Best Online Master’s in Engineering
In a rapidly evolving world in which technology continues to make significant advancements, engineering is an important and lucrative occupation.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an increase of 195,000 new jobs in engineering occupations by 2033. Engineering encompasses a wide array of careers, including computer hardware engineer, environmental engineer, mechanical engineer, nuclear engineer, civil engineer, and industrial engineer. Some occupations such as marine engineer are growing at a faster than average rate. Consequently, an online engineering master’s degree makes you a highly skilled and competitive candidate in today’s job market, including when it comes to management and executive roles.
The Best Online Engineering Programs
University of California, Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students interested in a master's in engineering can earn their degree from University of California, Los Angeles. The master of science in engineering program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on engineering. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in engineering may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of California, Los Angeles at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 12%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Science in Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,442
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,544
5%
$11,442
97%
$26,544
- Acceptance Rate
- 12%
- Students Enrolled
- 44,371
- Institution Type
- Public
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in College Station, Texas A&M University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online engineering program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of engineering in industrial engineering. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in engineering. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
14%
$ 6,677
93%
$18,700
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 68,726
- Institution Type
- Public
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
North Carolina State University, located in Raleigh, enrolls master's students in its online engineering program. The master of science in aerospace engineering builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores engineering research and methodologies. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
North Carolina State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
41%
$ 9,095
94%
$26,421
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 36,304
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Maryland, College Park
- College Park, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in engineering degree at The University of Maryland, College Park prioritizes flexibility. The master of engineering program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in engineering. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program builds on prior engineering experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
The University of Maryland, College Park at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,158
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,250
19%
$13,158
95%
$29,250
- Acceptance Rate
- 44%
- Students Enrolled
- 40,743
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in engineering degree at the University of Wisconsin–Madison uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of engineering in engineering management program. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of engineering. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without an engineering background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Engineering Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,728
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,054
18%
$10,728
95%
$24,054
- Acceptance Rate
- 54%
- Students Enrolled
- 44,257
- Institution Type
- Public
The Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in engineering degree at The Ohio State University, located in Columbus, prioritizes flexibility. The master of engineering management program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in engineering. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The Ohio State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Engineering Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,560
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,144
34%
$11,560
94%
$35,144
- Acceptance Rate
- 54%
- Students Enrolled
- 61,391
- Institution Type
- Public
Louisiana Tech University
- Ruston, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Ruston, Louisiana Tech University offers an online master's in engineering. The master of science in engineering with a concentration in industrial engineering emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants who majored in engineering or a related field for their bachelor's typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Louisiana Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Science in Engineering, Industrial Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,592
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,333
17%
$ 6,592
80%
$13,333
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,510
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of California, Riverside
- Riverside, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of California, Riverside enrolls master's students in its online engineering program. The master of science in engineering in bioengineering helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in engineering. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in engineering.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of California, Riverside at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Science in Engineering in Bioengineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,442
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,544
6%
$11,442
90%
$26,544
- Acceptance Rate
- 57%
- Students Enrolled
- 25,547
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in engineering degree at the University of Arkansas, located in Fayetteville, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of science in engineering program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in engineering. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Arkansas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Science in Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,752
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,032
29%
$ 7,752
84%
$21,032
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 27,559
- Institution Type
- Public
Mississippi State University
- Mississippi State, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in the city of Mississippi State, Mississippi State University offers an online master's in engineering. The master of engineering program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on engineering. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with prior experience in engineering or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Mississippi State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,840
18%
$ 8,800
82%
$23,840
- Acceptance Rate
- 54%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,226
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Platteville, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students seeking an online engineering degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. The master of science in engineering program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of engineering. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The admission requirements include a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,771
18%
$ 7,640
79%
$16,771
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,271
- Institution Type
- Public
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students seeking an online engineering degree can enroll in the master's program at Arizona State University, located in Scottsdale. The master of engineering in engineering management program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in engineering or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 48
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Engineering Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,384
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,384
98%
$6,384
74%
$6,384
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 45,073
- Institution Type
- Public
Case Western Reserve University
- Cleveland, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Case Western Reserve University, located in Cleveland, Ohio, enrolls master's students in its online engineering program. The master of engineering strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to engineering. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in engineering may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Case Western Reserve University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 27%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,524
