Becoming a professional engineer begins with the crucial practical skills that are gained through advanced degree programs at some of the best civil engineering schools. The cheapest online civil engineering degrees can also be some of the best in terms of quality education, featuring flexible virtual courses that do not require an on-campus presence.
The most affordable online civil engineering degree programs in the US are offered by some of the most renowned national universities. Continue reading for all you need to know about the best online programs for civil engineering students, including the cheapest online schools and their institutional rankings, tuition rates, and credit requirements.
Can I Get a Civil Engineering Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a civil engineering degree online. In recent years, many prestigious civil engineering schools have started offering associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees, as well as graduate certificate programs online to students.
Why Should I Get a Civil Engineering Degree Online?
You should get a civil engineering degree online because you can complete it from the comfort of your own home with a flexible schedule that works for you and your needs. With the development of virtual learning platforms and courses that are taught through video streaming, many programs’ graduation requirements can easily be completed within two to three years.
Like an on-campus student studying to become a civil engineer, in an online program, you will also develop key critical thinking skills, project management, and team management skills on top of advanced subjects like physics, statistics, and mathematics.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online civil engineering degree programs in the US include the Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science from Columbus State Community College, Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering Technology from Idaho State University, and Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Indiana State University.
Cheapest Civil Engineering Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science from Columbus State Community College
- Associate of Applied Science Civil Engineering Technology from Idaho State University
- Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Indiana State University
- Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Louisiana State University
- Master of Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University
How Much Does an Online Engineering Degree Cost?
An online civil engineering degree costs between $8,000 to $20,000 on average per year, depending on the university. The total cost of online undergraduate and graduate programs will vary with each university due to various factors, such as resident versus non-resident tuition rates, transfer credits policies, and differing graduation requirements.
Will Getting a Civil Engineering Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, an online degree will save you money. By enrolling in a university for civil engineering online rather than on campus, you’ll save on accommodation, transportation, and other miscellaneous fees. Many online engineering degree programs are considerably less expensive than on-campus degrees but equal in quality. Many have very high program rankings.
Online Civil Engineering Programs vs In-Person Civil Engineering Programs
The best online civil engineering programs are practically equal to in-person engineering programs. In fact, the benefit of online civil engineering degree programs is that they are generally cheaper than traditional on-campus degrees without requiring your campus presence.
Benefits of an Online Civil Engineering Degree
- Cheaper tuition. Online programs at civil engineering schools are often priced lower than in-person civil engineering degrees, even though the degree is considered the same quality.
- Lower costs. Students often relocate to a different city or state to attend in-person courses at civil engineering schools. By attending an online degree program, you will save significantly on relocation and transportation costs.
- Work and study. Online programs tend to offer students the ability to create their own schedules. This can be used to your benefit as you may be able to entertain other commitments, such as a job while you’re pursuing your degree.
- Flexible schedules. With the benefit of flexible schedules, you can complete prerequisite courses and fulfill program credit requirements at your own pace. Many online degrees can be completed within two to three years or less.
- Online student support. Due to the lack of face-to-face interaction, the best national universities and civil engineering schools provide student support programs that allocate virtual appointments that allow students to interact with their instructors and receive the support they need.
Benefits of In-Person Civil Engineering Degree Programs
- Structured learning. Flexibility works for many, but some students tend to burn themselves out or procrastinate while enrolled in a degree program. In-person degrees lock the students in a predetermined outline that can be a better fit for structured learning.
- Making connections. The best part of an in-person degree is the connections you can make while completing it. Those you meet in a program will often be the ones you’ll be working with in the industry, so networking is a huge benefit of attending an in-person program.
- Collaborative work. The time it takes to connect via digital methods like email can lead to delays. Physically sitting down and interacting with classmates can often lead to quicker solutions to tasks and important skills like teamwork and communication are enhanced.
- Personalized faculty support. The rapport you build with faculty over the course of the degree will be beneficial when you’re working in the industry. A good relationship can lead to letters of recommendation and work or extracurricular opportunities.
