Key Takeaways:
- The top 10 affordable online engineering programs include Daytona State College and Eastern New Mexico University, offering diverse options.
- Criteria for selection involved regional/national accreditation, rankings, and affordability, ensuring quality education within budget constraints.
- These online programs from reputable universities equip students with engineering skills for various niches within the industry.
In this article, we profile the top 10 affordable online engineering programs. These are online bachelor’s degree programs.
Engineers play an essential role in our busy lives. Engineers are to be thanked for creating everything from airports to appliances. This profession also has a favorable job outlook and offers competitive salaries. But you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree to become an engineer. Today, online options are plentiful for earning an engineering degree. Some of the nation’s top colleges and universities offer online engineering credentials. These academic offerings are designed to equip students for careers in every engineering niche. These colleges can help you maximize the ROI of your engineering degree, which is already one of the five highest ROI majors.
Featured Programs
Top 10 Affordable Online Engineering Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 106 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered online engineering programs at the undergraduate level. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordability. We selected schools with a combined tuition price of less than $10,000 annually. We then listed the best online engineering degrees according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 10 best online engineering programs.
#1 – Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology
Daytona State College offers the most affordable online engineering degree on our list. For just over $3,000 per year, students may earn engineering degrees online at Daytona State. The engineering technology program offers a BS in engineering technology or a BS degree with a concentration in electrical engineering technology. Enrolled students take courses from the online school that cover topics like:
- construction materials and methods
- engineering quality assurance
- programmable logic applications and devices
- project management
- computer science
Daytona State ranks with major publications like U.S. News as a top regional college in the South. Its online bachelor’s programs rank #29 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
Undergraduate Tuition: $3,106
#2 – Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New Mexico
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Program- Electronics
One of the top online schools for engineering, Eastern New Mexico University, offers an online engineering degree in electronics engineering technology. This fully online program is ideal for those seeking engineering degrees online. The program is designed for individuals with a strong mathematical background who want to pursue careers in electronics engineering. Graduates of the program have qualified for engineering jobs in:
- computers
- electronics
- industrial control
- manufacturing and testing
Eastern New Mexico University ranks with major publications like U.S. News. Recent rankings include #87-#113 in best regional universities in the West and #72 in top performers on social mobility. Financial aid may be available, even for students pursuing online degrees.
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,648
#3 – Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Online Engineering Program (Bachelor of Science)
Kennesaw State University offers two engineering degrees online in industrial and systems engineering and industrial engineering technology. For less than $6,500 per year, engineering students may earn bachelor’s degrees in these two engineering disciplines. Also, within the industrial and systems engineering bachelor’s programs, students may further tailor their degree toward a successful career by completing a 28-credit-hour concentration. The total of the credits required for the degree is 127. Aside from offering affordable programs, Kennesaw is fully accredited and ranked by major publications. In fact, Kennesaw ranks with U.S. News as the 293rd-381st best national university and 72nd most innovative school.
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,436
#4 – Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Degree Online
Florida International University has two possibilities for those searching for an online engineering degree at the undergraduate level. The online bachelor’s in computer engineering or electrical engineering is offered to students online. These programs prepare students for entry into graduate school programs. Both programs require the completion of 128 credits. Admission requires official high school transcripts, competitive grades, and official SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students with less than 60 transferable credits must also submit test scores for admission consideration for this engineering degree online. FIU ranks with U.S. News as the 218th best national university, 63rd most innovative school, and 12th top performer on social mobility. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges institutionally accredited the university. This is one of the best engineering degree programs in terms of tuition costs.
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
#5 – American Military University
Charles Town, West Virginia
Online Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
The American Military University offers online engineering degrees for undergraduates pursuing a focus in electrical engineering. The BSEE program can be completed entirely online. The online engineering program consists of 128 credits and eight-week courses. These courses cover topics like:
- electrical circuit analysis
- electrical engineering fundamentals
- introduction to electrical engineering
- measurements and instrumentation
AMU is a branch of the APU (American Public University) system. The school ranks with major publications like U.S. News as a top regional university in the South. Also, many of the school’s online graduate degrees have received rankings. In fact, the online bachelor’s in engineering program serves as entry into a graduate engineering program. Interested students should consider applying for financial aid.
