Engineering careers require at least a bachelor's degree. Students can pursue an electrical engineering degree online and complete coursework from anywhere.
Thomas Broderick
Updated September 14, 2022 · 6 Min Read
Reviewed by CC Rankings Team
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Are you ready to find your fit?
Engineering careers require at least a bachelor's degree. Students can pursue an electrical engineering degree online and complete coursework from anywhere. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Some programs require standardized test scores. Enrollees complete general education courses and electives.
Graduates can pursue all types of engineering jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for engineers to grow about as fast as average from 2020-2030.
Prospective students can use this page to research the most affordable electrical engineering degrees online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Engineering Degrees
Yes. Many top colleges offer engineering degrees entirely online. Students buy a lab kit to complete lab requirements at home. However, some schools require learners to complete labs on campus.
Most learners can complete an electrical engineering degree in four years. Students with an associate degree can finish faster.
The answer depends on the employer and career. Some positions require a master's in electrical engineering or several years of experience.
Featured Online Engineering Programs
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Why Get an Electrical Engineering Degree?
The BLS projects the need for electrical engineers to grow 7% from 2020-2030. Graduates can pursue diverse engineering careers. They may work at professional or scientific firms.
Students who pursue an electrical engineering degree online can view lectures and complete coursework when it fits their schedule. This flexibility allows learners to keep up with work and family responsibilities. Online learners receive the same student support services as their on-campus peers.
Accreditation is Important, View Our Guide Here
How Much Does an Electrical Engineering Degree Cost?
Tuition varies among colleges. Learners enrolled at in-state, public schools pay the most affordable tuition. However, some public schools charge a flat tuition rate to all learners, regardless of residency.
All types of engineering degrees require labs. Students pursuing an electrical engineering degree online pay lab fees. Enrollees may pay other fees depending on their program or school.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students should budget for expenses such as textbooks and course materials. Many schools charge a per-course technology fee. Learners may also pay a graduation fee. Online learners need a reliable computer and a fast internet connection. Students can save money by researching computer discounts for college students.
Engineering students should also budget for certification fees. Many engineering careers require professional certification.
How Much Do Electrical Engineering Majors Make?
Electrical and electronics engineers earn a median $103,390 annual salary, according to the BLS. This salary exceeds the median wage for all engineers by about $7,000. Engineers working in the District of Columbia, California, and New Jersey earn more than their peers in other states. Electrical engineers in Vermont and Washington also earn high salaries. However, the cost of living in these states exceeds the national average.
Electrical engineers can increase their salary potential by earning a master's degree. Graduates with an advanced degree can work in research and development. They may also teach at the college level. Professionals can boost their salary by getting a professional engineering (PE) license.
Courses in an Electrical Engineering Program
Learners pursuing an electrical engineering degree online study different engineering theories. They also explore the field's latest technology. Degree-seekers learn how to communicate effectively and lead teams. Students complete major and general education courses. In some programs, learners customize their degree through electives or a minor.
See below for common electrical engineering courses. Keep in mind that course titles and descriptions vary by school.
This course explains how heat transfer and thermodynamics affect physical and electrical systems. Students analyze technical problems and energy systems. They also study power transmission. Learners examine how mechanical and electrical engineers collaborate to solve problems.The Fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering
Students learn how power transmission and other electrical systems work. Coursework covers magnetic forces and materials. Coursework also emphasizes the fundamental equations James Clerk Maxwell developed in the 19th century. Students must complete at least two higher-level math courses before enrolling.Electromagnetic Field Theory
This course explores modern communication technology. Learners study electrical noise and pulse modulation. Students also learn how analog and digital transmissions differ. Some courses require a lab that learners complete on campus or at home.Communication Systems
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How to Become an Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers need a bachelor's or master's degree, depending on their career goals. The best online electrical engineering programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Graduates from an ABET-accredited program can pursue a PE license after working for at least four years. Professional engineers certify engineering plans. They work for state and federal government agencies.
These engineers perform calculations and collaborate with project managers. They also design new products. Tasks vary by job title and employer. Experienced professionals with a PE license may qualify for management roles. They may also serve as mentors to new employees.
