An electrical engineering master's degree online provides flexible learning in key areas like circuit design, signal processing, and power systems. It offers practical experience, often through collaborative projects, while accommodating professional and personal schedules. Graduates gain industry-relevant skills that can enhance credentials and advance careers.
Key Takeaways:
- Johns Hopkins University ranks #1 for the most popular online school. Plus, it has the lowest student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, emphasizing personalized learning.
- Though last in popularity among online students, Columbia University offers an exceptional average financial aid package of $61,061, ranking in the top 100% nationally for this metric.
Our methodology is based on schools that have the highest online enrollment overall. This shows you the most popular options with online electric engineering programs. We audit all programs to confirm accuracy and only include accredited online schools.
List Of Accredited Online Electrical Engineering Schools
2025 Best Electrical Engineering Master's Degrees Online
- Online Enrollment: 27,242 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years."> $26,350
- Location: Baltimore (MD)
Online degree:
Why we like them: JHU ranks at the top for being the most popular online school that hosts an online electrical and computer engineering degree. With 27,242 online learners, JHU offers significant flexibility and reach. It also bpasts a 94% graduation rate and a 97% retention rate. Graduates from this program enjoy strong earning potential, with median earnings of $127,015. The program offers hybrid and online options, covering areas like communications, photonics, and computer engineering. Flexible scheduling allows students up to five years to complete the degree, making it ideal for working professionals.
- Online Enrollment: 16,309 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $9,075
- Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ASU Online ranks 2nd for its extensive online offerings, with 16,309 students enrolled. It also boasts an 85% retention rate, showcasing strong student engagement. ASU's online MSE in electrical engineering offers a flexible 30-credit curriculum with five areas of specialization, including power systems and signal processing. The program is tailored for working professionals and does not require a thesis, culminating in a portfolio to demonstrate expertise.
- Online Enrollment: 9,257 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $18,928
- Location: Champaign (IL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UIUC is in the top 2% for online enrollment and has a high graduation rate in the top 4% nationally. The program offers 32 credit hours, including four hours for professional development, and provides flexibility with 500-level ECE courses and cross-disciplinary options. No thesis is required, making it ideal for professionals focused on advancing practical skills. With a 97% recommendation rate, UIUC is well-suited for distance learners seeking technical expertise.
- Online Enrollment: 8,800 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $18,000
- Location: Washington D.C.
Online degree:
Why we like them: GW's online MS EE ranks 4th nationally for online enrollment, with 8,800 students, placing it in the top 2% for engagement on a national level. With a high graduation rate of 84%, the school is ranked in the top 5% nationally for that metric. We also want to mention that 87% of alumni recommend the school to others. The electrical engineering degree program at GW includes 10 courses (30 credits), covering topics like electromagnetics, power engineering, and renewable energy.
- Online Enrollment: 7,334 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $30,130
- Location: Gainesville (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UF ranks in the top 3% for online engagement, boasting an enrollment of 7,334 students and a graduation rate of 90%. The impressive retention rate of 97% also reflects UF's commitment to student satisfaction and success. This 30-credit electric and computer engineering program offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your curriculum with courses in entrepreneurship alongside core engineering topics. You’ll learn from the same esteemed faculty as on-campus students, with fully online and hybrid options available.
- Online Enrollment: 6,251 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $68,661
- Location: Los Angeles (CA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: USC is in the top 3% with an enrollment of 6,251 distance learners at the school. It has a strong retention rate of 97%, which reflects high student satisfaction and quality education, and it also also offers a favorable student-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring personalized support. Available through DEN@Viterbi, the electrical engineering curriculum mirrors that of on-campus students, allowing full-time completion in 1.5 to 2 years and part-time in 2.5 to 3 years. The entirely online electric engineering master's program prepares you for careers in systems design, professional communications, and more.
- Online Enrollment: 4,533 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,540
- Locations: Cincinnati (OH) (and 1 other)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UC ranks in the top 4% nationwide, with an enrollment of 4,533 online graduate students. The school features an 86% retention rate, placing it in the top 13% for student satisfaction, along with an 86% recommendation rate and a review rating of 3.81 out of 5. This 30-credit program can be completed in as few as 18 months, focusing on applied electrical engineering, including Industry 4.0 technologies like robotics, AI, and cybersecurity. Multiple enrollment periods and financial aid options enhance accessibility for advancing professionals.
