Are you looking for affordable online engineering bachelor’s degree programs? Our Students-Before-Profits Awards were created with you in mind. These awards promote colleges and universities verified as non-profit institutions. We look at each program’s curriculum and outcomes. We also make sure that each university puts students before the bottom line.
All of the online engineering programs selected are from reputable and accredited institutions. Most have lower-than-average tuition costs compared to their competitors. Yet they offer some fabulous programs for those interested in engineering.
Online Bachelors Degree in Engineering Programs
Pursuing an engineering degree requires time and commitment. But with online learning, you can accomplish more. Today’s online engineering programs accommodate your busy schedule. They allow students to balance work, school, and other obligations. So have a look at these top 20 schools offering online engineering bachelor’s degree programs. You might be surprised at what you can accomplish!
Methodology for the Best Online Colleges for Engineering
Each school listed has at least one engineering bachelor’s degree online. Yet most universities have more than one engineering degree. Our methodology is simple. We have listed each school according to in-state tuition rates per academic year. Prospective students should check with the school that interests them for a total estimate of costs.
This list of online engineering degrees starts with the most affordable schools first. Remember also that online students are eligible for financial assistance. Federal financial aid, scholarships, and other funding opportunities are available.
See Also: Best Online Master’s in Engineering
Ranking the Best Engineering Degrees Online: Accredited, Non-Profit Colleges
1. Daytona State College
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology
Daytona State College is a public college located in Daytona Beach. The school enrolls over 11,000 students and offers over 350 online courses. The college provides two online engineering programs. The first is a general Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology. The program prepares graduates for technical positions in the following areas:
- Industrial Operations
- Mechanical Design
- Construction Design
The second program is a BS in Engineering Technology. This program has an Electrical Engineering Concentration. It prepares graduates for technical positions in electrical, digital, computer, and microprocessor fields. The bachelor’s degree provides a broad foundation of both practical and theoretical knowledge. Some of the areas of study for this online engineering degree include:
- Electrical and Electronics Circuits
- Digital Circuits
- Power Systems
- Microprocessors
- Control Systems
Both engineering degree online programs use a 2 + 2 model. This model requires completing an associate’s degree before entering the program. Additionally, each engineering bachelors online program is ABET-accredited.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $3,106
2. Kennesaw State University
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Kennesaw State University is a public university in Marietta, Georgia. The school offers two online engineering degree programs. Both programs are fully accredited by ABET. The first is a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. This program teaches students how to make organizations more productive, efficient, and cost-effective. Students can choose either a concentration in Quality Principles or Logistics. Courses in the program are asynchronous.
The second engineering degree is a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This 120-credit program prepares students for a variety of engineering careers. Most graduates typically work in programming. But some become software consultants.
KSU has a wide range of resources for its online students. Students pursuing this online bachelors engineering degree can access services such as:
- Academic Advising
- Student Disability Services
- Military and Veteran Services
- Career Planning and Development
- Mental Health Services
- Online Tutoring
- Tech Support
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $5,786
3. Florida International University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Florida International University offers two online bachelors engineering degrees. Both engineering degrees are ABET-accredited and feature three start dates per year. The first is a BA in Computer Engineering. Students in this 128-credit program gain skills in:
- Hardware Architecture
- Software Engineering
- Hardware-software Integration
- Signal and Image Processing
- Instrumentation and Filter Design
- Computer Networking
The second online program is a BA in Electrical Engineering. Students in this program 128-credit program train in areas such as:
- Electronics and Electromagnetism
- Nanotechnology
- Power and Energy Systems
- Communications
- Controls
- Bio-engineering.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $6,565
See Also: Best Online Masters Electrical Engineering
4. University of North Carolina—Charlotte
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology: Electrical
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology: Fire Safety
University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a public research university with over 30,000 students. Charlotte Online offers several programs for online students. This includes two online BS programs in Engineering Technology.
