Associate degrees in engineering are a stepping stone for students who want to study and specialize in the field of engineering. They are short-term compared to other degree programs since they are typically designed to be completed in two full-time academic years (about 60 credits). Below are the different engineering associate degree requirements and the top colleges you can enroll in to kickstart your engineering career.
What Is Engineering?
Engineering is the application of scientific and mathematical principles to solve specific problems. Professionals in this field apply scientific principles to design and build machines, roads, tunnels, and other structures. It’s an important part of human civilization. Some key historic engineering feats include the Pyramids of Giza, Stonehenge, and the Eiffel Tower.
What Is an Engineering Associate Degree?
An engineering associate degree offers a foundation for engineering studies to students planning to take a university engineering program. It involves lower-division coursework, as well as basic science and mathematics courses that engineering majors typically require. Credits earned through an associate’s degree can often be transferred to a university undergraduate program if the program is structured as a transfer degree and if the receiving university has an articulation agreement in place.
Engineering Associate Degree Requirements
Engineering associate degree requirements differ from one university to another. However, the common admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED. Some colleges may require high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and application documents such as letters of recommendation and essays, but many community colleges are now test-optional and do not require these additional materials. Having a strong background in math and science courses, such as algebra, pre-calculus, physics, and chemistry, is often recommended.
How Much Does an Engineering Associate Degree Cost?
For the 2024-2025 school year, the average published tuition and fees for full-time, in-district students at public two-year colleges is about $4,050 per year. The full cost of attendance, which includes housing, food, books, and transportation, averages around $20,500 per year. Out-of-district and out-of-state students typically pay higher rates, which vary widely by state and institution. Many students pay less than the published price once federal, state, or institutional grants and scholarships are applied.¹
Engineering Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Engineering Degree
You can finance your engineering associate degree through various options, including scholarship awards and student loans. You can apply for a direct loan from the federal government to help you cover your tuition fees.
You can also opt to apply for a scholarship. Unlike student loans, scholarship awards are free, allowing you to complete school and apply for your dream job without pressure. Some scholarship grants fund all of your expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, and other school necessities.
Traditional Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
Program data was retrieved in September 2025 and is subject to change.
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Alpena Community College | Associate in Science in Pre-Engineering2 | Higher Learning Commission |
| Austin Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering3 | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Carroll Community College | Associate in Science in Engineering (Chemical/Biomedical Concentration)4 | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Community College of Rhode Island | Associate in Science in Engineering5 | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Houston Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering6 | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) | Associate of Science in Engineering7 | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Pierce College (Washington) | Associate in Science in Engineering (Transfer Degree)8 | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Santa Barbara City College | Associate in Science in Engineering9 | Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges |
| State Fair Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Design Technology10 (also offers AS in Engineering transfer option) | Higher Learning Commission |
| Tarrant County College District (Texas) | Associate of Science in Engineering11 | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Colleges for Engineering: Top On-Campus Engineering Associate Degree Programs
Once you have met the basic engineering associate degree requirements, you can choose from the following top colleges to begin your journey. Engineering associate degrees generally fall into two categories:
- Transfer-oriented programs prepare you to continue into a bachelor’s degree by completing the first two years of a four-year curriculum.
- Applied/technical programs are career-focused, providing students with practical skills for direct entry into the workforce after graduation.
The colleges listed below offer accredited programs in both categories, providing you with flexibility depending on your career goals.
