Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ava Wilson
An Engineering Management Degree Online combines technical engineering skills with business and management expertise. It prepares students to lead projects, optimize operations, and drive innovation.
An online engineering management degree offers a holistic education that blends core engineering principles with crucial management concepts. This interdisciplinary program equips students with a well-rounded skill set, preparing them for roles that demand technical expertise and leadership capabilities. They study fundamental engineering courses, such as statistics, dynamics, and materials science, alongside essential management studies, such as management principles, organizational behavior, and project management. Upon graduation, individuals are prepared for roles such as engineering project manager, operations manager, manufacturing manager, supply chain manager, and quality assurance manager. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [1] reports the job outlook for professionals in this field to be at 4%, which is as fast as the average for the other occupations.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
Find the Best Engineering Management Degree Online Programs
Securing an ideal Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Management sets the foundation for a dynamic career in engineering and business. Selecting the right program becomes paramount as demand for engineering management professionals grows across various industries. To simplify this journey, our FBD team has thoroughly evaluated each program, considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum comprehensiveness, faculty expertise, online learning flexibility, technological resources, and student support services. Our comprehensive assessment, guided by a robust Ranking Methodology, empowers individuals to make well-informed decisions and embark on a successful path toward obtaining the best engineering management online degree.
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
Oregon Institute of Technology | 3201 Campus Drive, Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601 | $12,687 | 59% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Engineering Management Degree Online Program
The engineering management bachelor’s degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum combining engineering principles with essential management concepts, preparing students for leadership roles in diverse industries. With a credit requirement typically 120-133 hours, the program covers a spectrum of subjects, including mathematics, engineering science, basic science, liberal arts, and engineering design. Individuals gain practical insights through laboratory work, projects, and internships, developing problem-solving, decision-making, and valuable communication skills. The engineering management online degree can be completed in around four years of full-time study and offers flexibility for part-time options. Undergraduates are well-equipped for various career opportunities, including roles in project management, operations, manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, entrepreneurship, logistics, facilities management, and health and safety.
Curriculum and Coursework
A bachelors in engineering management degree is an undergraduate program combining engineering principles with business and management concepts. This program is designed to prepare students for roles requiring technical engineering expertise and managerial skills.
This curriculum provides a balance between core engineering principles and management concepts. The engineering courses ensure that students have a solid technical foundation, while the management courses focus on developing skills in project management, financial management, and organizational behavior. Including a capstone project as part of this program allows students to apply their knowledge to a real-world engineering management challenge.
The curriculum typically covers a range of engineering disciplines along with foundational business and management courses. Here’s an overview of what individuals might expect in a bachelor’s in engineering management degree program:
Introduction to Engineering Management
This course provides an overview of the interdisciplinary field of engineering management. Students explore integrating engineering principles with management concepts, understanding the role of engineering managers and the challenges they face. Topics may include organizational structures, leadership styles, and the importance of effective communication in engineering management.
Engineering Economy
Engineering Economy focuses on the application of economic principles to engineering decision-making. Students learn to assess the cost and benefits of engineering projects, considering factors such as the time value of money, depreciation, and financial analysis. The course equips them with the skills to make informed decisions regarding project investments and resource allocation.
Principles of Management
Principles of Management introduces fundamental concepts in management theory and practice. Students explore the functions of management, including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. The course covers topics such as organizational structures, managerial roles, and the dynamic nature of the business environment. Emphasis is placed on understanding the fundamentals of effective management.
Project Planning and Control
This course delves into the principles and techniques of project management. Students learn how to plan, execute, and control engineering projects effectively. Topics may include project scheduling, resource allocation, risk management, and project management software. Practical aspects of initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing projects are explored.
Operations Research
Operations Research applies mathematical and analytical methods to optimize decision-making in complex systems. Students learn techniques such as linear programming, queuing theory, and simulation to solve engineering and management problems. The course provides tools for optimizing processes, improving efficiency, and making data-driven decisions.
Some other core courses that an engineering management degree online provides include:
- Statistics and Dynamics
- Quality Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Business ethics and social responsibility
- Project management tools and techniques
- Project risk management
- Engineering cost analysis
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Intellectual property rights
- Engineering team dynamics
- Leadership in engineering organizations
- Management information systems
- Database management for engineers
Refer to the Guide to Bachelor’s Programs to understand the requirements.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
A bachelor’s in engineering management degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental management principles and practices. The curriculum is structured to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead and manage individuals, teams, and organizations.