- Online Enrollment: 3,765 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,495
- Location: West Lafayette (IN)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Purdue is in the top 5% for online engagement. With a retention rate of 90% and a recommendation rate of 94%, Purdue demonstrates a strong commitment to student satisfaction and success. This 30-credit program mirrors the rigorous curriculum of its on-campus counterpart, offering specializations in Automatic Control, Computer Engineering, and VLSI Design. Students can also delve into quantum computing and big data. Flexible learning is supported through Purdue’s Brightspace platform, making it ideal for working professionals.
- Online Enrollment: 3,504 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $30,195
- Location: Philadelphia (PA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Drexel ranks 9th with an online enrollment of 3,504 students, placing it in the 94th percentile. The school boasts a 78% graduation rate and supports 100% of online students with financial aid. With a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1 and an 87% recommendation rate, Drexel fosters a supportive learning environment. The online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering requires 45 quarter credits, with at least 30 from the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. Specializations include Computing and Project Management.
- Online Enrollment: 3,001 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,711
- Locations: Tucson (AZ) (and 1 other)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UA has over 3,000 online learners, placing it in the top 9% of online schools. Its strong commitment to online students is reflected in an 86% retention rate, ranking it in the top 13%. With a 97% recommendation rate and a review rating above 4.0, UA provides a satisfying educational experience based on firsthand accounts. The 30-credit Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering offers specializations in Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence. Core courses cover optical and quantum communications, preparing graduates for careers in aerospace, healthcare, and IT.
- Online Enrollment: 2,917 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $24,090
- Location: College Station (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: TAMU ranks in the top 9% for online enrollment with 2,917 students and boasts a 95% retention rate, placing it in the top 3%. The university also excels in serving military personnel, ranking in the top 3% with 2,497 military students. The online master's in electrical engineering offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, each requiring 32 credit hours. Certificates like Analog and Mixed-Signal Integrated Circuit Design enhance career readiness. Students can transfer up to six credits from peer institutions.
- Online Enrollment: 2,730 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,966
- Location: Athens (OH)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Ohio ranks 12th for a strong online enrollment of 2,730 students, placing it in the top 9% for online engagement. With a 95% recommendation rate, the school garners high satisfaction from alumni. The 36-credit, HLC-accredited online degree is designed for working professionals and offers six concentrations, including Autonomous Unmanned Vehicles and Digital Signal Processing. The program includes labs and simulations in courses like Electronic Navigation Systems. OHIO offers a 15% tuition discount for veterans, active military, alumni, and corporate partners.
- Online Enrollment: 2,676 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $35,008
- Location: Norfolk (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ODU ranks in the top 10% for online enrollment with 2,676 students and excels in serving military personnel, with 3,501 military students, placing it in the top 2%. The online master's in electrical and computer engineering offers flexibility with courses like Electric Drives, Power System Analysis, and Cyber Defense Fundamentals. Emerging areas such as Machine Learning and Cyber Physical System Security are also covered. The program is entirely online, offering practical applications without the need for on-campus attendance, and includes personalized support from program advisors.
- Online Enrollment: 2,447 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $5,895
- Location: Kennesaw (GA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: KSU ranks 14th, placing in the top 11% for online enrollment and the top 6% for military student engagement, reflecting its strong support for veterans. The online master's in electrical and computer engineering requires 30 credit hours, offering flexibility with fully online or on-site options. Students engage with faculty in areas like neuromorphic computing, biosensing, and photovoltaics. The program, part of KSU’s Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering, emphasizes hands-on research. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, relevant experience, and GRE scores.
- Online Enrollment: 2,422 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $21,361
- Location: Villanova (PA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: VU, ranked 15th, boasts a strong online enrollment of 2,422 students, placing it in the top 12%. Its impressive 91% graduation rate ranks in the top 3%, while a 97% recommendation rate underscores high satisfaction among students. VU’s online MS in Electrical Engineering offers flexibility, with evening classes available both on-campus and remotely. Concentrations include Electronic Circuits, Signal Processing, and System Dynamics. Faculty research covers topics such as 5G and automotive innovations. Graduates often secure roles at top firms like Lockheed Martin, benefiting from the program’s industry focus and personalized learning options.
