2026 How to Choose an Online Electrical Engineering Degree for Embedded Systems Careers
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Choosing an online electrical engineering degree for embedded systems means balancing cost, lab access, accreditation, and career fit. The stakes are high because embedded technology now powers vehicles, medical devices, robotics, defense systems, and connected consumer products. The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects electrical and electronics engineering employment to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average.
This guide is for students, career changers, and working technicians who want a practical way to compare programs, understand trade-offs, and choose a degree that supports real embedded systems roles.
Key Things You Should Know
- An online electrical engineering degree is strongest for embedded systems when it includes ABET accreditation, hands-on labs, C/C++ programming, microcontrollers, digital logic, real-time systems, and a capstone tied to hardware-software integration.
- Cost and time vary widely, but College Board's 2024 Trends in College Pricing reports average published tuition and fees of $11,610 for in-state public four-year students and $43,350 at private nonprofit four-year institutions for 2024-25, before aid.
- Embedded systems careers may fall under electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering, or software development roles, so salary and hiring prospects depend heavily on industry, technical portfolio, location, and whether the program includes substantial lab-based design work.
What is an online electrical engineering degree focused on embedded systems?
An online electrical engineering degree focused on embedded systems is a bachelor's or master's program that teaches students how to design electronic systems where software and hardware work together inside a larger product. Instead of building general-purpose applications only, embedded systems engineers work on code, circuits, sensors, processors, and communication interfaces that control physical devices.
Common examples include anti-lock braking systems, wearable health monitors, industrial robots, smart thermostats, drones, medical imaging devices, and aerospace control systems. In these products, the engineering challenge is not just writing software or designing a circuit; it is making a device respond reliably, safely, and efficiently under real-world limits such as power consumption, memory, temperature, timing, and regulatory constraints.
Online programs may use several degree labels. The best fit depends on how much hardware depth you want and what jobs you plan to pursue.
The table below compares common degree paths that can lead to embedded systems work. Use it to check whether a program's title matches the technical depth employers may expect for your target role.
| Degree type | Best fit | Embedded systems strength | Potential limitation |
| Electrical engineering | Students who want strong circuits, electronics, signals, and hardware design preparation | Strong for firmware, sensors, control systems, power-aware devices, and hardware integration | May require extra software coursework for advanced embedded programming roles |
| Computer engineering | Students who want a balanced hardware-software pathway | Strong for microprocessors, digital systems, firmware, FPGA work, and computer architecture | May be less focused on power systems or analog electronics than electrical engineering |
| Electrical engineering technology | Hands-on learners seeking applied lab, testing, troubleshooting, or technician-to-engineer pathways | Useful for product testing, instrumentation, automation, and applied embedded work | Some engineering employers prefer an ABET-accredited engineering degree for design roles |
| Computer science | Students who want software-heavy embedded or IoT roles | Good for operating systems, algorithms, C/C++, and connected-device software | May not cover circuits, electronics, and hardware design deeply enough for many embedded hardware roles |
For most embedded systems careers, a bachelor's degree is the standard entry point. A master's degree can make sense if you already have an engineering or computer science background and want to specialize in real-time systems, robotics, signal processing, autonomous systems, or embedded AI.
How does an online electrical engineering program prepare you for embedded systems careers?
A strong online electrical engineering program prepares you by combining theory, simulation, hardware labs, coding assignments, and design projects. Embedded systems work is practical by nature, so the program should show how mathematical models become working devices, not just how equations are solved on exams.
The preparation usually happens in layers. Students first build foundations in calculus, physics, circuits, and programming. They then move into electronics, signals, digital logic, microcontrollers, control systems, and communication protocols. Finally, they apply those skills in lab sequences and capstone projects that require debugging real hardware.
Look for programs that give you repeated opportunities to practice the kinds of tasks embedded engineers perform on the job. These experiences matter because employers often evaluate entry-level candidates through projects, code samples, lab experience, and the ability to explain design trade-offs.
