Most Affordable Engineering Degree Programs Online

Contrary to public opinion, even the cheapest online engineering degrees can set you up for a lucrative career in theoretical or applied engineering. They impart critical analysis and logical thinking skills while developing your decision-making skills. This skill set can be applied in a variety of engineering job types and is a must if you wish to become an engineer, either directly or by transitioning from another field.

If you are considering online colleges for your engineering degree, it is crucial to find out which schools are both affordable and provide quality education. To help streamline your research, this article highlights the most affordable online engineering degrees in the US. It also covers the factors to prioritize or look out for when selecting from the cheapest online schools for engineering.

Find Your Bootcamp Match

• Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
• Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses

Select your interest
Software Engineering Design Data Science Data Analytics UX Design Cyber Security First name

Last name

Email

Phone number

By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.

Can I Get an Engineering Degree Online?

Yes, you can easily get an engineering degree online. Lots of colleges and universities have online or distance learning programs that support engineering degrees. You can also choose between studying 100 percent online or hybrid formats.

Some of the most common online engineering disciplines include computer and software engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, construction materials engineering and management, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, and civil engineering.

Why Should I Get an Engineering Degree Online?

You should get an online engineering degree because it will greatly reduce the cost of your education. Tuition is not cheap at most universities, but other costs like room and board can make it even more expensive. With online courses, you only need to cover the tuition cost and other education-related fees.

Aside from its affordability, an online engineering degree also offers the flexibility to balance other aspects of your life, such as work and family. Students can even choose to travel while continuing to study, as long as they have access to a working internet connection.

What Are the Most Affordable Online Engineering Degree Programs in the US?

Online courses have become more mainstream as most schools now do not distinguish them from regular in-person programs. For engineering degree programs, this is the same practice. Some of the cheapest online schools for engineering in the United States are Kennesaw State University, Florida International University, and Stony Brook University.

Cheapest Engineering Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out

1. Online Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Kennesaw State University
2. Online Associate in Engineering at Wilkes Community College
3. Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at Florida International University
4. Online Master of Science in Engineering Management at University of North Carolina Charlotte
5. Online Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology at University of Arkansas Grantham

How Much Does an Online Engineering Degree Cost?

An online engineering degree costs between $288 to $688 per credit on average. Thus, depending on the length of their corresponding programs, students in online engineering programs can spend between $34,520 to $88,060 for their total tuition.

While online degree programs are generally affordable, there are also some other associated costs to consider. These include ACT or SAT costs, technology fees, application fees, and costs for course materials. In some cases, universities provide textbooks for students as part of the program, but in most cases, they need to be rented or purchased separately.

Will Getting an Engineering Degree Online Save Me Money?

Yes, getting an engineering degree online will save you money. For starters, tuition cost is often cheaper online than for in-person programs. Aside from the affordable tuition, you do not need to relocate or pay for room and board on-campus, which in turn can save you a fair amount.

Online Engineering Programs vs In-Person Engineering Programs

Both in-person and online options for engineering programs have the same weightage when it comes to future career opportunities. However, there are specific aspects to either, such as costs, accessibility, and networking possibilities, that you should consider before choosing the best one for your needs.

Benefits of an Online Engineering Degree

• Lower costs. One of the main benefits of an online engineering degree is the reduced tuition cost. As an online student, you can also avoid expenses associated with accommodation. Overall, while you still must pay tuition and some fees, the cost is still far lower than traditional in-person engineering degree programs.
• No long commute. Another notable benefit of an online engineering degree is the saved time. With online colleges, you do not have to travel long distances to attend classes. This not only saves you both time and money, but it also ensures that you’re not too tired to perform well academically.
• Modern learning environment. In the modern world today, online collaboration has become extremely commonplace. Online degrees offer an opportunity to try out this modern learning environment and develop the digital collaborative skills you will need for the future.
• Flexibility. For working professionals and parents, it is often difficult to meet the schedule of traditional degree programs. Online engineering degree programs give you the freedom to continue working and supporting yourself while you’re in school.
• Career advancement. As a working professional, an online engineering degree makes it possible for you to transition into one of the best-paying careers. On the other hand, if you are already in the engineering field, you can sharpen your skills or develop new ones to help you advance your career and increase your earning potential.

