Rankings, Salaries & Courses
Most engineers design, build, or maintain structures, but there are other specializations for engineering students to choose from. Those intrigued by the influence of electricity on technology may consider an online electrical engineering degree, where coursework focuses on strengthening math and problem solving skills through foundational concepts like the probability theory, which analyze and calculate influential variables that impact systems. The electrical engineering specialization also allows students to concentrate in communications, power systems, or computer engineering. Students should look for programs accredited by the Association Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Electrical Engineering
As technology dependence continues to grow, electrical engineers occupy every industry. In fact, electrical engineering growth stems from service firms who need electronic system and device experts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), positions for electrical engineers are projected to increase by 9% through 2026.
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Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Electrical Engineering
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METHODOLOGY
Best Online Electrical Engineering Programs
Deciding which college to go to is no easy task, so ACO evaluated more than 3,500 colleges to give you the information you need to make the search more manageable. Our 2018 college rankings are based on statistical data from trusted sources, eligibility criteria and various ranking factorsData Sources:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Each college must be accredited
- Each college must be a not-for-profit institution
- Each college must be located in a state (US territories and Washington DC were excluded)
- Each college must have at least one online program 1
- Each college must have a maximum four-year tuition of $25,000 or a maximum two-year tuition of $5,000
Ranking Factors:
- Affordability
- Quality
- Flexibility
- Program
Several individual data points were objectively evaluated to calculate a score for each ranking factor listed above. For affordability, the most impactful data points were tuition2 and grants; for quality, graduation and acceptance rates; for flexibility, part-time enrollment options; and for program, degrees granted in that specific program area. Each score was then weighted, with affordability being the most highly weighted factor for all ACO rankings.
1 Best Vocational Programs included data for both online and campus programs.
2 Both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates were used in our methodology; however, our rankings tool currently only displays in-state rates.Notes:
- A dash in our Rankings Tool indicates IPEDS data was not available.
- Tuition displayed in in-state and per year unless stated otherwise.
Choosing a university can be difficult for students when considering influential factors. You’ll find a list of our approved online electrical engineering degrees below. These programs have been examined through the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and public information provided by universities. IPEDS examines information such the cost of tuition, as graduation rate data, program specific resources, and overall student services.
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Old Dominion University has offered distance education for over 30 years; a newer element of this program allows students to earn or complete their bachelor's degree online. Old Dominion offers 5 different entirely online degrees in the field of electrical engineering technology, each of which is meant to prepare students for a specific career path. For example, the communications systems technology major will teach students how to work with wireless systems and advanced circuits, while the computer engineering technology major prepares students for careers in programming. Other choices are embedded systems technology, mechatronics technology and power systems technology. Available minors allow students to specialize even further. Transfer students are welcome, but Old Dominion requires that graduates earn at least 30 credits through its school. The required credits per 4-year program vary, but students should expect to complete up to 128 credits hours before graduating. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam in Virginia as well as several other states; passing the exam is one of the criteria for licensure.
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Recommended for students that are currently working full time in an engineering field, Clemson University's Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering is offered online for maximum flexibility. However, students should be aware that this is a degree completion program, and that some of the required courses in this 126-credit program are not offered online by Clemson and must be completed at other institutions and then transferred. Students are expected to hold a B average from previous coursework; however, those who fall short may apply for special dispensation if they demonstrate sufficient academic ability through other channels. Once admitted, students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. The length of time to complete the program varies according to a student's individual time commitment; those attending on a part-time basis, who bring in some transfer credits, may expect to complete the full program in about 6 years. The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
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Located near New York City, Stony Brook University awards more than 200 degrees, including an online bachelor's in electrical engineering. This completion degree is offered in an asynchronous format, and is designed to attract working students who need maximum flexibility in their schedules. Structured to be completed in 4 years, students will be able to follow a set course outline while still taking courses at their own pace. Courses include topics such as electromagnetics, engineering design, digital logic design and electronic circuits; after graduation, students should be prepared for careers in various industries that require the design and use of engineering devices and systems. Students who lack certain prerequisite classes - typically lower-division lab courses - may be required to take them on campus before being admitted to the program. Once students are accepted to the program, all labs, tests and discussions are completed entirely online. Admission requirements dictate that students show transcripts proving an overall minimum GPA of 3.0 in certain classes, and no grade below a C.