- Writing firmware in C or C++ for microcontrollers and embedded processors
- Reading schematics and using instruments such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and multimeters
- Working with sensors, actuators, analog-to-digital conversion, and digital communication buses
- Debugging timing, memory, power, and signal-integrity problems in constrained devices
- Documenting requirements, test results, design assumptions, and failure modes
- Completing team-based design projects that resemble product-development workflows
Online delivery can still support this preparation when programs use mailed lab kits, remote-access lab benches, simulation tools, video demonstrations, synchronous design reviews, and local proctoring or residency options. The key question is not whether the degree is online; it is whether the program requires enough verified, hands-on engineering work to build job-ready competence.
Current industry trends make this preparation more important. Embedded systems are increasingly connected to cloud platforms, AI models, industrial networks, and cybersecurity frameworks. A good program should therefore teach both low-level device behavior and the broader system context in which modern embedded products operate.
What key factors should you use to compare online electrical engineering programs?
The best online electrical engineering program for embedded systems is not automatically the cheapest, fastest, or highest ranked. It is the program that fits your target role, schedule, budget, academic background, and need for hands-on experience. If affordability is your starting point, comparing a cheap online engineering degree can help you identify lower-cost options, but price should be weighed against accreditation, labs, transfer policy, and career support.
Start with the factors that directly affect employability and degree value. These are the criteria most likely to change your outcome after graduation.
- Accreditation: Prioritize institutional accreditation and, for engineering bachelor's programs, ABET programmatic accreditation when available.
- Embedded systems coursework: Check for microcontrollers, digital logic, computer architecture, electronics, control systems, real-time systems, and C/C++ programming.
- Lab model: Ask whether labs use physical kits, remote equipment, simulations, short campus residencies, or a combination.
- Capstone relevance: Look for projects involving hardware-software integration, sensors, robotics, IoT devices, or control systems.
- Transfer credit policy: Confirm how prior math, physics, programming, military, community college, or technical credits will apply.
- Faculty and advising: Review whether faculty have embedded, electronics, robotics, aerospace, automotive, or industrial automation experience.
- Career services: Evaluate internship support, employer partnerships, portfolio guidance, alumni outcomes, and access to engineering job boards.
- Scheduling structure: Decide whether asynchronous classes, live labs, cohort pacing, or accelerated terms match your work and family obligations.
The table below summarizes common trade-offs. Use it to avoid choosing a program based on a single feature that may not align with your career goal.
| Program feature | When it helps | When it may be a drawback |
| Lowest tuition | You need to reduce debt and can still access strong labs and advising | The program lacks ABET accreditation, embedded coursework, or hardware-based projects |
| Accelerated format | You already have transfer credits and can handle heavy math and lab workloads | You are new to calculus, physics, programming, or engineering problem-solving |
| Fully asynchronous delivery | You need maximum schedule flexibility | You learn better through live demonstrations, supervised labs, and team design sessions |
| Short campus residencies | You want more intensive hands-on lab work without relocating | Travel costs, time off work, or family responsibilities make attendance difficult |
| Software-heavy curriculum | You want firmware, IoT, or embedded Linux roles | You want circuit design, PCB work, instrumentation, or hardware validation roles |
| Hardware-heavy curriculum | You want electronics, controls, robotics, aerospace, or device design roles | You want software architecture, cloud-connected IoT, or advanced embedded AI work |
A practical comparison method is to choose three target job postings before you choose a school. Highlight the required degree, tools, programming languages, lab skills, and preferred experience. Then compare each program against those requirements rather than relying only on marketing copy.
How do accreditation and ABET standards impact online electrical engineering degrees?
Accreditation is one of the most important quality checks for an online electrical engineering degree. Institutional accreditation confirms that the college or university meets broad academic and financial standards. Programmatic accreditation, especially ABET accreditation for engineering programs, evaluates whether a specific engineering degree meets professional expectations for curriculum, faculty, student outcomes, facilities, continuous improvement, and design experience.