- Online Enrollment: 2,418 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $31,793
- Location: Raleigh (NC)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NC State ranks 16th on our list for its robust online enrollment with 2,418 distance education students, placing it in the top 12% nationally. Its 94% retention rate is among the top 4%, reflecting strong student satisfaction. With an 85% graduation rate and 95% recommendation rate, NC State offers a strong online education. The 31-credit-hour MSEE, fully online, covers power electronics, nanoelectronics, and signal processing. No entrance exams are required, and students can complete the program at their own pace, with flexible full- or part-time options.
- Online Enrollment: 2,156 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $29,786
- Location: Fort Collins (CO)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CSU ranks in the top 13% for online enrollment, with 2,156 students engaged in distance learning. It also boasts an 86% retention rate, reflecting high student satisfaction. With a review rating of 3.82 out of 5 and an 87% recommendation rate, CSU delivers a solid online learning experience. The 30-credit MEng/MSEE can be completed in two years, with courses that delve into nanostructures and wind energy integration. Fully coursework-based, the program offers flexibility with no thesis or oral exams and a flat tuition rate of $705 per credit.
- Online Enrollment: 2,117 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $41,224
- Location: East Lansing (MI)
Online degree:
Why we like them: MSU ranks 18th on our list, with 2,117 online students, placing it in the top 14% for online enrollment. With an 82% graduation rate and an 89% retention rate, MSU excels in both student success and satisfaction. Additionally, 92% of students recommend the program, reinforcing its strong academic support. The 30-credit MSEE can be completed in two years and covers advanced topics such as VLSI design, robotics, and signal processing. The flexible curriculum prepares graduates for high-demand software and control systems engineering.
- Online Enrollment: 2,084 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $38,020
- Location: Boulder (CO)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CU Boulder ranks 19th, with 2,084 online graduate students enrolled, placing it in the top 14% nationally for remote participation. With an 88% retention rate and a 90% recommendation rate, CU Boulder demonstrates strong student satisfaction and success. The 30-credit electric engineering program online, offered entirely through Coursera, mirrors the quality of the on-campus degree with no mention of online study on transcripts. Specializations include Embedded Systems and Photonics, and the flexible, stackable course structure allows for seamless entry into the program.
- Online Enrollment: 2,022 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $24,798
- Location: Clemson (SC)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CU ranks 20th, with 2,022 online graduate students enrolled, placing it in the top 14% nationwide. The school boasts a 92% retention rate and an 85% graduation rate, reflecting strong student satisfaction and success. With a 4.09/5 rating and 95% recommendation rate, Clemson is highly regarded by students. The 30-credit electrical and computer engineering program offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, with specializations in Computing, Energy Systems, and Photonics. Flexible course formats are available online, on-campus, or in hybrid mode, allowing completion in as little as 12 months.
- Online Enrollment: 2,007 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $33,908
- Location: Auburn (AL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Auburn is in the top 14% for online participation on a national scale. With an impressive 93% retention rate, Auburn excels at keeping students engaged and supported. The 92% recommendation rate further reinforces the program's quality. Auburn’s 30-credit-hour program offers thesis and non-thesis options, delivered through flexible streaming video over 10- to 15-week terms. Specializations include Control Systems, Digital Signal Processing, and Wireless Engineering, preparing graduates for a range of technical roles in industries like power systems and electronics.
- Online Enrollment: 1,960 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $13,912
- Location: Boca Raton (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: FAU ranks among the top 15% for online enrollment, showcasing its commitment to accommodating distance learners. With an 88% recommendation rate, FAU ensures a high-quality, satisfying educational experience. The 100% online MSEE program is accredited by the prestigious Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring rigorous academic standards. Specializations include Telecommunications, Digital Signal Processing, Robotics, and Alternative Energy Systems. This flexible, fully online program prepares students for careers in fields like machine vision, bioengineering, and electromagnetics.