Associate in Science in Pre-Engineering | Alpena Community College
Located in Michigan, Alpena Community College offers an Associate in Science in Pre-Engineering, a transfer-oriented program that covers core courses in math, chemistry, and physics. Students can transition directly into bachelor’s programs at partner universities, and Alpena offers strong financial aid opportunities to help offset tuition costs.2
Associate of Science in Engineering | Austin Community College
Austin Community College in Texas offers an Associate of Science in Engineering, a transfer-oriented program aligned with statewide university partners. Students complete calculus, physics, chemistry, and introductory engineering coursework before transferring into bachelor’s programs such as civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering at major Texas universities.3
Associate in Science in Engineering (Chemical/Biomedical Concentration) | Carroll Community College
Carroll Community College in Maryland offers an Associate in Science in Engineering with a concentration in chemical and biomedical engineering. This is a transfer-oriented program that combines general education and technical electives, allowing students to explore biomedical and chemical pathways while completing foundational STEM courses.4
Associate in Science in Engineering | Community College of Rhode Island
The Associate in Science in Engineering at the Community College of Rhode Island is a transfer-oriented degree aligned with Rhode Island’s public universities. Students take calculus, physics, and computer science courses to prepare for a smooth transfer into four-year engineering programs.5
Associate of Science in Engineering | Houston Community College
Houston Community College offers an Associate of Science in Engineering, a transfer-oriented program that prepares students for seamless transfer to universities such as the University of Houston and Texas A&M. The 60-credit curriculum builds a strong foundation in calculus, chemistry, and physics, while small class sizes and a diverse student body make HCC a flexible choice.6
Associate of Science in Engineering | Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) provides an Associate of Science in Engineering, a transfer-oriented program. Students complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree curriculum, which includes general engineering, advanced mathematics, and laboratory sciences. NOVA has guaranteed admission agreements with Virginia Tech, George Mason University, and other schools, making transfer straightforward.7
Associate in Science in Engineering (Transfer Degree) | Pierce College (Washington)
Pierce College in Washington offers an Associate in Science in Engineering (Transfer Degree). As a transfer-oriented program, it mirrors the first two years of a bachelor’s degree, covering calculus, physics, chemistry, and engineering fundamentals. Graduates often transfer to the University of Washington and other regional universities.8
Associate in Science in Engineering | Santa Barbara City College
Santa Barbara City College’s Associate in Science in Engineering is a transfer-oriented degree that emphasizes hands-on lab experience alongside rigorous STEM coursework. Students are well prepared to transfer into the University of California and California State University engineering programs.9
Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Design Technology | State Fair Community College
State Fair Community College in Missouri offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Engineering Design Technology, an applied/technical program that focuses on practical drafting and design skills. This degree prepares students to enter the workforce directly. SFCC also offers an Associate of Science in Engineering (transfer-oriented) for students who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree.10
Associate of Science in Engineering | Tarrant County College District (Texas)
Tarrant County College District offers an Associate of Science in Engineering, a transfer-oriented degree with pathways in civil, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering. Designed to mirror the first two years of a bachelor’s program, this degree supports seamless transfer to universities across Texas.11
Online Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
Program data was retrieved in September 2025 and is subject to change.
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University (ASU Online) | Associate Pathway in Engineering and Engineering Technology12 | Higher Learning Commission |
| DeVry University | Associate in Engineering Technology13 | Higher Learning Commission |
| ECPI University | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology14 | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Penn Foster College | Associate of Science in Engineering Technology15 | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU Online) | Associate in Engineering Technology16 | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Trine University | Associate of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology17 | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology18 | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| University of Massachusetts Lowell | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology19 | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Online Colleges for Engineering Associate Degree Programs
Online engineering associate degrees provide a flexible option for students balancing work, family, or other commitments. These programs deliver the same foundational coursework as on-campus options, but in a fully online format. Below are some of the top schools offering online associate degrees in engineering and engineering technology for 2025.