ABET accreditation matters because many employers, graduate schools, and licensing boards recognize it as a signal that the program meets established engineering education standards. It can be especially important if you may later pursue Professional Engineer licensure, work in regulated industries, or apply to employers that screen for ABET-accredited engineering degrees.
That said, ABET status should be interpreted carefully. Some strong online programs may be newer and still pursuing accreditation, while some technology-oriented roles may value portfolio strength and skills more than licensure pathways. However, if you are choosing a first engineering bachelor's degree and have multiple options, an ABET-accredited electrical engineering or computer engineering program is usually the safer long-term credential.
Before enrolling, verify accreditation directly rather than relying only on a school's program page. Use this step-by-step check to reduce risk.
- Confirm that the institution is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
- Search ABET's official program database for the exact degree name, campus or online location, and accreditation status.
- Check whether accreditation applies to the electrical engineering program itself, not just another engineering program at the same school.
- Ask admissions whether online students graduate from the same accredited program as campus students.
- Request written clarification if the program is new, pending review, teach-out, or offered through a separate online division.
A common mistake is assuming that a university's reputation automatically means the specific online electrical engineering program is ABET accredited. Accreditation attaches to defined programs, not to every engineering-related offering a school advertises.
What are the typical admission requirements for online electrical engineering programs?
Admission requirements vary by school, degree level, and whether the program is designed for first-time college students, transfer students, or working adults. Electrical engineering is math-intensive, so admissions teams usually look for evidence that you can succeed in calculus, physics, and analytical problem-solving.
Students comparing engineering with other online science pathways should pay attention to prerequisites. For example, someone looking at study exercise science online options may encounter anatomy and health science requirements, while electrical engineering programs usually emphasize calculus, physics, programming, and lab readiness.
For an online bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, typical requirements may include the following. Schools can differ, so always check the program catalog before applying.
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent credential
- Transcripts from high school and all previously attended colleges
- College algebra, precalculus, or calculus readiness, sometimes shown through placement tests
- Physics and chemistry preparation, especially for traditional engineering tracks
- Minimum GPA requirements for first-year or transfer admission
- Application essay, resume, or statement of purpose for some adult or transfer programs
- Letters of recommendation for selective programs or graduate-level pathways
- English proficiency documentation for applicants whose prior education was not in English
For an online master's degree in electrical engineering or embedded systems, schools commonly expect a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, physics, or a closely related field. Applicants without an ABET-accredited engineering background may need bridge courses in circuits, signals, electronics, systems, or advanced mathematics.
Transfer students should ask more detailed questions than first-year applicants because transfer decisions can affect both cost and graduation timeline. Important questions include whether engineering courses expire, whether online lab science credits transfer, whether community college calculus sequences are accepted, and whether technical military or industry training can count as elective credit.
What core courses and technical skills are taught for embedded systems work?
Embedded systems work sits at the intersection of electrical engineering, computer engineering, and software development. A strong curriculum should therefore build both engineering fundamentals and implementation skills. If a program has only general electrical engineering courses without microcontrollers, programming, or digital systems, it may not be the best fit for embedded systems careers.
The table below outlines core subject areas and why they matter. Use it as a checklist when reviewing degree plans and electives.
