Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025

Badge for BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN ENGINEERING
By Dr. Winston Ewert and Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Find top-ranked online master’s in engineering degree programs in the US to help students wanting to hold highly specialized roles as aerospace engineers, naval architects, computer scientists, and more.

Top 10 Universities for Online Master's in Engineering in 2025

  1. Cornell University
  2. University of Southern California
  3. University of Texas at Austin
  4. University of Arizona
    +3
  5. Syracuse University
    +6
  6. University of Massachusetts Amherst
    +12
  7. University of Missouri
    +9
  8. Arizona State University
    –2
  9. Florida State University
    +11
  10. University of Cincinnati
    –5

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or last ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top three schools maintained their respective positions. Syracuse University and the University of Missouri climbed into the top ten.

Featured Programs

Best Online Master’s in Engineering Degree Programs

  1. #1

    Cornell University

    Ithaca , NY
    #1 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Cornell University

    Cost of Degree: $30,085
    Expenses: $22,126
    Starting Salary: $119,903
    Salary after 4 years: $155,008
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #14 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #17 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $68,128
    Expenses: $22,216
    Starting Salary: $105,212
    Salary after 4 years: $136,015
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Aerospace Engineering
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Dynamics and Control
    • Computational Fluid and Solid Mechanics Program
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Astronautical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Biomedical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Medical Imaging and Imaging Informatics
    • Required Credits: 29
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Chemical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 28
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Structural Engineering
    • Construction Engineering and Management
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 28
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Computer Science

    Concentrations

    • Scientists and Engineers
    • Software Engineering
    • Required Credits: 37
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Cyber Security Engineering
    • Required Credits: 28
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Electrical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Computer Networks
    • VLSI Design
    • Electric Power
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Electrical Engineering and Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Financial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial and Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 28
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Materials Engineering
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Energy Conversion
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Operations Research Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Petroleum Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Geoscience Technologies
    • Smart Oilfield Technologies
    • Required Credits: 35
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Petroleum Engineering and Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Product Development Engineering
    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Systems Architecting and Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Texas at Austin

    Austin , TX
    #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1365/29

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Texas at Austin

    Cost of Degree: $12,012
    Expenses: $19,894
    Starting Salary: $139,029
    Salary after 4 years: $146,279
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Arizona

    Cost of Degree: $14,389
    Expenses: $19,500
    Starting Salary: $105,353
    Salary after 4 years: $110,847
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30-33
    • Completion time: 1.5-2.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30 or 33
    • Completion time: 1.5- 2 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Material Sciences and Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS, in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MEng in Mining, Geological and Geophysical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 18-24 months
    • Format: Online
    MS in Nursing in Photonic Communications Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Nursing in Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30 or 33
    • Completion time: 1.5- 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    Syracuse University

    Syracuse , NY
    #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #5 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1345/30

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Syracuse University

    Cost of Degree: $46,318
    Expenses: $22,086
    Starting Salary: $81,989
    Salary after 4 years: $105,994
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst , MA
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/31

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Cost of Degree: $17,009
    Expenses: $17,309
    Starting Salary: $108,552
    Salary after 4 years: $114,212
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $13,029
    Expenses: $18,142
    Starting Salary: $106,482
    Salary after 4 years: $112,035
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Biological Engineering (Non Thesis)
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,389
    Expenses: $21,219
    Starting Salary: $104,413
    Salary after 4 years: $109,857
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Materials Science and Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/28

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,553
    Expenses: $20,296
    Starting Salary: $101,403
    Salary after 4 years: $106,690
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati , OH
    #10 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    48K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1260/26

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Cincinnati

    Cost of Degree: $14,902
    Expenses: $19,772
    Starting Salary: $93,501
    Salary after 4 years: $98,377
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MEng in Mechanical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Robotics
    • Cyber SecurityEngineer using tool.
    • Mechanics
    • Computer-Aided Design
    • Industrial Manufacturing
    • Waste Treatment and Disposal
    • Aerospace and Aviation
    • Biotechnology
    • Automation
    • Energy
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 18 months
    • Format: Online
    MEng in Electrical Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Research and Development
    • Electrical Systems, Components, and Applications
    • Design and Manufacture Various Devices
    • Testing Products and Systems
    • Evaluate Electrical Systems and Components
    • Large Scale Electrical Systems
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    #13 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/27

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,740
    Expenses: $21,482
    Starting Salary: $97,076
    Salary after 4 years: $102,138
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    University of Houston

    Houston , TX
    #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    53K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/26

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Houston

    Cost of Degree: $9,749
    Expenses: $17,023
    Starting Salary: $114,007
    Salary after 4 years: $119,952
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Subsea Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Petroleum Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MSE in Electrical Engineering, Power & Energy Systems
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MpetE in Petroleum Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    University of Kentucky

    Lexington , KY
    #14 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/24

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Kentucky

    Cost of Degree: $14,330
    Expenses: $21,886
    Starting Salary: $101,591
    Salary after 4 years: $106,888
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Manufacturing Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    University of Oklahoma

    Norman , OK
    #1 Best Grad Schools in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Oklahoma 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/26