Associate Pathway in Engineering and Engineering Technology | Arizona State University (ASU Online)
Arizona State University offers online associate pathways in engineering and engineering technology that prepare students for transfer into bachelor’s programs. Students complete coursework in math, science, and introductory engineering subjects while benefiting from ASU Online’s strong support services. The program is ideal for students seeking a seamless transition to four-year engineering degrees.12
Associate in Engineering Technology | DeVry University
DeVry offers a fully online Associate in Engineering Technology with specializations in areas like renewable energy, machine learning/design techniques, and medical technology systems. The program is professionally accredited (ABET ETAC) and designed to blend technical theory with applied skills, making it ideal for students aiming to enter engineering technology roles immediately.13
Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology | ECPI University
ECPI University provides a fully online Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. This career-focused program emphasizes hands-on skills through virtual labs and projects, preparing graduates for entry-level technical roles in fields like manufacturing, product design, and quality assurance. Students can complete the program on an accelerated schedule, with year-round courses.14
Associate of Science in Engineering Technology | Penn Foster College
Penn Foster College offers a self-paced, fully online Associate of Science in Engineering Technology. The curriculum includes coursework in electronics, computer-aided design, and technical math. As a DEAC-accredited institution, Penn Foster offers a flexible and affordable option for students seeking to develop engineering technology skills while balancing a busy schedule.15
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Associate in Engineering Technology | Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU Online)
SNHU Online offers an Associate in Engineering Technology program designed to provide students with a foundation in mechanical and electrical systems, computer-aided design, and applied science. The fully online program is structured to be both career-ready and transferable to SNHU’s bachelor’s degree programs in engineering technology.16
Associate of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology | Trine University
Trine University offers an online Associate of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology, with coursework that focuses on systems optimization, manufacturing processes, and quality control. This program is regionally accredited and prepares graduates for technical positions in industrial operations, while also allowing credit transfer into select bachelor’s engineering technology programs.17
Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology | University of Arkansas Grantham
The Associate of Science in Engineering Management Technology at University of Arkansas Grantham is delivered 100 percent online. This program blends technical coursework with management and business principles, preparing graduates for supervisory roles in technical industries. It is a nationally accredited program, offering flexible start dates throughout the year.18
Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology | University of Massachusetts Lowell
UMass Lowell’s Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology is offered through its Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies. The program provides a solid foundation in applied engineering skills, including materials testing, CAD, and manufacturing processes. Graduates can transition directly into the workforce or pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology at UMass Lowell.19
What’s the Average Engineering Associate Degree Salary?
Salary and job outlook data were retrieved in September 2025 and are subject to change.
You can use your associate degree in engineering to apply for entry-level roles in engineering and technical fields. According to recent job data, the average annual salary for an Associate Engineer in the United States is approximately $86,000, with higher earnings possible in metropolitan areas such as San Jose, California, or Washington, D.C., where salaries can exceed $120,000 per year.20 Overall, the median annual wage for architecture and engineering occupations is about $97,000.21
Top Engineering Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Job Title | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Associate Engineer (entry-level) | $80,000 – $100,00020 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technician | $50,000 – $75,00021 |
| Civil Engineering Technician | $55,000 – $75,00021 |
| CAD / Drafting Designer | $60,000 – $90,00022 |
| Machinist / Manufacturing Technician | $45,000 – $65,00021 |
Engineering Associate Degree Jobs Explained
Associate Engineer (Entry-Level)
Average Salary: $80,000 – $100,00020
Job Outlook: Stable demand across manufacturing, aerospace, and energy industries.
Job Details: Associate engineers support senior engineers on design, analysis, and testing. Duties may include running simulations, preparing reports, and assisting with prototype development.
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Average Salary: $50,000 – $75,00021
Job Outlook: About 6% growth projected through 2032.
Job Details: Mechanical engineering technicians help design, test, and troubleshoot mechanical systems. They may run experiments, record results, and work with engineers to develop machinery or production equipment.
Civil Engineering Technician
Average Salary: $55,000 – $75,00021
Job Outlook: About 5% growth projected through 2032.
Job Details: Civil engineering technicians assist with the design and construction of various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and water systems. They prepare drawings, conduct site testing, and ensure compliance with regulations.
CAD / Drafting Designer
Average Salary: $60,000 – $90,00022
Job Outlook: Steady demand as industries continue to need skilled design support.
Job Details: Computer-aided design (CAD) specialists prepare detailed blueprints and schematics for engineering projects. They work closely with engineers to refine designs and ensure accuracy in technical drawings.
Machinist / Manufacturing Technician
Average Salary: $45,000 – $65,00021
Job Outlook: About 3% growth projected through 2032.