Benefits of In-Person Engineering Degree Programs

• Fewer distractions. While learning from your comfort zone can be flexible and fun, it can also be distracting, especially if you have a family. In-person engineering degree programs offer fewer distractions because classes take place in classrooms designated for education.
• Networking opportunities. It is easier to connect in person than to do so online. In-person engineering degree programs allow you to network and connect with people from different walks of life. Students often work together on projects and assignments, which can be an opportunity for them to get friendly with individuals that they will work with in the industry.
• Social skills development. One of the biggest benefits of in-person learning is the development of students’ social skills. Social interaction is a key aspect of education and makes a distinct difference in both the students’ learning capacities and their general education experiences. When students work in groups, they can troubleshoot problems together and thus improve the extent of their learned skill sets.
• Accessibility and support.  Even though online learning is gaining popularity, for some students, face-to-face learning is the best method. They find it easier to express their concerns in this format. Instructors can also more easily identify when students have issues and help them to ensure that the entire class is on the same page.
• A full college experience. Some people want to experience college fully by taking part in club activities and social gatherings. These experiences cannot be availed online. Moreover, an in-person engineering degree also gives students a chance to experience different cultures by associating with their peers.

Online Engineering Degree Career Options

There are a lot of career options for online engineering degree graduates. The most common job opportunities for them are as software engineers or developers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, civil engineers and architects, and industrial technology engineers and process designers.

Engineering Job Outlook

The job outlook in the engineering field is quite positive. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in architectural and engineering occupations is projected to grow by 6 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is on par with the average for all occupations.

In the field of engineering, the demand for experts is very high. This means that pursuing higher education or specialized job opportunities in engineering is a profitable investment. Currently, around 146,000 additional jobs have been projected with a higher demand for infrastructure development, oil and gas extraction, renewable energy, and robotics.

Engineering Salary

The average annual wage for engineering occupations in 2021 was $79,840, which is almost double the national median wage for all occupations at $45,760. However, this figure varies depending on specific engineering disciplines. For instance, according to BLS, electronics and electrical engineers earned a median annual salary of $101,780 in 2021, while computer hardware engineers earned $128,170.

Can I Enroll in an Online Engineering Program for Free?

Yes, you can enroll in an online engineering program for free if you qualify for financial aid. If that is not the case, then you must pay an additional enrollment fee. To be considered for aid, there are some requirements that you must first meet. Most schools offer scholarships to students with either financial needs or exceptional talent. Having a good academic record is also required in most cases.

If you do not qualify for financial aid, then you can consider signing up for free courses. Prominent national universities like Duke, MIT, and Harvard all have free platforms that feature specific course selections.

However, it is important to note that these courses do not amount to a degree. They merely help you learn some new skills and get introduced to engineering. Furthermore, numerous free bootcamps can help aspiring software engineers.

Cheapest Online Engineering Degree Programs

Engineering Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Engineering Programs

We chose the most affordable engineering degree programs based on tuition and general cost information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and its College Scorecard tool.

The Cheapest Online Engineering Degree Programs: A Deep Dive

Kennesaw State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology

An elite R2 research university, Kennesaw State University (KSU) supports 12 colleges covering fields from arts and business to engineering technology. It is highly renowned for the quality of its education, particularly in STEM, with US News & World Report ranking KSU 75 among the nation’s best undergraduate engineering programs.

KSU’s online BS Degree in Industrial Engineering technology offers students a combined curriculum in business management and industrial engineering. Students who graduate from this degree can pursue successful careers in quality control, process improvement, systems simulation, logistics and supply chain management, personnel management, and workplace design, to name a few. 

