Online Undergraduate Engineering Programs
Learners who enroll in an online bachelor's in engineering program can pursue diverse engineering jobs. A bachelor's degree usually combines coursework with real-world applications. Students learn valuable skills to begin or enhance their career.
Most online bachelor's in engineering programs take four years to complete. Many online schools accept applicants with no previous college experience. However, strong test scores and a solid high school GPA help candidates stand out.
Many engineers enjoy high-paying careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), petroleum engineers only need a bachelor's degree. They earn a median annual salary of $137,330. Aerospace engineers also only need a bachelor's degree. They make a median annual salary of $118,610. The BLS projects engineering jobs to grow 6% between 2020-2030.
FAQ About Online Engineering Programs
Yes. The BLS reports that many engineering positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Some positions require just an associate degree or a technical certificate. However, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree.
Engineering bachelor's degree-holders can pursue jobs as aerospace engineers, civil engineers, maintenance engineers, and mechanical engineers.
Some schools offer accelerated online programs, meaning students can earn their degree faster.
Yes. Many schools offer bachelor's degrees fully online, including some engineering degrees. However, format specifics vary by institution.
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Best Online Bachelor's in Engineering Programs 2022
#1 Best Online Engineering Degrees
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, University of Arizona connects distance learners across 24 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in electrical and computer engineering.
This degree is one of several programs providing top-ranked educational opportunities. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community and rigorous education. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining industry-relevant knowledge. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify courses, choose electives, and pursue internships.
Students benefit from academic advising as well as other institutional resources. The institution reports a 65% graduation rate. Though educational costs vary, online learners tend to pay $1,050 per course credit. Prospective applicants can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to discuss internal and external funding opportunities and determine eligibility. Of all enrollees, 91% receive financial aid.
#2 Best Online Engineering Degrees
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Stony Brook, New York, Stony Brook University provides flexible online study to learners from all walks of life. A leader in online education, the school supports 5,769 online learners.
Students interested in the engineering field will find the flexible online bachelor's in electrical engineering an attractive option. The program connects enrollees across a virtual classroom setting, enabling collaboration across distance. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining industry-relevant knowledge throughout their studies. Degree candidates can also pursue collaborative opportunities with students and faculty through research projects, internships, and externships.
Learners can access career services and other success-centered offices. These resources contribute to the institution's 76% graduation rate. Students interested in scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities should meet with the financial aid office. Around 79% of all students receive aid to be applied toward educational expenses.
#3 Best Online Engineering Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a flexible bachelor's degree in engineering that suits your schedule? Miami-based Florida International University provides bachelor's-level education across 78 programs, 36 of which are online. One option includes an online bachelor of science in electrical engineering.
Degree candidates connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Students attend lectures alongside classmates while completing industry-relevant coursework. Outside of the classroom, degree-seekers can partake in research projects, pursue internships, and gain knowledge through other experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.
Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid to their educational costs. Interested applicants can explore scholarships and eligibility requirements with the Office of Financial Aid.
#4 Best Online Engineering Degrees
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Clemson, South Carolina, Clemson University provides flexible online study to learners from all walks of life. Of its 78 bachelor's degrees, three are available online.
The bachelor's in electrical engineering appeals to working professionals and busy students seeking flexible study. Degree candidates complete coursework and connect with classmates through a virtual learning environment. Students complete general education and advanced coursework, with the option to modify classes and choose electives based on career interests.
Students also benefit from institutional support, including faculty mentors, academic advising, and career services. The college's prioritization of student success contributes to its 84% graduation rate. Learners can benefit from internal and external funding opportunities through the college. The institution notes that 92% of all students receive some form of financial aid.
#5 Best Online Engineering Degrees
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a convenient, quality online education? The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa, offers 11 online bachelor’s degrees.
The bachelor of science in manufacturing systems engineering is an attractive option for students seeking flexible study relevant to the engineering field. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online learning community while completing industry-relevant classes. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes. Students can further their knowledge of the field through internships, externships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Degree candidates benefit from institutional support systems through career services, academic advising, and other offices. The institution reports a 71% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success. The financial aid office can provide information on funding opportunities and help determine student eligibility. According to the college, 79% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Engineering?