- On-campus facilities. One of the benefits of in-person degrees is that the campus will often have access to expensive equipment and resources that aren’t possible for you to access on your own in an online program.
Online Civil Engineering Degree Career Options
You will have access to the same civil engineering career opportunities as an in-person degree with your online degree, as long as the university is accredited. As an interdisciplinary option, some programs may allow you to take courses in multiple fields of engineering, from mechanical engineering to construction engineering and management.
Below you’ll find information about the job outlook in the civil engineering field.
Civil Engineering Job Outlook
The expected job growth is eight percent by 2030 for the civil engineering field, with roughly 25,000 job openings added each year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Civil engineer positions are spread throughout different industries, such as the private airline and construction industries, and public sector industries including urban planning, bridge, and interstate work.
Civil Engineering Salary
According to BLS, the average annual salary is $88,050 for civil engineers. The highest-earning positions are those that are employed by the federal government, with an average salary of $100,730 per year.
Can I Enroll in an Online Civil Engineering Program for Free?
No, there are no free online engineering programs that you can currently enroll in. However, the benefit of enrolling in an online civil engineering program is that you have flexible hours. You can use that flexibility to work part-time and help fund your education, which is considerably cheaper compared to an in-person program.
In addition to working while studying, there are many schools with tuition aid programs, such as scholarships, grants, and federal student aid. These financial aid options can help support tuition costs, with some scholarships covering full tuition.
Cheapest Online Civil Engineering Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus State Community College | Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science | $168/credit (in state) $343/credit (out of state) |
| Louisiana State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management | $379/credit |
| Kennesaw State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) | $383/credit |
| Iowa State University | Online Masters Degree in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering | $484/credit (in state) $1,192/credit (out of state) |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Master of Civil Engineering (MCE) | $505/credit (in state) $1,572/credit (out of state) |
| Mississippi State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | $514/credit |
| University of Idaho | Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering | $554/credit |
| University of North Dakota | Civil Engineering B.S. | $631/credit |
| Kansas State University | Civil Engineering Master’s Degree | $800/credit |
| Idaho State University | Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering Technology | $15,744 total cost |
Civil Engineering Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Programs
We chose the most affordable civil engineering degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Civil Engineering Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Columbus State Community College was founded in 1963 as a public institution, and now serves over 45,000 students. This community college is best known for its generous acceptance rate and open enrollment policy.
The Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science offered at Columbus State Community College is a great program for prospective civil engineers. It teaches the foundational skills and knowledge required for a successful career in civil engineering and prepares students for transfer into a bachelor’s degree program.
Columbus State Community College Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- US News National Ranking: 74 (in Regional Universities)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $36,558
Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Completed high school diploma or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 65
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Computer Software in Construction, Quantity Surveying, Legal Principles
- Key Skills: Technical, managerial, mathematical
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Columbus State Community College’s Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science For?
- Students who want to begin a career as a civil engineer
- GED or high school diploma holders
Idaho State University is a public research university that was founded in 1901. It is best known for its degree programs in business management, healthcare, and data analytics. The university has over 12,000 enrolled students in various degree and certificate programs.
The Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering Technology at Idaho State University is a two-year program. Prospective students will learn various construction-oriented subjects and learn important skills pertaining to teamwork, attention to detail, and mapping.
Idaho State University Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- US News National Ranking: 299-391
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,101
Associate of Applied Science Civil Engineering Technology Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 2.5 GPA, ACT or SAT test scores, high school diploma or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 62
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Survey Computations, Engineering Mechanics, Public Land Surveying
- Key Skills: AutoCad, technical, and survey skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Idaho State University’s Associate of Applied Science Civil Engineering Technology For?
- High school graduates
- Students who want a foundation in civil engineering
The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883 as a public university and now offers numerous academic programs to more than 14,000 students. The university is also known for offering over 120 online degrees with tuition that is lower than most schools in the region.