There are various learning outcomes from this engineering management degree online program that can be directly applicable to further study or roles in the engineering management domain. Students develop the ability to:
- demonstrate how to guide and inspire individuals and teams toward common goals;
- demonstrate different leadership styles and know when to apply them;
- demonstrate practical communication skills for conveying ideas, making presentations, and facilitating discussions;
- demonstrate written, oral, and interpersonal communication proficiency;
- demonstrate the dynamics of group interactions and effective team building;
- demonstrate analytical and critical thinking abilities to assess and solve complex problems;
- demonstrate skills to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and meet deadlines;
- demonstrate multitasking and effective time allocation;
- demonstrate fundamentals of strategic management and the ability to formulate and implement organizational strategies;
- demonstrate negotiation skills for resolving conflicts, reaching agreements, and fostering positive relationships.
Types of Degrees Engineering Management Students Can Obtain
Engineering management degrees are designed to bridge the gap between engineering and business, providing individuals with the skills to effectively manage engineering projects, teams, and organizations. The goal is to prepare undergraduates for leadership roles where they can effectively manage engineering projects, teams, and organizations while considering technical and business aspects. Generally, in the U.S., the primary type of an online engineering management degree is a bachelor’s in engineering management.
Bachelor’s in Engineering Management (BEM)
This undergraduate degree typically combines engineering principles with business and management courses. It provides a foundation for entry-level managerial roles in engineering-related fields.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Management (BAS-EM)
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Management (BAS-EM) emphasizes practically applying engineering and management skills. It often includes hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving experiences, preparing graduates to apply their knowledge directly.
Bachelor of Technology in Engineering Management (BTech-EM)
The Bachelor of Technology in Engineering Management (BTech-EM) focuses on applying technology in engineering management. This degree covers emerging technologies, systems management, and technical project management, making it ideal for those interested in the technological aspects of engineering leadership.
Areas of Specialization for Engineering Management Students
Specialization in engineering management enhances career prospects and earning potential and contributes to personal and professional growth, making it a significant aspect of a successful career in this field. Professionals with specialized skills are often considered for leadership positions and roles requiring higher expertise. Some of the specific areas of concentration that students may typically find in engineering management bachelor programs online are:
Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
---|---|---|
Project Management | A Project Management specialization within the broader field of engineering management is a targeted program designed to equip professionals with specialized skills essential for navigating the complexities of engineering projects. This focused curriculum covers crucial aspects, including project planning, risk management, team leadership, and resource allocation. | Project manager, program manager, operations manager, and more. |
Innovation Management | An Innovation Management specialization in engineering management offers a targeted program for professionals aspiring to become catalysts of change and innovation within organizations. This specialized curriculum delves into various facets of innovation, including cultivating creativity and idea-generation techniques. | Risk manager, innovation manager, research and development manager, etc. |
Supply Chain Management | A Supply Chain Management specialization in engineering management is a strategic program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to optimize the entire supply chain process. This focused curriculum covers critical areas, including procurement and sourcing, inventory management, logistics and distribution, and supply chain analytics. | Various roles in polymer industries for Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Specialist, Operations Analyst., and more. |
Technology Management | A Technology Management specialization within engineering management offers a targeted program that equips professionals with the strategic skills necessary to navigate the dynamic intersection of technology and business. This focused curriculum covers critical areas, including technology strategy, innovation and technology development, cybersecurity management, and data analytics. | Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Technology Manager, IT Project Manager, and more. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
An online degree in engineering management can be completed in four to six years, depending on the student’s learning mode, and consists of 120-133 credit hours. They can complete the course full-time in four years; however, if they take up the part-time option, it will take more than four to six years to finish the requirements. Prospective undergraduates can also complete the program online, offline, or in hybrid modes. If they are taking up an online mode of education, colleges may provide them with the asynchronous or synchronous learning option.
