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Best Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Sunayana Samantaray - May 17, 2022


Having an engineering degree will help set you up for a lucrative career in software engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering, among other engineering fields. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering makes this educational pathway more accessible and affordable. This guide covers all you need to know about the best online engineering bachelor’s degrees.

In this article, you’ll find a list of the top 10 online engineering bachelor’s degrees. We will also cover the best engineering bachelor’s degree jobs. Read on to find the summaries and cost of each program and additional school information to make the best choice for your college degree.

Where Can I Get an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online?

You can get an engineering bachelor’s degree online at many accredited, respected universities. Some of the top universities with online engineering majors are Arizona State University, the University of North Dakota, Florida International University, and Liberty University.

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What Schools Offer the Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees?

  • Arizona State University
  • Liberty University
  • Southern New Hampshire University
  • Florida International University
  • The University of North Dakota

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

The admission requirements for an online engineering bachelor’s degree include a high school transcript, a completed application, and a personal statement. Depending on the particular school, you might also need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Some schools also have a prerequisite of certain math and science courses for admittance into their program.

You will also likely need to secure a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA and submit a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or college counselor to complete your application.

Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

  • 2.0 GPA or higher
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Official school transcripts
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Completed application
  • Personal statement

How to Get an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online

You get an engineering bachelor’s degree online by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. You must complete the required credit hours, which combine courses in engineering and general education and usually include a capstone project. Your required credits will vary from program to program, but the minimum is generally 120 to 124 credit hours.

You might also be able to reduce your credit hours by using your high school transfer credits. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering also requires you to maintain a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA for completion.

Engineering Degree Requirements

  • 120 – 124 credit hours
  • 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA
  • General education courses
  • Engineering technology and core courses
  • Capstone project

Best Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Arizona State University Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Higher Learning Commission
ECPI University Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida International University Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Liberty University Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
National University Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering WASC Senior College and University Commission
Pennsylvania State University Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Southern Illinois University Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology Higher Learning Commission
Southern New Hampshire University Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration Software Engineering New England Commision of Higher Education
University of Arizona Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Higher Learning Commission
University of North Dakota Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Higher Learning Commission

Best Schools for Engineering: Top Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Read on to find the top 10 online engineering bachelor’s degree programs. We have included online engineering programs that cover civil engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, and mechanical engineering. Our list also incorporates the best degrees in the fields of software and hardware engineering.

1

Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University is a top research school established in 1885 that currently offers over 87 programs to its graduate and undergraduate students. According to U.S. News & World Report, Arizona State University is the most innovative national university in 2022 .

Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

This online software engineering degree is best suited for students looking to enter the tech and software engineering field. You can become a software engineer , software developer, or network engineer with this college degree. It covers software design, data structures, programming languages, and algorithms.

For those interested in other online engineering programs, look into the university's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering to find electrical engineering and industrial engineering degree programs.

Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $6,849/semester (in state); $7,986/semester (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 120 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%

Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.5
  • Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
  • Application Fee: $70
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: 16 years of subject competency requirements (e.g., four years of math, etc.)

Applying to Arizona State University

  1. Complete the online application and pay the $70 application fee
  2. File your FAFSA
  3. Send your official ACT or SAT scores
  4. Submit your official transcripts
  5. Check your application status
2

ECPI University

Virginia Beach, Virginia

ECPI University is a private university founded in 1966 that offers reputable online and on-campus educational programs. The school has a total undergraduate enrollment of about 14,000 students. Some of its popular programs include business administration, information assurance, and nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology

According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary of a mechanical engineering technologist is $69,978. This degree can help you qualify for this entry-level job and climb up to higher-paying engineering jobs. It covers applied engineering, machine design, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, engineering technology, and programming.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $8,712/semester
  • Required Credits: 124 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at around 15 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 43%

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $15
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Other Requirements: N/A

Applying to ECPI University

  1. Schedule an appointment with an Admissions Advisor
  2. Complete the online application and pay the $15 application fee
  3. Submit your high school transcript or GED
  4. If applicable, submit official transcripts of any previous university attended
3

Florida International University

Miami, Florida

Best known for its business management and biomedical sciences, Florida International University is a popular research school. It was founded in 1972 and offers advanced degrees covering several branches of engineering. It serves more than 40,000 undergraduate students every year.

Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

If you want to learn electrical engineering and computer programming, then this bachelor's degree is for you. It covers bioengineering, control systems, computer engineering, data system software, and engineering project management.

It focuses on nanotechnology, electromagnetism, and the communication branch of engineering. You will master the technical skills required for electrical engineers and can choose to venture into a computer engineering or hardware engineering job.

Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $7,185.37/year (in state); $10,697.17/year (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 128 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 16 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 67%

Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Florida International University

  1. Complete the online application and pay the application fee
  2. Send academic transcripts and standardized test scores
  3. Apply for financial aid
4

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Liberty University is a private school that offers over 700 degree programs and certification options for its students. It was established in 1971 and has a student population of more than 100,000. It established its online school in the 1980s and currently offers over 450 online programs.

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

If you want to learn civil engineering in an online format and prepare for entry-level engineering positions, then this degree is worth looking into. It covers hydraulic engineering, soil mechanics, transportation engineering, civil engineering technology, concrete structure design, and fluid dynamics. You will gain all the essential engineering skills required for civil engineers.

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $390/credit (full time); $455/credit (part time)
  • Required Credits: 130 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at around 16 to 17 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 54%

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, or CLT
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Other Requirements: Personal essay

Applying to Liberty University

  1. Complete the online application form
  2. Submit your high school diploma or GED
  3. Submit your test scores (currently waived)
  4. Write and submit your essay
  5. Complete your FAFSA form
5

National University

La Jolla, California

National University has a global alumni population of 180,000 and offers over 75 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs. The school was established in 1971 and is popular for its cybersecurity, criminal justice, education, and technology majors.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for electrical engineers is projected to grow by 7 percent between 2020 and 2030. This online computer engineering degree will help you advance your career in the electronics and hardware engineering field. You will study topics such as applied engineering, object-oriented design, circuit analysis, and embedded systems.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
  • Tuition: $370/credit
  • Required Credits: 180 credits
  • Program Length: 12 semesters at 15 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.0 (students with a lower GPA can petition acceptance)
  • Standardized Tests: Optional SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: $60
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Placement test if no college-level math or English courses

Applying to National University

  1. Complete the online application form
  2. Submit your high school transcript
  3. Take the placement test, if required
  4. Complete your FAFSA form
6

Pennsylvania State University

University Park, Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania State University is a public school that specializes in research education and offers over 275 undergraduate majors. According to US News & World Report, Pennsylvania State University holds a ranking of 21 in the best undergraduate engineering programs .

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

This online engineering degree program covers object-oriented programming, software engineering technology, software design, system security, and statistics. With this online degree, graduates can land positions like project manager, software developer, or computer engineer. A career in software engineering offers a lucrative salary and strong job security.

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition: $590 or $632/credit (maxing at $7,169 or $7,738/semester respectively)
  • Required Credits: 126 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 or 16 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.7 (if less than 45 transferable credits)
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $65
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: English proficiency

Applying to Pennsylvania State University

  1. Complete the online application and pay the fee
  2. Send your official transcripts and other documents to the admissions office
  3. Take an English proficiency exam, if required
7

Southern Illinois University

Carbondale, Illinois

Southern Illinois University was founded in 1869 and offers over 200 programs for its on-campus and online students. The school serves about 8,000 undergraduate students. Some of its popular majors include marketing, education, and engineering technology.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology

This electrical engineering program covers circuit theory, electromagnetic fields, digital control systems, electrical design, electronics engineering, and network theory. You can also apply transferable credits from an engineering associate degree toward this bachelor’s degree program.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $321.25/credit
  • Required Credits: 120 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 48%

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.0
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: $40
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Southern Illinois University