This civil engineering online degree at UND offers students a chance to learn technical skills relating to engineering science in hands-on, project-based civil engineering courses. The civil engineering Bachelor of Science will effectively prepare students with the mathematical, computer software, and critical thinking skills needed to excel in the field.
University of North Dakota Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- US News National Ranking: 249
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $57,299
Civil Engineering B.S. Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 2.5 GPA, high school diploma or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 128 credits
- Average Graduation Time: 4-5 years
- Core Curriculum: Fluid Mechanics, Steel Design, Transportation Engineering
- Key Skills: managerial, technical, AutoCAD, Java
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the University of North Dakota’s Civil Engineering B.S. For?
- Students interested in attending an ABET-accredited program for engineering
- GED or high school diploma holders who want to become civil engineers
Louisiana State University is a public university founded in 1853 as a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant flagship institution of the Louisiana State University system. LSU has over eight campuses across Louisiana and offers more than 150 online degrees and graduate certificate programs.
This online BS in Construction Management program trains students in construction processes and civil engineering fundamentals. The program is 122 credit hours and gives future civil engineers foundational knowledge and skills in residential, commercial, and industrial sector construction. Its programmatic accreditation is by the American Council for Construction Education.
Louisiana State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Commission on Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- US News National Ranking: 172
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $36,241
Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 3.0 GPA, ACT or SAT test scores, high school diploma or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 122
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Facility Management, Construction Surveying, Construction and Civil Materials
- Key Skills: Project and construction management, business and construction law, mechanical and electrical systems
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Louisiana State University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management For?
- Associate degree students who want to transfer to a bachelor's program
- GED or high school diploma holders who want to become civil engineers or work in construction engineering management
North Carolina State University was founded in 1887 as a land-grant public university in Raleigh. It is the largest and flagship campus of the North Carolina State University system. The university offers top programs in science, engineering, math, and technology.
This ABET-accredited program at North Carolina State’s College of Engineering is open to students who have completed an undergraduate engineering degree. The 30-credit program features online civil and environmental engineering courses and trains students to excel in the field after graduation.
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North Carolina State University at Raleigh Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 46%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- US News National Ranking: 79
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $61,353
Master of Civil Engineering Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 3.0 GPA, undergraduate degree in engineering, 2 letters of recommendation, TOEFL exam required for international students
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Transportation Systems Engineering, Energy and Climate, Structural Analysis
- Key Skills: Mathematical skills, technical skills, structural engineering skills
- Areas of Specialization: Construction Engineering; Transportation Engineering, Materials and Systems; Structural Engineering and Mechanics; Water Resources and Coastal Engineering
Who Is the North Carolina State University at Raleigh’s Master of Civil Engineering For?
- Students who have completed an undergraduate engineering degree
- Engineers and professionals looking to upscale their qualifications as a civil engineer
Mississippi State University is a public university founded in 1878 and is nationally recognized in cyber security, engineering, and scientific agriculture. Mississippi State serves more than 23,000 enrolled students.
The online graduate engineering program at Mississippi State University is a renowned program for students who have an undergraduate degree in civil or construction engineering. The program offers specializations in geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, water resources, and construction materials engineering.
Mississippi State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- US News National Ranking: 196
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $46,141
Master of Science in Civil Engineering Overview
- Admissions Requirements: An undergraduate degree in engineering, minimum 3.0 GPA, applicant must be accepted by a faculty member in their sub-discipline area
- Credits Required to Graduate: 33 credit hours for non-thesis option, 24 credit hours of coursework and six hours of research for thesis option
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Water Transportation, Groundwater Resources Evaluation, Engineering Environmental Systems
- Key Skills: Engineering, water transportation, hydraulic engineering skills
- Areas of Specialization: Construction Engineering and Managment, Transportation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering
Who Is the Mississipi State University’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering For?