Kennesaw State University Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 83%
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• US News National Ranking: #299-391
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,792

Online Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, $40 application fee, minimum 2.5 GPA, high school transcript, high school diploma or equivalent (GED), SAT/ACT scores 
• Credits Required to Graduate: 127 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 4 years
• Core Curriculum: Statistical Quality Control, Industrial Engineering Technology Project Management, Sustainability Engineering
• Key Skills: Project and business management, system design and engineering
• Areas of Specialization: Quality principles, logistics

Who Is the Kennesaw State University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology For?

• High school students who wish to pursue a career in industrial engineering
• Graduates or working professionals with an Associate Degree in Industrial Engineering who want to further their education

Wilkes Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Applied Engineering Technology

Wilkes Community College (WCC)’s vision is toward community development, which it enforces by helping nontraditional learners from all walks of life get an education that can set them on the path to improved economic opportunities. Alongside its focus on professional education and licensure, WCC also has an excellent program for associate-level degrees, diplomas, and non-degree certificates.

WCC offers an Associate Degree in Applied Engineering Technology for students who want to learn foundational skills such as fundamental mathematics, oral communication skills, reading skills, and basic computer use. While the program itself is not offered online, a lot of its required coursework can be taken online, either entirely remote or synchronously. 

Wilkes Community College Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 45%
• US News National Ranking: N/A
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $29,517

Associate of Applied Science in Applied Engineering Technology Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, high school diploma, proof of North Carolina residency
• Credits Required to Graduate: 69-76 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 2 years 
• Core Curriculum: Calculus, Engineering Fundamentals, Critical Thinking and Variable Analysis
• Key Skills: Problem-solving, solution design
• Areas of Specialization: CNC machining, electronics and computers, engineering technology, industrial systems, machining and maintenance, robotics, automation, and mechatronics

Who Is the Wilkes Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Applied Engineering Technology For?

• High school graduates planning to get a bachelor’s degree in the relative future
• Working professionals who want to sharpen their skills

Florida International University | Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Florida International University (FIU) is an acclaimed public institution that has been recognized for its education since its foundation in 1972. The university’s online education initiative ranks above most online colleges, particularly in the field of business. For 2022, US News ranks FIU’s online Master’s Degree in Business thirteenth best among all American public universities. 

FIU offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering online. This program focuses on the basics of electrical engineering, including electromagnetism, electronics, power and energy systems, nanotechnology, bioengineering, communication, and computers. It also imparts critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

Florida International University Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Type of School: Public university 
• Admissions Rate: 58%
• Graduation Rate: 67%
• US News National Ranking: #162
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $54,501

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, $30 application fee, SAT/ACT scores, high school transcripts
• Credits Required to Graduate: 128 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 4 years
• Core Curriculum: Applied Software Techniques in Engineering, Logic Design, Linear Systems in Engineering
• Key Skills: Designing electrical appliances
• Areas of Specialization: Bioengineering, power and energy, control systems, cyber security, digital forensics, artificial intelligence

Who Is the Florida International University’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering For?

• Working professionals with an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering
• High school graduates interested in pursuing a career in electrical engineering

University of North Carolina Charlotte | Online Master of Science in Engineering Management

Founded in the 1940s as an institution to support the growing pace of the Industrial Revolution, University of North Carolina Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) is now one of the most prominent research universities in the state. Across two separate campuses, UNC Charlotte supports research in seven colleges at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. 

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Find Your Bootcamp Match

The multidisciplinary Master of Science (MS) in Engineering Management at UNC Charlotte prepares students to work in the engineering and project management field. It is designed especially for working professionals who want to get an advanced degree without quitting their jobs and is an excellent alternative to a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

University of North Carolina Charlotte Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 
• Type of School: Public university 
• Admissions Rate: 80%
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• US News National Ranking: #227
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $52,252

Online Master of Science in Engineering Management Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, minimum 3.0 GPA, Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Business with related technical or scientific minor, GRE/GMAT scores, statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation
• Credits Required to Graduate: 31 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 2 semesters
• Core Curriculum: ​Deterministic System Analysis, Stochastic System Analysis, Fundamentals of Engineering Management 
• Key Skills: Business management, leadership skills
• Areas of Specialization: Energy analytics, logistics, supply chains, systems analytics

Who Is the University of North Carolina Charlotte’s Online Master of Science in Engineering Management For?