Job Details: Machinists and manufacturing technicians operate precision machinery, interpret blueprints, and ensure high-quality production. These roles are critical in automotive, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing industries.
Engineering Bootcamp vs. Engineering Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
A software engineering bootcamp is a short-term training program that equips students with coding and technical skills for tech careers. An engineering associate degree, by contrast, provides a foundation in math and science for students pursuing traditional engineering or engineering technology. Both pathways can lead to rewarding careers, depending on your goals.
Benefits of an Engineering Associate Degree
- Advanced studies. An associate degree in engineering provides a solid foundation for students who plan to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in engineering.
- Competitive entry-level jobs. With an associate degree, you can qualify for roles such as mechanical engineering technician or civil engineering technician.
- Career development. Building a successful career in engineering often requires continued education, and an associate degree is a strong first step.
- Saves time. An associate degree in engineering usually takes two years to complete, compared to four years for a bachelor’s.
- Job outlook. The demand for engineering technicians and support roles remains steady, particularly in fields such as manufacturing, construction, and design.
Benefits of a Software Engineering Bootcamp
- Hands-on training. Bootcamps emphasize practical coding projects and real-world applications.
- Job-ready in the short term. Most programs take three to six months, preparing you quickly for entry-level tech roles.
- Affordable. Bootcamps are generally less expensive than degree programs.
- Market-led curriculum. Programs are designed around current industry needs in software, data, and IT.
- Employer recognition. Many tech companies hire bootcamp graduates directly into junior developer or analyst roles.
Should You Get an Associate Degree in Engineering?
Yes. An associate degree in engineering can help you launch a career in technical fields while keeping the option open to pursue a bachelor’s degree later. With this credential, you may qualify for roles such as civil engineering technician, machinist, or mechanical engineering technician.
If you’re working and need flexibility, accredited online engineering associate degree programs are also available from top colleges.
Engineering Associate Degree FAQ
Community colleges offer associate degrees in engineering at a lower cost than universities. This can save you money while still providing access to quality coursework and transfer pathways.
It depends. A bachelor’s degree in engineering typically takes four years, while an associate degree usually takes two. Some accelerated or flexible programs may allow you to complete your studies in less than the standard timeframe.
Engineering is challenging because it requires strong math and science skills. However, many students successfully complete associate programs with the right preparation and support.
The most common associate programs are general engineering, pre-engineering, and engineering technology. These provide the best foundation for transferring into specialized bachelor’s programs in fields such as mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering.
Sources
- https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/Trends-in-College-Pricing-and-Student-Aid-2024-ADA.pdf
- https://discover.alpenacc.edu/document_center/degrees/as/preegr.as.pdf
- https://catalog.austincc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=11&poid=3647
- https://www.carrollcc.edu/programs/degrees-credit-certificates/chemical-biomedical-engineering-concentration-a-s
- https://catalog.ccri.edu/programs-study/engineering/engineering-as
- https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/science-technology-engineering–math/engineering
- https://catalog.nvcc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=12&poid=1181
- https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/engineering
- https://www.sbcc.edu/programs/engineering.php
- https://www.sfccmo.edu/academics-programs/areas-of-study/engineering-design-technology
- https://www.tccd.edu/academics/courses-and-programs/programs-a-z/credit/engineering
- https://asuonline.asu.edu/online-degree-programs/undergraduate/associate-pathways
- https://www.devry.edu/online-programs/associate-degrees/engineering-technology.html
- https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/engineering-technology-associate-online
- https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs-and-degrees/engineering/engineering-technology-associate-degree
- https://www.snhu.edu/online-degrees/associate/as-in-engineering-technology
- https://www.trine.edu/online/degrees/engineering-technology/online-industrial-engineering-technology-associate.aspx
- https://www.uagrantham.edu/programs/associate/engineering-management-technology
- https://gps.uml.edu/programs/undergrad/assoc-mechanical-engineering-technology.cfm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/associate-engineer/salaries
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cad-Designer-Salary
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