- Online Enrollment: 1,860 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $8,377
- Location: Mississippi State (MS)
Online degree:
Why we like them: MSU places in the top 15% for online enrollment on a national scale. With a retention rate in the top 19% nationally, MSU offers excellent support for online learners. The 30-credit electrical and computer engineering program online provides both thesis and non-thesis options, with no GRE or GMAT required. Students benefit from flexible in-state tuition rates, extensive online resources, and support services. Coursework covers advanced electrical and computer engineering topics, catering to a wide range of professional goals.
- Online Enrollment: 1,645 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $30,220
- Location: Fayetteville (AR)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UA ranks 24th, placing in the top 18% for online enrollment and the top 5% for military student support. With an 86% retention rate and a 92% recommendation rate, UA demonstrates strong learner engagement and satisfaction. The 30-credit MSEE, focused on the Electric Power Engineering concentration, is delivered entirely online over 8-week terms. Students benefit from in-state tuition rates, regardless of location, and can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks. With no GRE required under certain conditions, the program offers flexibility and is ideal for advancing in engineering.
- Online Enrollment: 1,505 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $25,147
- Location: Manhattan (KS)
Online degree:
Why we like them: KSU ranks 25th in online education, with 1,505 students enrolled, placing it in the top 19% of institutions for advanced online programs. The university boasts an 86% retention rate, ranking in the top 13%, and an exceptional recommendation rate of 98%, indicating high student satisfaction. The 30-credit MSEE program is delivered entirely online, requiring only a campus visit for the final oral examination. Students can focus on electric power systems or communications and networking, tailoring their coursework with electives in areas like advanced power electronics and wireless communications.
- Online Enrollment: 1,487 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $21,550
- Location: Albuquerque (NM)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UNM ranks 26th among online institutions, with 1,487 enrolled students, placing it in the top 19%. It has an 88% recommendation rate, highlighting student satisfaction and trust. With 885 military students, the school is especially appealing to veterans. The online MSEE with a focus on Space Systems Engineering is delivered in 8-week sessions and requires at least 31 credit hours. Developed alongside the Air Force Research Laboratory, the curriculum features courses like Satellite Communications and Small Spacecraft Design, equipping graduates for roles in NASA and private aerospace companies.
- Online Enrollment: 1,404 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $11,175
- Location: Houston (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UH ranks 27th among online institutions, with over 1,400 students enrolled, placing it in the top 19% for online education. Boasting an 85% retention rate, UH ranks in the top 14%, reflecting strong student satisfaction. With a review rating of 3.6/5, the university is a great option for studying toward an online MSEE program specializing in Power and Energy Systems. Developed by award-winning faculty, the curriculum covers industrial power system engineering and manufacturing management, preparing engineers with the technical and business skills needed for the global industrial marketplace.
- Online Enrollment: 1,258 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $18,000
- Location: Pullman (WA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: WSU stands out for its online programs, enrolling 1,258 students and ranking in the top 21% nationally. With an 81% retention rate and a 3.75/5 review score, 86% of students recommend it. The 30-credit Professional Science Master’s in Electrical Power Engineering blends technical and management courses. It covers power systems analysis, renewable energy, and system protection. The program includes 18 credits in power engineering, including nine in professional development, and a three-credit capstone with an industry internship, offering hands-on experience and networking.
- Online Enrollment: 1,101 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $24,595
- Location: Stillwater (OK)
Online degree:
Why we like them: OSU ranks 29th, placing it in the top 23% for online enrollment nationally, which reflects a commitment to accessible education. With an impressive 83% retention rate in the top 17% of universities and a recommendation rate of 95%, OSU demonstrates strong student satisfaction. The onlineMEng in Electrical Engineering is a non-thesis program designed for professionals, requiring 33 graduate credit hours and delivered through the flexible Canvas platform. We also like that students can specialize in various areas of electrical engineering.