  1. Complete your online application
  2. Submit your official transcripts
  3. Submit your ACT or SAT scores
8

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

With over 200 programs online and in-person, Southern New Hampshire University is a top online school. It was established in 1932 and currently has an online student enrollment of 135,000. SNHU prides itself on offering a high-quality, low-cost online education and has not raised its tuition rates in over a decade.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Software Engineering

This tech and engineering degree prepares you for a wide range of lucrative careers including cyber crime analytics, software development, or information assurance. Major courses in the program cover operating systems, computer-aided design, system architecture, and UX/UI design and development.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Software Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition: $320/credit
  • Required Credits: 120 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: N/A

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

  1. Contact an SNHU admissions counselor
  2. Complete the free online application
  3. Submit your official transcript
  4. Complete your FAFSA application
  5. Check your application status
9

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona was founded in 1885 and currently offers over 300 majors for its online and on-campus students. The school has a total student population of almost 50,000. It has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1 and has an extensive research department.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

This bachelor's degree will help you master software and hardware engineering technology. It covers the primary topic areas of computer engineering, circuit theory, and microprocessor organization. Students enrolled in this program learn data structures, engineering economy, electric circuits, C programming, and software development.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $600/credit
  • Required Credits: 128 credit hours
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 16 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 65%

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: $50 for Arizona residents and $80 for non-residents
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Optional personal statement, core coursework requirements

Applying to University of Arizona

  1. Complete the online application
  2. Submit your official transcripts
  3. Submit your SAT or ACT scores
  4. Complete your FAFSA form
  5. Complete the enrollment interview
10

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a public national university that was founded in 1883. The school is home to over 13,000 students and offers robust research and technology programs. Students can choose from almost 400 programs covering applied engineering, business administration, psychology, and other fields.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

This mechanical engineering degree is online but requires students to visit the university campus for one to two weeks during the summer to complete the degree’s lab requirements. Its curriculum covers the basics of electrical engineering, fluid mechanics, mechanical engineering technology and design, and machinery design. It will help students master the engineering skills required for jobs as mechanical engineers and hardware engineers.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $643.95/credit
  • Required Credits: 128 credits
  • Program Length: 8 semesters at 16 credits per semester
  • Learning Format: 100% online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.75 or higher recommended
  • Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (waived through summer 2023)
  • Application Fee: $35
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Prerequisite course requirements

Applying to University of North Dakota

  1. Submit the online application and pay the fee
  2. Submit your official high school transcript or GED certification
  3. Check your application status

What Is an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

An online engineering bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate program that covers software or hardware engineering disciplines. Depending on your choice of programs in engineering, you can become a hardware engineer, mechanical engineer, software engineer, biomedical engineer, or electronics engineer.

Your online school curriculum will vary by focus, but the general credit hour requirement for this degree ranges from between 120 and 130 credit hours. Some of the more common engineering courses include calculus, system design, physics, and computer engineering.

Online vs In-Person Engineering Degrees

The benefits of online versus in-person engineering degrees vary depending on your learning preferences and preferred career outcomes. Below are the top five benefits of these types of degrees.

Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

  • More software-oriented. Your online engineering bachelor’s degree may be limited to software-based engineering programs. These programs are best suited for online learners wanting to learn engineering technology, systems, and project management. The best engineering majors to get online include software engineering, or mechanical or electrical engineering technology.
  • More affordable. Getting an online bachelor’s degree is an affordable option as you can avoid on-campus residential and campus costs. You can also save on transportation costs.
  • Flexible schedule. Online degrees are designed to provide schedule flexibility for college students. You can set your class schedule to accommodate your other personal or work commitments.
  • Best suited for busy professionals. An online engineering degree is a great option for busy individuals. You can plan your classes and studies around your professional and personal life.
  • Convenient and safe. An online degree offers safe distance education for those wanting to become software or computer engineers. You can take the classes from your desired location.

Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

  • More lab and practical experience opportunities. In-person engineering degrees are apt for those wanting to become petroleum engineers, industrial engineers, or chemical engineers. Your in-person college education will incorporate the ample lab and hands-on experience required for these fields.
  • More options for programs. In-person degrees are the academic standard across most industries. This means your school search process for an in-person engineering degree will be easier and contain more options.
  • Fixed schedules. If you learn best under fixed schedules and in a classroom setting, then you will benefit from an in-person degree.
  • Traditional reputation. The engineering discipline encompasses a wide range of hardware and software engineering fields. If you want to get a degree in civil, petroleum, chemical, or mechanical engineering, then a traditional in-person degree might be a better choice for future job prospects
  • Personal interaction. If you prefer studying in a group and networking, then consider an in-person degree. On-campus programs provide access to extracurricular activities too.

What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Engineering?

There are two primary types of online bachelor’s degrees you can get in engineering: a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Applied Engineering. You can also choose to get a Bachelor of Engineering in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering via an in-person program. Your tuition and program curriculum will vary according to your choice of engineering major.

Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Engineering in Engineering?

It is better to get a Bachelor of Science if you want a more familiar degree type that offers majors covering both software and hardware engineering fields. Your Bachelor of Science program might involve the fields of computer engineering, software engineering, or engineering project management.

It is better to get a Bachelor of Applied Engineering if you want to specialize in mechanical or electrical engineering technologies.

How Much Does an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

The cost of an engineering bachelor’s degree will depend on the school’s tuition rate. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost for a four-year degree in 2019-2020 was $35,331.

NCES further reports that the average cost for a four-year public school was $25,487 for in-state students, $53,217 for private nonprofit universities, and $35,125 for private for-profit universities. Living off-campus or taking an online degree program will affect these averages.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online?

It takes about four years to get an engineering bachelor’s degree online. Most engineering degrees require you to complete 120 to 130 credit hours, meaning that you can take 15 or 16 credits per semester to complete your degree in four years.

However, it can take more than four years to complete your degree, especially for students enrolled in more flexible online programs.

Are Online Engineering Degrees Respected?

Yes, online engineering degrees are respected as they meet the same academic standards and offer the same credibility as in-person degrees. However, the job acceptance of more hands-on engineering disciplines, like civil and chemical engineering, might be slightly lower if the program was taken online.

Computer and software engineering degrees are a better bet for the online format, as they can seamlessly cover all of the curricula online.

Is Engineering Hard to Learn Online?

Yes, engineering is hard to learn online, mostly for the same reasons that it is hard to learn in person. Engineering can be a difficult field to master, requiring focused attention and extensive expertise in math and science subjects. Students can increase their chances of success by polishing their technical skills and completing ample practice assignments.

Engineering Bootcamp vs Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

An engineering bootcamp is better if you want to get a job in the field as quickly as possible, as bootcamps offer specialized short-term education. Though an online bachelor’s degree takes longer to complete, it offers an extensive education that offers you better chances of landing high-paying jobs and career advancement opportunities. Below are the top five benefits of online bachelor’s degrees versus bootcamps in engineering.

Top 5 Benefits of an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

  • The industry-standard academic requirement. An online bachelor’s degree in engineering meets the industry-standard academic requirement. You will be eligible for a wide range of entry-level engineering jobs.
  • Higher annual wage. A bachelor’s degree opens the pathway to a higher annual wage than a bootcamp does. You can apply to entry-to-mid-level jobs by pairing your degree with industry certifications and professional projects.
  • Extensive coverage of the subject. Your four years of engineering education provide extensive coverage of the subject. You will get a well-rounded general and technical education.
  • More career possibilities. The career possibilities with your online engineering degree are ample. You can apply for mechanical, software, computer, environmental, or civil engineering jobs.
  • A strong reputation. A bachelor’s degree offers an industry-standard education and is widely accepted. It provides you with a highly credible and reputable education, making your job search easier.