• Graduates holding Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering or a related field
• Working engineering professionals who wish to transition into management careers

University of Arkansas Grantham | Online Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology

The University of Arkansas Grantham (UAG), previously known as Grantham University, has been a prominent institution in the movement for professional development and increased educational opportunities for adult learners. Today, it offers online degree and non-degree programs at bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. 

UAG offers an Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology online, covering core courses like analog electronics, circuit theory, and business. It also covers the principles of electrical and electronic circuits. Students enrolled in the program cover most of the first two years of a bachelor's degree program in the same field. 

University of Arkansas Grantham Overview

• Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
• Type of School: Public institution 
• Admissions Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 28%
• US News National Ranking: N/A
• Post-Grad Median Salary: N/A

Online Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: High school transcript, high school diploma or equivalent (GED), letters of recommendation
• Credits Required to Graduate: 60 credit hours 
• Average Graduation Time: 2 years
• Core Curriculum: Digital Electronics, Fundamental Properties of AC Circuits, Principles of Business Management
• Key Skills: Business management 
• Areas of Specialization: N/A

Who Is the University of Arkansas Grantham’s Online Associate in Science in Engineering Management Technology For?

• High school students who wish to immediately head into engineering management post-graduation
• Working professionals holding an Associate Degree in Engineering that wish to transition into management

Stony Brook University | Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Stony Brook University (SBU) is a public institution that offers an extensive choice of undergraduate degree programs, with more than 80 majors and 60 minors. Founded in 1957 as a flagship state university, SBU has since grown to rank within the 100 best national universities and the top 320 international institutes of 2021, as compiled by Times Higher Education, QS World Rankings, and US News & World Report. 

The online Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering that SBU offers is very flexible and suited for working professionals who want to balance their education with full-time jobs. The curriculum has 39 credits worth of STEM prerequisites, alongside core courses in signals and systems, semiconductors, electronic instrumentation, and power systems engineering. 

Stoney Brook University Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 49%
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• US News National Ranking: #93
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $66,678

Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Overview 

• Admissions Requirements:  Online application, $50 application fee, minimum 3.0 CGPA, high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (optional), 1 letter of recommendation, application essay 
• Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 4 years
• Core Curriculum: Digital Logic Design, Signals and Systems, Engineering Design
• Key Skills: Designing electrical appliances
• Areas of Specialization: N/A

Who Is the Stony Brook University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering For?

• Working professionals or associate degree holders in a similar field who wish to further their education
• High school students interested in pursuing careers as electrical engineers

University of Arkansas | Online Master of Science in Engineering

Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas (UA) is the first public university in its state. It supports almost 30,000 students, both graduate and undergraduate, pursuing their education across more than 240 academic programs. Their faculty has even included former president and first lady, Bill and Hillary Clinton.

The online Master of Science in Engineering program at UA is highly multidisciplinary. The course curriculum offers electives related to biological, chemical, computer systems, civil, environmental, electrical, mechanical, and industrial engineering. It is ideal for graduates who wish to experience several engineering fields from a holistic perspective.

University of Arkansas Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 78%
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• US News National Ranking: #162 
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,702

Online Master of Science in Engineering Overview

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, minimum 3.0 GPA, undergraduate transcripts, Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Computer Science from an ABET-accredited program
• Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 2 years 
• Core Curriculum: Engineering Management, Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer, Risk Analysis of Cost Effective Biofuel Transportation
• Key Skills: Engineering management
• Areas of Specialization: N/A

» MORE:  Average Salary in Montana: Can You Afford the Cost of Living in Montana?

Who Is the University of Arkansas’s Online Master of Science in Engineering For?

• Graduates with a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering who wish to further their exposure to corporate structure
• Working engineering professionals who wish to progress into managerial roles

Indiana State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology

With seven colleges in subject fields ranging from arts to engineering to human services, Indiana State University (ISU) offers a wide variety of degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The Indiana State Online college is one of the most popular online colleges in the South, with well over 30 degrees and professional certificates. 

