State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Scottsdale, Arizona |
| Admission Rate | 64% |
| Graduation Rate | 4% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
98%
|
Arizona State University stands out among schools offering online programs. Students can pursue 126 online programs from the public institution, along with in-person academic offerings in Scottsdale. While attending the school, graduate degree-seekers can pursue a master's degree in engineering management. The online engineering program is ideal for students with busy schedules.
Core classes help learners develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced engineering classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can review information on the institution's website.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. In-state and out-of-state graduate students at the institution pay an average tuition rate of $6,384. Many enrollees use financial aid to pay for their master's degree. The school reports that 86% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
#7
Texas A&M University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | College Station, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 58% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
14%
|
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Texas A&M University's programs online or in person. Distance learners can earn online master's degrees from the public institution. Students who aspire to careers in engineering can enroll in the flexible master of engineering program.
During the first year of the online engineering program, master's students take core classes. In addition to completing engineering courses, degree-seekers can choose electives based on their career goals. Along with classroom learning, students receive access to faculty mentorship and practical learning experiences.
Graduates with a master's in engineering often qualify for higher salaries than bachelor's degree-holders in the field. Faculty advisors and career counselors support master's students and alumni through career resources.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing master's studies. The school reports that 76% of students fund their education through financial aid.
#8
University of Illinois at Chicago
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Admission Rate | 73% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
24%
|
University of Illinois at Chicago enrolls students in an online master's in engineering program. The Illinois school enrolls about 6,609 learners who take at least some online courses. The school's online options include a master of engineering with a focus in AI and machine learning. The accredited curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge. The degree builds advanced knowledge and skills for engineering careers.
The school maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty. The school's website provides additional information about online student services. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This helps learners afford the master's degree with less debt. Students can expect a graduation rate of 61% at the school.
University of Illinois at Chicago Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 7,719
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 8
Average Cost Per Credit: $750
Graduate Tuition: $13,276/year in-state; $23,850/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $13,136
Average Net Price: $12,322
University of Illinois at Chicago has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
#9
The Ohio State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Columbus, Ohio |
| Admission Rate | 54% |
| Graduation Rate | 86% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
34%
|
A graduate degree from The Ohio State University helps professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. This institution offers online and on-campus graduate degree options, including a master of engineering management. Test scores may strengthen students’ applications. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners complete a master's degree. The virtual classroom setting lets learners interact with faculty and peers.
To fund their education, 79% of students at the school obtain financial aid and 36% take out loans. The admissions department requires all previous transcripts.
The Ohio State University At a Glance:
Total Number of Online Students: 21,150
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 12
Tuition for Graduate Students: $11,560 in-state; $35,144 out-of-state
Average Student Aid: $8,176
Average Cost With Aid: $18,706
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
#10
University of Maryland, College Park
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | College Park, Maryland |
| Admission Rate | 44% |
| Graduation Rate | 87% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
19%
|
The University of Maryland, College Park enrolls students in an online engineering program. The university educates 6,808 students through its online courses. Graduate students can earn their master's degree in systems engineering online at the college. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for engineering careers.
Learners benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty. Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the program's website. Online students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps students complete a master's degree with less debt. The school reports an 87% graduation rate for its programs.
University of Maryland, College Park Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 7,797
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 3
Graduate Tuition: $13,158/year in-state; $29,250/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,912
Average Net Price: $17,723
University of Maryland-College Park has received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting agency.
#11
University of Arkansas
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fayetteville, Arkansas |
| Admission Rate | 77% |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
29%
|
The University of Arkansas stands out among schools offering online programs. The public institution delivers 39 online programs, including 19 master's programs for distance students. Among the school's master's programs is a master of science in engineering. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online engineering program's flexible scheduling options.
The master's program features core and advanced engineering courses. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study. Prospective learners can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. The institution discounts graduate tuition rates for Arkansas residents, charging in-state students an average of $7,752 and nonresidents an average of $21,032. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. At the school, 76% of students receive financial aid to fund their education.
#12
Rowan University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Glassboro, New Jersey |
| Admission Rate | 74% |
| Graduation Rate | 73% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
34%
|
A great option for distance learners, Rowan University offers one e-learning program. The institution, located in New Jersey, reports that 5,041 students take online classes. Distance learners can earn their master of engineering management at the school. The accredited program meets high academic standards that employers value. The degree builds advanced knowledge and skills for careers.
Learners benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 17-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty. Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. Distance learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps students afford the master's degree with less debt. Learners can expect a 73% graduation rate at the school.
Rowan University Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 6,694
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 7
Graduate Tuition: $12,879/year in-state and out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,955
Average Net Price: $22,805
The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
#13
Colorado State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Collins, Colorado |
| Admission Rate | 81% |
| Graduation Rate | 70% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
26%
|
Colorado State University offers students an online engineering program. Located in Fort Collins, the school enrolls 5,041 learners in its online courses. Graduate students can earn their master's degree in systems engineering online at the college. The accredited curriculum delivers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for engineering careers.
Students benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty. Students can learn more about online support services on the school's website. Degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. The institution has a graduation rate of 70% for its programs.
Colorado State University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 8,786
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 19
Graduate Tuition: $10,520/year in-state; $25,791/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,750
Average Net Price: $16,793
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
#14
University of Arizona
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tucson, Arizona |
| Admission Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
42%
|
The University of Arizona provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. In addition to educating students at its campus, the public institution enrolls students in 95 online programs. While attending the school, graduate degree-seekers can pursue a master's degree in engineering management. Busy students often benefit from the online engineering program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule.
Core classes help learners develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced engineering classes. The rigorous curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can contact an admissions advisor.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $11,938 for in-state students, while students who do not reside in Arizona pay an average of $32,065 for graduate tuition. Graduate degree-seekers in the school's online programs pay an average per-credit tuition rate of $1,050. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Of the school's students, 91% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
#15
Mississippi State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Starkville, Mississippi |
| Admission Rate | 54% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
18%
|
Mississippi State University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Starkville campus. Along with on-campus graduate programs, the school offers online programs. Students at the institution can pursue an online master of engineering program.
In addition to rigorous coursework, the master's program prepares enrollees for engineering careers through academic and career advising. The online engineering program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations. Full-time master's degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to complete their program.
Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. According to the school, 46% of its enrollees use loans to pay for their education. Learners can also pay for school using various forms of financial aid, which 95% of the institution's learners obtain.
Mississippi State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 174
Number of Online Programs: 17
Online Master's Programs: 57
Number of Online Students: 3,989
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
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