As far as career paths go, engineering is one of the toughest and most commendable. If learners have knowledge and skills in the areas of math, physics, and technology, becoming an engineer would be a beneficial choice for not only yourself but also for society. Below we’ve compiled a list of a few of the most affordable online engineering degrees out there, offered through highly-reputable institutions that will make it their priority to assist you on the path to your future. For someone who values making smart decisions, you should consider the cost-benefit ratio of schools before making a decision on where to attend.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online engineering degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in July of 2022.
2023 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Engineering Degrees
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| # 1 | Florida International University | $5,298 |
| # 2 | American Public University System | $10,563 |
| # 3 | Lamar University | $11,739 |
| # 4 | Arizona State University | $13,107 |
| # 5 | University of Arizona | $13,358 |
| # 6 | University of Advancing Technology | $16,015 |
| # 7 | Bemidji State University | $16,033 |
| # 8 | Stony Brook University | $16,119 |
| # 9 | Southern Illinois University – Carbondale | $16,285 |
| # 10 | University of Alabama at Birmingham | $16,530 |
| # 11 | University of North Dakota | $16,966 |
| # 12 | Old Dominion University | $17,204 |
| # 13 | Saint Leo University Online | $18,445 |
| # 14 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | $18,938 |
| # 15 | National University | $20,722 |
| # 16 | University of Alabama | $20,917 |
| # 17 | University of the Potomac | $23,421 |
| # 18 | Upper Iowa University | $24,063 |
| # 19 | Regent University Online | $24,888 |
| # 20 | Cogswell College | $25,714 |
| # 21 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | $27,530 |
| # 22 | MidAmerica Nazarene University | $29,757 |
| # 23 | Keiser University | $36,084 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Engineering Degrees
1. Florida International University
Average Net Price: $5,298
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Some of the online engineering degrees Florida International University offers are:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Master of Science in Engineering Management
- Interdisciplinary Engineering
According to Niche.com, FIU features a very competitive environment, with an acceptance rate of 59%. FIU’s online school possesses very high respect nationally. According to bestcollegereviews.org, FIU’s engineering degree online programs ranked in the nation’s top 20 in both 2019 and 2020. Bestcolleges.com ranked it #3 nationally among online schools in 2020.
FIU receives an A from Niche.com. 94% of its students receive financial aid. 74% of the students engage in some form of online education, lending credence to FIU’s high online rankings. FIU students give high marks to the professors for making online education accessible and valuable. Certain students have reported that they perceive no distinction in the caliber of education delivered via online instruction as opposed to traditional classroom learning.
FIU hosts a College of Engineering & Computing composed of 133 faculty and offers 37 unique degree programs. These programs include such specialties as Civil, Biomedical, and Electronic Engineering, among many others. This broad roster of degree options and FIU’s vast pool of resources help to ensure the success of its alumni.
2. American Public University System
Average Net Price: $10,563
School Type: Private, for-profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission, Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Some of the online engineering degrees the American Public University System offers are:
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Science in Civil Engineering
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering
- Master of Science in Industrial Engineering
Founded in 1991, American Public University System is a for-profit online college located in West Virginia. It boasts over 46,000 students. APUS originally served as an institution to educate military personnel in disciplines such as intelligence and counterterrorism. Niche ranked APUS #55 out of 252 for Best Online Colleges in America.
According to Niche.com, 80% of APUS students attend school online. 83% of students remain employed two years after graduation. The vast majority of students give APUS 5 stars. They raved about the attention and passion of their professors. They also appreciated the asynchronous schedule that allowed them to schedule their school around other obligations, including work.
APUS offers an Online Electrical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree that allows students to graduate with an up-to-date education in a very secure industry. Engineers will always be needed and APUS seeks to ensure that its students can access this job security by teaching them about the modernized methods and technology that keep today’s world running. Students in this program learn about analog and digital circuitry, cybersecurity, electromagnetic physics, and much more.
3. Lamar University
Average Net Price: $11,739
School Type: Public, Non-profit
School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Lamar University offers a number of online engineering degree awards, including:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering
Lamar University’s online engineering programs have received accreditation from ABET, a reputable national organization that sets standards for engineering education.
To qualify for admission into Lamar University’s online engineering program, it is required that you have completed high school education or hold an equivalent degree. Additionally, you must furnish proof of your academic proficiency to exhibit your potential to excel in the program. The programs are presented in diverse modalities, encompassing synchronous sessions (in real-time), self-paced asynchronous classes, and a blend of both.
