List of the Top Electrical Engineering Degrees
Electrical engineers help create the electrical devices and equipment we rely on every day. They devise new ways to use energy and ensure that electrical products meet manufacturing specifications. An online electrical engineering program gives students a solid theoretical engineering foundation and practical experience in this discipline.
A bachelor's in electrical engineering prepares learners for various engineering jobs. Graduates can assume roles in electronics, computer, aerospace, or quality assurance engineering. They enter a job market with an above-average income. An electrical or electronics engineer with a bachelor's degree and no experience earns a median annual salary of $103,390, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
This guide provides more information about coursework, career options, certifications, and scholarship opportunities.
Electrical Engineering Outlook
How much schooling do you need to be an electrical engineer?
Students complete a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in four years on average. This degree prepares learners for entry-level positions and graduate school.
What kind of jobs can you get with an electrical engineering degree?
Electrical engineers can apply their high-tech skills in fields as diverse as biomedicine, aerospace, software development, and manufacturing. Some may choose to focus on careers in research and development.
Is electrical engineering in demand?
The BLS projects a need for about 10,800 electrical and electronics engineers between 2019-2029.
Do electrical engineers get paid well?
Electrical and electronics engineers with a bachelor's degree and no experience make a $103,390 median annual wage.
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Why Get a Degree in Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineers help meet robust consumer demand for more sophisticated electronic devices. Businesses also need these engineers for their various high-tech projects. The BLS projects that employers in the scientific, professional, and technical fields will spur most of the job growth for electrical engineers in future years.
Employers value new hires with experience. The best bachelor's in electrical engineering programs provide learners with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs. Aspiring engineers also build expertise during internships and cooperative work programs. An online learning format allows learners to flexibly and affordably receive the necessary training for entry-level jobs. Well-paying positions and good job prospects could make the degree a worthy investment.
How Much Does an Electrical Engineering Degree Cost?
Schools nationwide offer bachelor's in electrical engineering programs online. Students complete between 120-128 credits in a four-year BA, BS, or BSE program. The cost depends on factors such as institution type and program duration. Schools charge as little as $228-$399 per credit for an online bachelor's in electrical engineering, or a tuition total of $29,184-$49,476.
Some schools charge flat-rate tuition for all students completing the degree exclusively online, regardless of residency. Other institutions charge more online tuition for distance learners who live out of state. Hybrid programs provide the best of both worlds with online and in-person learning. However, students often pay more for hybrid degrees.
Students can earn college credit for military and other relevant training. They can save even more money by transferring credits from two-year colleges. Most degree-seekers must use some form of financial aid to help pay for tuition. The first step requires filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore eligibility for scholarship, grant, and loan opportunities.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Electrical Engineering Majors Make?
Education, experience, and employer influence earnings. Electrical engineers with a bachelor's degree and no experience make a $100,830 median annual salary. Electronics engineers earn a $107,540 median annual salary. Electrical and electronics engineers with the least experience earn between $64,870-$69,210 or less. These professionals make more than the $41,950 median annual wage for all workers. More experienced electrical and electronics engineers can earn even more, with annual salaries between $159,520- $167,410.
The research and development sector pays the most with a $116,050 median annual wage. The semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing sector pays the second-best wage at $107,680. Electrical engineers can earn a specialization, which also impacts pay.
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers with just a bachelor's and no experience make a $92,620 median annual wage. Aerospace engineers with the same training make $118,610 annually. Industrial engineers earn a $88,950 median annual salary, but they enjoy a 10% job growth rate, higher than many of their peers.
Courses in Electrical Engineering
Students complete an electrical engineering bachelor's degree in about four years. Many colleges offer asynchronous learning for flexible attendance. Enrollees will need to complete assignments and exams on schedule. The best electrical engineering programs hold accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
The curriculum includes general education such as calculus, math, physics, and chemistry. Students also explore engineering fundamentals. As they progress through the curriculum, enrollees learn to apply all of this knowledge in areas such as circuits, electronics, controls, and electromagnetics.
Students design circuits and systems during electronics and engineering labs. Many students choose a speciality such as bioengineering, control systems, or computer architecture and microprocessor design. Internships and co-ops provide hands-on experience in the workplace. The following provides a course sampling representative of an electrical engineering curriculum.
Electronics
This introduction explores basic electronic components such as diodes, transistors, and op amps. Students learn about design principles and common applications including diodes in AC and DC circuits and transistors in digital circuits.Signals and Systems
The course explores the fundamentals of signals and systems. Students learn about concepts such as time-domain descriptions and frequency-domain descriptions. They explore applications in engineering and physics, including communications, signal processing, and feedback control.Electromagnetics
The class introduces students to the fundamentals of electric and magnetic fields. Topics covered include Maxwell's equations, transmission lines, plane waves, reflections, and microwave networks. Students learn about electromagnetics' extensive applications, including in cellphone antennas and other wireless technologies.