Accelerated Engineering Management Programs
An accelerated engineering management bachelor’s program is one of the quickest ways to earn an undergraduate program. Candidates can complete more credits in a particular semester and graduate earlier than four years. Most colleges provide accelerated programs by providing an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree to help complete both degrees in five years rather than the six years that both degrees take to be completed individually. Some colleges in the U.S. providing such engineering management degree online accelerated track include:
Requirements for Getting into an Engineering Management Degree Online Program
The Bachelor’s program in engineering management is unique; therefore, admissions into this program can be highly competitive. Those who want to pursue this degree should consider taking high school or community institution classes in English, advanced math, and other science subjects, which can strengthen their application. If a student does not meet these prerequisite requirements, one can take such courses along with regular coursework. Prospective candidates should, therefore, refer to the following online engineering management degree admission requirements that include:
- an application fee and form
- high school diploma or its equivalent with a minimum of 2.0 GPA (although some programs may require a higher GPA)
- Official and unofficial transcripts from previous academic schools
- ACT and SAT scores that will meet the particular program requirements
- Personal essays that describe why they are interested in engineering management
- Letters of recommendation: at least applicants should be from an academic professional who can provide judgment about their academic caliber.
How to Ensure an Engineering Management Degree Online Program Is Accredited
The online engineering management degree is generally accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology or ABET [4]. ABET accreditation ensures that the program is helping students acquire standards set by professionals in their respective domains.
Some regional organizations that provide accredited engineering management degrees include:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) [5]
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) [6]
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC) [7]
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) [8]
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) [9]
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) [10]
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)[11]
Free Engineering Management Courses
Free engineering management courses offer numerous benefits to both aspiring and current professionals in the field. These courses provide accessible education, allowing individuals to gain valuable knowledge and skills without the financial burden of traditional tuition fees. They cover various topics, including project management, operations, quality control, and leadership, enabling learners to enhance their expertise and stay updated with industry trends. By taking advantage of free courses, individuals can improve their resumes, making them more competitive in the job market. Some free engineering management courses include:
Course | Description | Provided by |
---|---|---|
Engineering Project Management [12] | In the Engineering Project Management course, participants gain essential knowledge and skills crucial for successfully navigating the complexities of managing engineering projects. The curriculum typically covers critical areas such as project planning, risk management, budgeting, and team leadership. | Coursera |
MITx: Management in Engineering: Strategy and Leadership [13] | This is part of the Principles of Manufacturing MicroMasters course designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles and practices in engineering management. The central focus of the course lies in cultivating the ability to apply individual skills and management tools essential for effectively managing innovation within the dynamic landscape of technology companies. | edX |
Management In Engineering-Massachusetts Institute of Technology [14] | This course provides a comprehensive overview of engineering management, offering insights into critical topics crucial for success in the field. Learners will delve into financial principles, exploring the intersection of finance and engineering management. | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Ways to Pay for an Engineering Management Degree Online
For students pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, securing financial aid and exploring various funding sources are critical to making higher education accessible and affordable. By understanding and utilizing different avenues of financial assistance, candidates can invest in their education and future career prospects without overwhelming financial strain.
Scholarships
Scholarships are another valuable funding source for electrical engineering students. They can be merit-based, focusing on academic achievement, or need-based, considering financial circumstances. Many universities, professional organizations, and industry associations offer scholarships for those pursuing electrical engineering degrees. Researching and applying for scholarships early can increase the chances of receiving financial support.
Grants
Grants, which do not require repayment, are a crucial form of financial aid. Federal grants, such as the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), are awarded based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. State governments and private organizations also offer grants to support students in higher education. Researching grant opportunities and meeting application deadlines are essential to securing grant funding.
Financial Aid
The first step in accessing financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on income, family size, and financial need. Federal grants like the Pell Grant do not require repayment and can significantly reduce tuition costs. Federal loans, including Direct and Unsubsidized Loans, offer low-interest borrowing options for educational expenses. Work-study programs provide part-time job opportunities on campus or with approved employers, allowing candidates to earn money while studying.
Work-Study Programs
Federal work-study programs provide eligible students with part-time employment opportunities to earn income while attending college. These jobs are typically located on campus or with approved community partners and can be tailored to complement the candidate’s academic interests. Work-study earnings can cover educational expenses or personal costs, reducing the need for additional borrowing.
Employer Tuition Assistance
Some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs as part of their employee benefits package. Full-time employees, especially those already working in technical or engineering settings, may be eligible for financial support to pursue further education. Understanding employer tuition assistance programs’ specific policies and requirements can help students leverage this valuable resource.
