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There are numerous career options available across the various engineering disciplines. For those thinking about a career in engineering, who enjoy building and fixing things, or who are just exceptionally good at math, getting an online engineering bachelor degree is the first step to becoming an engineer. However, choosing an engineering specialty can be difficult because there are so many different subfields of engineering. To find the best educational path, read this article, which covers the engineering online degree in de-depth, the top engineering schools, the various engineering bachelor’s degrees, and some frequently asked questions such as what classes are required for an engineering degree, what major do you need to be an engineer, etc.
Best Online Engineering
Degree Programs
When pursuing higher education, prospective students frequently search for the Best Online Bachelors degree programs. Finding what colleges offer engineering degrees might not be as simple as it seems because there are many ranking factors to consider, including the college’s infrastructure and reputation, the faculty’s experience, and qualifications, the accessibility of student support services, and more. To make the search easy, the top bachelor’s degree in engineering programs offered in the United States have been compiled by FBD teams after extensive research. Here are some of the best online engineering degree programs: *
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Stony Brook University | 310 Administration Building, Stony Brook, New York 11794 | $10,455 | 78% |
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 the Online
Engineering Degree Programs
Engineering is a scientific discipline that uses knowledge of science and math to address issues and accomplish practical objectives. In an online engineering bachelor degree program, students will study advanced physics, advanced mathematics, electronics, and material sciences, among other subjects. These courses provide common technical knowledge in an engineering degree program, though the topics will vary depending on one’s specialization. While most programs are usually taken up on-campus in traditional brick-and-mortar schools, it is not uncommon for colleges to offer online programs or hybrid programs that blend online and offline classes. Of course, online students would be required to be on campus for hands-on training, laboratory work, and experiments, as the program demands. Read the Guide to Bachelor Programs for more information on undergraduate degrees.
In addition to learning how to approach problems logically and methodically in engineering programs, engineering students receive real-world instruction and practical work experience. Through group projects and activities, they will also develop their communication and collaboration skills. Because engineering is a vast subject, each branch has its specific coursework. Nevertheless, almost all branches of engineering will have common or basic coursework that students can expect regardless of the chosen specialization. Some of these courses include:
Solid Mechanics
Solid mechanics is the study of how solid matter responds to outside forces. Students study inertia, elasticity, dynamics, plasticity, and centroids. This knowledge is used in electrical engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, mechanical engineering, and nuclear engineering.
Electric Circuits
This course provides engineers with the knowledge of electric circuits to enable them to design systems and devices that use electricity. The study of electronics parts and electricity flow is covered in this course. For engineers working in the fields of electrical, mechanical, computer, and aerospace, this course is essential.
Thermodynamics
The study of heat transfer in relation to energy and work is known as thermodynamics. Students study the laws of thermodynamics, enthalpy, heat capacity, energy sustainability, and energy efficiency. This is frequently used by chemical, mechanical, aerospace, and civil engineers.
Material Science
The characteristics and uses of solid materials are studied in materials science. Nanomaterials, metals, energy materials, ceramics, polymeric materials, and manufacturing are some topics covered in this course. Petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and industrial engineering degrees frequently include this course.
It is hard to draw up a list of courses one can expect in an engineering degree because of the many branches available. However, to present a general idea, most programs will comprise:
Engineering Core
an introduction to engineering along with the fundamental knowledge and skills in math, physics, chemistry, and computing.
Breadth Requirement
courses that instruct engineering scientists in effective collaboration on interdisciplinary issues.
Depth Requirement
courses that fall under either a particular branch of engineering or a recognized interdisciplinary theme area.
Technical Elective Requirement
courses in engineering and applied sciences that give students more opportunities to focus on specific areas of study and customize their education.
General Education Requirement
common courses for all programs that do not satisfy the other engineering curriculum requirements.
Degree Types in Online Engineering
Degree Programs
There are primarily three types of online engineering degree programs – the Bachelor of Arts in Engineering (BA Engineering), the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BS Engineering), and the Bachelor of Engineering (BEng). Here is a quick look at each of them:
Bachelor of Arts in Engineering
The Bachelor of Arts in Engineering or BA in Engineering prepares students for engineering careers that focus on people through the inclusion of the liberal arts with engineering topics. Students will gain knowledge of how engineering relates to management, the law, and the sciences.