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A Catholic school based in Adrian, Michigan, Siena Heights has an online program aimed at students who wish to further both their education and their careers through a degree completion program. The curriculum at Siena Heights adheres to an "inverted major" format. This means students will not engage in coursework that is specific to their field, but instead will take a complement of classes that are designed to give them a fuller liberal arts background as well as management skills. Students interested in earning a bachelor's degree in electronics technology must meet certain admissions requirements to demonstrate their competency in electronics technology. One route is to present an associate in applied science from a regionally accredited school; another is to show 35 completed credit hours and otherwise prove their technical abilities for electrical engineering, through work experience or military experience, for example. Upon entrance, the program is designed to take as little as 2 years to complete.
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University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Established specifically to train the workforce immediately after World War II, the Charlotte campus of the University of North Carolina has continued to educate students in the technical fields while also developing into a strong research institution. Students that choose to pursue a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering at the university should be prepared for multiple potential careers, including designing avionic control systems, creating applications for HVAC systems and working with networked computer systems or consumer electronics. Classes are offered entirely online except for on-campus labs conducted over the summer. The program is targeted to students who already have an applied sciences associate degree and currently hold jobs, but anyone who meets admission requirements is eligible to apply. All upper-division courses are offered both part time and full time to best accommodate working students. UNC Charlotte has also established relationships with local businesses to help connect local graduates to job possibilities.
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With one of the largest statewide online schools, Indiana State University welcomes seasoned students into its online electrical engineering program. For this degree completion program, ISU requires students to have either an associate of science in electronics technology from Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University (both located in Indiana), or to have completed a similar associate degree from an accredited school. Once students are accepted, they take complete an additional 80 credits of coursework covering electronics technology; mechanical engineering technology; various areas in math, computer science, physical science and technology management; as well as electives in robotics and manufacturing. Students will also take professional classes to develop workplace management skills, and upon graduation should be prepared to take positions in areas such as instrumentation and control, electronics manufacturing, power operations, and sales and services. The program has earned accreditation from the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).
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North Carolina A&T State University
Giving students a wide range of skills in electronics technology is the goal of this online bachelor's degree in electronics technology from North Carolina A&T State University. The 120-credit program is structured to take the traditional 4 years, but is specifically aimed at working students who would have difficulty making the commute to campus. Transfer students are also encouraged. Requiring that students maintain at least a "C" grade in all major-specific courses, the program emphasizes mainframe education, with students learning about things such as circuits, networks, power systems and digital computing. Hands-on experience is emphasized as much as theoretical principles, and the program is designed to propel graduates directly into the workplace, with careers such as home and business security specialists; transportation safety specialists; automatization or computer electronics technicians; and electronics or network installers. Graduates of the program go on to work for a variety of major corporations as well as in the public sector.
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University of Massachusetts-Lowell
University of Massachusetts-Lowell's online Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering Technology program is designed for students interested in any field that involves the design, testing and manufacturing of electrical hardware and software (e.g., telecommunications, semiconductors and consumer electronics). Some graduates may go on to advanced degrees in electrical engineering. In addition to teaching electronic principles, the program strives to develop the critical thinking and problem solving skills of students. The program requires completion of 127 semester hours of coursework. Some courses are available online, but most courses need to be attended on campus. Upper-division major courses include Electromagnetic Theory, Foundations of Microwave Design, Digital Signal Processing and Digital Electronics. A variety of required project laboratory courses are designed to give hands-on industrial experience to students by giving them the opportunity to design, plan, implement and report on a project in collaboration with advisers. Students who have worked in the industry may be able to use a specific project in a high-technology company as part of their course projects.
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Morgan State University's Bachelor of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering program prides itself on its innovative pedagogy, which incorporates lab work design throughout the curriculum. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours of coursework. By providing a suggested sequence that lays out the entire 4 years of coursework, the program helps students keep on track and fluidly integrate general education studies within the program. Major-specific coursework includes classes such as Electronic Materials and Devices, Electromagnetic Theory and Applications, Principles of Design and Electronic Circuits. All students must complete a 2-part capstone course sequence, the Senior Design Project, in which they work with their adviser to propose, implement and report on a design project. The program partners with alumni and others in the private sector and government agencies to ensure the continued relevance of the coursework. Alumni also interact regularly with the program by providing mentoring opportunities to students. The Electrical Engineering program has been recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
How Much Can You Make in an Electrical Engineering Career?