| Course or skill area | Why it matters for embedded systems | Examples of applied work |
| Circuit analysis | Builds understanding of voltage, current, impedance, and component behavior | Sensor interfaces, power distribution, basic analog troubleshooting |
| Electronics | Explains semiconductors, amplifiers, switching circuits, and signal conditioning | Designing input circuits, filtering signals, working with transistors and op-amps |
| Digital logic | Provides the foundation for processors, memory, registers, and digital hardware | Logic design, FPGA basics, timing analysis, hardware control paths |
| Microcontrollers | Connects programming with physical hardware behavior | Firmware for sensors, motors, displays, and communication modules |
| Computer architecture | Shows how processors execute instructions and interact with memory and peripherals | Performance tuning, memory constraints, embedded processor selection |
| Signals and systems | Helps engineers analyze time-varying information and system response | Filtering, sampling, signal processing, communications, control feedback |
| Control systems | Teaches how systems respond and stay stable under changing conditions | Robotics, motor control, drones, automotive systems, industrial automation |
| Programming | Develops the ability to write efficient, reliable software for limited devices | C, C++, Python scripting, embedded Linux, device drivers, test automation |
| Real-time systems | Addresses timing, scheduling, interrupts, and reliability constraints | Safety-critical devices, robotics, automotive controllers, medical equipment |
| Engineering design | Integrates requirements, testing, teamwork, documentation, and iteration | Capstone projects, prototypes, system validation, design reviews |
Beyond the course list, pay attention to tools and platforms. Employers may ask about experience with microcontrollers, embedded Linux, Git, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, serial protocols, real-time operating systems, PCB tools, MATLAB, Python, and test frameworks. You do not need every tool before your first job, but you should graduate with enough practical exposure to learn new platforms quickly.
Students should also build a portfolio outside standard coursework. Strong portfolio projects show the problem, requirements, design choices, code, wiring or schematics, test results, and lessons learned. A small but well-documented motor controller, environmental sensor network, autonomous robot, or low-power IoT prototype can be more persuasive than a long list of tools with no proof of application.
How do online and campus electrical engineering programs differ for embedded systems training?
Online and campus electrical engineering programs can cover the same academic content, but the learning experience differs most in labs, collaboration, scheduling, and access to equipment. For embedded systems, those differences matter because students need to practice both software debugging and physical hardware testing.
Lab expectations vary across online STEM degrees. Students researching online geology programs, for instance, may see fieldwork or specimen-based requirements, while online electrical engineering students should focus on electronics kits, remote instrumentation, simulation software, and design verification.
The table below compares the practical differences. Use it to decide whether online delivery fits your learning style and career goal.
| Factor | Online electrical engineering | Campus electrical engineering |
| Schedule | Often more flexible, with asynchronous lectures and part-time options | More fixed class and lab times, usually easier for full-time traditional students |
| Labs | May use mailed kits, simulation, remote lab access, or short residencies | Usually offers direct access to campus labs, equipment, and lab staff |
| Hardware access | Depends heavily on program design and required kits | Typically broader access to oscilloscopes, benches, fabrication tools, and project spaces |
| Peer collaboration | Requires intentional use of video meetings, forums, repositories, and virtual teams | Often easier to form project teams, study groups, and informal lab collaborations |
| Work compatibility | Better for working adults, military students, parents, and students far from campus | Better for students who can relocate or commit to daytime attendance |
| Career networking | Depends on virtual career services, online alumni access, and employer partnerships | May offer more in-person career fairs, clubs, research labs, and local employer events |
Online can be the better choice if you are disciplined, already work in a technical environment, or need to keep earning income while studying. Campus can be better if you need extensive supervised lab time, want undergraduate research access, or learn best through in-person teamwork.
A hybrid option may offer the best balance for some students. Programs with online lectures and occasional in-person labs can reduce relocation barriers while still giving students concentrated access to equipment and faculty supervision.
How long do online electrical engineering degrees take, and what do they cost?
A full online bachelor's degree in electrical engineering typically takes about four years of full-time study, but many online students take longer because they study part time, transfer credits, or continue working. Degree-completion programs may be shorter if you already have substantial lower-division math, physics, general education, and engineering prerequisites.
Cost is more variable than timeline. College Board's 2024 Trends in College Pricing reports average published tuition and fees of $11,610 for in-state public four-year students and $43,350 at private nonprofit four-year institutions for 2024-25. Those figures are not engineering-specific and do not include every online fee, but they provide a useful benchmark for judging whether a program's price is unusually low or high.
When estimating total cost, include more than tuition. Embedded systems programs may require lab kits, software, hardware tools, proctoring, shipping, travel for residencies, and upgraded computer equipment.