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering or BS in Engineering involves the study of theories and conducting research as its main objectives. Most engineers graduate with this bachelor’s degree and start working as engineers right away.
Bachelor of Engineering
The Bachelor of Engineering or B.Eng. offers the most real-world application of the engineering degree. Unlike a BS in Engineering which is slightly more theoretically oriented, a B.Eng. degree emphasizes the practical application of engineering theories and skills.
What Online Engineering
Degree should I get?
Through extensive research, inventions, and discoveries, engineers use innovation to raise the standard of living for people. All industries, including agriculture, healthcare, technology, education, defense, and transportation, benefit from the expertise of engineers. Therefore, each broader sector has its own engineering specialization or branch. Students can choose from several engineering online degree branches that align with their personal interests and career objectives. Some such engineering degree options based on these branches are:
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering Online Degree / Civil Engineer Bachelor Degree Online / Online Degree Civil Engineering / Online Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering / Online Civil Engineering Technology Degree
Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering Degree Online / Computer Engineering Online Degree Programs
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineer Degree Online / Online Degree Mechanical Engineering / Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online / Online Bachelor Mechanical Engineering Degree / Online Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering Degree
Aerospace & Aeronautical Engineering
Online Aerospace Engineering Degree / Aeronautical Engineering Degree Online / Aeronautical Engineering Online Degree / Online Bachelors Degree Aerospace Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Online Degree Electrical Engineering / Electrical Engineering Degree Online Accredited / Online Bachelor Electrical Engineering Degree Programs / Online Bachelor’s Degree Electrical Engineering / Online Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering / Online Electrical Engineering Bachelor Degree
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Engineering Degree Online / Environmental Engineering Bachelors Degree Online
Software Engineering
Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering Online / Online Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering / Software Engineer Bachelors Degree Online / Software Engineering Bachelor Degree Online / Software Engineering Online Bachelor Degree
Petroleum & Petrochemical Engineering
Online Bachelor Petroleum Engineering Degree / Petrochemical Engineering Degree Online / Petroleum Engineering Technology Online Degree
Construction Engineering
Construction Engineering Online Degree / Online Construction Engineering Degree Programs
Industrial Engineering
Industrial Engineering Online Degree / Industrial Engineering Bachelors Degree Online
Others
Engineering Management Degree Online
Biomedical Engineering Bachelor Degree Online
Financial Engineering Degree Online
Healthcare Engineering Degree Online
Online Automotive Engineering Degree
Online Controls Engineering Degree
Online Drilling Engineering Degree
Online Electronics Engineering Technology Degree
Quality Engineering Associate Degree Online
Areas of Specialization in Online
Engineering Degree Programs
Most students are aware that they can focus on a specific area within their chosen subject. While there may not be many options for specialization in most disciplines, students who pursue an engineering online degree have more than 30 to 40 options to choose from, depending on their career objectives. Some of them are explained below:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering Degree involves the design of mechanical systems that assist industries such as aeronautics, automobiles, manufacturing, nanotechnology, energy, nuclear power production, etc. The primary focus is on structural analysis, materials science, thermodynamics, and kinematics. | Design analysts, HVAC designers, quality inspectors, thermodynamics consultants, and production managers. |
| Electrical Engineering | Energy research is the primary focus of a degree in electrical engineering. Students study the different types of energy, including electrical, hydro, and renewable energy from the sun and wind. | Process and product managers, network engineers, broadcast technology specialists, plant maintenance managers, data engineering managers, and project managers. |
| Petroleum Engineering | The primary focus of the petroleum engineering specialty is extracting gas and oil from the ground. Students gain knowledge of cutting-edge technologies and extraction methods that are more efficient but less damaging to the environment. | Reservoir engineers, geo scientists, environmental engineers, chemists, drilling engineers, well production consultants, and fixed equipment specialists. |
| Civil Engineering | The fundamentals of civil engineering are covered in this specialty, which entails the construction of a variety of infrastructures, including residential and commercial buildings, bridges, roads, railways, etc. | Public and private sector engineers, cost estimators, project managers, engineering consultants, and materials engineers. |
| Electronics Engineering | Students who choose this specialization will learn about power systems, circuit design and construction, switchboard design and construction, and other electronic configurations. | Electronics designers, firmware developers, quality engineers, manufacturing process engineers, and digital communications specialists. |
| Aeronautical Engineering | This field of study includes the study of space and aviation. The development of military aircraft as well as technological advancements in commercial aviation and satellites are covered. | Aeronautical engineers, aerodynamic engineers, aerospace engineers, flight systems engineers, and aircraft designers. |
| Engineering Management | This specialization equips students with the skills necessary to oversee engineering projects or a group of engineers by combining engineering and business management training. | Principal engineers, technical consultants, software engineering leaders, project managers, application engineering, professional development managers, and operations managers. |
| Biomedical Engineering | Biology and medicine are both studied in biomedical engineering. Biomedical engineers use their design expertise in the fields of biology and medicine to aid in the development of medical treatment technology that goes into EEGs, MRIs, and other imaging machines. | R&D scientists, process development engineers, quality engineers, and pharmaceutical and medical device product developers. |
| Industrial Engineering | The industrial engineering specialization focuses on how one can boost output while cutting costs and waste. Students study various manufacturing processes and optimization processes, understand productivity and output and learn how to devise plans to improve efficiency. | Industrial Engineers, supply chain professionals, manufacturing engineers, plant managers, safety engineers, and logisticians. |
| Chemical Engineering | Chemical Engineering, as its name suggests, is the practical application of chemistry. This particular engineering specialty involves technology that fixes issues through chemical processes. | R&D specialists, process engineers, chemical operations managers, test engineers, quality control analysts, patent analysts, and micro lab managers. |
Some of the other specializations students can consider include but are not limited to:
- Structural Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Microelectronic Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Ceramics Engineering
- Geomatics Engineering
- Agricultural Engineering
- Photonics Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Nanotechnology Engineering
- Paper Engineering
- Marine Engineering
- Robotics Engineering
- Electric Engineering
- Materials Science Engineering
- Geological Engineering
Why should I get an Online
Engineering Degree?
Individuals who enjoy designing new things and are interested in math and science are best suited to pursue an online degree in engineering. An engineering degree is a good choice because it will provide a stable and secure career. Graduates will be able to join one of the most in-demand fields and obtain high-paying jobs. The degree brings with it many advantages, such as numerous employment opportunities, ongoing education, high job satisfaction, and intellectual development.
Those who decide to pursue a master’s degree can select from a variety of concentrations, giving them the opportunity to specialize or broaden their horizons depending on their career goals. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in engineering will open a wide range of career options thanks to engineering’s broad field of study. Most of the jobs have steady rates of job growth and are well-paying. Engineering is a specialized field requiring extensive technical knowledge, and because of this, engineers receive fair compensation.
So, what can you do with an engineering degree? For those who prefer to work, some jobs require an engineering degree in sectors such as nuclear energy, automobile, aerospace, civil, marine, petroleum, computer, chemical, and many more. But what else can you do with an engineering degree? If one does not wish to work immediately upon graduating, one can enroll in a master’s in engineering program.
As for skills obtained from an online engineering degree, other than specialization-specific skills, graduates would have developed the ability to:
- use engineering design to create solutions that fulfill requirements while taking into account global, social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors as well as public health, welfare, and safety;
- recognize, formulate, and resolve complex engineering issues using engineering, scientific, and mathematical principles;
- effectively communicate with a variety of audiences orally, in writing, or with graphical/technical depictions;
- learn new information when necessary and apply it in appropriate ways
- design and carry out appropriate experiments, analyze and interpret data, and draw conclusions using engineering judgment;
- recognize professional and ethical obligations in engineering situations and make defensible decisions that consider the effects of engineering solutions in global, environmental, economic, and societal contexts; and
- perform well as a member of a team who, as a group, provides leadership, fosters inclusivity and collaboration, organizes tasks, sets goals, and achieves objectives.
Free Courses for Online Engineering
Degree Students
Students who are serious about their studies frequently search for additional resources that can give them more information or a deeper understanding of a particular subject. Although a free bachelor degree in engineering courses online can deliver just that, it is important to note that many of them do not result in any kind of certification, and they certainly do not culminate in an engineering online degree. That said, here are some free engineering courses:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Math: Differential Equations and Linear Algebra | The mathematics most frequently used in mechanical engineering core subjects is covered in this course: An introduction to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and linear algebra, as well as general numerical methods for solving equation systems. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Principles of Engineering Practice | With three learning strands—a technical toolkit, a social science toolkit, and a problem-based learning methodology—this course introduces students to the interdisciplinary nature of 21st-century engineering projects. Students are exposed to the social, political, economic, and technological challenges of engineering practice. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Engineering Dynamics | The dynamics and vibrations of lumped-parameter models of mechanical systems are covered in this course. Kinematics, force-momentum formulation for particle and rigid body systems in planar motion, virtual displacements and virtual work, and work-energy concepts are among the subjects covered. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
How to get into Online Engineering
Degree Programs?
Many universities have stricter admission standards for students enrolling in online engineering bachelor degree programs than they do for other students. Some colleges require incoming first-year students to rank in the top 25% of their graduating class. Applicants must have completed geometry, elementary analysis, algebra, and/or analytical geometry along with social studies, English, physics, chemistry, and some other higher-level math in high school. Additionally, mechanical engineering majors must have passed a mechanical drafting/drawing course in their tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade.
Apart from these distinctions, first-year students applying to online engineering programs must submit the same data as everyone else, some of which include:
- Admission or Application Form with its prescribed fee.
- Official Academic Transcripts.
- A High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate.
- Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or more.
- American College Testing (ACT) / Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) Test Scores
- Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (varies by school)
- Proof of English Proficiency (if the native tongue is or education was not in English)
How Long does it take to complete Online
Engineering Degree Programs
An online engineering bachelor degree can typically be earned in four years or less. However, many variables could affect how long it takes to complete the program. Many engineering students require more time than the standard four years to complete their degree, but those who take 12 credits per semester and six in the summer could graduate sooner. Typically, a bachelor’s degree in engineering ranges from 130 to 150 credits, depending on the type of engineering (branch) one pursues. Here is a quick summary of the timelines:
- Time to complete full-time engineering degree online program: about 4 Years.
- Time to complete part-time engineering degree online program: between 4 and 6 years.
- Typical number of credits: 130 to 150 (average range; varies by program)
Accelerated Online Engineering
Degree Programs
Engineering is a vast field of study. Therefore, it usually requires ample time to cover a host of topics in a program. Consequently, one will seldom come across an engineering online degree that can be completed in less than the prescribed 4-year schedule. However, those who want to spend less time in school can opt to study engineering technology instead of engineering. While an engineering student gains the ability to innovate and develop new solutions to challenging, unsolved issues, engineering technology focuses on putting the most recent information and fixes into practice.
Accelerated engineering technology degree programs frequently employ all feasible techniques, such as transfer credits, work experience credits, accelerated course schedules, and more, to make acquiring the degree quick and largely painless. These degrees are the best option for working adults who want to quickly improve their credentials and earn more money, cutting their time in school to two years or less.
Accreditations for Online Engineering
Degree Programs
When submitting an online application for an engineering degree online, accreditation is a crucial factor. It is a stamp of approval given to a college or program that shows the general public and potential employers that the institution upholds the highest levels of educational quality and standards. Independent organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can accredit colleges on a national or regional level. The most prevalent type of accreditation in the United States is regional, and six organizations grant it:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- 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)
An accredited online engineering bachelors degree may also be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), occasionally in addition to national or regional accreditation. College and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology are accredited by ABET, a nonprofit with ISO 9001 certification. Read the Guide to College Accreditation to learn more about accreditation.
How to Pay for Online Engineering
Degree Programs?
An online engineering bachelor degree program is usually an expensive pursuit. A cost of a typical engineering degree can range from $14,300 to over $46,700. Although online students may not have to fork out additional money for commuting, meals, and campus-related fees, they must still pay the high tuition fee, which can be a burden for many. Fortunately, students having financial constraints have access to outside funding options, some of which are listed below:
Scholarships
Scholarships are a very popular choice among students because they are relatively simple to find and are funds that are not repaid. They are awarded to deserving and meritorious students, with academic performance serving as the main selection criterion.
Grants
Like scholarships, grants have no repayment requirements. But contrary to scholarships, which are frequently given based more on academic performance, grants are usually given based on the applicant’s need for money.