Because employers need electrical engineers no matter what the industry, students should identify potential career options by considering the fields that appeal to them most. However, students can also consider current trends to see what industries need electrical engineers. According to the BLS, the demand for electrical engineers is projected to increase faster than other engineer roles due to the rapid expansion of technological innovation.
The table below includes salary, job outlook, and descriptions for well known professions for electrical engineer bachelor degree holders.
Sources: BLS 2018
Earning an online electrical engineering degree requires a significant investment. Students should identify the return on their investment by examining job growth and earning potential associated with their ideal career. While general information is helpful, students should consider specific factors that influence salaries and job availability. Geographic location is one such factor. For example, the District of Columbia offers the highest salaries, but California offers the most opportunities.
Students should also consider how industries influence career options. Mining offers the highest paying jobs for electrical engineers.
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Alabama
Median Annual Salary: $97,840
Number Currently Employed: 4,490
Projected Job Growth: +13.5 percent
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Alaska
Median Annual Salary: $115,950
Number Currently Employed: 290
Projected Job Growth: +1.4 percent
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Arizona
Median Annual Salary: $105,330
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Arkansas
Median Annual Salary: $84,860
Number Currently Employed: 890
Projected Job Growth: +12 percent
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California
Median Annual Salary: $113,140
Number Currently Employed: 25,600
Projected Job Growth: +12.1 percent
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Colorado
Median Annual Salary: $95,340
Number Currently Employed: 3,730
Projected Job Growth: +17 percent
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District of Columbia (DC)
Median Annual Salary: $116,310
Number Currently Employed: 510
Projected Job Growth: +8.5 percent
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Connecticut
Median Annual Salary: $94,120
Number Currently Employed: 2,360
Projected Job Growth: +10 percent
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Delaware
Median Annual Salary: $98,640
Number Currently Employed: 480
Projected Job Growth: +11 percent
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Florida
Median Annual Salary: $90,380
Number Currently Employed: 6,430
Projected Job Growth: +21 percent
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Georgia
Median Annual Salary: $91,950
Number Currently Employed: 4,130
Projected Job Growth: +14.3 percent
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Hawaii
Median Annual Salary: $87,210
Number Currently Employed: 940
Projected Job Growth: +9 percent
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Idaho
Median Annual Salary: $92,290
Number Currently Employed: 1,310
Projected Job Growth: +9 percent
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Illinois
Median Annual Salary: $91,870
Number Currently Employed: 5,510
Projected Job Growth: +8.4 percent
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Indiana
Median Annual Salary: $81,890
Number Currently Employed: 3,440
Projected Job Growth: +8 percent
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Iowa
Median Annual Salary: $87,740
Number Currently Employed: 1,330
Projected Job Growth: +12.8 percent
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Kansas
Median Annual Salary: $88,190
Number Currently Employed: 2,130
Projected Job Growth: +19 percent
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Kentucky
Median Annual Salary: $89,790
Number Currently Employed: 1,310
Projected Job Growth: -1.4 percent
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Lousiana
Median Annual Salary: $91,600
Number Currently Employed: 1,560
Projected Job Growth: +17.5 percent
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Maine
Median Annual Salary: $88,580
Number Currently Employed: 430
Projected Job Growth: +5.1 percent
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Maryland
Median Annual Salary: $109,380
Number Currently Employed: 4,520
Projected Job Growth: +6.5 percent
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Massachusuetts
Median Annual Salary: $114,200
Number Currently Employed: 8,320
Projected Job Growth: +9 percent
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Michigan
Median Annual Salary: $88,250
Number Currently Employed: 9,720
Projected Job Growth: +13.5 percent
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Minnesota
Median Annual Salary: $94,390
Number Currently Employed: 4,040
Projected Job Growth: +10.1 percent
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Mississippi
Median Annual Salary: $95,320
Number Currently Employed: 1,090
Projected Job Growth: +8.3 percent
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Missouri
Median Annual Salary: $94,530
Number Currently Employed: 3,570
Projected Job Growth: +8.7 percent
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Montana
Median Annual Salary: $82,420
Number Currently Employed: 530
Projected Job Growth: +15.3 percent
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Nebraska
Median Annual Salary: $88,370
Number Currently Employed: 1,140
Projected Job Growth: +13.7 percent
