Working professionals in the engineering field find themselves in much the same position as professionals in other fields today: while it’s possible to make a very comfortable income and enjoy a rewarding job with only a bachelor’s degree in engineering, to rise in rank and status, as well as salary, most engineering firms, corporations, government agencies, and other employers expect a master’s degree.

While this situation prompts many engineers to go back to school, for working adults who want to keep their job and income, going back to school for a full-time residential program is too much of a sacrifice. Fortunately, there are many reputable, accredited options for online degrees in engineering today. Legitimate online graduate degrees are much more common than undergraduate degrees, since engineering is often still a practical, hands-on subject, but for professionals who are confident in their knowledge of the field and simply need further credentialing, online programs can be an excellent alternative.

Our Method: How We Ranked the Best Online Engineering Master’s Programs 

Value Colleges Best Value rankings are here to guide returning students to the most credible, reputable, and reliable investments in higher education. While some online graduate degrees are worth no more than the pixels they display onscreen, the schools ranked by Value Colleges are all regionally accredited, recognized, and trusted.

Best Value rankings are based on 3 metrics:

• Cost (IPEDS data)
• Job Market Reputation (U.S. News & World Report)
• Salary Potential (College Scorecard) 

Our formula gives us the surest balance between reputation and cost, with short-term and long-term financial prospects to demonstrate which college degrees really pay off. Graduate school is hard work; Value Colleges lets you know which programs are worth the effort.

1. Kettering University

Kettering University offers top online MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering or Engineering Management degree programs. The online program offers students the necessary skills to perform specific tasks, such as updating software, integrating networks and systems, and managing IT teams in a fast-paced, competitive work environment. Kettering University offers one of the best online engineering Masters programs in the country for students who aren’t able to attend school on campus.

Kettering University is a leader when it comes to advanced degree programs, both online and in the classroom. Voted one of the Best Colleges for Engineering programs in 2019, by U.S. News and World Report, the university offers practical and highly detailed coursework for students who are interested in pursuing their Master’s degree online. Online classes allow students to gain the competitive advantage they need while remaining in the workforce.

Program: MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering or Engineering Management

Kettering University

2. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers numerous concentrations when it comes to the best online Masters in Engineering programs. Students can choose from Electrical, Chemical, Computer, Mechanical, Robotics, and many other engineering concentrations. While there are numerous concentrations to choose from, Kettering provides the necessary skills students will need for each one. The goal is to provide every student with the best online Masters in Engineering degree program that will allow them to reach their career goals once they graduate.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is well-known in the New England area for providing quality, online courses for students who want to earn their Masters in Engineering degree online. The school ranks in the Top 10 for having graduates who hire into positions at the highest possible pay scale. The school provides students a quality online education when attending the campus is not a viable option.

Program: Numerous concentrations

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

3. Villanova University

Villanova University provides engineering students with numerous concentrations when it comes to the best online Masters degree programs. With numerous concentrations to choose from, students can pursue the degree program that best suits their needs. Students have access to the resources and faculty members they need to stay on track with their studies. The university offers state of the art, online learning opportunities that allow the student to excel. With one of the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs, the university is able to provide students with the level of education they deserve.

Villanova University is one of the most well-respected universities when it comes to undergraduate studies and degree programs. Faculty at the university offer years of experience and a level of accessibility to the students that is second to none in the world of online learning. Students who want to continue their education online can get one of the best educations in the country by enrolling at Villanova University.

Program: Numerous concentrations

4. University of California, Los Angeles

The University of California, Los Angeles offers one of the best online MS in Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, and Mechanical concentrations) degree programs available in the United States. UCLA understands what students need to succeed in their chosen career path. The university provides the necessary skills, resources, and experience the students need to compete for advanced employment opportunities. The online Masters in Engineering degree programs offered by UCLA make it easy for students who are not within close proximity to the campus to earn their degree in their own time.

UCLA is well-known around the world for being a leader in engineering degree programs. The university provides state of the art technology and a team of faculty members that is above reproach. Students who enroll in the school’s online engineering degree programs can do so with the utmost confidence that they will be receiving the best possible education. The online programs offered by UCLA have flexible schedules that allow students to complete their coursework when it is most convenient for them.

Program: MS in Engineering – Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical

University of California, Los Angeles

5. University of Florida

The University of Florida engineering graduate program provides students with some of the best online MS or MEng in Aerospace, Civil, Computer and Electrical, Environmental, or Industrial and Systems Engineering degree programs available in the country. Every degree program offers a well-rounded curriculum that provides students enrolled in each of the engineering concentrations with the skills that are needed for their particular industry. By providing students with the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs, the university continues to exhibit its high standard of excellence.