ISU offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology for students who want to work in different sectors of the manufacturing economy. The two main areas covered in this program include machine design and management. The Bachelor of Science (BS) program is ABET-accredited and ideal for associate degree graduates in the same field.

Indiana State University Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Type of School: Public university 
• Admissions Rate: 92%
• Graduation Rate: 41%
• US News National Ranking: #299-391
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,877

Online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a related subject from accredited institution, US or Canada residency proof, specific subject prerequisites
• Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 4 years 
• Core Curriculum: Technical Graphics with CAD, Robotics and Automation, Applied Statics
• Key Skills: Computer-aided design (CAD) skills 
• Areas of Specialization: N/A

Who Is the Indiana State University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology For?

• Graduates with an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, keen to further their careers in mechanical engineering

University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Online Master of Science in Engineering Management

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) has been at the forefront of research initiatives since its inauguration in 1869. Today, it is deemed an R1 doctoral university, the highest among Carnegie research pedigrees. UNL also has several partnerships with top-tier universities across the globe that allow its students to participate in student exchanges and network successfully.

UNL’s online Master’s Degree in Engineering Management is a blended curriculum in engineering and business management that provides students with the skills they need to handle the ever-changing industry. This degree program also gives students a chance to get a Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management alongside their master's degrees. 

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 88%
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• US News National Ranking: #136 
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $46,054

Online Master of Engineering Management Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, $50 application fees, GRE scores (optional), proof of English proficiency (for international students), minimum 3.0 GPA, Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related STEM field, undergraduate transcripts, personal statement, resume, specific subject prerequisites
• Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credit hours
• Average Graduation Time: 2 years
• Core Curriculum: Decision and Risk Analysis, Engineering Leadership, Engineering Economy for Decision Making
• Key Skills: Business management, decision-making in system execution
• Areas of Specialization: Construction engineering and management

Who Is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Online Master of Engineering Management For?

• Engineering graduates who wish to pursue corporate engineering careers 
• Working professionals pursuing promotions into managerial positions

University of Delaware | Online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

The University of Delaware (UD) offers more than 250 degree and certificate programs, in physical, online, and hybrid formats. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, UD offers its students personalized educational experiences. This student-focussed approach has helped them rank 38 among the top public national universities, as listed by US News & World Report.

UD offers an online Master’s Degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The program combines hands-on exercises with foundational theory to teach students a thorough curriculum in information processing. With the skills they develop during the program, students can stay ahead of the trends in their careers.

University of Delaware Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education 
• Type of School: Public university
• Admissions Rate: 66%
• Graduation Rate: 82%
• US News National Ranking: #91
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $67,298

Online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview 

• Admissions Requirements: Online application, $75 application fee, minimum 3.0 GPA, undergraduate transcripts, Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or a related field, GRE scores (minimum 150 in each section), statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation, resume
• Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credit hours 
• Average Graduation Time: 2 years
• Core Curriculum:  Digital Communication, Cybersecurity, Search and Data Mining
• Key Skills: Cyber security 
• Areas of Specialization: N/A

Who Is the University of Delaware’s Online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering For?

• Bachelor's degree holders who wish to learn a multidisciplinary approach to electrical and computer engineering
• Working professionals who wish to either further their careers or transition into the tech industry

Common Online Engineering Degree Courses

Online colleges offer engineering students a wide range of courses because of how broad the field is. However, across all these engineering disciplines, some of the most common courses include control systems, C/C++ programming, electrical and mechanical systems, fluid physics, thermodynamics, and engineering mechanics.

C/C++ Programming

This programming language course starts with an introduction to computer program design. Students learn the semantics and syntax of the C language family and are then introduced to elementary data structures such as stacks, queues, and lists. They also cover different techniques involved in making easily modifiable and maintainable code. The course also involves the use of software development tools.

