by
Imed Bouchrika
The online education trend has turned mainstream. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES ) has reported that 4,034 institutions are offering online education in Fall 2018, with 104 primarily online institutions or having over 90% of students enrolled exclusively in distance education courses. Among these institutions are those offering the most affordable online colleges for engineering degrees.
Many may be skeptical about online engineering majors, but Bir (2017) notes that online engineering courses provide a flexible, accessible education and, somehow, a more affordable degree program, despite the need for further pedagogical adjustments. Besides, given the current global health crisis, engineering students, especially those enrolled in problem and project-based learning (PBL) courses, show readiness to transition to online courses. (Naji et al., 2020)
As such, here are the most affordable online engineering degrees per region in the United States for those planning to move to online learning.
Engineering is known for being one of the most expensive degrees one can pursue, and many may still wonder–how much does an online engineering degree cost? It depends on the location. For instance, it costs an average of $62,297 for a university in the Florida state system to deliver an engineering degree, compared to $31,482 for a business degree. (Altonji & Zimmerman, 2017)
Meanwhile, freshmen and sophomores at the University of Michigan pay $1,000 more per year to study engineering than to study film, while juniors and seniors pay $3,644 more. (Quinton, 2017)
Engineering degrees are expensive primarily due to the specific equipment necessary for classes. Additionally, expensive degrees have small class sizes, faculty members demanding salaries equivalent to those in the private sector, and extensive resources needed to plan internships and experiences. (Quinton, 2017)
Another significant reason driving up the cost of engineering degrees, if not all degrees, is declining state financing, resulting in tuition increases across the country. It has affected the choice of numerous colleges to increase the cost of specific programs. (Quinton, 2017)
Engineering degrees tend to provide high financial returns to graduates and also cost universities a lot to produce. (Altonji & Zimmerman, 2017). But they need not be too costly for students, as our list below shows.
Source: College Tuition Compare
Engineering degrees are among the top-ranking valuable majors, with architectural engineering being no. 1 with a median income of $90,000 and an unemployment rate of 1.3%. (Ostrowski, 2021) Anyone eyeing a lucrative career in the future has engineering as the best option.
However, attending a physical school may prove difficult for those working or who are worried about the pandemic. In response to this, here are the most affordable online colleges for engineering degrees grouped according to the four main regions of the US. These are programs not exceeding $700 per credit.
The Southern region of the U.S. is home to the most number of institutions of engineering degrees at much more affordable tuition. Of the 20 institutions in this list, the cheapest online engineering degree is in an institution in this region–Kennesaw State University, Georgia.
Kennesaw State University (KSU) is the third-largest university in Georgia, with 11 colleges in metro Atlanta. It is a Carnegie doctorate research institution (R2), one of only 6% of U.S. colleges and universities with this designation. It offers two online undergraduate engineering programs.
Programs:
Tuition: $185/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 127
Sample Courses:
| Industrial Engineering Technology | Software Engineering |
|---|---|
| Logistics and Supply Chain Management | Database Systems |
| Statistical Quality Control | Data Structures |
| Quality Concepts and Systems Design | Computer Organization and Architecture |
| Engineering Economy | Software Systems Requirements |
| Product and Process Costing | Software Architecture and Design |
The American Military University (AMU) was founded in 1991 by retired Marine Corps officer James P. Etter to provide career-relevant distance education to a mobile military population with unique needs.
As more undergraduate and graduate programs were added, AMU was reorganized to form the American Public University System (APUS) in 2002, providing quality, affordable, and flexible education to a broader audience of motivated working adults. APUS now offers over 190 academic programs to students worldwide.
Program: Bachelor of Engineering: Electrical Engineering
Tuition: $285/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 128
Sample Courses:
| Electrical Engineering |
|---|
| Circuits I & II |
| Engineering Instrumentation and Measurements |
| Continuous and Discrete Signals and Systems |
| Electromagnetic Field Theory |
| Analog Circuit Theory |
Florida International University (FIU) has come a long way from its humble beginnings of three classes and five employees. Every year, nearly 48,000 enroll as online students as FIU remains committed to their professional growth. It offers more than 100 fully online degree programs and tracks.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 128
Sample Courses:
| Computer Engineering |
|---|
| Applied Software Techniques in Engineering |
| Circuits Analysis |
| Signals and Systems |
| Computer Applications in Electrical Engineering |
| Programming Embedded Systems |
Saint Leo University is Florida’s oldest Catholic university and has a century-long heritage of welcoming students of all faiths. It offers 50 undergraduate degrees offline and online.