- Online Enrollment: 1,086 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $56,279
- Location: New York (NY)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Even in last place, CUNY stands out for its vibrant online community and exceptional military enrollment, placing it in the top 20% of online schools nationwide. With a remarkable 98% retention rate, CUNY demonstrates a commitment to student engagement and success. Additionally, it has a high 92% recommendation rate. The MSEE program requires 30 credits and offers concentrations in areas like Telecommunications Engineering and Wireless Communications, and a new option in Systems Biology, allowing you to tailor your studies.
What Is a Master's in Electrical Engineering Degree?
A master's degree in electrical engineering covers advanced concepts in this discipline. Coursework usually includes lessons on circuits, differential algebra, and power generation and regulation. Many programs have more opportunities to specialize than bachelor's degrees do. Master's faculty may also teach some management skills for students interested in leadership roles.
Most online engineering degrees feature courses without live meetings, including online electrical engineering master's degrees. Students complete coursework in a learning management platform where they can view lecture recordings, read assignments, and talk to classmates.
Accreditation can be very important in engineering. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is an influential accreditor, and many employers prefer candidates who hold degrees from ABET-approved programs. You can search ABET's to find online and on-campus electrical engineering options.
Degree Requirements
You need to submit official bachelor's degree transcripts to apply for an online degree in electrical engineering. You don't necessarily need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering to pursue a master's in the subject. But most master's candidates have a STEM degree of some kind, with engineering degrees being the most common.
Electrical engineering master's degrees usually have 30-36 credit hours of coursework. This may take as little as one year with a full-time schedule or two to three years at a part-time pace. Some classes require laboratory work that you can complete with kits that your school provides, though you might need to buy some components yourself. Other schools might require you to travel to campus once or twice a year for intensive lab sessions over several days.
Internships are fairly common in electrical engineering. If your program has a required or optional internship, you'll complete this at a workplace in your community. This is the same for online or in-person students.
Electrical Engineering Courses
Each master's program in electrical engineering has a slightly different program. But we've listed a few common courses below that you're likely to take in any program you choose:
Battery Management Systems
This course introduces students to modern-day battery management systems and their applications. Professors explain how to build different types of batteries, measure currents, and calculate energy levels. Some versions of this class may also cover how battery systems are used in new technologies such as self-driving cars.
Differential Equations for Electrical Engineers
Electrical engineers need to understand these mathematical concepts in order to design electrical systems. Students cover both the theory behind differential equations and problem-solving exercises that train them to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
Introduction to Power Electronics
Students build components that can effectively conduct electricity in this class. Topics might include current types, power regulation, and electricity modeling.
Power Grids
In this course, faculty discuss how electricity is transmitted from plants to consumers. They typically cover telecommunications networks, failures and self-healing, and advances in smart grid technology, such as intelligent sensors.
Other Engineering Specializations
It's common to specialize in electrical engineering by choosing a concentration during master's-level coursework. One of the most common concentrations is electronics engineering, which is the design and construction of components and consumer devices that function on electricity. Other popular choices include wireless and mobile communication, robotics, and automatic control systems.
But there are many types of engineering degrees beyond electrical engineering. The math, science, and design skills used in one field often apply to some or all of the others. Therefore, students who hold a bachelor's degree in one engineering major can go on to study another in graduate school.
We've listed examples of engineering disciplines below that you might consider if you're not yet decided on a specialty:
- Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace engineers design and test airframes such as planes, helicopters, and spacecraft. It may be possible to pursue an online master's degree in aerospace engineering, though much of the lab work will require you to use campus facilities.
- Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers use chemistry to design and perfect a huge variety of products for business leaders to sell. As with aerospace engineering, an online master's degree in chemical engineering might have fully remote courses but some in-person laboratory time built in.
- Civil Engineering: A master's degrees in civil engineering focuses on building infrastructure such as highways, railroads, and water treatment facilities. You need a license from your state if you work on public projects, which is the bulk of civil engineering duties.
- Computer Engineering: Computer engineers work on physical computer hardware and its interactions with software. They need to understand much of the same electronic circuitry, instrumentation, and signals concepts as electronics engineers, so you might consider an online master's degree in computer engineering if this interests you.
- Engineering Management: UUÖ±²¥ engineering management master's degrees emphasize leadership theory and practices so that graduates can manage engineers and their projects. Students typically learn about behavior and motivation theory, financial planning, and supply chain management.