Top 5 Benefits of an Engineering Bootcamp

  • Short-term education. An engineering bootcamp is best for students looking to commit a few weeks to a few months to their education. You can get a specialized engineering tech education in this short timeframe.
  • Software education. A bootcamp education is best suited for aspiring software or computer engineers. It does not prepare you for licensure requirements that come with civil, mechanical, or industrial engineering. You can master software engineering and computer programming through a bootcamp.
  • Potential job guarantees. There are several top coding bootcamps that offer a six-month job guarantee. These bootcamps will help you secure a career in engineering.
  • Affordability. Compared to online degree programs, bootcamps offer a more affordable education option. You can use the bootcamp’s installment, loan financing, or deferred payment plans to fund your education.
  • Extensive career services. Several bootcamps offer in-depth career services programs that cover resume critique and interview prep. They also offer ample networking opportunities to increase your chances of landing a great engineering job.

Why You Should Get an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online

You should get an engineering bachelor’s degree online if you prefer an educational pathway that is flexible and more affordable. You might also choose an online engineering degree if you want to build a career in the software engineering or engineering management fields.

What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Engineering?

An online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering covers a wide range of courses. Your courses will differ according to the choice of your engineering program. Below are five of the most common courses an online engineering degree will offer.

Physics

STEM fields are a common course requirement across all engineering majors. Your bachelor’s degree will include many physics courses. These courses will cover electromagnetism, dynamics, and gravitational theories.

Mathematics

Mathematics is another common engineering course, including calculus, differential equations, numerical methods, and statistics. The level of math requirements will vary depending on your engineering major.

Computer Programming

Whether your focus is software, computer, or mechanical engineering, the program will incorporate basic computer programming courses. You will learn C programming, software programming, and computer systems.

Engineering Management

Project management is a common element across engineering professions. You will learn IT, software, or project management specific to your engineering major.

Software Engineering

For those who choose to major in software or computer-based engineering disciplines, software engineering courses will be part of the curriculum. These programs cover system security, programming languages, and software development.

Continuing Education Paths for Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

The continuing education paths for online engineering bachelor’s degree graduates can include pursuing a master’s degree , a PhD, or earning industry certifications. Career advancement is possible via CompTIA+ security certifications and machine-learning engineering certifications. Doctorate programs allow specialization in various engineering research topics.

Related Online Engineering Degrees

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What to Look For in the Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Look for tuition rates, the program curriculum, and career outcomes when choosing the best engineering bachelor’s degree program for yourself. Below are the main criteria to consider when selecting your ideal degree program.

Program Tuition Rates

Choose a degree program that offers a tuition rate that matches your financial needs. Get in touch with the school’s admissions team to inquire about any financial aid, payment plans, or scholarships to aid your tuition costs.

Program Curriculum

Engineering is a broad discipline. It is crucial to choose a field that resonates with your career and personal goals. Look into the program curriculum and choose the school that offers the courses of your choice.

School Reputation

Attending a university with a good reputation can help you advance your career or land your dream job. A bachelor’s degree is a big investment of time and money, so making your resume and professional portfolio stronger by attending a respected school is something to consider.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements are another key factor to keep in mind. Consider things like prerequisite courses and standardized test scores to help guarantee your admittance into the program of your choice.

Graduation Rate

Choosing a school with a high graduation rate will help ensure your degree completion. This indicates that other students didn’t find obstacles to their graduation, so you likely won’t either.

What Is the Most Affordable Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

The most affordable online engineering bachelor’s degree is offered by Southern New Hampshire University for a total program cost of about $36,000. The program costs $300 per credit and requires you to complete 120 credit hours.

Can I Get an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?

No, you cannot get an engineering bachelor’s degree online for free. Bachelor’s degrees are four-year advanced degrees, and all universities charge tuition for this education. However, you can learn some software, computer, or machine-learning engineering for free through online courses or videos. Look up courses on Udemy or Coursera to find ample free options.

Salary and Job Outlook for Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

A female engineer is surrounded by electrical equipment as she types into a laptop
An online engineering bachelor’s degree can help you build a lucrative career across the fields of hardware or software engineering.