Control Systems

This course aims to give students an understanding of control systems from the basics. It starts with basic control systems and moves on to mathematical modeling of more complex systems. Students learn to represent the physical systems in block diagrams and cover the basic characteristics of control system response. The course also covers the Routh-Hurwitz criterion used to analyze control systems as well as bode plot and root locus methods.

Electrical and Mechanical Systems

Here, students learn a basic foundation on different physical systems. They learn methods for analysis, modeling, and designing systems with electrical and mechanical components. The course also covers circuits, electrical machines, transformers, and engineering systems, as well as gearboxes and other mechanical systems. Lastly, it introduces dynamics and vibrating systems as a foundation for other advanced courses in applied physics.

Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics

This course introduces students to the material properties of fluids within physical environments. Students first learn a strong base on the principles of fluid motion and fluid statics. The course then covers the Bernoulli equation, which explains the link between velocity and pressure and is involved in most fluid mechanical design. The thermodynamics part of the course covers gas laws, heat supply, enthalpy, and internal energy.

Engineering Mechanics

Another prominent course is engineering mechanics. This is a specialization atop the basic electrical and mechanical systems course but is quite often included in most non-life science engineering disciplines. The curriculum is often broken down into two core areas: dynamics and statistics. Students learn about the above concepts and their applications in vibration isolation systems, the motion of racing cars, car suspensions, and even missiles.

Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Engineering Degree?

Yes, you can finance your online engineering degree by applying for federal aid, as long as you are enrolled in an accredited program and school. There are a lot of financing options open to online students, such as federal and state grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs. However, before applying, it is very important to go through the fine print to ensure that you qualify.

Options to Help Pay for an Online Engineering Degree

There are several options to cover your online engineering degree payment. The most common way is via scholarships offered by schools, institutions, and companies. Scholarships may be full or partial, depending on the institution. Students may even be allowed to combine scholarships to better cover the bulk of their costs. Below are other common alternatives that help pay for online engineering degrees.

Federal and State Grants

Both the federal and state governments offer grants to students enrolling in career schools or colleges. Since they are grants, students are not required to pay them back. Aside from the government, many private organizations, non-profits, career schools, and colleges can also provide aid in the form of grants.

To qualify for federal and state grants, you need to fill out a FAFSA form. This form is an official document that students can use to apply for grants. In most cases, schools, universities, and colleges provide this form alongside applications to make it easier for students to avail of financial aid.

Federal and Private Loans

Federal and private loans are also available for students who cannot afford college tuition. Federal student loans are often more accessible and have lower interest rates for repayment. They have different types, including direct unsubsidized loans, subsidized loans, and direct plus loans.

Private student loans are issued by non-bank and bank lending institutions. They often include higher interest rates and could take a longer time to pay off. Some private loans incur additional fees from application to origination and even late fees. However, if you can finance your way through a respectable degree with these loans, you will be in a decent position to pay them back because of improved earning opportunities.

Work Study

Work-study programs make it possible for both graduate and undergraduate students to work part-time and earn money to cover their educational expenses. Students with financial needs can apply for work-study programs as they encourage community service work as well as other jobs related to the course of study of the student. Students could work as assistant teachers or other community-related roles to earn money for their school expenses.

Cheapest Engineering Degree Programs Online

The cheapest online engineering degree programs ensure a reduced tuition cost, despite including technology fees. This section will highlight five of the cheapest online engineering degrees, from associate to master’s degree levels.

Most Affordable Online Engineering Associate Degrees

1. Wilkes Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Applied Engineering Technology. WCC offers a multidisciplinary Associate in Applied Engineering Technology degree that costs $1,216 per semester. The college also has a low student-to-faculty ratio, at 8:1, which makes it possible for instructors to offer personalized guidance to their students.
2. University of Arkansas Grantham | Online Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology. UAG’s online programs are not only cheap at $295 per credit, but they are also flexible. They use an asynchronous method of teaching which means that aside from projects or organized group seminars, students can fully choose when and where they study.
3. Stark State College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science and Engineering. Stark State College was founded in 1960 and has an affordable tuition rate of $184.60 per credit. With its 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio and its ample practicals, students can balance independent applied studies with an individual-focused educational experience.
4. East Coast Polytechnic Institute | Associate of Applied Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. East Coast Polytechnic Institute, otherwise known as ECPI University, also offers an affordable Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering. The tuition cost for associate degree students online is $8,712 for a year. It also has a low student-to-faculty ratio to help ensure a better graduation turnover.
5. South College | Associate of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology. South College’s Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology is also quite affordable, starting at $310 per credit. It offers a thorough curriculum that involves programmable logic controllers, engineering principles, physics, computer-aided drafting, and computer programming.