- Industrial Engineering: Industrial engineers oversee manufacturing and production. An online master's degree in industrial engineering seeks to teach them to create efficient industrial processes so they can help increase productivity.
- Mechanical Engineering: These professionals design and test machines, including those used in manufacturing and automation. This is why an online master's degree in mechanical engineering has a lot of crossover with industrial and systems engineering.
- Software Engineering: Software engineering involves every step along the software development life cycle, from conception to testing. As a computer-based discipline, there are many fully online master's degrees in software engineering.
- Systems Engineering: This is one of the most interdisciplinary fields in engineering. Systems engineers organize processes and procedures in an effort to maximize efficiency for their employers or clients. Online master's degrees in systems engineering teach the systems theories and best practices they need in the workplace.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Electrical Engineering Degree?
Many engineers progress through their careers with nothing more than a bachelor's degree, while others choose to add a master's to their resume. But you might decide to pursue a doctorate in electrical engineering if you want to become a professor or academic researcher advancing knowledge in the field. It often takes 7-10 years to earn a doctoral degree when you factor in researching and writing a dissertation.
However, most electrical engineering graduates stop at the master's or bachelor's level. Read on to learn about possible occupations these degrees can qualify you for.
Potential Careers
Many graduates seek jobs as . The median annual salary for this career is $101,780, well over twice the national median salary of $45,760. Electronics engineers who design small components have a through 2033.
Electrical engineering students learn valuable skills and knowledge that might be useful in related engineering or STEM careers. Some complementary jobs include industrial engineer, systems engineer, and mechanical engineer.
Financing Your Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering
It's important to understand all the costs associated with graduate school before diving into applications. That way you can start the financial planning process with all the information you need.
Most graduate students take out student loans to help pay for their program. This can lead to student loan debt that you need to repay with interest down the line. OnlineU's student loan repayment calculator can help you compare possible debt levels at different schools you're considering.
Ideally, you'll be able to secure some other forms of financial aid that don't need to be repaid. These include merit- and need-based scholarships, need-based grants, and need-based work-study programs.
You can review our list of the most affordable online master's degrees in electrical engineering to find relatively low-cost options.
FAQs About Master's in Electrical Engineering Programs
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's in Electrical Engineering Degree?
Full-time students might be able to complete an electrical engineering master's program in a year, though two years is also common. Some colleges structure online programs into eight-week terms, which are intense but allow you to take more classes each year.
Is Electrical Engineering Hard?
Most students find electrical engineering courses difficult. There are many complex math and science concepts to master, all of which are important because electricity is so potentially dangerous. Even if you're a STEM wiz, you might struggle with some of the soft skills that these programs emphasize, such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.
Can You Get a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering Online?
There are many master's programs in electrical engineering with 100% online coursework. It's still possible that you'll need to do some laboratory work on a campus. Any required internships will also take place in person.
Is a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering Worth It?
An electrical engineering master's degree is often worth the money, time, and effort. In most cases, off in the long run by leading to higher earnings and lower chances of unemployment.
But it's worth noting that the projected job growth rate for electrical engineers is lower than the national average of 5%. Electronics engineers should fare better, so it's worth considering programs with electronics engineering concentrations to make you more marketable.
Bottom Line
Electrical engineers can have rewarding careers with just a bachelor's degree, but a master's degree may open new career possibilities and lead to higher salaries. Many electrical engineering master's programs allow for specialization and contain some lessons on engineering management.
You might read through our college planning resources if you're unsure what subject to study or you have other questions about graduate school. The Guide to Starting Your Online Education can provide tips once you commit to an online learning program.
Student Reviews of Online Electrical Engineering Programs
I am proud to be a Razorback! The University of Arkansas claims to have one of the highest quality online graduate programs in the nation and I agree! This program has made a graduate degree possible despite my hectic schedule with two jobs and a family. Also, The people who work here love what they do and it shows! When I have a problem there is always someone ready to help. Do you want a distinguished graduate degree but can't fit it into your schedule? This program is right for YOU!