The first is a BS in Engineering Technology. This is a part-time online degree completion program. It is designed to prepare students who already hold an Associate degree in a related area of study. Students in this program will dive deeper into topics such as:
- Linear Circuits
- Digital Logic and Systems
- Microprocessors, Microcontrollers, and Embedded Systems
- Electronic Circuits and Systems
- Power Systems
The second program is a BS in Engineering Technology focusing on Fire Safety. This online program is for those with an AAS in Fire Science or a related degree. Students will learn the skills needed for engineering careers in Fire Service Administration. A few of the online courses in this program include:
- Fire Safety in the Built Environment
- Industrial Hazards & Electricity
- Active Fire Protection
- Command and Control of Major Disasters
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $7,214
5. Thomas Edison State University
Bachelor of Science in Electronics Systems Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology
Thomas Edison State University is a public university in New Jersey. TESU features three online engineering programs. The first is a BS in Electronics SE Technology. It’s a 120-credit program for those in various phases of the electronics industry. It covers areas like:
- Computer Hardware
- Avionics
- Instrumentation and Control
- Communications
The second program is a BS in Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology. This program emphasizes the practical aspects of engineering. It is specifically for those involved in nuclear power generation. It requires a total of 120 credits. Students will learn skills they need to perform competently in:
- Reactor Operations
- Quality Assurance
- Instrumentation and Control Technology
The final program is a BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology. It is designed for reactor operators and related workers in the nuclear industry. It is also for those in the US Navy nuclear power program. Credits may be earned from:
- The Navy Basic Nuclear Power School
- Advanced Navy Training
- NRRPT Certification
- NRC Licensure
- Professional Training
All three engineering degrees are accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET. Financial aid is available for students pursuing these programs.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $7,372
6. Lamar University
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
Lamar University is a four-year public research university in Beaumont, Texas. The college offers several online programs. The College of Engineering features one online engineering degree completion program.
The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering is an online 2 + 2 program. It allows students to complete the final two years of an industrial engineering education online. So they must complete the first two years of schooling before enrolling in this program. However, the two-year completion program at Lamar is entirely online. The only exception to this is one residency. This consists of one three-day weekend visit to the campus for a manufacturing lab.
The Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering requires 12 hours of technical electives. Students will work with their advisors to develop a plan that aligns with their career goals. Some options for elective courses include:
- Lean Manufacturing
- Six Sigma
- Engineering Management
- Data Mining
- Project Management
- Robotics
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $8,690
7. University of Southern Mississippi
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology Logistics
The University of Southern Mississippi is a public university in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. The school enrolls over 14,100 students. Southern Miss has a robust online division. It offers dozens of online degree programs at all levels.
The college offers two online engineering degrees. The first is an Industrial Engineering Technology degree. This program is designed to prepare students who want to be at the forefront of the manufacturing or service industries. Students will gain the skills needed to land high-level supervisory positions in the engineering field.
The second program is an online BS in Industrial Engineering Technology Logistics. This is similar to the first program. However, it focuses on developing skills to keep distribution running smoothly. It’s a fully remote program where students will gain knowledge in the following areas:
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Distribution
- Transportation
- Operations Management
Both engineering degrees require 120 credits. It takes two to four years to complete them online. The engineering programs are ABET-accredited. There are a limited number of scholarships available to online students.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,450
8. Indiana State University
Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology Management
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology
Indiana State University offers three online engineering programs. The first is a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. This program is specifically designed for transfer students. Specific freshman and sophomore courses must be completed for admission. Graduates of the program will be qualified for highly technical careers in:
- Instrumentation and Control
- Technical Sales and Field Services
- Electronics Manufacturing
- Electrical Power Operations
The second program is an online Engineering Technology Management BS. This is an online degree completion program. It’s designed for those with an associate degree in engineering technology or a related field. The online degree prepares graduates for management roles in technical and engineering organizations. The program is ideal for busy working adults. In some cases, students can earn additional professional certifications.