- Students with an undergraduate degree in engineering
- Professionals seeking to upskill within their engineering career
The University of Idaho is a public university founded in 1889 and is famous for its engineering, sciences, and marketing degree programs. The school enjoys an impressive 16-to-one student-to-faculty ratio and serves more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
The graduate civil engineering online degree at the University of Idaho is a 30-credit program that trains students in detailed aspects of the field of civil engineering. Future civil engineers will learn all there is to know about design and management related to the construction of key infrastructure.
University of Idaho Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 100%
- US News National Ranking: 179
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,101
Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Undergraduate degree in engineering, 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Civil Engineering Drafting, Introduction to Civil Engineering, Engineering Surveying
- Key Skills: Construction, management, design
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the University of Idaho’s Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering For?
- Students with previous experience in civil engineering
- Working professionals with experience in civil engineering jobs
Iowa State University was founded in 1858 as a land-grant public university in Ames, Iowa. It is the flagship institution of the Iowa State University system. The school is known for its innovative programs in science and technology, along with its lively student-oriented culture.
The online master’s civil engineering program at Iowa State University is taught asynchronously, which ensures flexibility for students’ personal learning plans. The program allows students to work in the field as they hone their skills for advanced training and knowledge of the field.
Iowa State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- US News National Ranking: 122
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $57,351
Online Master’s Degree in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering Overview
- Admissions Requirements: BS in Civil or Environmental Engineering, 3.0 GPA, GRE exam scores, TOEFL exam required for international students
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Construction Finance & Business Management, Applied Foundation Engineering, Dynamics of Soil and Foundations
- Key Skills: Environmental engineering, technical, managerial
- Areas of Specialization: Construction Engineering Management, General Civil Engineering
Who Is the Iowa State University’s Online Master’s Degree in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering For?
- Undergraduate degree holders
- Professional engineers seeking better career advancement opportunities
Kennesaw State University was founded in 1963 as a public research university. The university is a destination campus for over 43,000 students split between different campuses. Kennesaw State University offers online options for most of its degree and certificate programs.
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering at Kennesaw State University offers students a chance to continue their professional careers alongside achieving their academic goals. The program has a thesis option for those more inclined towards research and a non-thesis option for those looking to hone their technical skills in the field.
Kennesaw State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- US News National Ranking: 299-391
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,792
Master of Science in Civil Engineering Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 2.75 GPA, undergraduate degree in engineering, 2 letters of recommendation
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Finite Element Analysis, Soil Improvement, Design of Wood Structures
- Key Skills: Transportation planning, surveying skills, engineering skills
- Areas of Specialization: Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation and Pavement Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water Resources Engineering
Who Is the Kennesaw State University’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering For?
- Students with previous experience in civil engineering
- Working professionals with experience in civil engineering jobs
Kansas State University was founded in 1863 as a public university and the first public institution in Kansas. The university offers a multitude of online graduate degree programs in technical fields such as aviation, agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine.
The online Master’s in Civil Engineering program at Kansas State University is a unique and flexible program. It allows students to set their own schedules and continue studies in their own time, asynchronously, while also having the option to work in their field as civil engineers.
Kansas State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- US News National Ranking: 162
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,608
Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 3.0 GPA, bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or related field
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Water Treatment Processes, Advanced Geotechnical Design, Advanced Structural Analysis
- Key Skills: Construction, transportation, geotechnical skills
- Areas of Specialization: Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation, Water Resources
Who Is the Kansas State University’s Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree For?
- Students with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering
- Professionals seeking to upscale their employment opportunities as a civil engineer
Common Online Civil Engineering Degree Courses
Some of the most common online civil engineering courses at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels include survey computations, soils laboratory, transportation materials and systems, construction engineering, and groundwater resources evaluation.
Survey Computations
This is a core subject taught at most degree levels in civil engineering disciplines. The course teaches units of conversions and measurements, how to check and adjust raw data, and an introduction to adjustment geometry.
Soils Laboratory
This foundational course teaches students about soil mechanics, standards in soil laboratory testing, index property, and permeability. This is a very important course, and students completing their degrees online receive soil laboratory kits and equipment.