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,524
8%
$46,524
93%
$46,524
- Acceptance Rate
- 27%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,874
- Institution Type
- Private
The University of Colorado Denver
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students interested in a master's in engineering can earn their degree from the University of Colorado Denver. The master of engineering in mechanical engineering program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Colorado Denver at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,786
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,590
31%
$ 6,786
70%
$22,590
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 24,910
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Illinois Chicago
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Illinois Chicago offers an online master's in engineering. The master of engineering in ai and machine learning program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in engineering. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in engineering.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Illinois at Chicago at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 73%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Engineering in AI and Machine Learning
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,276
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,850
24%
$13,276
79%
$23,850
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,324
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students seeking an online engineering degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of engineering in sustainable smart cities program. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on engineering. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in engineering.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Sustainable Smart Cities
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,100
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
59%
$ 8,100
83%
$19,188
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,080
- Institution Type
- Public
Michigan Technological University
- Houghton, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students interested in a master's in engineering can earn their degree from Michigan Technological University, located in Houghton. The master of science in mechanical engineering program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in engineering. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The admission requirements include a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Michigan Technological University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,511
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,511
9%
$20,511
84%
$20,511
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,027
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Huntsville, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in engineering program, offered by The University of Alabama in Huntsville ranks as a top program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in aerospace systems engineering program. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in engineering. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in engineering.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Alabama in Huntsville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Science in Aerospace Systems Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,632
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,430
33%
$10,632
83%
$24,430
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,988
- Institution Type
- Public
Rowan University
- Glassboro, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Glassboro, New Jersey, Rowan University hosts a top-ranked master's in engineering program. The master of engineering management program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on engineering. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with prior experience in engineering or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Rowan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Engineering Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,879
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,879
34%
$12,879
83%
$12,879
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 19,618
- Institution Type
- Public
Colorado State University
- Fort Collins, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students seeking an online engineering degree can enroll in the master's program at Colorado State University, located in Fort Collins. The master of engineering in civil engineering program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in engineering. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The admission requirements include a background in engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Colorado State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,520
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,791
26%
$10,520
84%
$25,791
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 33,426
- Institution Type
- Public
Best Online Masters
Engineering
2022
Online Engineering Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyChoosing a Program
Earning a degree online allows you to continue to earn your education while continuing to gain hands-on experience as a practitioner in the workforce. Online education is flexible, with many programs allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace. Additionally, online students save time and money by avoiding commutes.
There are many engineering master’s programs online, each of which has its own unique set of features and requirements. Degree requirements will vary based on your area of specialty. Moreover, each school maintains its own admissions and retention guidelines, which likely include minimum grade point average and a specific number of credits required to graduate. You may also need to submit graduate exam scores as part of your admission application.
The classes you will take largely depend on the area of engineering in which you specialize. For instance, many schools offer programs in aerospace, civil, or electrical engineering. Students may consider a concentration in systems engineering, which strengthens abilities in systems analysis, risk management, and accounting and finance.
Professionals in technical and corporate organizations interested in leadership positions may choose a program in engineering management. Engineering management classes include cost and quality control, organizational behavior, and engineering contract management. This specialization prepares students to sit for the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam.
Online Master’s in Engineering Careers
A master’s in engineering affords you the opportunity to enter lucrative STEM positions. However, graduates also have valuable skills in thinking critically, communicating effectively, and working both independently and collaboratively, as well as a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and design. As a result, students who graduate from an online engineering master’s program may also pursue careers in fields such as business or consulting.
- Aerospace Engineer: These engineers design and manufacture aircraft and aerospace products, making certain they comply with safety and environmental standards. Aerospace engineers also perform cost analysis to determine the financial feasibility of projects. An online engineering degree is useful in this occupation because it gives students an in-depth understanding of concepts like propulsion, mechanics, and aerodynamics.
- Median Annual Salary: $130,720
- Projected Growth Rate: 6%
- Top Executive: Leaders in either the for-profit or nonprofit sector, top executives develop the strategies necessary to achieve organizational goals and ensure optimal performance. The role requires a solid understanding of finance, change management, organizational behavior, and general operations. Moreover, it mandates the ability to enact cost-savings plans when necessary.
- Median Annual Salary: $103,840
- Projected Growth Rate: 6%
- Management Analyst: These analysts help improve organizational efficiency. They conduct financial analysis, site observations, and interviews with personnel to make an informed suggestions for new procedures and systems. Earning a master’s in engineering strengthens the analytical and critical thinking skills required in this career.
- Median Annual Salary: $99,410
- Projected Growth Rate: 11%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Header Image Credit: Getty Images