Most Affordable Online Electrical Engineering Degrees
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#1
Daytona State College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Daytona Beach, Florida |
| Graduation Rate | 42% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 57% |
The flexibility of Daytona State College's electrical engineering technology concentration makes it a great choice for individuals looking for a remote education that fits their schedule. The 4 industry-relevant online bachelor's programs at the public institution educate 7,694 remote degree-seekers. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida the college features institutional resources, such as a supportive virtual community, that benefit remote learners.
Students gain the knowledge needed for the industry through interactive classes. Classes in the curriculum cover general education and advanced topics that students customize. Enrollees can add to their academic experience with hands-on learning opportunities. Degree-seekers who do internships, externships, or research projects get first-hand experience of what it's like to work in the field.
Applicants can talk to the admissions office to learn more about enrollment criteria. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss if they meet the requirements for any funding opportunities. About 71% of all enrollees receive some kind of financial aid. Eligible learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other aid opportunities to offset the cost of their degree.
#2
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Portales, New Mexico |
| Admission Rate | 58% |
| Graduation Rate | 36% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 69% |
Eastern New Mexico University's bachelor of science in electronics engineering technology is a great choice for individuals seeking a flexible education to prepare them for careers. The public college connects 3,946 distance learners with a premier education and offers 18 bachelor's programs remotely.
The bachelor of science in electronics engineering technology helps students succeed in the field by giving them proper tools. Enrollees take classes on a variety of subjects, covering both foundational and advanced concepts in the field. Degree-seekers increase their industry knowledge with hands-on learning experiences, helping their career aspirations. Learners gain valuable knowledge from internships and applied research projects. Over the course of their studies, students can seek guidance from academic advising and career services.
Eligible applicants can pursue scholarships, fellowships, or other funding opportunities from within or outside of the school to help bring down degree costs. Degree-seekers get support for their educational endeavors from a leader in online education, with the college awarding financial aid to 97% of enrollees.
#3
Indiana State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Terre Haute, Indiana |
| Admission Rate | 90% |
| Graduation Rate | 41% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 47% |
A public institution, Indiana State University offers educational opportunities with great flexibility to suit degree-seekers from all walks of life. The Terre Haute, Indiana-based school supports 5,748 learners attending remotely from all over the United States, offering 23 online bachelor's programs. Many individuals planning for a career in or a related field find the top-ranking in makes a great choice.
Top faculty members and a supportive student body benefits students enrolled in . The online learning environment includes classwork and projects relevant to degree-seekers' personal and professional goals. Internships, externships, and faculty-led research projects are available for learners to get involved with. Picking electives and individualizing coursework with the help of an advisor allows enrollees to customize their program to their needs and interests.
Since the cost of an education can be expensive, the college offers many different internal and external funding opportunities. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. Receiving some form of aid helps 92% of enrollees at the college lower their educational expenses.
#4
American Public University System
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Charles Town, West Virginia |
| Graduation Rate | 40% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
A private institution, American Public University offers flexible education opportunities for degree-seekers of all kinds. Many people looking to go into electrical engineering or a related field find the bachelor of engineering: electrical engineering to be a great option.
Electrical engineering students get support from their peers and from premier faculty members. Relevant coursework and projects completed in a virtual learning environment help degree-seekers advance their personal and professional goals. Many learners get involved with faculty-driven research projects, internships, or externships. Faculty advisors help enrollees mold the program to their needs and interests by letting them pick electives and select individualized coursework.
An education at the college is made less expensive through the many different internal and external funding opportunities available. Students who qualify benefit from fellowships, scholarships, and other types of financial assistance. Lowering educational expenses is easy, as 100% of enrollees receive some kind of financial aid.
#5
University of Arkansas, Grantham
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lenexa, Kansas |
| Graduation Rate | 22% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
The flexibility of Grantham University's learning opportunities suits many different types of degree-seekers interested in the private institution. Many people looking to start an engineering-related career choose the top-ranking bachelor of science in electronics engineering technology.
Students enrolled in the bachelor of science in electronics engineering technology connect with supportive peers and distinguished faculty members. Degree-seekers complete classwork and projects relevant to their personal and professional goals in a distance learning environment. Faculty-driven research, internships, and externships are some of the opportunities learners can get involved with. Enrollees tailor the program to their needs and interests with electives and individualized coursework chosen with the help of an academic advisor.
A variety of internal and external funding opportunities help with the high cost of an education. Scholarship, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid benefit students who meet the eligibility requirements. At the college, 99% of enrollees decrease their educational expenses with some type of financial aid.