The University of Florida offers a distance learning program to students from any location. The school takes great pride in its reputation when it comes to offering the best educational experience for each student, whether they attend the campus or enroll online. The university’s online degree programs are of the same caliber as those taught in the classroom. Students are able to work from home and remain employed gaining the experience they need to succeed. Online degree programs are extremely flexible allowing students to advance their careers and apply for the jobs they really want.

Program: MS or MEng in Aerospace, Civil, Computer and Electrical, Environmental, or Industrial and Systems

University of Florida

6. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland engineering program makes the most of its distance education capabilities with Master of Engineering degrees in several specializations: Bioengineering, Cybersecurity, Sustainable Energy Engineering, and more. developing deep, significant connections with government agencies in nearby Washington, DC. Relationships with NASA, the NSA, and Homeland Security, among many others, means research in fields such as aerospace engineering and cybersecurity are second to none, and directly tied to real results.

The University of Maryland, College Park has turned its location into its greatest advantage by UMCP’s network also means increased career prospects, so even if it were not an affordable public university, a graduate degree from UMCP would be an investment soon to make a return. With close proximity to Washington DC, UMCP’s credibility in engineering is largely drawn from its many government connections, a wealth of opportunity for research and employment for UMCP graduates, leading to a solid return on investment for Maryland engineers.

Program: MEng – 7 concentrations

University of Maryland

7. Binghamton University (SUNY)

Binghamton University offers one of the very best online MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Systems Science and Industrial Engineering degree programs in the northeast. Students are provided with specific skills and resources that allow them to face challenges and find solutions in almost any type of situation. The school offers the best online Masters in Engineering for students who are working diligently to advance their careers.

Binghamton University is one of New York’s most prestigious institutes of higher learning. The Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science has a reputation for providing the highest quality degree programs when it comes to advanced learning. Faculty members offer online students the best possible learning experience so they can take on new and exciting challenges. Many students who are pursuing their Masters in Engineering degree are already working in their chosen field. Online courses allow them to remain on the job while finishing school.

Program: MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering; Systems Science and Industrial Engineering

Binghamton University

8. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers one of the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs when it comes to Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Aeronautical, Systems, or Materials Science. Students who choose to pursue one of these engineering concentrations will receive the skills and resources they need to handle any situation they are presented with while on the job. The university offers one of the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs along the east coast.

The University of Virginia has received top rankings in several categories by U.S. News and World Reports for five consecutive years in a row. The faculty at the university work to make themselves as accessible as possible to their students whether they are on campus or studying using an online platform. The online learning platform gives students the same educational experience they would receive as if they had chosen to attend class on campus.

Program: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical and Aeronautical, Systems, or Materials Science

University of Virginia

9. Lehigh University

Lehigh University has the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs with concentrations in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Polymer Science Engineering. Each concentration has specific requirements in terms of skills and abilities. The university has put together degree programs that provide what the student needs to face various challenges they may face during their career. The best online Masters in Engineering programs offer flexible class schedules and an easy to use platform.

Lehigh University prides itself on offering educational degree programs that are of the highest quality. Faculty members are well-known the world over for their research skills and excellent teaching skills. Faculty members understand the importance of remaining accessible to the students who look to them for guidance. By providing quality degree programs, the university allows students to complete their studies online and continue to work, gaining valuable experience they can put to good use when they graduate.

Program: Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science Engineering

Lehigh University

10. Stevens Institute of Technology

Stevens Institute of Technology offers an online Master’s in Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering degree program that ranks at the top in terms of excellence in education. The skills and abilities that are taught to students have been well-researched and have been put into a curriculum that has been proven time and again. Students are offered what they need to build a solid foundation for their careers, no matter what concentration they choose.

Stevens Institute of Technology is well-known on the east coast for having one of the best online Masters of Engineering degree programs available. With over 300 faculty members, students who enroll in online degree programs are able to receive the attention they need. Faculty members are passionate about assisting their students and make themselves available as much as possible. With online degree programs, students are able to care for their families and continue to work on a regular basis.

Program: Master’s in Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering

Stevens Institute of Technology

11. Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University offers students one of the best online Masters in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering degree programs available in the northern Midwest. Students are taught how to manage projects and work within a highly-structured environment. The skills the student receives will serve them throughout their entire career, allowing them to pursue opportunities that are reserved only for top professionals. With the best Masters of Engineering degree, students can excel in their chosen careers and take on even the hardest projects.