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,360
#6 – Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Degrees
One of the best online colleges for engineering, Lamar University offers three online engineering degrees at the undergraduate level. Students may earn bachelor’s degrees in an engineering discipline such as:
- electrical engineering
- industrial engineering
- industrial technology
These accredited online programs are either delivered entirely online or in a hybrid format, making them ideal for working professionals. Plus, all online courses are taught by Lamar’s experienced faculty. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report fully accredited and recognized all programs. In fact, both Lamar and its online programs are ranked by U.S. News. Current rankings include #293-#381 in best national universities and #335 in top performers on social mobility. The online bachelor’s programs rank #171 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited Lamar University at an institutional level.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,690
#7 – University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering
For less than $9,000 annually, students may earn one of the best online engineering degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi. In fact, the school offers an online bachelor’s in industrial engineering technology with or without a focus in logistics. The online bachelor’s program is fully accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET. Online courses cover topics like:
- electrical systems
- engineering economics
- industrial cost control
- industrial quality control
- operations and logistics concepts
In addition to being fully accredited, USM ranks with major publications like U.S. News as a top national university. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to offer an engineering degree.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,204
#8 – Bemidji State University
Bemidji, Minnesota
Online Bachelor’s in Applied Engineering
One of the most affordable online engineering programs on our list is the online bachelor’s in applied engineering at Bemidji State University. This ATMAE-accredited online degree program costs less than $9,000 per year. It is open to applicants with a certificate, diploma, or two-year degree in a related discipline. Transfer credits are also accepted. In fact, students may transfer up to 38 technical credits from a community college or university. Some of the required courses online students will likely take while enrolled in the applied engineering program include:
- operations planning and control
- safety and risk management
- sustainability and emerging technologies
- materials science
Bemidji State ranks with U.S. News as the 92nd best regional university in the Midwest. Financial aid is available for qualified students.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,806
#9 – Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Online Bachelor’s in Engineering
Indiana State University’s online engineering degrees include bachelor’s programs in areas like:
- electronic engineering technology
- engineering technology management
- mechanical engineering technology
These engineering majors can be completed entirely online with classes taught by the same ISU faculty who instruct on campus. For admission to any bachelor’s in engineering online programs, applicants must hold an AS degree or have completed specific classes at ISU. For example, the electronics engineering technology program requires the completion of an AS or AAS in electronics technology or completing 24 credits in courses like AC circuits, digital computer circuits, and intro to electronics. Indiana State University ranks with U.S. News as a top national university.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,598
#10 – University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Online Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering
One of our top engineering schools, the University of North Dakota, offers several online engineering programs. These are undergraduate degree options designed with access and affordability in mind. For less than $10,000 per year, online students may earn bachelor’s degrees in engineering majors like:
- chemical engineering
- civil engineering
- geological engineering
- mechanical engineering
- systems engineering
These programs may be completed entirely online and serve as preparation for admission to graduate engineering programs for a master’s degree in engineering management. But the University of North Dakota is not only known for the quality of its engineering degrees online. It is also ranked among major publications like the U.S. News and the World Report. In fact, UND ranks #263 in best national universities and #128 in top public schools. Also, its online master’s in engineering ranks among the top 70 programs in the country. Check out our article on systems engineering degrees if that interests you.
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,596
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an engineering credential?
Engineering is one of the most popular majors for finding full-time work after graduation. Engineering professionals work in various engineering fields and industries. They are responsible for designing and developing products that improve systems, functions, and manufacturing. High salaries and favorable job outlooks attract engineering students. However, there are many engineering degrees available for different occupations. Here’s a look at possible careers you can have with an engineering credential.
Computer Engineer
These types of engineers typically work in research laboratories. They design, develop, research, and test computer systems and hardware components. As a computer engineer, you will likely work in design or manufacturing. An earned bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from an accredited program and school is required for these engineering careers.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers work in industries that research, develop, test, and design the manufacture of electrical equipment. They are trained in math, science, and engineering, and hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.
Industrial Engineer
These types of engineers are often responsible for observing a problem in manufacturing. They then work to solve that problem through the implementation of efficient systems. To become an industrial engineer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a strong background in math and science.
Mechanical Engineer
These engineers build, test, design, and develop mechanical sensors for devices. They often work in labs or offices, occasionally visiting manufacturing sites when a specific piece of equipment has a problem.
What is the job outlook in engineering?
The job outlook and labor demand for engineers vary by specialty. While most skilled engineers will see bright job prospects, others may find specific fields more challenging to break into. The job outlook for all engineering occupations will be favorable and steady for the next several years. In fact, employment of engineers is expected to grow 4% through 2031.