Program: Bachelor of Software Engineering
Tuition: $380/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Software Engineering |
|---|
| System Administration |
| Python Programming |
| Human-Computer Interaction |
| Computer Architecture |
| Network Theory & Design |
The University of Southern Mississippi is a Carnegie R1 research university and a national leader in research. The research team includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, among others. They are Mississippi’s only ocean engineering school.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology
Tuition: $383.59/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Required Course:
| Industrial Engineering Technology |
|---|
| Industrial Quality Control |
| Industrial Cost Control |
| Operations and Logistics Concepts |
| Production and Inventory Control |
| Industrial Automation |
The University of Alabama‘s UA Online has been helping people achieve a degree without needing to go on campus for decades. With cutting-edge technology, students can learn from the same academics teaching UA main campus students daily.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Tuition: $385/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 126
Sample Courses:
| Mechanical Engineering |
|---|
| Small-Scale Engineering Graphics |
| Thermodynamics I and II |
| Dynamics |
| Fluid Mechanics |
| Static Machine Components |
Regent University was founded in 1978 and now has 11,000 students studying online and on its 70-acre Virginia Beach campus. The university provides degrees in more than 150 fields of study, ranging from business to education to law to psychology.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 126
Sample Courses:
| Computer Engineering |
|---|
| Computer Architecture |
| Data Structures And Algorithms |
| Digital Logic Design |
| Digital Systems Design |
| Systems Thinking and Approach |
Old Dominion University is a distance learning pioneer, with experiences dating back to the mid-1980s when courses were offered on-board US Navy ships worldwide. In 2010, ODU wanted to expand online degree programs with non-live classes, so departments and faculty created asynchronous online programs. At present, ODU has started moving away from satellites to online meetings.
Program:
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits:
Sample Courses:
| Engineering Technology* | Computer Engineering | Cybersecurity |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Microprocessors & Microcontrollers | Data Structures and Algorithms | Digital Forensics |
| Digital Electronics | Electronic Circuits | Network Engineering and Design |
| Linear Electronics | Digital System Design | Network Engineering and Design |
| Instrumentation | Microcontrollers | Network Server Configuration and Administration |
| Wireless Communication Systems | Linear Systems Analysis | Enterprise Cyber Defense |
Eastern Kentucky University began offering online degrees in 2006 and continues to serve all students on-campus. Adult learners who want to earn a college degree or certificate while working full-time or juggling other life priorities can choose from over 50 online programs.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology
Tuition: $417/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology |
|---|
| Fire Behavior & Combustion |
| Fire Protection Systems |
| Fire Protection Structures & System Design |
| Applied Learning in Fire & Safety Engineering |
The tuition of online Engineering programs in the Western Region of the U.S. varies significantly. While the West houses one of the most affordable online colleges for an engineering degree, it also is home to the most expensive on this list.
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) has been preparing students for careers and college for 85 years. ENMU believes everyone matters and can grow, and its objective is to give a rich educational experience using contemporary technology. ENMU offers undergraduate and graduate programs for conventional students, adults, and organizations on-campus and online.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology Composite
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Electronics Engineering Technology Composite |
|---|
| Circuit Analysis I & II |
| Semiconductor Devises I & II |
| Sequential Circuits and Applications |
| Industrial Electronics |
| Linear Systems Analysis |
National University (NU) has been dedicated to meeting the needs of hard-working adults since 1971. NU has been offering online classes for over 20 years and classes on-site at locations across California and on select military bases nationwide.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Tuition: $370/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 180 quarter units
Sample Courses:
| Electrical and Computer Engineering |
|---|
| Object-Oriented Design |
| Advanced Engineering Mathematics |
| Computer Architecture |
| Linear Systems and Signal |
| Microelectronics |
The University of Arizona intends to make world-class higher education programs accessible to working adults all over the world in a flexible, engaging, and cost-effective manner. Through Arizona Online, students can earn a top-ranked University of Arizona degree online.
Programs:
Tuition: $600/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits:
Sample Courses:
| Software Engineering | Electrical and Computer Engineering |
|---|---|
| Software Assurance and Security | Computer Programming for Engineering Applications |
| Software DevOps | Circuit Theory |
| Software Project Management | Microprocessor Organization |
Arizona State University (ASU) Online is among the Top 10 best online bachelor’s programs per the US News & World Report for 2021. It provides a variety of undergraduate programs that are 100% online.
Programs:
Tuition: $688/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Electrical Engineering | Engineering Management | Human Systems Engineering | Mechanical Engineering | Software Engineering |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Design Fundamentals | Engineering Administration | Statistics for Human Systems Research I & II | System Dynamics and Control I & II | Computer Systems Fundamentals |
| Circuit I & II | Engineering Administration | Applied Social Science | Structural Mechanics | Principles of Distributed Software Systems |
| Fundamentals of Electromagnetics | Lean Six Sigma Methodology | Applied Biology of Human Behavior | Mechanical Engineering Design I & II | Principles of Database Management |
There are relatively fewer institutions in the Midwestern Region offering online Engineering degrees. Nevertheless, the institutions in this region offer a more extensive list of sources of financial aid and scholarships.
Bemidji State University believes in the transformative potential of the liberal arts, professional education, and students’ active participation. The basic philosophy is centered on a commitment to environmental sustainability, community service, and global knowledge, and it serves roughly 5,000 students in undergraduate, graduate, and online degree programs.