Online engineering bachelor’s degrees open career possibilities across IT, software, and hardware engineering fields. The salary and job outlook for an engineering job will vary according to your major and job designation.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

It is not very hard to get a job with an engineering bachelor’s degree. The well-rounded education provided by an online engineering bachelor’s degree offers the skills required to succeed at entry-level engineering jobs. You can become a software engineer, mechanical engineer, civil engineer, or chemical engineer using your bachelor’s degree.

The success rate of your finding an engineering job after graduation depends partly on your GPA, technical skills, resume, and professional portfolio.

What’s the Average Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average salary for an online engineering bachelor’s degree holder is $87,000, according to PayScale. However, your specific salary will vary according to your specific job designation, company, and technical skills.

What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

You can get a wide range of jobs with an online engineering bachelor’s degree, including software engineer, machine-learning engineer, or data engineer. You can also become an electrical engineer or an engineer project manager.

Engineering Degree Jobs

  • Software Engineer
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Network Security Engineer
  • Database Engineer
  • Engineering Project Manager

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

You can make between $53,000 and $90,000 with an online engineering bachelor’s degree. Your annual wage will vary according to your company, state of employment, and job designation.

Highest-Paying Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Average Salary
Hardware Engineers $128,170
Software Engineers $110,140
Engineering Project Administrators $102,450
Electronics Engineers $100,420
Database Engineers $88,115

Best Jobs for Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Grads

Below are some of the best jobs for online engineering bachelor’s degree graduates. These jobs cover hardware and software engineering career possibilities.

1

Hardware Engineers

Average Salary: $128,170

Hardware engineers work with computer components, electronic circuits, and network systems. They are responsible for designing, maintaining, and improving the hardware systems of technical systems.

2

Software Engineers

Average Salary: $110,140

Software engineers are tech professionals responsible for engineering computer software systems. They are in charge of security, software development, and maintenance aspects of an organization’s software programs.

3

Engineering Project Administrators

Average Salary: $102,450

Your bachelor’s degree can jumpstart your engineering management career. An engineering project administrator assists a manager to execute project requirements, delegate tasks, and approve milestones.

4

Electronics Engineers

Average Salary: $100,420

Electronics engineers fall under the electrical engineering field and develop the hardware and electrical components of computer and communication systems. These professionals work with circuits and computer hardware.

5

Database Engineers

Average Salary: $88,115

Database engineers work with data scientists and database administrators to develop an efficient data storage system. They also engineer, design, and upgrade databases to increase data storage and access productivity.

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Is an Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

Yes, an online engineering bachelor’s degree is worth it for students wanting to pursue software or other computer-based engineering careers. Your bachelor’s degree can help you land high-paying jobs across the information technology, cyber security, and data science fields. An in-person bachelor’s degree is better for those looking to major in mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering.

Additional Reading About Engineering

On Career Karma, discover the top ten colleges offering online engineering degrees in the United States.

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On Career Karma, discover the top ten colleges offering online engineering degrees in the United States.

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On Career Karma, discover the top ten colleges offering online engineering degrees in the United States.

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Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ

What fields does an online engineering bachelor’s degree cover?

An online engineering bachelor’s degree can cover software engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering technology, and engineering management fields.

What types of jobs can I get with an online engineering bachelor’s degree?

You can land a wide range of jobs with an online engineering bachelor’s degree, including software engineer, database engineer, machine-learning engineer, or computer engineer.

What are the best online engineering bachelor’s majors?

The best online bachelor’s majors in engineering cover software and computer-based engineering fields. You can major in software engineering, computer engineering, or engineering technology.

What courses do online engineering bachelor’s degrees cover?

Online engineering bachelor’s degrees cover mathematics, physics, computer programming, software engineering, and software systems courses.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.

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Sunayana Samantaray

About the author: Sunayana, a certified Executive Coach by the International Association of Professions Career College, is an experienced content writer. She has written about topics such as career changes, education, tech, sustainability, business, and data science. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in International Business and Human Resource Management from the University of Oklahoma.

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