- Tuition per credit and total required credits
- Online course fees, technology fees, and engineering lab fees
- Required electronics kits, microcontroller boards, tools, and replacement components
- Software licenses or cloud lab platforms not covered by the institution
- Books, digital access codes, and exam proctoring charges
- Travel, lodging, and missed work if the program has required campus sessions
- Transfer-credit limits that may force you to retake courses
- Interest costs if you use loans rather than grants, scholarships, employer aid, or payment plans
To evaluate affordability, compare net price rather than sticker price. Net price is the amount you may pay after grants, scholarships, tuition discounts, and institutional aid. Ask schools for a degree audit and a written cost estimate based on your actual transfer credits before you commit.
The time-cost trade-off is important. A slower part-time plan may reduce borrowing and allow you to keep working, but it can delay entry into engineering roles. An accelerated plan may get you to the job market faster, but it can be risky if you are not ready for compressed calculus, physics, programming, and lab workloads.
What embedded systems jobs, industries, and career paths can this degree support?
An online electrical engineering degree with embedded systems preparation can support roles that involve designing, testing, programming, validating, or maintaining intelligent devices. The exact job title may differ by employer. Some companies use "embedded systems engineer," while others hire "firmware engineer," "electronics engineer," "controls engineer," "test engineer," or "hardware engineer" for related work.
If you are still comparing technical and information-focused careers, it may help to distinguish engineering design from information stewardship or data-access roles. Students who prefer organizing digital information systems, archives, research services, and knowledge platforms may find online MLIS programs more aligned with their goals than an engineering degree.
The table below summarizes common embedded systems career directions. It is not a salary table; instead, it helps you connect degree preparation to day-to-day work.
| Career path | Typical responsibilities | Industries that may hire |
| Embedded systems engineer | Designs integrated hardware-software systems, writes firmware, tests prototypes, and troubleshoots device behavior | Automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, medical devices, robotics, defense |
| Firmware engineer | Writes low-level software for microcontrollers, drivers, sensors, communication interfaces, and device control | IoT, industrial automation, semiconductor, telecommunications, smart devices |
| Electronics engineer | Designs and tests circuits, boards, sensors, analog interfaces, and electronic subsystems | Manufacturing, instrumentation, aerospace, energy, healthcare technology |
| Controls engineer | Develops control algorithms, tunes systems, and integrates sensors and actuators | Robotics, automotive, process manufacturing, energy systems, automation |
| Hardware test engineer | Builds test plans, validates boards and devices, analyzes failures, and documents results | Electronics manufacturing, defense, medical devices, semiconductor, quality engineering |
| Embedded software engineer | Develops software for embedded Linux, real-time systems, device connectivity, and edge computing | Autonomous systems, telecommunications, IoT platforms, robotics, industrial systems |
Entry-level candidates often start in testing, validation, firmware support, applications engineering, or junior embedded development. With experience, they may move into senior design, systems architecture, safety-critical engineering, technical leadership, product engineering, or engineering management.
To improve your job readiness while enrolled, focus on a small set of actions that produce evidence of skill. These steps are especially useful for online students who need to show hands-on competence without relying on campus visibility.
- Build two or three portfolio projects that combine hardware, firmware, testing, and documentation.
- Use Git to manage code and write clear README files that explain design decisions and limitations.
- Practice debugging with real instruments, not simulation alone, whenever possible.
- Apply for internships, co-ops, research assistant roles, or part-time technician roles before graduation.
- Join IEEE, robotics clubs, maker communities, cybersecurity groups, or open-source hardware projects to build peer and employer connections.
Common red flags include choosing a program with no meaningful labs, skipping internships because the degree is online, ignoring documentation skills, and assuming that course completion alone will substitute for project experience.
What are the salary expectations and job outlook for embedded systems engineers?
Embedded systems salary data is difficult to pin to one federal occupation because the work spans electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering, and software development. The most reliable approach is to compare the closest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics categories and then adjust expectations based on industry, region, experience, and skill depth.
BLS data published in 2024 reports that electrical and electronics engineers had a median annual wage of $109,010 in May 2023. This gives prospective students a useful benchmark, but it should not be treated as a promise for embedded systems graduates because job titles, locations, and employer requirements vary significantly.