Work-Study Programs
Through part-time employment, work-study programs assist students in covering school tuition and fees. Most of these jobs are associated with the student’s academic program or volunteer work. Work-study opportunities can also help students gain useful real-world experience.
Student Loans
A student loan is another choice for students looking for outside funding. Loans for education are distributed by several banks, financial institutions, and the federal government. One should be aware that borrowing money will increase the overall cost of their education because loans carry interest. Understand how one can apply for loan forgiveness to avoid repaying student loans by reading about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans.
FAFSA Student Aid
The Free Application For Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to check if they are eligible for aid and receive the best financial aid package possible. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.
Read about What is Financial Aid? and find out everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.
Scholarships for Online Biology
Degree Students
As with most undergraduate programs, it is possible for students pursuing an engineering online degree to seek a scholarship and reduce their cost of education. Several individuals, organizations, and groups give up scholarships to deserving students who can demonstrate excellent academic progress and other required qualities. Of the many available engineering scholarships, some are:
| Scholarship | Description | Amount/Award | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASHRAE Scholarships | The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers several scholarships to undergraduate engineering or pre-engineering students enrolled full-time in a post-secondary educational institution and working toward a Bachelor of Science or Engineering degree in a program that has historically served as a training ground for the HVAC&R industry | Up to $10,000 a year | December 01, annually |
| ASNT Scholarships | The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) offers scholarships to undergraduate students attending American colleges and universities with recognized engineering department programs. | $3,000 | December 15, annually |
| The Alabama Home Builders Foundation scholarship | The Alabama Home Builders Foundation scholarship offers scholarships to deserving students interested in pursuing an education in the residential construction-related trades in the state of Alabama. | Varies | March 15, annually |
| Barbara and Richard Couch Hypertherm Scholarship | The Barbara and Richard Couch Hypertherm Scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a two or four-year degree in an engineering or technical major in areas of mechanical, process, software, or electrical engineering. | $2,500 x 2 Nos. | September 01, annually |
FAQs Related to the Online Engineering
Degree Programs
Can I do an engineering degree online?
Yes, it is possible to do an engineering degree online. Although it was once believed that online courses were simpler than those taken in person, this is no longer the case. An online degree program will probably be just as challenging as an in-person one. It is also noteworthy that not all classes can be taken online; some will require the student to be present on campus.
Can I get a chemical engineering degree online?
What can you do with an engineering degree?
Which type of engineering is best?
Is an engineering degree worth it?
How hard is a degree in engineering?
BE vs. BTech – what is the difference?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online
Engineering Degree Programs
Engineering online degree graduates can work as engineers in a chosen specialization within engineering. The primary job title will reflect that specialization, examples of which include but are not limited to:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that engineering occupations will grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030, adding an estimated 146,000 new jobs. Here are some examples of bachelor’s degree in engineering jobs, their median annual salaries, and job growth, as reported by the BLS:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineers | Mechanical engineers conduct research, design, development, construction, and testing on tools, engines, and other mechanical and thermal sensors and devices. They investigate equipment issues or problems to identify improper operation and suggest fixes. | Problem-solving skills, listening skills, math skills, mechanical skills, creativity | $95,300 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Petroleum Engineers | Petroleum engineers create and develop processes for removing oil and gas from deposits beneath the surface of the Earth. They also develop new techniques for drawing gas and oil from old wells and evaluate and assess the production of wells through testing, surveys, and analysis. | Analytical skills, math skills, interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, creativity | $130,850 | 8% (as fast as average) |
| Chemical Engineers | Chemical engineers solve issues involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, medications, food, and many other products by using the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math. They plan and test production processes and byproducts treatment, oversee facility operations, and design processes and machinery for large-scale manufacturing. | Analytical skills, math skills, interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, ingenuity, creativity | $105,550 | 9% (as fast as average) |
| Civil Engineers | In both the public and private sectors, civil engineers conceptualize, design, build, supervise, operate, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems, such as roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and water supply and sewage treatment systems. | Math skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, problem-solving skills, speaking skills, writing skills | $88,050 | 8% (as fast as average) |
| Environmental Engineers | Environmental engineers create solutions for environmental issues using engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry principles. They work to improve waste management, recycling, public health, and the reduction of air and water pollution. | Problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, reading skills, writing skills, imagination | $96,820 | 4% (slower than average) |
| Electrical Engineers | Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment, such as radar and navigation systems, electric motors, power generation equipment, or communications systems, and design electrical systems for automobiles and aircraft. | Mechanical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, math skills, detail-oriented | $101,780 | 7% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online
Engineering Degree Students
Certification officially recognizes an individual’s competency – education, proven knowledge, and experience in a particular profession. It is a formal process carried out by a community of knowledgeable, experienced, and skilled representatives of an organization. In engineering, several organizations provide certifications that add heft to one’s résumé and enhance career prospects. However, each certification or agency that offers certification is specific to the branch of engineering, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, etc. Here are some examples of certifications for engineering online degree students to consider:
International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) Certifications
The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) offers a multi-level Certification Program to give systems engineers at all career stages a formal way to assess and acknowledge their knowledge, experience, and professional contributions. At increasing levels of leadership accomplishments and experience, the base ASEP, CSEP, and ESP credentials cover the breadth of systems engineering.