With an engineering credential, the likelihood of finding a job is high. This is true for online and on-campus programs. Still, earning a degree in a specialty, such as mechanical engineering or sales engineering, will add expertise and skill to your resumé. Employment for sales engineers is projected to grow by six percent by 2028 and by four percent for mechanical engineers.
The job outlook for other specialties in engineering is also favorable and steady. Electrical and electronics engineers should see two percent employment growth, and industrial engineers should expect eight percent growth.
As companies expand their technologies and introduce innovations to automate production and improve processes, engineers of all kinds will be needed. Industrial and manufacturing engineers may have the best prospects for employment.
Earning an engineering degree with a specialization or concentration will give you more credentials and skills valued by employers.
What specializations are there in engineering degree programs?
There are many specializations one may choose from while earning an engineering degree. The most popular specializations are computer software engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, engineering management, and mechanical engineering. But there are lucrative fields of engineering that require training in other specialties. Below are potential specializations for those earning an engineering degree.
Civil engineering: Civil engineers are responsible for designing and supervising the construction of certain infrastructures. Examples include roadways, tunnels, and bridges. The degree requires the study of mathematics, physical science, and a strong foundation in engineering applications and technologies. Check out our ranking of great master’s in civil engineering degrees.
Computer engineering: Majoring in computer engineering means taking math and computer science classes. A computer engineer designs and implements the bridge between software and hardware.
Electrical or electronics engineering: Electrical/ electronics engineers design, develop, and test the manufacture of electrical equipment. A bachelor’s degree with a strong math, science, and technology foundation is required.
Industrial engineering: This specialization focuses on implementing and designing efficient systems, which integrate people and machines to make products or services.
Mechanical engineering: Mechanical engineers build and design mechanical sensors and devices for equipment, products, and manufacturing. While mechanical engineers need a bachelor’s degree, they must also be licensed.
What is an online engineering degree worth?
As with job outlook, salaries for individuals with an engineering degree vary by occupation and industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average annual wage for all engineering occupations is $99,040. This is more than double the median salary for all workers. However, this number fluctuates by specialty and occupation.
We examined several types of engineers and listed their median annual pay. This number was gathered using the most recent information provided by BLS.
According to the BLS, petroleum engineers earned a median annual wage of $130,850 as of May 2021. The highest ten percent of this occupation earned more than $208,000, while the lowest ten percent earned approximately $79,000.
Industrial engineers earned a median annual pay of $95,300. The highest ten percent of earners earned $129,620, while the lowest ten percent earned approximately $61,000. However, specific industries paid their industrial engineers higher wages. These industries include professional, scientific, and technical services and computer and electronic product manufacturing.
The average annual wage for mechanical engineers is comparable to that of industrial engineers. At over $95,000 annually, mechanical engineers earn a steady income and enjoy a favorable job outlook.
Other occupations and earnings in the engineering field include:
Materials engineers: $98,300
Nuclear engineers: $120,380
What are the admission requirements for engineering schools?
Admission requirements for engineering degree programs are generally the same. Most undergraduate engineering programs require a high school diploma with a competitive GPA; SAT or ACT scores are also typically required. However, top-ranked online schools and programs may require additional admission criteria.
A strong GPA is necessary to make your application stand out against the competition. Some of the nation’s top engineering schools ask for a 3.50 GPA or better. Other programs may have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.30.
But beyond high school requirements and standard admission to a college or university, engineering schools may only admit students after completing at least one year of college coursework. In fact, some engineering programs require evaluation of two years of college coursework before offering admission. Coursework and grades will be evaluated. Students will be required to take foundational classes in math, science, and technology. However, some computer science courses may be necessary, especially for those pursuing computer engineering or software engineering.
Other admission requirements may include work history or research experience, letters of recommendation from a school counselor and teachers, and a well-written letter of intent or purpose (also known as the college essay).
CVO Staff
Sources
- National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
- US News & World Report: Best Colleges
- Best Online Colleges
- Best Online Community Colleges
- Best Accredited Online Colleges
- Online Geology Degree Programs
- Bachelor’s Mining Engineering
- Online Renewable Energy Degree Programs
- Online Information Technology Degrees (Bachelor’s)
This concludes our list of the top 10 affordable online engineering degree programs.