#6
Stony Brook University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Stony Brook, New York |
| Admission Rate | 44% |
| Graduation Rate | 76% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 22% |
For individuals seeking a flexible education to prepare them for the electrical engineering field, the bachelor of engineering degree at Stony Brook University is a great choice. A total of 5,769 remote learners get a top education from the public college.
Students gain the tools needed for a successful career in electrical engineering. Enrollees benefit from many different types of classes, covering both foundational and advanced electrical engineering topics. Experiential learning opportunities deepen degree-seekers' industry knowledge, helping them advance their career goals. Learners gain many benefits from internships, externships, and applied research projects. Students can talk to their academic advisor and to career services to get help throughout the course of the program.
Applicants who qualify can bring down the price of their degree with internal and external funding opportunities like scholarships and fellowships. An online education leader, the college connects degree-seekers with financial aid to support their academic journey, awarding aid to 79% of all enrollees.
#7
University of North Dakota
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Grand Forks, North Dakota |
| Admission Rate | 81% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 45% |
The electrical engineering degree at the University of North Dakota suits people looking for an online education in electrical engineering with extra flexibility. A total of 6,163 online degree-seekers receive an industry-relevant education from the public institution, choosing from 16 remote bachelor's programs. Located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the college supports its distance learners by offering institutional resources, including a tight-knit online community.
The electrical engineering program's hands-on classes impart industry knowledge to its students. General education and advanced courses make up the electrical engineering curriculum, which also allows for modifying classes and choosing electives. Experiential learning opportunities allow enrollees to supplement their education. Degree-seekers who complete research, internships, or externships get first-hand experience working in the electrical engineering field.
Prospective applicants can ask the admissions office to learn more about enrollment requirements. Of all enrollees, 92% get some type of financial aid, so students should check with the financial aid office to see what the eligibility requirements are. Lowering the cost of a degree is possible for learners who qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid opportunities.
#8
Old Dominion University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Norfolk, Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 89% |
| Graduation Rate | 53% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 54% |
Old Dominion University provides learning opportunities with a great deal of flexibility to suit many different types of degree-seekers interested in the public institution. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the school supports 12,854 virtual learners around the country, offering 20 bachelor's program online. Of these, the top-choice bachelor of science in electric engineering suits individuals planning to go into the field.
Top faculty members and a supportive student body benefit students enrolled in the bachelor of science in electrical engineering. Degree-seekers advance their personal and professional goals by completing coursework and projects in a remote learning space. Some learners get involved with faculty-led research, internships, or externships.
Learners can get involved in internships, externships, or research projects led by faculty. It's possible for enrollees to mold the program to their needs and interests by working with a faculty advisor to create a customized plan of study and pick electives.
Since education can be costly, the college offers a variety of internal and external funding opportunities. If they qualify, students benefit from different types of financial assistance, such as fellowships and scholarships. Getting some kind of financial assistance helps 94% of the college's enrollees bring down the price of their education.
#9
Morgan State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Admission Rate | 68% |
| Graduation Rate | 43% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 25% |
A public institution, Morgan State University offers flexible education opportunities for degree-seekers of all kinds. The Baltimore, Maryland school supports 1,954 learners attending remotely from all over the country.
Top faculty members and a supportive student body benefit students enrolled in the bachelor of science in electrical engineering. Degree-seekers complete classwork and projects relevant to their personal and professional goals in a distance learning environment. Many learners get involved with internships, externships, or research projects led by faculty members. Program enrollees work with advisors to customize their academic experience by choosing electives and tailoring coursework to their individual needs and interests.
An education at the college is less pricey through the variety of internal and external opportunities for financial assistance that are available. Students who qualify benefit from fellowships, scholarships, and other types of financial assistance. Some type of financial assistance helps 94% of enrollees bring down the price of their education at the college.
#10
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Carbondale, Illinois |
| Admission Rate | 66% |
| Graduation Rate | 48% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 38% |
Students looking for a competitive program should consider the premier online degrees at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, located in Carbondale, Illinois. The public institution supports 4,417 online learners, with 20 bachelor's programs offered remotely. The bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering connects degree-seekers interested in electrical engineering with a rigorous education relevant to the industry.