Review Date: 3/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a part-time graduate student who's working full time while taking classes for a Master's degree in Engineering, many of the issues (Social Life, career support, living expenses, transportation) don't apply to me. I take my courses online, which are mostly done well, but there are often technical issues. These have less to do with the professors (who are usually accommodating) and more to do with Blackboard and Tegrity being a poor & bug-ridden system. Aside from technical issues, the online courses... Read More
Review Date: 11/5/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The online program or distance learning program is incredibly well set up. The only con that I have is that online students are graded against om campus students, and on campus students have campus resources that online students don't. The workload and teachers are great, and employers in the engineering industry tend to like Georgia Tech graduates.
Review Date: 3/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The convenience of online classes is the best thing about IIT. Good but demanding professors that are easily accessible, which is made possible by the relatively small class size
Review Date: 12/16/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I read a lot of reviews when trying to figure out if WGU was right for me. Some of the reviews really made me nervous but I went ahead and enrolled anyways. I loved my program and the course mentors. The self paced approach was really what I was looking for as I wanted to get this degree as quickly as possible. I was able to start in July 2015 and will graduate in Dec 2015-dont get me wrong it was a lot of work-45 papers, an exam, practicum and a thesis but I was able to get through the material... Read More
Review Date: 10/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Using Purdue's ProEd distant learning program for a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering. Purdue pioneered the online master's program, and allows students from anywhere in the world to earn the same degree as students at the main campus. Classes are exactly the same one's as the main campus lectures. This online program removes any stigma associated with earning an online degree, but you really can't call it an online degree. This is a real degree that you happen to be taking online through... Read More
Review Date: 1/26/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great program flexibility and relevant classes.
Review Date: 12/3/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: Very good education. People care about grad. studendts. Cons: Winters are cold in Princeton.
Review Date: 3/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UCCS is a small enough school in that you are easily able to meet with professors but big enough where you still have access to many opportunities. The faculty are active in doing research and overall very supportive. The campus and surrounding area are both beautiful.
Review Date: 10/13/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Course work dwells extremely deep into the basics. Lots of homework. Overall, great experience .
Review Date: 10/16/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
U.A.B. is the perfect balance of practical and theoretical knowledge that prepares its students to compete globally.
Review Date: 11/9/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: Good academic environment and job opportunities; Cons: Rare funding and freezing winter
Review Date: 3/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
One of the major pros of graduate school at UCCS is that many of the students are non-traditional, working students. As a result, the classes and faculty are usual flexible and arrangements can be made to accommodate different work/family commitments. The courses are challenging and relevant to current research areas. The small number of graduate students allows more one-on-one time with professors. The campus is beautiful and the city has much to offer for recreation and outdoor activities.
Review Date: 8/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Texas at Tyler is the University that suits the best me with its appropriate courses and motivating environment. The University offers the best place for those students who wish to develop academically with its intensive learning methodologies and motivating faculties.
Review Date: 7/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My overall experience at UT Tyler has been great so far. The campus is beautiful and it has diverse population. Professors are always eager to help their students learn the material. Also, there are a lot of resources that will help you sharpen the skills in the areas of academic and professional development.
Review Date: 8/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My overall experience at UT Tyler has been great so far. The campus is beautiful and it has diverse population. Professors are always eager to help their students learn the material. Also, there are a lot of resources that will help you sharpen the skills in the areas of academic and professional development.
Review Date: 8/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Texas at Tyler is the University that suits the best me with its appropriate courses and motivating environment. The University offers the best place for those students who wish to develop academically with its intensive learning methodologies and motivating faculties.
Review Date: 3/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
One truly gets the "IVY League" feel here! Penn has provided me with a holistic development, that I am very thankful for. The amount of support provided by the University in all aspects of the students' lives is commendable. A proud Penn alum for life!
Review Date: 3/25/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: 1. Quality of education is good. 2. Interactive education Cons: 1. High tuition fees
Review Date: 2/7/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As an international student From Brazil I found the university of multicultural environment and wonderful study program. CMU is a reference for software and Engineering cares, professors and infrastructure are excellent. I will recommend for the student who is willing to take off in Technology career.
Review Date: 9/6/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes