cheapest online electrical engineering degreeIn this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable master’s in electrical engineering online programs of 2021.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for electrical engineers was nearly six figures as of last year. This number continues to grow as electrical engineers are needed in expanding industries like manufacturing and telecommunication. Since most electrical engineering positions require experience, it is often essential to work while earning a degree. Thankfully, online master’s in electrical engineering programs are available from some of the nation’s top institutions.

30 Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs Methodology

We reviewed approximately 75 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered master’s in electrical engineering online programs or closely related degrees. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordability. We selected schools with a combined graduate tuition cost and fees of less than $32,000 per year. We then listed the top 30 programs according to raw affordability.

Below are the resulting selections for the top 30 most affordable master’s in electrical engineering online programs of 2021.

#30 – George Washington University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Washington, District of Columbia

Website

George Washington University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
10 courses to complete George Washington University’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,824

George Washington University’s master’s in electrical engineering online degree program is a multifaceted, career-focused degree designed for busy and working students. Graduates gain knowledge in team leadership, engineering project management, and theoretical understanding of engineering concepts. The program is led by GWU’s esteemed faculty who teach all online classes. The curriculum is comprised of ten courses that cover topics like computational techniques in electrical engineering, linear systems theory, program and project management, and signals and transforms in engineering. GWU is fully accredited and ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, GWU’s rankings include #70 in best national universities and #15 out of 1,200 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#29 – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Online Master’s in Electrical & Computer Engineering

Worcester, Massachusetts

Website

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
A fully online master’s in electrical engineering program at WPI.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $28,248

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers an accredited online master’s in electrical engineering that serves as preparation for a career in both electrical and computer engineering. The fully online program offers courses taught by Worcester Polytech faculty. These classes cover topics like analog circuits and intuitive design, computer architecture, digital systems testing and testable design, modern digital communications, and principles of detection and estimation theory. Worcester Polytech ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report and is fully accredited. The school ranks #64 in best national universities, #70 in best value schools, and #32 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#28 – Fairleigh Dickinson University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Teaneck, New Jersey

Website

Fairleigh Dickinson University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
The online MSEE program at Fairleigh Dickinson University promotes research opportunities for grads.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,110

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s online engineering programs include the MS in electrical engineering. The MSEE degree is available fully online and is designed to provide students with the skills needed to pursue a career in the dynamic field of electrical engineering. What makes this program unique is the number of research opportunities available to graduate students. Working closely with faculty, students move out of the classroom and into interesting areas of study. Research areas might include control systems, digital system and microprocessor design, or neural networks. Fairleigh is a ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #56 in best regional universities in the North.

#27 – Michigan Technological University

Online Master of Electrical Engineering

Houghton, Michigan

Website

Michigan Technological University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
ABET-accredited! Michigan Tech’s master’s in electrical engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,759

Michigan Technological University’s online MSE program is fully accredited and can be completed via distance learning. What makes the Michigan Tech master’s in electrical engineering stand out is the ability to tailor the degree to fit with areas of interest or career goals. These specialized concentrations include communications theory, power systems, and signal processing. Prospective students looking to apply the program must hold an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree. Other admission requirements include relevant transcripts, resumé or CV, personal statement, statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Michigan Tech ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #58 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#26 – University of Virginia

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Charlottesville, Virginia

Website

University of Virginia - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
UVA no longer requires the GRE for it online electrical engineering program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,528

University of Virginia’s online master’s in electrical engineering program no longer requires the GRE for admission. In fact, applying to the UV Engineering Department is convenient for those seeking admission. The electrical engineering master’s is comprised of 30 credits. Online courses are taught by UV’s esteemed faculty and mirror the on-campus curriculum. These courses cover engineering topics like communication systems engineering, digital control techniques for robotic systems, linear automatic control systems, and solid-state devices. In addition to being fully accredited, UV ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school ranks #28 in best national universities. Also, the online master’s in electrical engineering programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#25 – University of Minnesota

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Website

University of Minnesota - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ideal for busy professionals! University of Minnesota’s master’s in electrical engineering online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,221

University of Minnesota offers affordable online engineering programs designed for busy and working professionals. The program combines electrical and computer engineering disciplines into a rigorous and robust program. The online MSECE degree also offers several pathways to completion. Students may elect to complete a thesis or conduct independent research. Those following the research project pathway will provide a written report and an oral presentation prior to graduation. The University of Minnesota ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 70th best national university and 118th best value schools. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #74-#94 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#24 – Michigan State University

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

East Lansing, Michigan

Website

Michigan State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
A top-ranked institution that offers online electrical engineering programs – Michigan State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,858

Michigan State University’s master’s in electrical engineering online program offers exciting opportunities to integrate creativity with technical knowledge and acumen. Online students benefit from the flexible coursework and distance learning option. Students take classes taught by MSU’s esteemed engineering faculty, who have real-life experience in various industries. Courses cover topics like advanced power systems, autonomous vehicles, electronic circuit design, robotics, and signal processing. MSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. In fact, MSU’s rankings include #84 in best national universities and #52 in best colleges for veterans. Affordable graduate tuition is also available.

#23 – Georgia Institute of Technology

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Atlanta, Georgia

Website

Georgia Institute of Technology - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Georgia Tech’s online MSE program offers several interest areas!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,088

The online MSE program at Georgia Institute of Technology allows students to choose areas of focus and tailor their degree to align with career aspirations. Interest areas include bioengineering, computer engineering, digital signal processing, electrical energy, electromagnetics, and systems and controls, among others. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same faculty who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like digital communications, engineering design, and nonlinear systems. Georgia Tech ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s current rankings include #29 in best national universities.

#22 – University of California Riverside

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Riverside, California

Website

University of California Riverside - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Finish in 13 months! UC Riverside’s master’s in electrical engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,584

UC Riverside offers an accredited and affordable online master’s in electrical engineering degree. The no-residency program offers 100 percent online courses taught by the same esteemed faculty teaching on the Riverside campus. The program is fast-paced and graduates can expect to earn their degree in just 13 months. In addition to the flexible format, six specializations are offered that allow students to tailor their degree toward career goals. One such specialization is the electrical engineering focus. Courses you will likely take in electrical engineering cover topics like electric drives, introduction to smart grid, and power system steady state and market. UC Riverside ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 91st best national university. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #29 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#21 – University of Michigan

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Dearborn, Michigan

Website

University of Michigan - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked and affordable! University of Michigan’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,570

University of Michigan’s master’s in electrical engineering online degree program is offered through the ECE Department and consists of 30 credits that can be completed entirely online. However, on-campus, evening options are available. In addition to the electrical engineering discipline, several concentrations are available so that students may tailor their degree even further. These concentrations include control systems, digital signal processing, intelligent systems, and vehicle electronics. The school is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include #33 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #74-#94 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#20 – University of Colorado

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Boulder, Colorado

Website

University of Colorado - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
The 30-credit online master’s in engineering at University of Colorado is affordable for working students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,556

University of Colorado’s online MSE degree program costs less than $14,000 per year for both residents and nonresidents alike. In fact, the school offers the same price for international students earning an online master’s in electrical engineering as for Colorado residents. The degree consists of 30 credits and offers specialization options for those interested in tailoring their degree toward career goals. Online courses cover topics like sensors and sensor circuit design and validating optimized CPUs. In addition to affordability and accreditation, the program and school rank with U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include #104 in best national universities and #170 in best value schools.

#19 – Kettering University

Online Master’s in Engineering

Flint, Michigan

Website

Kettering University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
ABET-accredited! Kettering’s master’s in engineering online!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,332

Kettering University offers an accredited online master’s in electrical engineering with ECE advanced mobility focus. This program is the first of its kind to equip graduates with expertise in the development of electric and autonomous vehicles, mobile robotics, and related systems. There is no GRE requirement for applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA from an ABET-accredited school. Once admitted, students take online courses taught by Kettering faculty. These courses cover topics like artificial intelligence for autonomous driving, automotive control systems, and mobile robotics. Kettering ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 13th best regional university in the Midwest.

#18 – University of Arizona

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Tucson, Arizona

Website

University of Arizona - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
8 specializations! U of A offers a top-ranked master’s in electrical engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,271

The University of Arizona online engineering program is designed with industry leader input and led by the university’s esteemed faculty. The program ideally fits for working engineers looking to advance or obtain a more design-oriented engineering role. What makes the program unique is the option of tailoring your degree to fit with career goals. Since the University of Arizona offers eight specializations, students may focus their studies on a particular area of interest. These specializations include computer networks, detection and estimation, and wireless communications networks, to name a few. University of Arizona’s rankings with U.S. News and World Report include #117 in best national universities and #38 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#17 – Old Dominion University

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Norfolk, Virginia

Website

Old Dominion University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Affordable online engineering options! ODU!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,128

Old Dominion University’s online MSE is both accredited and affordable. The program stresses both the theoretical and practical aspects of computer and electrical engineering by embracing the teachings and research expertise of ODU faculty. Courses you will likely take while enrolled in the online program include cyber defense fundamentals, linear systems, and power system design and analysis. To be eligible for admission, applicants must hold a BS in electrical engineering or computer engineering from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. ODU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #51 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#16 – Washington State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Power Engineering

Pullman, Washington

Website

Washington State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Study electrical power engineering online at WSU!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,095

Washington State University offers an affordable master’s in electrical engineering online program that combines technical courses with professional management training. The 30-credit degree requires the completion of online courses, electives, and internship. Courses cover various engineering topics like analysis of power systems, constraints management, high-voltage overhead transmission lines, management of organizations, and power system economics and electricity markets. The internship serves as a capstone project and is completed near the end of the program. WSU is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #166 in best national universities, #106 in best value schools, and #21 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#15 – University of California Los Angeles

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Los Angeles, California

Website

University of California Los Angeles - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
UCLA – a top school for an online master’s in electrical engineering!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,953

UCLA’s online master’s in electrical engineering program is open to qualifying students seeking advanced study in the highly specialized discipline of electrical engineering. The program may be completed entirely online by taking courses taught by UCLA’s esteemed faculty. UCLA’s engineering programs have earned top rankings from all major publications, such as U.S. News and World Report. In fact, 2020 rankings list UCLA’s online master’s in engineering programs #1 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs. Also, UCLA’s online master’s in electrical engineering rank #5 out of 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. Consistently, UCLA and its engineering programs have earned top 10 rankings over the last several years.