The outlook is also favorable but not uniform. The BLS projects employment for electrical and electronics engineers to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033. For readers, the practical takeaway is that demand exists, but the strongest candidates will usually be those who can demonstrate both engineering fundamentals and applied embedded design experience.
Salary potential can be influenced by several factors. These are the variables to investigate before estimating return on investment.
- Industry: Aerospace, defense, semiconductor, medical device, and autonomous systems roles may require specialized knowledge and stricter compliance practices.
- Location: Engineering hubs with high concentrations of technology, defense, automotive, or semiconductor employers may offer more opportunities but also higher living costs.
- Degree level: A master's degree can help for specialized roles in signal processing, robotics, control systems, or embedded AI, but it is not always required for entry-level firmware work.
- Portfolio quality: Employers often value evidence of debugging, testing, documentation, and complete design cycles.
- Security and safety knowledge: Experience with secure coding, functional safety, reliability testing, and regulated product development can strengthen career options.
AI and automation are changing the field rather than eliminating the need for embedded engineers. Tools can help generate code, simulate designs, and automate tests, but engineers still need to verify behavior on physical devices, understand failure modes, manage constraints, and make safety-conscious design decisions.
To judge whether the degree is worth it, compare total net cost with realistic local job options, your ability to complete internships or projects, and whether the curriculum matches your target role. The degree is more likely to be a strong investment when it gives you accredited engineering preparation, practical labs, and a portfolio that maps directly to embedded systems work.
Other Things You Should Know About Electrical Engineering
Most embedded systems jobs do not require a Professional Engineer license, especially in product development, firmware, consumer electronics, and software-heavy roles. Licensure may matter more in regulated public-facing engineering work, consulting, or roles involving sign-off authority, so requirements should be checked by state and employer.
Yes, especially for firmware, embedded Linux, IoT software, and device connectivity roles. However, you may need to add hardware skills through circuits, electronics, microcontrollers, lab projects, and signal or control systems coursework.
Most students need a reliable laptop or desktop that can run engineering software, programming environments, circuit simulation tools, video meetings, and remote labs. Before buying equipment, ask the department for its current hardware and operating system requirements.
A certificate can help you add focused skills in microcontrollers, C programming, embedded Linux, or real-time systems, but it usually does not replace an engineering bachelor's degree for many design engineering roles. It is most useful for upskilling, career changers with related degrees, or technicians building a bridge toward more advanced work.
References
- Embedded Systems Course for EEE Students to Build a Strong Career https://vlsiguru.com/blog/embedded-systems-course-for-eee-students
- Understanding Embedded Systems in EEE - Cyprus West University https://www.cwu.edu.tr/understanding-embedded-systems-in-eee/
- Embedded Systems Essentials with Arm Professional Certificate - Design Course https://www.arm.com/resources/education/online-courses/efficient-embedded-systems
- Explore UM | University of Manitoba - Electrical Engineering (BSc) https://umanitoba.ca/explore/programs-of-study/electrical-engineering-bsc
- Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs, 2025 - 2026 - ABET https://www.abet.org/accreditation/accreditation-criteria/criteria-for-accrediting-engineering-programs-2025-2026/
- Essential Skills for Embedded Systems & Software Engineers https://www.qt.io/software-insights/essential-skills-for-embedded-systems-software-engineers
- ABET-Accredited Bachelor’s in Electronics Engineering Technology https://www.uagrantham.edu/blog/abet-accredited-electronics-engineering-technology-degree/
- Which course is more future-ready: Master’s in Electronics Engineering or Embedded Systems? https://www.thehindu.com/education/colleges/which-course-is-more-future-ready-masters-in-electronics-engineering-or-embedded-systems/article71218633.ece
- Top 5 Embedded Systems Jobs | Amoria Bond https://www.amoriabond.com/insights/articles/top-5-embedded-systems-jobs/
- Electrical Engineering Degree https://universitycompare.com/guides/subject/electrical-engineering
