Is an Online Engineering Master’s Worth It?

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is a masters in engineering worth it

Many students often wonder if an online engineering master’s is worth it. To effectively answer that question, it’s important to ask about what types of engineers make the most money and what opportunities an engineering graduate has open to them as they move forward with their career. A master’s of engineering salary can range quite a bit, especially when you consider the graduate’s past experience and work history.

Choosing the Right Masters in Engineering Program

The only way to truly determine whether or not a master’s degree in engineering is truly worth it is to decide what your own personal goals are. For some, pursuing a degree may seem an unreachable goal. Enrolling in a master’s in engineering degree program online breaks down that barrier that would hold many students back. By choosing an online concentration, they can advance in their career and actually find a job opportunity that may not have been made available otherwise.

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Types of Engineers and Salary Projections

There are several types of engineers and the range for a Masters in Engineering Salary will depend on the concentration the student chooses to pursue. A master’s engineering salary is only part of the equation. You must also consider the time and effort you will have to put into earning your degree. The most common concentrations and Masters in Engineering Salary projections include:

  • Industrial Engineer $85,880
  • Mechanical Engineer $85,880
  • Electrical Engineer $97,970
  • Software Engineer $100,690
  • Chemical Engineer $102,106
  • Aerospace Engineer $113,030

The list is far from complete with other engineering programs including agricultural engineers, automotive engineers, etc. It’s important to remember that having a bachelor’s degree in engineering is extremely beneficial and will open many doors toward advancement. However, returning to school to earn a Masters in Engineering degree will open up the possibility for management positions that may require a higher degree. The more education and hands-on experience you have, the more money you will make and the more opportunities will be offered to you.

What Type of Engineers Make the Most Money?

Engineering is a career path that requires a strong commitment to the student’s chosen industry. It can mean taking continuing education classes to remain up to date on what is going on within the industry. There are many engineering programs that can put the graduate on the higher end of the wage scale. A few of the more profitable engineering paths include the following:

  • Petroleum Engineer $110,000 to $165,000
  • Nuclear Engineer $99,000 to $140,000
  • Aerospace Engineer $97,000 to $143,000
  • Engineering Managers $91,000 to $140,000
  • Chemical Engineers $90,000 to $140,000

The more profitable the industry, the higher the Master in Engineering salary will be. The more time the graduate dedicates to their education, the more opportunities they will have for advancement. Many of the more complex industries require that employees commit to continuing their education on a yearly basis. This also includes those in management positions.

Is An Online Master of Engineering Worth It?

Earning your Master of Engineering is a huge commitment. Most people who already have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering are already employed and working as an engineer in some capacity. Attending school on campus is an option that many people can’t consider due to having to support their family. It would also cost them the job that is providing them with valuable work experience.

Earning a Masters in engineering degree online provides a viable solution that allows them to continue to work and build a career. At the same time, they are able to enroll in a reputable Master’s in engineering degree within their chosen concentration. They can work towards their degree at their own pace, studying when they have time and taking as many courses as they can handle each semester. The ultimate goal is to continue to work, care for their family, and earn a degree that will allow them to move past where they are and on to a much brighter future.

Knowing what type of engineer makes the most money is a good idea, but in the end, it is up to you to choose a Masters in an engineering program that best suits your passion. After a concentration has been decided upon, the next step is enrolling in an online program that offers the skills and resources that are needed to obtain your degree and move forward. Have a plan in place and set goals for yourself. Once you get started, there will be no more doubts as to whether or not an online Masters degree in engineering is worth it.

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Aya Andrews

Editor-in-Chief

Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.

Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.

In addition to her work as an educator, Aya is a devoted mother who is passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive home environment for her children. She is an active member of her community, volunteering her time and resources to support local schools and organizations. Aya is also an avid traveler, and loves to explore new cultures and cuisines with her family.

With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.

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ValueColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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