Online engineering programs teach students the scientific and mathematical skills needed to design methods and products that benefit the public. These programs are geared towards individuals who have strong math and communication skills, work well in teams, and have a knack for problem-solving. Engineering degree programs are available online at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Select schools may also offer a certificate option.

Individuals with a degree or certificate in engineering may choose to seek employment in industries such as automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and electrical power. Programs may provide graduates the opportunity to pursue a career as a chemical engineer, biomedical engineer, mechanical engineer, civil engineer, or a safety engineer.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

Students pursuing an online certificate may choose to specialize in areas such as safety engineering, international engineering, or engineering project management. Some examples of coursework include systems safety engineering, survey of management, and global engineering.

An online associate degree in engineering may be ideal for those pursuing an entry-level position in a specific engineering field, or as a precursor to a higher degree. Online associate degrees in engineering may allow students to gain in-depth training and knowledge in areas such as mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Coursework may cover engineering materials, construction graphics, and engineering mechanics.

Online bachelor’s degree programs in engineering are typically academically challenging, combining general education coursework with intensive science-based classes. Students in these programs may have the opportunity to pursue a degree in engineering technology, biomedical, or computer engineering. Coursework may include mechanics and materials, theory of structures, and engineering law.

Master’s degree programs in engineering oftentimes focus on preparing students to be contributors to the technical workforce, typically through developing their business, management, and overall engineering skills. Through intensive research-based coursework, students may gain in-depth training that will prepare them to become leaders in the industry. Select programs may allow students to focus their studies, and their leadership training, on a specific discipline within the engineering field, including electrical, industrial, or nuclear engineering. Core coursework such as organizational behavior, market research, finance, and tech strategy may be required for students in these programs.

Doctoral-level engineering programs may provide students with the opportunity to do scholarly research, paving the way for new and improved engineering methods and theories. Doctorate programs are available in areas such as aerospace, mining and mineral resources, and chemical engineering. Courses may include fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, and theory of elasticity.

Career Options

Graduates of online engineering programs may have the necessary skills to utilize tools and computer programs to generate valuable data in a chosen engineering field. Individuals may choose to pursue managerial or other advanced positions by completing continuing study programs throughout the course of their career. Engineering is a broad field, and graduates may be qualified to work in such industries as aerospace, architecture, landscape, or agriculture.

Possible career fields include:

• Civil Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Safety Engineer
• Biomedical Engineer