Michigan Technological University has been offering students top educational classes for over 125 years. Faculty members are dedicated to assisting each student reach their academic goals. While students who enroll in online degree programs may miss out on events like the Winter Festival, faculty members guarantee that they will receive the exact same attention when it comes to having access to instructors and advisors. The flexibility of the university’s online classes makes it easy for students to work and attend school at the same time.

Program: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Michigan Technological University

12. George Mason University

George Mason University offers the best online MS in Systems Engineering in Virginia. A Master in Systems Engineering requires a student to be adept in managing systems and creating protocols and best practices that allow projects to flow smoothly. The university’s online degree programs offer students an opportunity to learn and practice those skills, gaining valuable experience. Online Master’s in Engineering degree programs offer students the same learning experience as a campus environment without the strict schedule.

George Mason University offers online learning to thousands of students across the country. The online format allows students the ability to learn from home and receive an education that is second to none. Faculty members have years of experience and are able to provide students with the insight they need to follow new and innovative career paths. Students who enroll in online classes have more flexible schedules while at the same time following the same curriculum as students taught in the classroom.

Program: MS in Systems Engineering

George Mason University

13. Washington State University

Washington State University offers an excellent online Masters in Engineering degree program in the following concentrations. Students can choose from Electrical Power Engineering, Engineering & Technology Management, and Software Engineering. Students who complete the online degree programs have the skills they need to take on any project, big or small, and keep things flowing smoothly. The online platform is easy to use and allows students to work at their own pace.

Washington State University is a nationally recognized school that boasts state of the art laboratory and technological advances. Students have access to some of the most dedicated faculty members in education and are able to learn at a pace that best suits them. By choosing to enroll in one of the best online Masters in Engineering degree programs in the country, each student has an opportunity to create their own career path.

Program: Electrical Power Engineering, Engineering & Technology Management, Software Engineering

Washington State University

14. Ohio State University

Ohio State University offers an online MS in Welding Engineering or Master of Global Engineering Leadership that offers students a variety of skills in both the manufacturing and development areas of several industries. Students who are pursuing an engineering MS degree program are often already employed within their chosen field and are looking to gain extra knowledge that will allow them to advance into upper management. Graduating from one of the best online engineering Masters programs is a great way to start their career.

Ohio State University is ranked in the number one spot of all the engineering degree programs in Ohio. The university employs award-winning faculty members who go to great lengths to provide each student with the highest quality education possible. Students have access to both faculty members and advisors that can provide them with advice when it comes to following their career path.

Program: MS in Welding Engineering or Master of Global Engineering Leadership

Ohio State University

15. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers both online and extended Masters in Engineering degree programs in 14 different concentrations. Industrial, Mechanical, Construction Management, Information, Sustainable, and Technology Engineering degree programs are just a few of those offered by the University. Each degree concentration provides students with the skill sets that are required for graduates to take their careers to the next level. With the best online Masters in Engineering program, graduates can look forward to rewarding opportunities when they start putting their degree to work.

Arizona State University has a solid reputation when it comes to advanced technology and engineering degree programs. Faculty members are well-known for their achievements and ability to provide students with an online learning experience. The online programs they offer allow students to continue to work within their industry while they finish their degree programs.

Program: 14 concentrations

Arizona State University

16. Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University offers one of the best online MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering or Engineering and Technology Management degree programs. OSU’s degree programs are designed by professionals who understand what skills and experience are needed for engineering graduates to succeed. By giving students the best online Masters of engineering degree possible, faculty members are able to help the students reach their goals.

Oklahoma State University has an instructor to student ratio of 20 to 1. This low number signifies the importance of keeping class sizes small so that students can get the help they need when they need it. With one of the top online degree programs in the United States, students can trust their instructors to provide them with the insight and inspiration to move forward in their careers.

Program: MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering or Engineering and Technology Management

17. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama provides one of the most advanced online MS in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering degree programs. The coursework has been created to provide valuable information to working adults who are trying to earn their Masters degrees in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Degree programs offer flexible schedules and a state of the art, online learning platform that makes it easy for students to stay in touch with their instructors. The best online Masters in Engineering degree program can be found at the University of Alabama.

The University of Alabama has faculty members on staff that are former employees of NASA and Lockheed Martin. Both students and staff work together to ensure that the online learning environment offers the same great learning experience as that received by students who attend the classrooms on campus. Many of the students who enroll in online classes are working full time. Students can gain valuable experience while earning a Masters degree that will pave the way for their future.