Students in the program benefit from a supportive learning remote community, connecting with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Enrollees complete coursework covering foundational and advanced topics to gain knowledge relevant to the field. The hands-on practice that learners get in experiential learning opportunities like internships and research projects helps them advance their competency for a future job. The institution offers resources focused on student success to help degree-seekers throughout the course of their program, such as academic advising and career counseling.
Degree costs can be defrayed through funding opportunities found with the help of a financial aid officer. The college offers many fellowship, scholarship, and federal aid opportunities. Some form of financial aid is awarded to 95% of the institution's enrollees.
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FAQs
What is the easiest online engineering degree? ›
- Structural Engineering.
- Applied Engineering.
- Chemical engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering.
- Software Engineering.
- Civil Engineering.
- Computer Engineering.
- Biomedical Engineering.
The first step to becoming an electrical engineer will be to earn a college degree. The degree should be in electrical engineering or a related discipline, such as electrical engineering technology or electronics engineering.
What is the easiest and quickest degree to get online? ›- Business. Online business degrees prepare learners for diverse careers. ...
- Liberal Arts. Liberal arts programs hone critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. ...
- Education. ...
- English. ...
- Nursing. ...
- Criminal Justice. ...
- Psychology. ...
- Agriculture Science.
Online Electrical Engineering Courses And Certifications
In between are a wide range of certifications and courses designed to build foundation skills in electrical engineering, including principles like circuit theory, systems design, and power generation.
Self-learning electrical engineering is possible, but it is not easy. You will have to understand your budget, schedule, goal, and way of learning before attempting this project. Also, it is crucial to invest in textbooks and online courses, as well as spend time in a laboratory.
What is the quickest engineering degree to get? ›- Industrial Engineering.
- General Engineering.
- Computer Engineering.
- Environmental Engineering.
- Civil Engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering.
- Biomedical Engineering.
- Electrical Engineering.
Engineering Associate's Degrees
An associate's degree is the shortest degree you could earn in engineering. When you enroll in an associate's degree program, it is possible to earn an engineering degree in just two years.
Structural engineering
As the chart below shows, of the engineers highlighted in this report, a petroleum engineer not only makes the most money both early and through their mid-career, but they also have the highest satisfaction rate.
Electrical engineering can be a difficult discipline to study but all that hard work can be worth it. If your interests lie in mathematics and its application to everyday needs that solve problems and find solutions for your community, this could be the right career path to explore.
Where are most electrical engineering jobs located? ›| State | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs |
|---|---|---|
| California | 28,070 | 1.70 |
| Texas | 15,230 | 1.25 |
| Michigan | 10,050 | 2.47 |
| New York | 8,960 | 1.03 |
What skills do electrical engineers need? ›
- Critical thinking.
- Technological knowledge.
- Active learning.
- Interpersonal skills.
- Organizational skills.
- Complex problem-solving skills.
- Mathematics and physics skills.
- Innovative thinking.
- Medical billing and coding specialist.
- Web designer.
- HVAC technician.
- Truck driver.
- Licensed real estate agent.
- IT support.
- Brick mason.
- Personal trainer.
Online colleges are becoming more popular, but prospective students may still worry about their credibility. We're here to set the record straight: An online degree holds just as much weight as a traditional degree. In fact, data shows that most employers don't even differentiate between the two types of degrees.
What degrees can you get online that pay well? ›- Emergency management. An associate degree in emergency management prepares students to handle emergency situations. ...
- Graphic design. ...
- Paralegal studies. ...
- Medical office administration. ...
- Criminal justice. ...
- Web design. ...
- Hospitality management. ...
- Accounting.
- Electro-magnetism.
- Control systems.
- Electricity Technology and Machines.
- Circuit Analysis, Electronics.
- Electrical Engineering Material.
- Transmission & Distribution.
- Instrumentation.
- Microprocessor interfacing.
- Computer Science and Engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering.
- Electrical Engineering.
- Solar Engineering.
- Wind Energy Engineering.
- Nanotechnology.
- Environmental Engineering.
- Marine Engineering.
Some of the subfields within Electrical Engineering include Lighting Design, Energy Engineering, Power and Measurement, Smart Electrical Networks and Systems, Electronics, etc. Courses in Electrical Engineering are interdisciplinary.
What is IEEE certification? ›An IEEE credential is a guarantee of educational quality and a credential that engineers can proudly share. IEEE maintains an official registry of all credentials awarded. This makes accounting to state licensing boards an easier task for engineers.