Personal Savings and Payment Plans
Personal savings, such as college savings accounts (e.g., 529 plans) or accumulated earnings from part-time work, can offset tuition and fee expenses. Many universities also offer flexible payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over several months, easing the financial burden of large lump-sum payments at the beginning of each semester.
Student Loans
While loans should be considered a last resort, they can help bridge the gap between available financial aid and total educational expenses. Federal student loans often offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. It’s important to borrow only what is necessary and to carefully review loan terms, including interest rates and repayment schedules, to avoid excessive debt after graduation. Additionally, exploring loan forgiveness or repayment assistance programs and donors specific to engineering professions can provide relief for graduates entering the workforce.
By combining multiple funding sources and prioritizing affordability, students can make pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering more attainable, ultimately investing in their education and future career prospects.
Scholarships for Engineering Management Degree Online Students
Pursuing a bachelor’s in engineering management can be made more affordable with the help of various scholarships. By researching and applying for these scholarships, individuals seeking a bachelor’s in engineering management can significantly reduce their educational expenses and focus more on their academic and professional development. Some engineering management degree scholarships that students can pursue include:
Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
---|---|---|---|
AAUW Return to Learning Scholarships [15] | This scholarship is offered to female students who have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree in STEM. Those with strong academic credentials, financial needs, and interest in science-related disciplines will be prioritized. | $5,000 | April 1st, 2023 |
Alaska Space Grant Program – Undergraduate [16] | This program is a conglomerate of private and public universities and other non-profit associations that sponsor research, teaching, and educational outreach within STEM disciplines. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply for such scholarships. | $3,000 | September 15, 2023 |
NASF Foundation Scholarships [17] | To be eligible for this scholarship, individuals must be a minimum of a junior in college and pursue a major in chemistry, engineering management, metallurgical engineering, materials science, and more. Undergraduates are expected to maintain a 3.0 GPA. | $1,500 | March 15, 2023 |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating From an Engineering Management Degree Online Program
An online degree in engineering management opens up various career opportunities that leverage engineering and managerial skills. Here are several potential careers that individuals with a bachelor’s in engineering management may pursue:
- Project Manager
- Operations Manager
- Quality Assurance Manager
- Manufacturing Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Systems Engineer
- Engineering Consultant
- Technical Sales Manager
- Product Development Manager
- Facilities Manager
- Business Analyst
These careers showcase the versatility of an engineering management degree, allowing undergraduates to contribute to various industries and sectors. The combination of engineering principles and managerial skills equips individuals to excel in roles that require a holistic understanding of technical and business aspects.
Some of these occupations that a bachelor in engineering management can take up include:
Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Architectural and Engineering Managers [18] | Analytical, communication, math, organizational, and detail-oriented skills | $165,370 | 4% (as fast as average for other occupations) | These experts typically leverage their knowledge in engineering and architecture to supervise tasks such as assessing training, equipment, and staffing requirements. Their role involves formulating comprehensive concepts for new products to address technical challenges. |
Project Management Specialists [19] | Communication, interpersonal, analytical, critical-thinking, organizational, and time-management skills | $95,580 | 6% (faster than the average for other occupations) | Project Management Specialists orchestrate project execution, overseeing critical aspects such as budget, schedule, and overall project details. They guide technical staff and act as a central point of contact for clients or customers. |
Management Analysts [20] | Analytical, communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and time-management skills | $98,580 | 6% (faster than average for other occupations) | Management analysts, also known as management consultants, are catalysts for organizational efficiency improvement. Their core responsibility involves advising managers on strategies to enhance profitability by reducing costs and increasing revenues. |
Budget Analysts [21] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, math, and writing skills | $84,940 | 3% (faster than average for other occupations) | Budget analysts serve as financial architects for both public and private organizations, playing a pivotal role in crafting and overseeing financial plans. They collaborate with program and project managers to develop meticulous organizational budgets. |
Financial Managers [22] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, math, and organizational skills | $156,100 | 16% (much faster than average for other occupations) | Financial managers are pivotal in safeguarding organizations’ financial vitality. Tasks range from preparing comprehensive financial reports and forecasts to directing investment activities and formulating strategies for long-term financial objectives. |
Certifications and Licensing for Engineering Management Degree Online Graduates
Certifications and licensing are vital for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering management. These credentials enhance a graduate’s qualifications and demonstrate a commitment to professional development and adherence to industry standards. Certifications can provide specialized knowledge and skills that employers highly value, while licensing ensures that engineers meet the rigorous requirements to practice safely and effectively. For engineering management candidates, obtaining certifications and licenses can open doors to advanced career opportunities, increase earning potential, and establish credibility in the field. Understanding the available certifications and obtaining licensure is crucial for aspiring engineering managers aiming to stand out in a competitive job market. Some certifications that those of engineering management degrees online can take up include:
Safety and Engineering Management Education (SAChE) Certificate [23]
This certification provides foundational process safety knowledge, offering insight into health and safety regulations in manufacturing and industry settings. Participants gain a background in technical principles and learn how to apply these concepts to real-world challenges.