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Oklahoma

    Cost of Degree: $9,082
    Expenses: $20,891
    Starting Salary: $116,453
    Salary after 4 years: $122,526
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: 21 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Georgia Tech

    Atlanta , GA
    #13 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    52K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1460/33

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Georgia Tech

    Cost of Degree: $15,570
    Expenses: $16,760
    Starting Salary: $161,605
    Salary after 4 years: $170,032
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Analytics
    • Computational Science and Engineering
    • Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Industrial Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Medical Physics
    • Operations Research
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 24-36 months
    • Format: Online
    PM in Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Applied Systems Engineering
    • Manufacturing Leadership
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 24 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    North Carolina State University

    Raleigh , NC
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/30

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at North Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,819
    Expenses: $17,709
    Starting Salary: $111,938
    Salary after 4 years: $117,775
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MSAE in Aerospace Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: 1.5 years
    • Format: Online
    MBAE in Biological and Agricultural Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSCHE in Chemical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MCE in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSCPE in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSEPSE in Electric Power Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSEE in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MEng in Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MENE in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MIE in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 15
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MMSE in Materials Science and Engineering
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSME in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MNAE in Nanoengineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MNE in Nuclear Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    University of Delaware

    Newark , DE
    #1 Best Colleges in Delaware 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Delaware 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Delaware

    Cost of Degree: $19,546
    Expenses: $17,638
    Starting Salary: $120,404
    Salary after 4 years: $126,682
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  22. #19

    University of Arkansas

    Fayetteville , AR
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/24

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Arkansas

    Cost of Degree: $12,160
    Expenses: $20,260
    Starting Salary: $99,145
    Salary after 4 years: $104,315
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  24. #20

    Texas Tech University

    Lubbock , TX
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024 #7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/25

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Texas Tech University

    Cost of Degree: $9,518
    Expenses: $16,170
    Starting Salary: $115,889
    Salary after 4 years: $121,932
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MEn in Healthcare Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Petroleum Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Software Engineering
    • Required Credits: 33-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Manufacturing Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MEn in Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  25. #21

    Clemson University

    Clemson , SC
    #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    43%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    30K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1315/30

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Clemson University

    Cost of Degree: $12,646
    Expenses: $19,784
    Starting Salary: $110,809
    Salary after 4 years: $116,587
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MEng in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    82K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/27

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $8,872
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $96,323
    Salary after 4 years: $101,346
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MSAE in Aerospace Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSC in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering Smart Cities
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering Structural
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering Transportation
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil Engineering Water Resources
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Healthcare Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSI in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSM in Materials Science and Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSM in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSSE in Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  27. #23

    Stevens Institute of Technology

    Hoboken , NJ
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in New Jersey 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #3 Best Colleges in New Jersey 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    46%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Stevens Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $42,988
    Expenses: $20,900
    Starting Salary: $108,885
    Salary after 4 years: $140,763
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Worcester , MA
    #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025 #13 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Cost of Degree: $29,040
    Expenses: $20,472
    Starting Salary: $100,235
    Salary after 4 years: $129,582
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Systems Engineering Leadership
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Fire Protection Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Material Science and Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Robotics Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Manufacturing Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mechanical Engineering For Technical Leaders
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MEng in Power Systems Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  30. #25

    New Jersey Institute of Technology

    Newark , NJ
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in New Jersey 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in New Jersey 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/30

    Career Outlook for Engineering degree at New Jersey Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $25,918
    Expenses: $22,330
    Starting Salary: $132,256
    Salary after 4 years: $139,153
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 63
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Engineering Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Engineering

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $102,694
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $108,049
  • * denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Architectural and Engineering Managers5.52%$165,370
Engineers, All Other5.03%$111,970
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary9.22%$106,910

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Architectural and Engineering Managers$165,370
Engineers, All Other$111,970
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary$106,910
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Frequently Asked Questions About Engineering Degrees

If you’re a working professional, a master’s degree in engineering can provide you with the opportunity to advance in your career and add to your skill set.

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Because the engineering field consists of many subdisciplines and specializations, program requirements may vary greatly. For example, some master’s in engineering degrees require under 30 credits and can be completed in two years, while others may have higher credit requirements and take about four years to complete.

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Most programs, however, offer both online and in-person learning. Coursework will also vary, but master’s in engineering students can expect a combination of hands-on learning, leadership training, and an in-depth examination of current practices in their area of specialization.

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Masters in engineering often go on to hold highly specialized roles as aerospace engineers, naval architects, computer scientists, and more.

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Learn more about what you can do with a mater’s in engineering.

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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier is actually getting there. Taking the commute out of the equation means getting to class should be a lot more manageable. But that’s where it ends. In general, your online courses will incorporate the very same materials, concepts, and testing methods as would a traditional classroom.

And in many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning or working with remote learning technology for the first time, online college may even be a little more challenging for you. For a few insights on how to manage this new experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable institutions and less-than-reputable for-profit schools. Accreditation gives you the power to differentiate between the two. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college or university is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university which is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. When seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that students opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited, you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer. In many cases, you will be required to navigate a bureaucracy in which some of your credits will be transferred and others will be jettisoned. However, provided that you have attended an online school with the proper regional accreditation, you should have plenty of options for transfer.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to the get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Prospective Grad Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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