Program: Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Engineering
Tuition: $303/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 78 (38 technical credits from an AS or AAS degree or a diploma are required)
Sample Courses:
| Applied Engineering |
|---|
| Economic and Cost Analysis |
| Project Management Methodology |
| Industrial Design/Innovation |
| Safety and Risk Management |
| Lean Principles and Practices |
Southern Illinois University – Carbondale is in the top 5% of all U.S. higher education institutions for research. SIU also received its third Silver STARS ranking from The Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education for numerous campus-wide sustainability efforts. SIU is home to over 11,000 full-time and part-time students.
Programs:
Tuition: $322/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Electrical Engineering Technology | Industrial Management and Applied Engineering |
|---|---|
| AC/DC Circuit Theory and Application | Manufacturing Process Laboratory |
| Computer-Aided Manufacturing | Industrial Safety |
| Industrial Robotics | Industrial Metrology |
| Lean Manufacturing | Supply Chain Operations and Logistics |
| Six Sigma Green Belt | Applied Robotics and Control |
Indiana State University is committed to helping the next generation of leaders and citizens succeed in the classroom and beyond. It also aims to foster intellectual growth and discovery by creating new knowledge and enhancing human understanding, working with local and global communities to build trust, long-term relationships, and a shared sense of pride, and honoring the diversity of individuals, ideas, and expressions.
Programs:
Tuition: $438/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Program Total: 120
Sample Courses:
| Electronics Engineering Technology | Engineering Technology | Engineering Technology Management |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Analysis I & 2 | Technical Graphics with CAD | Quality Systems and Tools |
| Digital Computer Logic | Applied Statics | Economic Analysis for Engineering and Technology |
| Circuit Analysis by Calculus | Engineering Analysis | Workplace Law for the Technical Manager |
| Microcontroller Hardware and Software | Applied Mechanisms | Lean Manufacturing Systems |
| Discrete Transistor Theory and Circuit Design | Industrial Accident Prevention | Production Planning and Control |
The online engineering programs in this region are relatively more expensive than those in other regions. Still, the listed institutions from this region offer a wide array of scholarships apart from grants and other financial aids.
Stony Brook University is committed to offering world-class undergraduate and graduate education. It aims to conduct world-class research and intellectual endeavors with immediate or long-term practical relevance, promote economic growth, technology, and culture in surrounding communities and the wider region, and provide state-of-the-art innovative health care. All these while celebrating diversity.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Tuition: $353/credit (online out-of-state rate)
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 120
Sample Courses:
| Electrical Engineering |
|---|
| Object-Oriented Programming for Electrical and Computer Engineers |
| Technical Communications for Electrical Engineers |
| Signals and Systems |
| Random Signals |
| Electromagnetics |
Excelsior College is an accredited non-profit distance learning institution founded in 1971. The College achieved its mission of providing flexible and affordable credentialing options for adult learners by assessing their progress and combining credits earned in and out of the classroom. It soon added examination credit, allowing students to study independently and test their knowledge. In the 2000s, the College was among the first to develop and offer online courses.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology
Tuition: $510/credit
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 124
Sample Courses:
| Electrical Engineering Technology |
|---|
| Circuit Theory I & II |
| Electronics I & II |
| Digital Electronics |
| Microprocessors |
| Computer Programming |
Thomas Edison State University, founded in 1972, is one of the country’s oldest adult-focused universities. Students can earn an undergraduate, graduate, or professional certificate in over 100 areas of study.
Program:
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits:
Sample Courses:
| Electronics Systems Engineering Technology | Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology | Nuclear Engineering Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Current | Nuclear Physics for Technology | Nuclear Physics |
| Solid State Devices and Circuits | Thermodynamics | Heat Transfer |
| Digital Electronics | Heat Transfer | Fluid Mechanics |
| Electronic Communication Systems | Radiation Analysis Laboratory | Reactors and Systems |
| Electronics Instrumentation and Control | Primary Reactor Systems | Radiological, Reactor and Environmental Safety |
Penn State World Campus has over 20,000 students and ranks second in the Pennsylvania State University system. Penn State World Campus offers quality Penn State education online to those who prefer not to attend classes on campus. It offers over 150 degree and certificate programs developed and taught by Penn State faculty.
Programs: Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Tuition:
Financial Aid and Scholarship:
Total Credits: 126
Required course:
| Software Engineering |
|---|
| Digital Design: Theory and Practice |
| Communication Networks |
| Database Management Systems |
| Data Structures and Algorithms |
| Matrices |
“Health and Engineering majors, where earnings returns are large on a per graduate basis, have per-dollar returns similar to those observed in education, math, philosophy, and language degrees, where earnings are much lower,” said Yale University’ Joseph G. Altonji and Seth D. Zimmerman of the University of Chicago in their study “The Costs of and Net Returns to College Major,” published in Productivity in Higher Education in 2018.
“Other majors, such as business and computer science, have relatively low costs for schools while offering relatively high future salaries for graduates,” Altonji and Seth (2018) added.
Ultimately, an engineering degree could guarantee a high income, in fact, the highest among industries. Deciding whether it is a degree worth taking would depend on how much students are willing to spend for the degree to land the kind of career and income they are prospecting. However, there are affordable colleges from where one can earn an engineering degree.
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