The online engineering degree programs at Lamar University are designed to be flexible and convenient for working professionals. The programs are presented in diverse arrangements, comprising of synchronous classes (live), asynchronous classes (flexible), and hybrid classes.
To acquire knowledge about the programs and prerequisites for an online engineering degree at Lamar University, one can visit the university’s website, if pursuing such a degree sparks your interest.
Here are some of the awards that Lamar University online engineering degree recipients have received:
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) awarded Lamar University’s online mechanical engineering program with the 2019 ASME Online Engineering Education Award.
The Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) awarded Lamar University’s online industrial engineering program with the 2019 IIE Online Engineering Education Award.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) awarded Lamar University’s online civil engineering program with the 2019 ASCE Online Engineering Education Award.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) awarded Lamar University’s online electrical engineering program with the 2019 IEEE Online Engineering Education Award.
The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) awarded Lamar University’s online petroleum engineering program with the 2019 SPE Online Engineering Education Award.
These awards recognize the quality of Lamar University’s online engineering degree programs and the success of its graduates.
4. Arizona State University
Average Net Price: $13,107
School Type: Public, Non-profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Arizona State University offers a variety of online engineering degrees. These degrees are designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers in engineering. The online engineering degrees at ASU are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, which means they meet the highest standards of quality in engineering education.
The online engineering degrees at ASU include:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Master of Science in Engineering Systems
Master of Science in Engineering Education
The online engineering degrees at ASU are offered through the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. The engineering programs offered at the Fulton Schools rank among the most extensive and sizable in the United States. It offers over 25 undergraduate programs and over 10 graduate programs.
The online engineering degrees at ASU are taught by the same faculty who teach the on-campus engineering programs. ASU’s faculty consists of experts who are renowned globally in their respective fields. Their commitment lies in both teaching and research, alongside a strong dedication to ensuring their students achieve success.
The online engineering degrees at ASU are designed to be flexible and convenient. A range of delivery options are available to students, including live online classes, self-paced online classes, and hybrid classes, from which they can choose. These options provide students with the flexibility to progress through their courses at their preferred pace. The assortment of delivery alternatives has been devised to accommodate the wide-ranging educational requirements of pupils.
The online engineering degrees at ASU are a great way to advance your career in engineering. Accredited by ABET, taught by world-renowned faculty, and designed with flexibility and convenience in mind, they offer an exceptional educational experience.
5. University of Arizona
Average Net Price: $15,062
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Numerous online engineering degree programs are offered at the University of Arizona to support the career growth of engineering professionals. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) has granted accreditation to these online programs.
The University of Arizona’s online engineering degrees consist of:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering
Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Master of Science in Mining, Geological and Geophysical Engineering
Master of Science in Optical Sciences
The University of Arizona’s internet-based programs feature instructors who are identical to those who teach traditional classes on campus. Online lectures are delivered through various methods, including live sessions, recorded lectures, and online forums for discussions.
Learners need to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related field that has a deep connection with the intricacies of engineering if learners want to apply for the online engineering programs at the University of Arizona. They are also compelled to sustain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
6. University of Advancing Technology
Average Net Price: $16,015
School Type: Private, For-Profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance Rate: 82%
The University of Advancing Technology (UAT) offers online engineering degrees in the following areas:
Digital Maker and Fabrication
Human Computer Interaction
Robotics and Embedded Systems
Virtual Reality
UAT also offers online graduate programs in the following areas:
Cyber Security
Game Production and Management
Software Engineering
Technology Innovation
Technology Leadership
The online engineering degrees offered by UAT have been specifically crafted to equip students with the essential expertise and competencies required to thrive in the modern economy, which is heavily reliant on technology. Experienced faculty who are experts in their respective fields teach the programs. At their own pace, students have the opportunity to obtain their degrees, with an array of online resources at their disposal such as live chat, discussion forums, and recorded lectures.
7. Bemidji State University
Average Net Price: $16,033
School Type: Public, Non-profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Some of Bemidji State University’s online engineering degrees are:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
Designed for students seeking expertise in multiple engineering fields such as civil, mechanical, and electrical, the Applied Engineering Bachelor of Applied Science program is a 120-credit curriculum that can be finished within four years. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and the Bachelor of Science in Project Management are equivalent to 120-credit programs that can be completed within four years, alike in duration. For individuals seeking expertise and proficiency in several branches of engineering technology like manufacturing engineering, construction engineering, and environmental engineering, the Engineering Technology curriculum has been developed.