Certifications and Licensure for Electrical Engineering
Engineers must pass exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying to practice professionally in any of the 50 states. The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam serves as the first step toward professional licensure. Experienced engineers must pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam to complete licensure. The following list shares more information about these exams and other certifications.
Students and recent graduates must pass the FE exam to practice as a licensed engineer-in-training. The exam comprises questions administered in a computer-based format at Pearson VUE test centers.
The PE exam tests the engineer's competency level in an engineering discipline, such as electrical and computer engineering. Candidates must hold at least four years of postbaccalaureate work experience to qualify. Successful candidates can practice as a licensed professional.
The International Council on Systems Engineering offers several certifications, including ASEP. Engineers just beginning their careers in systems engineering complete the ASEP certification to demonstrate their proficiency level. Candidates must pass a multiple-choice exam.
Scholarships for Electrical Engineering
An engineering degree requires a big financial investment. Students can use financial aid, such as scholarships, to help pay for tuition. Eligibility requirements vary and include financial need, academic excellence, and demography. The following list provides two scholarships and application details.
Electrical Engineering Scholarships
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Richard E. Merwin Student Scholarship |
$1,000 |
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers awards this scholarship to promising students in IEEE student branch chapters. Undergraduates in the final two years of an electrical engineering program or a related major qualify. Candidates must hold a minimum 2.5 GPA and present a recommendation letter from a branch chapter advisor. |
Society of Women Engineers Scholarships |
Varies |
SWE administers a scholarship program for women pursuing degrees in engineering and related disciplines. Applicants must plan to attend an ABET-accredited engineering program on a full-time basis. They must also provide school transcripts and establish financial need. |
Online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering Programs 2022
#1 Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A top-ranked program, the online MS in electrical and computer engineering is offered by Old Dominion University, located in Norfolk, Virginia. The public institution offers both in-person and online courses for degree-seekers. The electrical engineering program offers a flexible route to a college degree.
The program's distance learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students. Online courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Degree-seekers pay about $492 per credit at the institution. Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant.
Old Dominion University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,854
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Online Master's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
Stony Brook University
- Stony Brook, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Stony Brook University is a leader in providing online learning. In the bachelor's in electrical engineering program, distance learners complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Major classes cover field-specific topics to prepare learners for the workforce or graduate studies.
Students use the college’s generous transfer policy to finish degrees faster. Bachelor’s degrees cost $7,070 for in-state tuition. Students can complete master’s degrees in just two years. Graduate degrees cost $11,310 for in-state tuition. The school awards an average aid package of $9,540. The institution reports that 79% of learners receive financial aid and 37% take out loans.
Multiple start terms provide enrollment flexibility. Students can expect a 44% admission rate. Applicants submit official school transcripts. Prospective students may need to submit GRE or SAT scores. Stony Brook University has received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public postsecondary school, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte has one of the best online electrical engineering bachelor's programs in the country. Major coursework builds on foundational knowledge from general education classes.
With transfer credits, students can finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. Learners pay the in-state tuition rate of $3,812 for bachelor’s degrees. Online learners typically complete master's programs in two years. Finishing a doctoral degree usually takes four or more years. Nontraditional learners pay a $4,337 in-state tuition rate for graduate degrees. The school’s average aid package of $7,046 helps students afford their education.
Programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills they need to impress employers. Students can typically pursue a minor. Nontraditional learners watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Students typically complete 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana State University delivers 165 academic programs, including a bachelor's in electronics engineering technology. The school reports a 90% admission rate, and 21% of accepted applicants enroll at the school.
With transfer credits, students can finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. Online learners pay the in-state tuition rate of $9,036 for bachelor’s degrees. Students complete master’s degrees in about two years. Enrollees pursuing a graduate program pay $7,542 for in-state tuition. Enrollees fund their tuition with an average aid package of $9,230. Distance learners receive support from online services such as tutoring and career advising.
Multiple start terms allow enrollment flexibility. Students can expect an admission rate of 90%. The school requires official school transcripts. The institution may consider college entrance scores in the application process. Indiana State University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
North Carolina A&T State University
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Greensboro, North Carolina A&T State University enrolls students in many online programs, including its online master of science in electrical engineering program. The public institution offers a variety of enrollment options, including online and in-person learning formats. The electrical engineering program offers a flexible route to a graduate degree.
The online learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. During an online program, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. Degree-seekers enrolled online benefit from virtual academic advising and career services.
Distance learners can pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans.
North Carolina A&T State University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,224
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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