The final engineering degree at ISU is a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology. This online mechanical engineering degree is also designed for transfer students. The primary focus of this mechanical engineering degree online is on design and management. The management area gives students critical leadership skills. These skills encompass managing resources, systems, and people in relation to mechanical engineering. The design aspect addresses the design of products, machines, and mechanical tools.
ABET accredits all three online engineering degree programs. Financial assistance is available. The Bailey College of Engineering and Technology offers a variety of scholarships.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,732
Looking for Graduate Programs for Mechanical Engineers? Check Out the Best Online Master’s Programs in Mechanical Engineering
9. Stony Brook University
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Stony Brook University is a public sea-grant/space-grant university in New York. The school is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) System.
Stony Brook offers a 100% online BS in Electrical Engineering. The degree gives students an excellent education in electrical engineering. It opens up opportunities for advancement in the engineering field. The program is ideal for those who want to pursue an engineering degree while working full-time.
Courses are delivered asynchronously. So students can access the materials when it is convenient for them. Students will have plenty of opportunities to participate in discussions and labs. They will connect with their instructors and peers online. Some of the courses in this online engineering program include:
- Power Electronics
- Electrical Circuit Analysis
- Microelectronic Circuits
- Embedded Systems Design
- Engineering Ethics
- Electromechanical Energy Converters
A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete the online bachelor’s degree. The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $10,560
10. Arizona State University
Seven Online Engineering Programs
Arizona State University is a national space-grant institution. In addition, the school has been ranked #1 in online Student Services and Technology by US News & World Report. ASU offers over 300 online programs at all levels. And it features seven online bachelor’s engineering programs. Some of these include:
- Electrical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering – Electric Power and Energy Systems
- Engineering Management
- Mechanical Engineering
- Software Engineering
In these online programs, students integrate fundamentals with practical, real-world experiences. Courses are taught by internationally recognized faculty. Students have access to ASU’s eight award-winning libraries. Most programs require about 120 credits for completion. Additionally, most of the online courses are asynchronous.
Some of the programs lead to additional certifications. Others can be taken as dual bachelor’s degree to master’s degree programs. For example, the online mechanical engineering degree program can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s degree program. This way, students earn a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree and master’s degree together.
Students can enroll in any of these engineering degree program options in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,978
11. University of North Dakota
Six Online Engineering Programs
The University of North Dakota is a public research university in Grand Forks. It is the oldest and largest university in the state of North Dakota. And it enrolls about 14,000 students a year. The school offers six fully online undergraduate engineering degrees. It also has the only online petroleum engineering degree on our list. Programs include:
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Geological Engineering
All of these online programs are ABET-accredited. And some have a combined master’s degree track and Ph.D. options. In addition, most programs offer hands-on experiences like internships and competitions. And many can be customized with different concentrations. For example, the Mechanical Engineering program has four concentrations available:
- Mechanical Design
- Thermal Sciences
- Manufacturing and Materials
- Aerospace
UND has some of the best online engineering degrees on our list. And it’s well worth checking them out thoroughly to see which one is right for you. The school offers a wealth of resources to online students, including:
- Career Services
- Online Tutoring
- Tech Support
- Writing Help
- Dedicated Academic Advisor
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,950
12. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers two excellent online engineering degrees. The first is a BS in Engineering. This is a highly flexible multidisciplinary online degree program. Students will be prepared for research, design, and development engineering careers. Areas covered in the engineering degree online include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
The program aims to bridge the gap across disciplines. As a result, engineering majors learn to explore innovative solutions to problems.