Transportation Materials and Systems
The transportation materials and systems course is taught mostly at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. The course covers topics such as qualitative modeling, techniques of modeling, large-scale transportation, and integrated transportation systems.
Construction Engineering
Construction engineering is one of the most important subjects taught at all degree and certificate levels in civil engineering. The course teaches planning, administration, scheduling, and cost estimating methods.
Groundwater Resources Evaluation
This course is usually taught at the master’s level in water transportation concentrations. It teaches students about fundamental water resources management, recharge and sustainable yield estimation, and evaluation of groundwater resources.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Civil Engineering Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online civil engineering degree. All students can apply for extra financial assistance by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application online.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Civil Engineering Degree
There are many options available to help pay for an online civil engineering degree, including federal and state grants, federal and private loans, as well as work-study options available for online students.
Federal and State Grants
Federal grants are provided by the federal government and state grants are provided through state funding. These grants give relief to students who cannot afford the degree and may also be awarded based on academic merit.
There are many federal and state grants available for online master’s, bachelor’s, and associate programs in civil engineering. If you want to apply for FAFSA, all you have to do is complete the questions on the form and submit the application while enrolling in your desired degree program.
Federal and Private Loans
A federal student loan is offered by the government to qualified students, which you have to pay back after completing your degree and securing a job. Some of the benefits of this type of loan include a federal subsidy, income-driven repayment options, and lower interest rates.
A private loan is offered by a private corporation or body, such as a bank. Some of the benefits of private loans include higher borrowing limits and rewards for good credit scores. Disadvantages include a lack of subsidy, higher interest rates, and repayment regardless of income generation.
Work-Study
The federal work-study program in the United States ensures students can find part-time jobs at the university they are enrolled in. The students are usually paid hourly wages and payments are released on a bi-weekly schedule.
Cheapest Civil Engineering Degree Programs Online
The cheapest civil engineering degree program at the associate level is offered by Columbus State Community College. The cheapest civil engineering degree program at the bachelor’s level is offered by Louisiana State University, while the cheapest civil engineering degree program at the master’s level is offered by Kennesaw State University.
Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Associate Degrees
- Columbus State Community College | Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science. One of the most affordable civil engineering associate degrees in the country offers the best value for money. This is a two-year degree that needs a minimum of 65 credits for completion.
- Idaho State University | Associate of Applied Science Civil Engineering Technology. This associate degree program is offered fully online at Idaho State University. It has a generous admission rate and a great return on investment for those wanting to pursue a career as a civil engineer.
- Seminole State College of Florida | Associate in Arts in Civil Engineering. This associate degree program lays the foundational coursework for a transition to a four-year bachelor’s degree program.
- Jones College | Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering Technology. This two-year Associate of Applied Science teaches students important skills in construction, AutoCad, and drafting. Students usually transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program after completing this degree.
- Midlands Technical College | Associate in Science in Civil Engineering Technology. One of the cheapest community colleges in the country, Midlands Technical College is a great pit-stop for students who want to continue their engineering education after a gap, and need refresher courses before committing to a four-year degree program.
Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees
- Louisiana State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. The online Bachelor of Science program at Louisiana State University requires 122 credits. Students will learn about management and construction in various fields.
- Indiana State University | Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. This bachelor’s program requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission, 120 completed credits to graduate, and takes approximately four years to finish.
- Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Technology. This ABET-accredited online Bachelor of Science degree program trains students in consulting, surveying, construction, and development sectors.
- San Diego State University | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. This degree program helps students develop foundational skills in civil construction in key structures such as infrastructures, bridges, and buildings.
- University of North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. This bachelor’s degree program is offered both as an online option and as an on-campus degree program. It is one of the most affordable online bachelor’s programs in the midwest.
Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degrees
- Kennesaw State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This is one of the easiest master’s programs to get into and the most affordable for civil engineering. It requires a grade point average of 2.75 for admission.
- North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Master of Civil Engineering. One of the cheapest master’s degree programs in civil engineering is offered at North Carolina State University, where the minimum GPA required for admission is 3.0.
- Mississippi State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This program is one of the best civil engineering master’s degrees offered in the United States. Admissions require a GPA of 3.0, acceptance from a faculty member, and an undergraduate degree in civil engineering.
- University of Idaho | Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering. This degree program allows for flexible learning as it offers online classes asynchronously. The program usually takes two years to complete.
- Iowa State University | Online Master’s Degree in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering. The minimum requirements for admission include a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field such as environmental engineering. It also requires high GRE scores in the quantitative section as well as a 3.0 grade point average.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Civil Engineering Jobs With an Online Civil Engineering Degree
| Civil Engineering Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Manager | Bachelor’s degree | 11% growth |
| Geological and Hydrologic Technician | Associate degree | 9% growth |
| Structural Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | 8% growth |
| Mining and Geological Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | 4% growth |
| Environmental Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | 4% growth |
Best Jobs With an Online Civil Engineering Degree Explained
The best jobs you can get with an online civil engineering degree are the ones that will get you paid the most right out of your program. You are expected to grow with your time on the job and eventually work your way up to a managerial position.
Construction managers have the responsibility to set up worker timetables and budgets for a proposed project. They work alongside architects, engineers, and other specialists to ensure that the project goes smoothly and is delivered as envisioned.
- Average Salary: $98,890
- Highest-paying States: Alaska, New Jersey, and New York
- Minimum Experience in Field: Significant carpentry or construction internship experience
Structural and civil engineers are tasked to work alongside architects in construction teams to ensure that the designs that are constructed are being built in accordance of guidelines provided and the materials used are efficient to maintain structural integrity.
- Average Salary: $88,050
- Highest-paying States: California, Alaska, and Delaware
- Minimum Experience in Field: N/A
Environmental engineers deal with problems concerning urban and rural settlements and infrastructure. Using the techniques they’ve learned from their degree, they work to establish the most efficient ways to deal with waste disposal, air and water pollution, and achieving environmental sustainability to avoid creating environmental disasters.
- Average Salary: $96,820
- Highest-paying States: Texas, California, and Idaho
- Minimum Experience in Field: Practical experience gained in an internship
Mining and geological engineers are at the forefront of exploration for new mineral deposits. Once confirmed, they are tasked with creating the best way to extract the resources and manage the excavation process.
- Average Salary: $97,090
- Highest-paying States: Oklahoma, California, and New Mexico
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Geological and hydrologic technicians are professionals that work to support teams of engineers, scientists, and land surveyors in excavation and fieldwork processes. Their duties range from installing equipment, recording and reporting field data, testing samples of different minerals and soils, and analyzing data sets.
- Average Salary: $50,630
- Highest-paying States: Louisiana, Texas, and Tennessee
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Is an Online Civil Engineering Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online civil engineering degree is worth it. You’ll be getting the same education as an in-person degree at a fraction of the cost and you’ll be eligible for the same compensation as those who attended in-person programs when looking for a job.
The current market is very open to hiring civil engineers and offers excellent salaries to qualified candidates. In one of the cheapest online civil engineering degrees, you’ll be working and gaining experience that can eventually lead you to a managerial role that will further increase your pay grade.
Additional Reading About Civil Engineering
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Cheapest Online Civil Engineering Degrees FAQ
Idaho State University is the easiest online college due to its high admission rate of 100 percent. Columbus State Community College is the cheapest to attend for its Civil Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree, with a tuition rate of $168 per credit for in-state students.
Getting an online civil engineering degree in the USA will cost from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on what university you decide to attend. Its in-person counterpart can be up to five times the cost.
Civil engineering is a tough degree even when compared to other engineering degrees. However, if you’re looking for an easy civil engineering degree, environmental engineering is considered the most feasible due to its interdisciplinary curriculum.
Some of the best online civil engineering degree programs are offered by the University of North Dakota, with a 55 percent graduation rate, and Old Dominion University, with a graduation rate of 52 percent.
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