2027 Is American Public University's Online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering Worth It? Salary, Outcomes, and ROI

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

What makes American Public University's online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering program stand out?

American Public University's online bachelor's in electrical engineering caters to students who need schedule flexibility due to work or personal commitments, offering fully asynchronous coursework. This structure allows learners to engage with material at their own pace, which can be advantageous for those balancing professional roles or family responsibilities but may challenge self-motivated learners who thrive in structured environments.

With a broad faculty base of 884 full-time and 1,340 part-time staff supporting over 50,000 students, the program benefits from significant academic resources, including virtual labs and interactive simulations critical for grasping applied electrical engineering concepts. Its strong emphasis on credit transfer and specialized advising supports military and professional students looking to leverage prior experience, though the 53% graduation rate highlights the demanding nature of remote technical education and varying student preparedness.

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Is it difficult to get admitted to American Public University's online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering program?

Admission to most bachelor's in electrical engineering programs is highly competitive, reflecting the field's technical demands and the strong employer preference for candidates with rigorous academic preparation. Many programs require high GPAs, strong performance in math and science prerequisites, and standardized test scores, creating barriers that screen for academic readiness. For applicants targeting engineering careers that emphasize hands-on experience and theoretical depth, these selection hurdles are a critical early filter.

In contrast, American Public University's online bachelor's in electrical engineering operates on an open enrollment model, eliminating the need for SAT or ACT scores and lowering traditional entry barriers. This structure makes its acceptance rate significantly higher than typical stringent engineering programs. While this increases accessibility, it may also mean that students need to proactively develop foundational skills and self-discipline, given the less selective admissions process and the online format's demands.

For individuals balancing work, family, or other obligations, this model can offer a practical way to enter the field without the prolonged wait times or denials common to more selective institutions.

The tradeoff is that while admission is less difficult, prospective students should consider how this influences their preparation and potential employer perceptions, especially in competitive job markets where traditional engineering credentials are often preferred. Students who leverage the program's flexibility to build practical experience alongside their studies may better mitigate these concerns.

One graduate recalled applying late in the admission cycle after hesitating due to uncertainty about balancing work and school. "I wasn't worried about getting in since they don't require test scores, but I spent weeks deciding when I could realistically start. The quick admission turnaround was a relief, but it also meant I had to immediately manage time and coursework without much prep. It wasn't difficult to get admitted, but staying on track felt like the bigger challenge."

Aligning a bachelor's program in electrical engineering with evolving industry standards requires constant integration of practical skills and emerging technologies that employers prioritize. American Public University's electrical engineering curriculum and industry standards show a clear intent to keep pace with market demands, but students must weigh how this alignment compares with programs emphasizing intensive, on-campus laboratory experiences, which some employers still view as crucial for certain roles.

Below are key factors demonstrating how the curriculum reflects current engineering trends:

  • Focused technical breadth: The curriculum incorporates foundational and advanced topics such as circuit analysis, electronics, electromagnetic fields, and microcontroller programming, which correspond to the broad skill sets expected by employers. This solid technical base is essential for graduates seeking roles that involve embedded systems, automation, and power systems.
  • Applied simulation tools: Incorporating simulation and modeling software into coursework provides hands-on experience with digital tools widely used in industry design and testing processes. Familiarity with these applications directly supports the practical problem-solving skills employers demand in fields like telecommunications and renewable energy technologies.
  • Project-based learning: The program emphasizes design and problem-solving projects, which encourage applied knowledge rather than theoretical study alone. This focus prepares students for real-world engineering challenges and decision-making scenarios encountered in professional environments.

This approach positions graduates to meet evolving expectations within various engineering sectors; however, students should consider how the online format complements their individual learning style and career objectives relative to more traditional programs.

Prospective students interested in such programs can explore how American Public University's offerings compare with other online colleges to make informed decisions grounded in practical outcomes and workforce alignment.

What Graduates Say About American Public University's Online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering Program

  • Lucy: "Studying for my bachelor's in electrical engineering at American Public University gave me the flexibility I needed while working full-time. The program's focus on applied concepts helped me build a portfolio that many employers valued more than certifications or even licensure early on, which sped up my hiring process. That practical experience combined with my degree really opened doors for remote roles in embedded systems development, something I hadn't anticipated when I started."
  • Alondra: "The coursework at American Public University was rigorous and required significant self-discipline, especially juggling it with my responsibilities. While some companies prioritize licensed engineers, I found that my degree, combined with internships I proactively pursued, was essential to gaining entry-level roles in power systems. Over time, I realized salary growth in my area is limited without a PE license, so I'm considering additional certifications to complement my degree and stay competitive."
  • Selena: "After completing my bachelor's in electrical engineering at American Public University, I reevaluated my career path when I faced stiff competition for traditional engineering roles. The degree gave me a solid foundation, but I noticed that employers heavily weighed hands-on experience and specialized skills. That led me to pivot into technical project management where my engineering background is a strong asset, but I now focus on how to leverage remote work opportunities and leadership skills for advancement."

Other Things You Should Know About Degrees

What challenges should students expect regarding networking and peer collaboration in American Public University's Online Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering?

Networking and peer collaboration can be challenging due to the online format. Students often miss the in-person interaction that facilitates easy networking. However, virtual tools like forums and video conferences are used to bridge this gap, though they may require extra effort to engage fully.

Are there adequate hands-on learning opportunities given the fully online format?

While the program offers virtual labs and simulation software to support practical skills, it lacks traditional, in-person laboratory experiences that some employers highly value. This may put graduates at a disadvantage compared to peers who have had extensive physical lab exposure, especially in industries requiring hardware proficiency. Prospective students should consider supplementing their education with external internships or local lab access to strengthen hands-on competencies.

What licensure path follows an online electrical engineering bachelor's in 2027?

Graduates who want professional licensure usually take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam first, then the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam after work experience. In most states, the engineering board requires a ABET-accredited degree or a credential evaluation, plus supervised experience before PE eligibility.

How do employers perceive the online bachelor's in electrical engineering from American Public University?

Employer recognition of degrees from American Public University varies; some value the flexibility and completion of an accredited program, while others may favor candidates with degrees from institutions with stronger brand reputations or traditional formats. Graduates should emphasize relevant skills and certifications on resumes and consider gaining internships or practical experiences to mitigate any employer hesitation. For those targeting highly competitive or research-intensive roles, supplementing this degree with further qualifications can enhance employability.