The second program is a BA in Engineering Technology. This online degree is also offered entirely online. And it gives students the skills to use their knowledge in a wide range of industries. Students participate in virtual labs and research projects. And they can customize the degree by choosing from one of nine concentrations. A few of these include:
- Aviation Safety
- Aeronautical Science
- Helicopter Operations and Safety
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Security and Intelligence
- Management Information Systems
ERAU has some of the best online engineering programs on our list. However, the school also offers financial aid, scholarships, and veterans and military benefits.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,085
13. Old Dominion University
Nine Online Bachelor’s in Engineering Programs
Old Dominion University is a public research university in Norfolk, Virginia. The college enrolls nearly 24,000 students. And ODU is one of the largest online learning providers in the nation. The school offers nine online engineering programs through ODU Global. They include a Bachelor of Science in the following:
- Civil Engineering Technology
- Communications Systems Technology
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Engineering Technology
- Embedded Systems Technology
- Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Mechatronics Systems Technology
- Nuclear Systems
- Power Systems Technology
Each of these online engineering degrees is designed for engineering majors who already have college credits. However, at least thirty credits must be earned online from ODU. The only exception to this is the Computer Engineering program. This bachelor’s degree can also be taken as a complete 128-credit program.
Many of the programs offer additional concentrations. For example, the mechanical engineering degree has four optional areas of focus:
- Mechanical Engineering-Manufacturing Systems
- Mechanical Engineering-Marine Systems
- Mechanical Engineering-Systems Design
- Mechanical Engineering-Mechatronics Systems
Online classes at ODU typically feature a blend of asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Some courses are entirely self-paced. And others occur in real-time via web conferencing. Students have the opportunity for one-on-one meetings with their professors. They will also engage with their classmates using a variety of collaborative tools.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,220
14. University of Alabama
Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is the flagship university of the UA System. UA offers two hybrid engineering programs. Both programs are primarily online. However, they do require some weekend visits to the Tuscaloosa campus.
The first program is a BS in Manufacturing Systems Engineering. The program gives students the skills to pursue careers in manufacturing systems. And they learn practical applications like manufacturing processes and cyber-physical systems. Some of the courses in this 125-credit online degree include:
- Modern Manufacturing Processes
- Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering
- Engineering Statistics
The second program is a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Students in this program train in designing a machine, system, or component in a process. Some of the required courses for the mechanical engineering degree include:
- Mechanics of Materials
- Heat Transfer
- Engineering Analysis
- Dynamic Machine Components
- Mechanical Engineering Design
Applications are accepted year-round. And new students are admitted in the Fall and Spring semesters. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,940
15. Ferris State University
Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Media Software Engineering
Bachelor’s Degree in HVACR Engineering Technology & Energy Management
Ferris State University is a public university located in Big Rapids, Michigan. The school is known for its small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio. All instructors have real-world professional experience in their engineering field. The school offers two online undergraduate engineering programs.
The first is a Bachelor’s in Digital Media Software Engineering. This program teaches students how to use code to solve complex engineering problems. And they will learn how to develop groundbreaking software applications. In addition, students learn using a web-native platform built specifically for online learning.
The second program is a Bachelor’s in HVACR Engineering Technology & Energy Management. Ferris is only one of two schools in the country to offer such a unique program. The bachelor’s degree prepares graduates to fill the gap between technicians and engineers. As a result, graduates will be prepared for HVACR engineering jobs in positions like:
- Applications Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Systems Control
- Estimator
- Field Technician
- Systems Representative
- Control Systems Trainer
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $13,076
Related: Best Online Masters in Software Engineering
16. National University
Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Design Engineering
National University is a private non-profit university headquartered in San Diego, California. The school enrolls over 17,000 students and features over 45 online programs. Currently, the school offers two online engineering programs.
The first is a BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This bachelor’s degree prepares students for roles in inventing, designing, and manufacturing new devices. This includes cell phones, AI, smart home devices, robots, and more. Students study the design and development of software and hardware systems. And they will learn how users interact with those systems.
The second program is an online BS in Manufacturing Design Engineering. Students will learn to use state-of-the-art, computer-aided tools. And they will participate in simulation modeling techniques. These techniques will help them design complex engineering devices. They will also explore human factors. For example, they will examine the safety and ergonomics required in engineering systems.
Each engineering degree program is ABET-accredited. Courses are four weeks long, and students can enroll year-round. Scholarships and financial aid are available.
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $13,320
17. Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
SNHU is a private non-profit college in Manchester, New Hampshire. The college offers an affordable online Software Engineering BS.
This 120-credit online degree program gives students the skills they need to enter the engineering profession. Students will learn the most fundamental principles and concepts of software engineering. And they will gain the knowledge valued by today’s employers. Some of the courses in this online bachelor engineering degree include:
- Software Security
- Programming Languages
- Secure Coding
- Software Reverse Engineering
SNHU offers a full range of services to its online students. Students have unparalleled support from the time they enroll through graduation and beyond. In addition, there are no set class times. So you can access the course materials 24/7. That makes this online degree an excellent option for busy working professionals.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $15,380
18. Excelsior University
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology
Excelsior University is a private non-profit college in Albany, New York. Excelsior is known for providing opportunities to adult learners. And it places a specific emphasis on students historically underrepresented in higher education. In addition, the school has generous transfer policies and a large selection of online programs.
The college offers two online engineering programs. The first is an online BS in Electrical Engineering Technology. This is a 124-credit program that prepares students for roles in industries such as:
- Electronics
- Semiconductors and Computers
- Nanotechnology
Students will study technology concepts. And they can choose from concentrations in Electronics or Power Systems. These concentrations will give them a broad range of professional and technical skills. And they will be ready to apply what they have learned in a technology-based industry.
The second program is an online BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology. It is taught by faculty with years of experience in the field. And it prepares students for roles in technical positions in the nuclear industry. Students can pursue a general course of study. However, they can also choose concentrations in Nuclear Cybersecurity or Nuclear Leadership. Courses will cover topics like:
- Reactor Operations
- Health Physics
- Instrumentation and Control
Both online bachelor engineering programs are ABET-accredited. And they are taught by the same instructors as the on campus programs.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $15,810
19. Liberty University
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology
Liberty University is a private non-profit college in Lynchburg, Virginia. It was founded by the Reverend Jerry Falwell. The school enrolls almost 95,000 students, most of whom study online. Liberty offers two undergraduate engineering degrees online.
The first is a hybrid Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. This civil engineering program will require a limited number of campus visits. And the rest can be completed online. The 131-credit program takes about three and a half years to finish. Students can transfer in up to 75% of the degree total for the civil engineering program.
The second program is a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. This is a 100% online program with no campus visits required. Students will gain the skills needed to become a member (or even a leader) of a technical team. This 120-credit program also takes about three and a half years to finish. There are eight start dates per year. And all courses in this online BS in engineering are eight weeks long.
Liberty offers fantastic resources for its online students. All students have access to personalized academic advising. Other services include IT assistance, a writing center, an online library, and more.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $22,511
20. Trine University
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology
Trine University is a private, not-for-profit institution located in Angola, Indiana. TU was founded in 1884 and currently enrolls just over 4,000 students. The school features an online Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. It’s taught by the same instructors as the on campus programs.
Graduates of this online BS engineering degree will be prepared to lead and serve in the manufacturing sector. Students will gain a comprehensive overview of industrial engineering technology. And they will develop several in-demand skills with this bachelor’s degree. These include:
- Lean Manufacturing
- Industrial Leadership
- Managing Budgets and Facilities
Classes start every eight weeks for this 120-credit engineering education program. They are entirely asynchronous, so there are no set class times. Instead, students can log in when it is most convenient for them. Trine offers many resources to its online students, including:
- Academic Advising
- Career Services
- Counseling Services
- Tech Support
- Tutoring
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $34,890
This concludes our ranking of the top online engineering programs bachelors degrees
MPH staff, April 2023
