Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Updated June 2, 2023
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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 a 7% increase in employment in engineering occupations by 2026. 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
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#4 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Maryland, College Park
College Park, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#5 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Wisconsin–Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#7 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#8 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#9 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#10 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#11 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#12 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#13 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#15 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#16 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#17 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#18 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#19 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#20 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
Online Engineering Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Engineering Programs
Choosing 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: $109,650
- 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: $103,950
- Projected Growth Rate: 8%
- 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: $81,330
- Projected Growth Rate: 12%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
See also: What can I do with an Automotive Technology degree?
Header Image Credit: Getty Images
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