Professional Engineering Licensure [24]
Professional engineering certification signifies ethical and competent skills in safeguarding the public’s health, welfare, and safety. It demonstrates to employers that one can handle critical situations and navigate the evolving regulations and laws in engineering management.
Reliability Engineer Certification [25]
This certification equips individuals with the ability to administer and develop reliable information systems for failure analysis. It also covers the design and administration of reliable program management, focusing on performance improvement throughout the product life cycle.
In engineering management, specific job roles may necessitate a Professional Engineering (PE) license. Obtaining this license involves passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam tailored to a particular state [26]. While acquiring a professional engineer’s license is not mandatory, it can significantly enhance one’s professional standing. Checking the requirements for the PE licensure and considering the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam can further contribute to one’s career development in engineering management.
Additional Resources for Engineering Management Degree Online Graduates
Professional organizations provide invaluable resources for students pursuing an engineering management degree online, enhancing their academic and professional development. Joining these organizations can benefit engineering management candidates by offering essential tools, networking, and staying current with industry trends and best practices. There are various resources that those attending engineering management degree online can access by joining professional institutions, including:
Title/Resource | Description |
---|---|
American Institute of Engineering Management [27] | This organization offers a range of technical resources and professional development benefits. Members can access insurance options and other perks while being part of a broader professional community. The institute provides an eLibrary and electronic newsletters to inform members about industry developments. |
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) [28] | Key objectives of the NSPE include promoting licensure for professional engineers, advocating for the interests of engineers in legislative and regulatory matters, and providing a platform for networking and knowledge exchange among engineering professionals. The organization strongly emphasizes upholding ethical standards within the engineering community and supporting initiatives that enhance public welfare through engineering excellence. |
Society of Women Engineers [29] | The Society of Women Engineers is a global organization that advocates and is a catalyst for promoting women in engineering and technology. They aim to maintain a supporting environment and promote the inclusion of women within the organization and the community of engineering as well. |
American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM) [30] | ASEM is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of engineering management. Members benefit from a wealth of technical resources and professional development opportunities. The society provides a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among engineering management professionals. |
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology [31] | As one of the seven engineering societies established by the Engineers Council for Professional Development, ABET comprises 35 professional and technical members from various disciplines. They oversee the accreditation process for colleges, contributing to a quality learning experience for students. |
FAQs About Engineering Management Degree Online Programs
Can I get an engineering management degree online?
Individuals can pursue an engineering management degree online through accredited universities and institutions that offer online programs. Many universities offer flexible online formats that allow working professionals or individuals with other commitments to earn their degrees remotely.
What can you do with an online engineering management degree?
Is a bachelor’s in engineering management worth it?
What degree is best for a bachelor’s in engineering management?
Is it hard to study bachelor in engineering management?
Can I transition from a traditional engineering role to a managerial position with an engineering management degree?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Architectural and Engineering Managers
New York Institute of Technology
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Engineering Project Management-Coursera
MITx: Management in Engineering: Strategy and Leadership-edX
Management In Engineering-Massachusetts Institute of Technology
AAUW Return to Learning Scholarships
Alaska Space Grant Program- Undergraduate
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Architectural and Engineering Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Project Management Specialists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Budget Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Financial Managers
Safety and Engineering Management Education (SAChE) Certificate
Professional Engineering Licensure
Reliability Engineer Certification
Principles and Practice of Engineering exam test
American Institute of Engineering Management
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)