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Nevada
Median Annual Salary: $97,270
Number Currently Employed: 720
Projected Job Growth: +65.7 percent
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New Hampsire
Median Annual Salary: $105,960
Number Currently Employed: 1,730
Projected Job Growth: +4.3 percent
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New Jersey
Median Annual Salary: $107,370
Number Currently Employed: 4,010
Projected Job Growth: +11.9 percent
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New Mexico
Median Annual Salary: $101,780
Number Currently Employed: 1,980
Projected Job Growth: +4.1 percent
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New York
Median Annual Salary: $101,740
Number Currently Employed: 11,600
Projected Job Growth: +13.2 percent
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North Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $103,260
Number Currently Employed: 5,420
Projected Job Growth: +13.8 percent
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North Dakota
Median Annual Salary: $84,300
Number Currently Employed: 560
Projected Job Growth: +23.4 percent
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Ohio
Median Annual Salary: $84,280
Number Currently Employed: 6,260
Projected Job Growth: +6.5 percent
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Oklahoma
Median Annual Salary: $92,770
Number Currently Employed: 1,220
Projected Job Growth: +9.9 percent
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Oregon
Median Annual Salary: $94,710
Number Currently Employed: 2,530
Projected Job Growth: +21.6 percent
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Pennsylvania
Median Annual Salary: $94,000
Number Currently Employed: 6,960
Projected Job Growth: +9.7 percent
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Rhode Island
Median Annual Salary: $105,880
Number Currently Employed: 440
Projected Job Growth: +15.2 percent
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South Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $88,190
Number Currently Employed: 2,080
Projected Job Growth: +12.3 percent
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South Dakota
Median Annual Salary: $79,580
Number Currently Employed: 290
Projected Job Growth: +14.6 percent
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Tennessee
Median Annual Salary: $90,650
Number Currently Employed: 2,510
Projected Job Growth: +14.6 percent
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Texas
Median Annual Salary: $104,670
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Utah
Median Annual Salary: $87,940
Number Currently Employed: 1,590
Projected Job Growth: +31.1 percent
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Vermont
Median Annual Salary: $101,950
Number Currently Employed: 500
Projected Job Growth: +6.8 percent
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Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $106,090
Number Currently Employed: 6,440
Projected Job Growth: +12 percent
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Washington
Median Annual Salary: $110,360
Number Currently Employed: 6,430
Projected Job Growth: +8.6 percent
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West Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $91,430
Number Currently Employed: 370
Projected Job Growth: +7 percent
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Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary: $84,320
Number Currently Employed: 4,600
Projected Job Growth: +24.4 percent
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Wyoming
Median Annual Salary: $89,690
Number Currently Employed: 320
Projected Job Growth: +13.3 percent
What Courses Can be Taken in an Online Electrical Engineering Degree Program?
While all programs cover general education requirements, major coursework varies by school. Developed programs may offer additional electives or concentrations depending on which accrediting standards the university follows. Identifying the best program requires course offering comparisons with the student’s ideal career. The list below includes courses commonly found in an electrical engineering bachelor’s degree.
Calculus for Engineers
Calculus for engineers focuses on calculus through the lens of engineering, which covers inverse, functions, and monotonicity. Students also examine the derivative, curve sketching, and optimization. This course may include applications of integrals and differential equations.
Digital Design Fundamentals
This course covers the foundation for computer and digital systems. Course objectives include understanding how digital system pieces are created and interfaced. Additionally, students should understand how digital system pieces interact with each other.
Principles of Programming with C++ (CS)
Principles of programming introduces students to computer programming concepts and principles with emphasis on imperative, procedural, and object-oriented programming guidelines. Course objectives include familiarization with algorithm design and computer system concepts.
Circuits I
Circuits I covers fundamental knowledge and theories of electronic components, systems, and circuits. These topics are examined through analysis and construction skills, which require students to solve electrical engineering problems.
Random Signal Analysis
This course introduces probabilistic techniques used for random signals assessment within systems. End of course goals include understanding theory of random vectors and variables, statistical averages, and system parameter estimation.