Most Affordable Online Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees

1. University of North Carolina, Charlotte | Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology. UNC Charlotte offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology. The program’s instruction is asynchronous, and students benefit from flexible time zone learning and online participation. Even better, it costs only $188.48 per credit for in-state students to pursue.
2. Kennesaw State University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. KSU offers a solid Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering Technology as part of its online offerings. The program is asynchronous, and fees are drastically reduced for online students. For instance, online undergraduate students only have to pay $185.40 per credit hour.
3. Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. FIU is known for its long list of online programs. It also offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, which is among the most affordable in the higher education industry for the range of its curriculum. It costs in-state students only $228.81 per credit even though it offers students a choice among ten different specializations.
4. Stony Brook University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. SBU’s online programs are well-known for being flexible and affordable. Its online Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering uses an asynchronous learning system with pre-recorded lectures to give students the freedom they need as distance learners. Moreover, the tuition is very reasonable at $5,227.40 for a full year.
5. Trine University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. This program from Trine University costs students no more than $399 per credit hour. It also offers a dual degree in combination with its Master of Science in Engineering Management that can reduce the cost of your higher education drastically.

Most Affordable Online Engineering Master’s Degrees

1. University of North Carolina Charlotte | Online Master of Science in Engineering Management. UNC Charlotte stands out among graduate programs because it offers both synchronous and asynchronous learning for students to choose from. This university is an excellent choice for distance learners, with tuition rates as low as $280.34 per credit hour for graduate students.
2. University of Arkansas | Online Master of Science in Engineering. The University of Arkansas also offers affordable asynchronous classes that follow the same curriculum as the on-campus program. At $303.88 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students, it allows working professionals to study at their own time without driving a hole into their pockets.
3. University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Online Master of Science in Engineering Management. UNL offers an interactive online Master of Science in Engineering Management program. Despite it being asynchronous, students still have the opportunity to interact via group assignments. Fees for online students cost $650 per credit inclusive of the extraneous fees.
4. Louisiana Tech University | Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Management. This online master’s degree program at Louisiana Tech University is completely asynchronous. Moreover, it also provides computer labs on the campus for students who need to use a computer. This program comes in two concentrations, namely Engineering Management and Technology Management.
5. University of South Florida | Master of Science in Engineering Management. The University of South Florida offers one of the best online graduate engineering programs in the region. Aside from affordability, at $6,508.45 per semester for in-state students, the program offers a multidisciplinary approach to engineering management alongside six different specializations.

Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees

[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees

Best Online Master’s Degrees

[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees

Most In-Demand Engineering Jobs With an Online Engineering Degree

Best Jobs With an Online Engineering Degree Explained

The best jobs you can get with an online engineering degree are in the fields of aerospace engineering, agricultural engineering, civil engineering technology, and bioengineering. Some of these roles are available for students with an associate degree whereas others need advanced degrees, such as a bachelor’s or a master’s degree.

Is an Online Engineering Degree Worth It?

Yes, an online engineering degree is worth it because it offers the same training you will receive in a physical program at a more affordable price. Online students receive the same qualifications as their face-to-face counterparts.

The flexibility of online programs is another very strong perk. As a working professional or parent, an online engineering degree allows you to learn new skills or advance your career without compromising your current responsibilities.

Additional Reading About Engineering

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/fastest-online-computer-engineering-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/engineering-certificates/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/cheapest-aerospace-engineering-schools/

Cheapest Online Engineering Degrees FAQ