ABET accredits all these programs. ABET, a non-profit entity, grants accreditation to programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology offered by colleges and universities.
The online engineering degree programs at Bemidji State University are offered through the university’s Center for Extended Learning. At the Center for Extended Learning, an array of online and hybrid degree programs are available, alongside non-credit courses and workshops.
By providing online engineering degree programs, Bemidji State University presents a remarkable chance for students who aspire to earn a top-notch engineering degree without having to relocate or attend a conventional campus-based program. Students who wish to continue their employment while pursuing their degree may find the program to be a favorable choice.
8. Stony Brook University
Average Net Price: $16,119
School Type: Public, Christian
School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 49%
An online Bachelor of Science program in Electrical Engineering is offered at Stony Brook University. Working professionals who wish to pursue a degree in electrical engineering whilst maintaining a full-time job can benefit from the program’s design. The program is taught completely online, asynchronously delivered for flexible scheduling, and provides all courses, materials, tests, labs, discussions, advising and contact with faculty completely online over the Internet.
ABET accredits this program. ABET, a non-profit entity, grants accreditation to programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology offered by colleges and universities.
Learners need to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related field that has a deep connection with the intricacies of engineering if learners want to apply for the online engineering programs at Stony Brook University. Applicants must also have taken the following prerequisite courses:
Calculus I and II
Physics I and II
Chemistry I and II
Linear Algebra
Differential Equations
Probability and Statistics
In addition to the prerequisite courses, applicants must also submit GRE scores and two letters of recommendation.
Completion of the program may occur within four years at minimum, although students are permitted to take up to eight years to finish.
The program also comes with additional fees, such as a technology fee and a student activity fee.
Stony Brook University students will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering upon successful completion of the program. The degree is accredited by ABET.
The program prepares students for entry-level positions in electrical engineering. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in industries such as:
Aerospace
Biotechnology
Communications
Computer hardware
Consumer electronics
Defense
Energy
Finance
Healthcare
Manufacturing
Pharmaceuticals
Robotics
Software
Telecommunications
The program is geared towards preparing students for graduate school. By participating in the program, students will acquire the proficiency and expertise essential to excel in electrical engineering master’s and doctoral programs.
9. Southern Illinois University – Carbondale
Average Net Price: $16,285
School Type: Public, Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Some of Southern Illinois University – Carbondale online engineering degrees are:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Management
The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. ABET, a non-profit entity, grants accreditation to programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology offered by colleges and universities.
To meet the prerequisites of the online engineering programs, pupils are required to have obtained a high school diploma or an equivalent certification. They also must have completed specific prerequisite courses in mathematics, science, and English. Students must also submit an application, transcripts, and GRE scores.
The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale are designed for working professionals and students who want to earn a degree in engineering without having to attend classes on campus. A range of course formats are available to students, encompassing both synchronous and asynchronous options. Pupils can decide to enroll in either full-time or part-time, courses of their choice.
The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale offer a number of benefits, including.
Convenience. Classes are available for students to take from any location across the globe.
Flexibility: Classes may be taken by students either full-time or part-time.
Affordability: The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale are more affordable than on-campus programs.
Quality: The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale are accredited by ABET.
Career opportunities: The online engineering degrees at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale prepare students for a variety of careers in engineering.
A wonderful choice for those who seek to obtain an online engineering degree would be the online engineering programs offered at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. ABET accredits the programs, which cater to individuals who desire an engineering degree but cannot take a break from work or other responsibilities. The programs are intended for both students and working professionals alike.
10. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Average Net Price: $16,530
School Type: Public, Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 81%
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers online engineering degrees at the master’s level. The following programs are available:
Master of Engineering in Advanced Safety and Engineering Management
Master of Engineering in Construction Engineering Management
Master of Engineering in Information Engineering Management
Master of Engineering in Structural Engineering
Master of Engineering in Sustainable Smart Cities
Those who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited educational institution, maintained a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, and have met all the prerequisites for submitting an enrollment application to any of the programs are eligible to enroll. It is mandatory for applicants to have finished particular introductory courses such as calculus, physics, and chemistry, among others.
UAB’s online engineering programs hold accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc., which is a widely recognized accrediting agency for programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology across the nation.
UAB’s online engineering programs have been developed to cater to the requirements of employed individuals who aspire to progress in their engineering professions. At their own pace, students have the opportunity to obtain their degrees, with an array of online resources at their disposal such as live chat, discussion forums, and recorded lectures.