Engineering covers many topics, including aerospace, civil, mechanical, chemical, and nuclear engineering. Each focus area offers different career opportunities. Many jobs require a minimum education level.
Learners who earn a bachelor's degree in engineering gain the advanced skills needed for high-paying jobs. Some licensure prerequisites also require an engineering bachelor's degree. After completing a bachelor's, students can pursue a master's or doctorate.
Will I Need a Bachelor's Degree for a Career in Engineering?
Depending on their career goals, learners may need a bachelor's degree in engineering. However, some positions only require an associate degree. According to the BLS, many engineer technician positions require just an associate degree. Examples include positions as civil engineering technicians, electrical engineering technicians, and industrial engineering technicians.
With a bachelor's degree, professionals can often secure positions that pay high median salaries. For example, the BLS reports a $58,230 median salary for mechanical engineering technicians. Mechanical engineers, who need a bachelor's degree, earn a median salary of $90,160 annually.
Students can also earn certifications or join professional organizations to boost their employability and potential earnings.
Accreditation for a Degree in Engineering
When researching engineering bachelor's degrees, prospective students should only apply to accredited schools. When a school or program holds institutional accreditation, it has met the standards set by an accrediting organization. All accrediting organizations must gain approval from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, the U.S. Department of Education, or both.
Prospective enrollees should also look for programmatic accreditation. This means that a specific program meets standards set by an industry leader. Bachelor's in engineering programs should hold accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET). Some scholarships, professional organizations, and employers only accept learners who earn an ABET-accredited degree.
What Are the Requirements for a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering?
Students applying to a bachelor's program in engineering typically submit high school transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters. They may also need to submit a personal essay and/or a resume. Schools set specific admission requirements for engineering programs. For example, some schools require learners to complete prerequisite courses either in high school or through undergrad coursework.
To graduate from an engineering bachelor's program, students must complete about 120-semester credits, maintain a minimum GPA, and complete a final project.
Courses in an Engineering Program
Colleges and universities set their own curriculum requirements, so schools offering the same engineering degree may not require the same courses. However, many undergraduate programs align their coursework with ABET standards.
Degree-seekers also complete specialized courses relating to their major. For example, a civil engineering student must complete environmental engineering and structural design courses. While specific classes vary, many engineering programs feature the courses below.
This course introduces linear regression analysis, non-linear regression, and experimental designs. Students learn how to interpret confidence intervals, monitor charts, and design their own experiments using statistics and engineering principles. This course often builds on previous statistics courses.Statistics for Engineering
Chemistry teaches the fundamentals of the science, sometimes focusing on its engineering applications. The course covers states of matter, chemical reactions, atomic structure, and chemical bonding. Learners also study chemical thermodynamics and equilibrium. Most engineering fields use basic chemistry. Schools often require chemistry as a core course for all engineering students.Chemistry
Electromagnetism covers the large concepts of electromagnetics, from static and dynamic fields to photon behavior. Students also apply mathematics to electromagnetics, including vectors and partial differential equations. By the end of the course, learners can understand and calculate electromagnetic fields.Electromagnetism
All engineering undergraduates must typically take this upper-division course. The course builds off fundamental math, including statistics, calculus, and geometry. Students learn how to use quantitative reasoning to analyze and interpret data sets. Course topics usually include first-order differential equations and higher-order linear differential equations. Many professional engineers use differential equations to visualize and interpret information.Differential Equations
Sometimes split into multiple courses, mechanics covers topics like force and the behaviors of statistically determinate structures. Degree-seekers learn how to calculate forces in static structures through the application of computer programs and mathematics. While required for all students pursuing mechanical engineering, mechanics teaches important skills that all engineers can apply.Mechanics
Certifications and Licensure for Engineering Majors
Some engineering positions require certifications or licensure. These requirements vary by state, position, and industry. Even if professionals do not need certification or licensure for their job, becoming certified or licensed could lead to higher pay and better job opportunities.