Program: MS in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

18. Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers one of the best online MEng in Industrial Engineering Management. Degrees in Industrial Engineering Management require skills that involve both designing and managing, sometimes within the same project or process. Students who are pursuing these types of degrees are oftentimes, already working in their chosen career field. This means the best online MS in Engineering degree programs are found online and have flexible schedules.

Oregon State University has been providing students with STEM-based curriculums for several years. These state of the art degree programs provide each student with a learning opportunity that will allow them to move at their own pace so they can work full-time and raise their family. When students are ready to advance, they can begin to use their skills and apply for more advanced positions.

Program: MEng in Industrial Engineering Management

Oregon State University

19. University of California, Riverside

The University of California, Riverside provides online Masters of Engineering degree programs in six different concentrations. Students can choose from Bioengineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental, Materials (Nanoscale), and Mechanical Engineering. All of these degree programs are designed to provide the best possible opportunities for advancements for students who earn their degrees from the university. The best online Masters degree in Engineering guarantees students a flexible schedule as well as hands-on experience in each of the different programs.

The University of California—Riverside is one of the top schools for advanced degrees in the field of engineering. Faculty members are professionals who come from a variety of backgrounds to provide the most well-rounded course programs to students who are eager to move forward. The majority of students who pursue an online Masters degree in Engineering are already employed in the field. These degree programs offer flexibility and convenience that allow students to earn their degrees without the stress of going to school on campus.

Program: 6 concentrations

University of California, Riverside

20. Florida International University

Florida International University offers an excellent online MS in Engineering Management with multiple tracks/concentrations. With several course options to choose from in the Engineering Management degree program. Once the student chooses which path they are going to take, they can make great strides in working toward their goals. By choosing the best online Masters in Engineering program, students can take control of their class schedule and earn their degree in a time frame that suits their needs.

Florida International University offers students across the globe one of the most advanced degree programs available. The university has chosen faculty members who are known across the country for being the best in their professions. With state of the art technology, world-class faculty members, and an online program that provides the strongest curriculum around, students have everything they need to succeed.

Program: MS in Engineering Management (multiple tracks)

Florida International University

21. University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an online MS in Engineering Management for working professionals who are returning to school to earn their degree. Students with a managerial background can enhance their technical skills, while students with a technical background can learn more about management and what it takes to be an effective leader. Students who are already working in their field can obtain their degree without giving up their ability to earn valuable hands-on experience.

The University of Massachusetts has designed its online Masters in Engineering degree program to meet the needs of students on many different levels. Faculty members make themselves available to students who may need assistance as they complete their course work. The school offers one of the best online Masters in Engineering programs with a flexible schedule and stringent courses to ensure students get the skills they need.

Program: MS in Engineering Management

University of Massachusetts Lowell

22. Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers online Masters in Engineering degree programs with numerous concentrations for students to choose from. Each concentration provides a curriculum that offers students the knowledge and skills that are needed to excel within that particular niche. Students who choose an online course program are guaranteed to have the same advantages as those who attend a classroom. The primary difference is that they are not bound by a rigid schedule and can work from almost anywhere in the world. Being able to earn one of the best online Masters in Engineering degrees offers students a boost when trying to move forward in their careers.

Kansas State University is a leader in distance education for working adults. Faculty members have the experience that is necessary to teach students who are already working full-time. They understand the challenges each student faces and are at the ready to answer questions and give them the support they need to succeed. With its award-winning degree programs, Kansas State University offers the best in online learning programs to students who are ready for the next step.

Program: Numerous Concentrations

Kansas State University

23. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers one of the best MEng or MS in Engineering in many different concentrations. The school prides itself on offering several different degree programs for working adults who are ready to move forward. Earning an online degree provides them the additional skills they need to take on more advanced tasks and manage larger and more complex operations. Choosing the best online Engineering Masters degree program provides a distinct advantage over other course programs that aren’t as in-depth.

The University of South Carolina has earned a reputation for having some of the highest standards when it comes to excellence in education. Working adults who choose the university have access to faculty members who have spent years working in their chosen profession. The ability to always be able to discuss coursework is also an advantage. Every student who studies using the online format has the same opportunities and advantages as those who attend class on campus.

Program: MEng or MS in many concentrations

University of South Carolina

24. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers an excellent online MEng in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering degree program that is designed to accommodate the needs of a working adult. Adults who are already established in an engineering position may need to earn their Masters in order to move ahead and compete for more advanced positions. The classes offered by the university offer the necessary skills and abilities for an advanced student to fulfill their goals. The best online Masters in Engineering degree can help them reach those milestones.