How to Choose the Best Online Electrical Engineering Program
Students should consider several factors when selecting an online electrical engineering degree. Both a university’s accreditation and general reputation can influence a graduate’s professional marketability. Student outcomes including graduation and retention rates help gauge a program’s success. Many online schools provide digital resources for students, which may include tutoring or internship placement assistance. Faculty credentials and student-to-teacher ratios can be helpful when assessing school culture and environment. This section addresses common question about an online bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.
How Long Does It Usually Take to Complete an Online Electrical Engineering Degree?
Online electrical engineering degrees often follow the traditional four years for a bachelor’s degree if students attend full time. However, some programs may require as many as six years. Part-time students should double program length. Adding a minor or concentration can extend programs as well.
There are multiple online learning formats, which could impact graduation timelines. Asynchronous learning formats follow average time frames, while self-paced programs could take longer.
What Jobs Do Electrical Engineering Concentrations Lead To?
There are multiple engineering concentrations. A power systems concentration leads to jobs in plant power distribution, substation design, and transmission-line engineer roles. A communications concentration prepares students for radio frequency, electronic communications, or broadcast engineering jobs. Electronic concentrations prepare students for control and sales engineer positions. Students may also consider computer engineering. Job roles include hardware engineering and computer network architecture.
What Accreditation Agencies Should I Consider for Online Electrical Engineering Programs?
Both regional and national accrediting agencies operate in the U.S. Regional accreditations are highly regarded. More than 85% of schools have regional accreditation, which makes credit transferring much easier. On the other hand, students should consider programmatic accreditation since they are governed by engineer experts. ABET establishes standards for quality electrical engineering programs.
How Much Does an Online Electrical Engineering Degree Cost?
Online electrical engineering tuition cost vary, but many range from $32,000-$72,000. Students should familiarize themselves with factors that impact program costs. Out-of-state tuition often costs much more than in-state tuition. Additionally, some electrical engineering programs require field experience. Given the technical nature of coursework, schools may charge additional fees for program expenses.
What sort of professional organizations can electrical engineering students join?
The National Society of Professional Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology offer student memberships. Students have access to online journals and networking opportunities. Electrical engineering students pursuing a communications-related concentration can join the Audio Engineering Society. Also, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is the largest professional organization dedicated to the advancement of technology.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Electrical Engineering Programs
Financial aid is often the first source for funding college tuition. Federal aid includes grants, loans, and work study. Grants and work-study programs do not have to be repaid. However, loans must be repaid after students graduate. Unsubsidized loans collect interest upon receipt, which is why students should consider scholarships. Scholarships are not repaid, and many organizations and foundations set aside funds to support specific populations of students. This list below includes scholarships for students earning an electrical engineering bachelor’s.
Kelly Services offers a $1,500 scholarship to undergraduate students in their junior or senior year who are majoring in engineering. Students should be able to display their commitment to engineering through extracurricular activities, volunteering, or prior internships. Applicants must also submit a maximum 1200-word essay. Students should have at least a 3.0 GPA to qualify. Additionally, students must submit letters of recommendation and official transcripts.
Intertek is a leading tech organization specializing in quality assurance. To support future engineers, Intertek awards a maximum of $10,000 to five students each year. Additionally, winners receive a paid internship the following summer. To qualify, undergraduate students should be in their sophomore or junior year with a minimum 3.2 GPA. Students must be U.S. or Canadian citizens and are required to be enrolled full time at an accredited university.
The National Society of Professional Engineers awards one $2,500 scholarship to a female engineering undergraduate who is enrolled full time at an ABET accredited university. Applicants must be entering their junior year and be a U.S. citizen. Students must submit transcripts, recommendation letters, a resume, and a 500-word essay describing their engineering career goals. Applicants are also evaluated by their internship or volunteer experiences and their GPA.
The Society of Women Engineers offers a scholarship to female engineering students enrolled full time at an accredited university. Undergraduate students must be in their sophomore, junior, or senior year, and must have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Official transcripts are also required. Additionally, students must provide a resume and letters of recommendation. Applicants should not receive awards from any other organization when applying for the SWE Scholarship. The maximum award is $7,000, but award amounts vary.
SimpliSafe offers a $1,000 scholarship to the next generation of STEM professionals. Undergraduate electrical engineering majors enrolled full time with a 3.0 GPA can apply. Students must submit a 500-word essay about their greatest STEM-related achievement or what sparked their interest in STEM. Students should be able to demonstrate active engagement in STEM outside of the classroom through activities like extracurriculars or volunteering.