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer
The American Society for Quality (ASQ) offers the ASQ Certified Quality Engineer credential to professionals with 3 to 8 years of experience. The credential symbolizes that the professional understands the principles of product and service quality evaluation and control.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Board Certifications
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Board Certifications are accredited by the Council of Engineering & Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB) and overseen by the Civil Engineering Certification, Inc. (CEC). Civil engineers with proven advanced knowledge and skills in their particular specialty area are recognized by ASCE board certifications.
A few other examples of certification include but are not limited to:
Licensure:
Although most entry-level positions do not require licensure, advanced roles necessitate one. Licensure provides engineers, consulting engineers, and private practitioners with authority to prepare, sign, seal and submit engineering plans and drawings to clients of all sorts. The most common license is the PE or Professional Engineering license.
Professional Engineering (PE) License
The Professional Engineering or PE license is issued by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPA). The PE license indicates to the public that the candidate has a firm grasp of the essentials of their line of work. It demonstrates their dedication to the highest engineering practice standards while proving their ability to offer quality engineering services.
Apart from the PE, licensure is a requirement in most states for most responsible or advanced roles across industries. Students should check the relevant organization operating in their state of work, specific to their specialization. For example, New York residents would have to get a license from the New York Board for Engineering, Land Surveying, and Geology. Links to state-specific licensing are kept up to date by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
Additional Resources for Online
Engineering Degree Students
It is pretty evident that engineering is a very broad field of study. Every so often, developments occur in each engineering specialty field, such as nuclear, civil, mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, making it essential for students and working professionals to stay current. Additionally, whether one is pursuing their studies or career, connecting with peers and taking advantage of helpful resources will be highly beneficial. To that end, the following professional associations and resources may be considered:
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) is the only national organization devoted to addressing the professional issues faced by licensed PEs in all engineering specialties and offers a wealth of resources, including a job board, advice, leadership tips, free on-demand courses, and more.
Engineering.com
Engineering.com is an organization that aims “to inform, inspire and engage engineering minds to be and do better.” This website offers a variety of resources, including eBooks and papers, project resources, tools and software, games, access to webinars, and more.
American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) is a nonprofit group of individuals and organizations founded in 1893 and dedicated to advancing engineering and engineering technology education. ASEE has an active community of engineers, an academy of fellows, engineering courses, publications & media, and more.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the largest technical professional association in the world that works to advance technology for the good of all. In addition to conferences, publications, technology standards, and professional and educational initiatives, IEEE offers its members a number of benefits.
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is an organization that supports and drives change for women in engineering and technology. Membership to SEW provides awards & challenges, youth & professional programs, scholarships, a magazine, access to events and conferences, and a whole lot more.
Depending on the chosen sub-field of engineering, students and professionals can join or make use of the following professional organizations:
- American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES)
- American Association for Aerosol Research (AAAR)
- American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
- American Society for Precision Engineering (ASPE)
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
- American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
- Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE)
- Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)
- Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)
- Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)
- Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
- Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
- Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP)
- International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE)
- National Association of Power Engineers (NAPE)
- National Association of Rocketry (NAR)
- Society of American Value Engineers (SAVE)
- Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE)
- Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE)
- Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers (SPEE)
- Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE)
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.