The University of Cincinnati offers state of the art technology and tools to assist individuals who are already working, gain the advantage they deserve. There are programs available for military personnel as well as those who just want to earn their degree and get ahead. Faculty members dedicate themselves to offering each online student the same opportunities as those who attend school in the classroom. The flexible schedules make it easy for working adults to finish their degree and support their family.

Program: MEng in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

25. University of Louisville

The University of Louisville provides students with some of the best online MEng in Engineering Management or MS in Civil Engineering degree programs available in the Midwest. Adult students who are working full-time can enjoy the freedom that comes with taking online classes at an award-winning university. The courses they take have been proven to provide the skills must have in order to take on more advanced projects and manage complex operations. Completing the best online Masters in Engineering degree program ensures that they have the skills they need to compete.

The University of Louisville is well-respected throughout the region as a leader when it comes to quality coursework and faculty members who have many years of experience. Students who attend online classes are able to enjoy flexible schedules while still having access to the instructors when they have questions. As working adults, the opportunities offered by online degree programs give them a chance to further their careers while they continue to earn valuable experience.

Program: MEng in Engineering Management or MS in Civil Engineering

University of Louisville

Why Should I Choose an Online Engineering Degree?

First and foremost, earning any degree online is a smart idea for many, especially a master’s in engineering online.  A person can further his or her career from the comfort of his or her own home. That means a person doesn’t have to sit in a classroom, commute back and forth, or have to further his or her degree interfere with life. An online degree is beneficial to non-traditional students, such as parents. They don’t have to find a babysitter since they can finish school around their kids’ schedules. Additionally, for adults who are returning back to school, an online education is beneficial since they don’t have to sit in a classroom with individuals who are much younger than they are. 

An online masters in engineering has the benefit of allowing a person to further his or her career in engineering. A masters in engineering online can help a person achieve management positions. Even without working in a management position, a person with a masters in engineering online has a higher earning potential. He or she is also more marketable for positions when he or she an online masters in engineering degree. A graduate degree provides a student with skills and knowledge in the field that he or she didn’t previously have, ultimately improving his or her performance.  

Can I Get a Job with an Online Master’s in Engineering?

Far too often, people try to avoid earning a degree online because they think it isn’t as prestigious as earning a degree in a classroom. This, however, isn’t the case. In today’s world hiring managers are just looking to see if a student advanced his or her education and has the necessary skills. Often, programs online are the same as the on-campus programs. This is because many colleges that are traditionally on-campus schools offer the option of online programs in a variety of areas, including engineering. When creating a resume, a person doesn’t need to write he or she attended online. The only way an employer will know he or she attended online is if he or she went to a school that only provides online programs or he or she makes a note of it. 

Engineering, in general, is a beneficial degree path. Jobs for masters of engineering are plentiful and only expected to grow over the years. For instance, masters of engineering jobs for those with a mechanical engineering background are expected to grow by four percent from 2018 until 2028. This is as fast as average. The same applies to most fields of engineering. 

Besides jobs for master of engineering that are working as an engineer, a person has other options as well. Numerous places hire for masters in engineering jobs, including architectural design, machine manufacturing, and scientific research.

Additionally, a person increases his or her earning potential with a masters degree since he or she can advance with his or her current employer. Masters in engineering jobs are also found at a management level. 

Master of engineering jobs include various specialties, such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering among others. 

A person can earn an online master’s civil engineering through various colleges. The online masters civil engineering prepares a student to work in the private or public sector and design, construct, or build bridges, water supply systems, dams, tunnels, airports, and more. The average civil engineering master’s salary is $86,640 per year, which is the same as $41.65 per hour. The civil engineering master’s salary is higher in certain areas and for certain positions. 

An online master’s environmental engineering prepares a student to find solutions for environmental problems. For instance, someone who earns an online master’s environmental engineering may work in public health, waste disposal, recycling, or air pollution control. 

On average, when a person earns an environmental engineering masters online, he or she earns around $87,620 per year. Someone with who earned an environmental engineering masters online may make an even higher salary, especially if he or she takes on a management role. 

Another option for an engineering specialty is mechanical engineering. A person can earn an online mechanical engineering masters. This furthers his or her earning potential and opens up positions that may not have been available at a bachelor’s degree level. Additionally, earning an online mechanical engineering masters increases a person’s earning potential. While the average person with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering earns a little over $86,000 per year, a person who has a masters can earn much more than that. 

A person could also choose to earn a general masters in engineering. This is more versatile and can prepare a student to take on positions in various areas of engineering. Online programs also offer students the option of earning a masters degree in engineering management. This is also a very versatile option that can open up positions for students in various areas of engineering. 

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