#14 – Colorado State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Fort Collins, Colorado

Website

Colorado State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked by U.S. News! Colorado State offers an online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,871

Colorado State University’s online engineering programs include the online master’s in electrical engineering. This program consists of 30 credits and takes two years to complete. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like computer architecture, electric power quality, energy networks and power distribution grids, introduction to power system markets, and nonlinear control systems. The degree is coursework only, which means there are no comprehensive exams or oral presentations required to complete the program. Once the courses are satisfactorily completed, students obtain their master’s in electrical engineering. In addition to being fully accredited, CSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #37 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#13 – Arizona State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Arizona State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
A top-ranked online master’s in electrical engineering! ASU!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608

Arizona State University’s online MSE program consists of a total of ten classes that each run 7.5-15 weeks. A total of 30 credits must be completed to earn the master’s in electrical engineering online degree. Courses are delivered online and mirror the on-campus curriculum delivered by esteemed ASU faculty. These courses cover topics like electric power and energy systems, electronic and mixed-signal circuit design, physical electronics and photonics, and signal processing and communications. To be eligible for admission to the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering, applicants must hold an ABET-accredited bachelor’s with a minimum 3.0 GPA. ASU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 117th best national university. Also, the online master’s in electrical engineering ranks #1 in the country!

#12 – Ohio University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Columbus, Ohio

Website

Ohio University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Affordability! Ohio University’s master’s in electrical engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,425

If you are seeking a master’s in electrical engineering online degree from an accredited and affordable institution, you should consider Ohio University. The MSEE degree is offered 100 percent online with classes taught by university professors. Most students complete the degree in as little as two years. The flexible online courses cover topics like computational tools for engineers, engineering writing, electronic navigation systems, and satellite-based navigation systems. Ohio University ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 185th best national universities and 122nd best value school. Also, OU’s online master’s in engineering programs rank #38 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#11 – University of Wisconsin

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Madison, Wisconsin

Website

University of Wisconsin - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
2-4 year completion time! University of Wisconsin’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,180

University of Wisconsin’s online engineering program consists of 30 credits and takes two to four years to complete, depending on enrollment status. For part-time enrollment, students may take up to four years to earn their degree, while full-time students earn the degree in less time. Required courses cover topics like computer control of machines and processes, electric power systems, power electronics laboratory, and theory and control of synchronous machines. UW Madison ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s rankings include #46 in best national universities. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#10 – Missouri University of Science and Technology

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Rolla, Missouri

Website

Missouri University of Science and Technology - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Lots of specialization options! Missouri University S&T’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,806

Missouri University of Science and Technology offers an online master’s in electrical engineering program with a large number of available specializations. These focus areas allow students to tailor their degree to align with career goals. Specializations include circuits, communications and signal processing, computer engineering, control system technology, electromagnetics, electronics, and power. To be considered for admission to the electrical engineering program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s in a related field from an ABET-accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 3.3 or better. Missouri University S&T ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the school’s online master’s in engineering programs rank #23 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#9 – North Carolina State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Raleigh, North Carolina

Website

North Carolina State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked and accredited! NC State’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,673

North Carolina State University’s online engineering programs include the master’s in electrical engineering online degree. The minimum requirements for admission to NC State’s prestigious engineering programs include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in electrical or computer engineering. Other requirements include an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.25, three letters of recommendation, and the GRE. Classes are delivered online and cover advanced topics related to the field and industry. NC State is recognized among the top schools for engineering. In fact, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #7 and the online master’s in electrical engineering rank #5 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed.

#8 – Auburn University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Auburn, Alabama

Website

Auburn University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Great value! Auburn University’s online master’s in electrical engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,504

Auburn University’s master’s in electrical engineering online degree program is open to students with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering or equivalent from an accredited institution. The application process includes letters of recommendation and GRE scores. Once admitted, students take a series of online courses administered by Auburn esteemed engineering faculty. There are two pathways to completion, including a thesis and nonthesis option. Auburn, a top public institution, ranks with U.S. News and World Report as one of the best national universities. In fact, rankings include #104 in best national universities, #164 in best value schools, and #7 in best online master’s in electrical engineering programs.

#7 – Iowa State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Ames, Iowa

Website

Iowa State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
100% online! Iowa State University’s master’s in electrical engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,990

Iowa State University offers one of the most affordable online engineering programs on our list. The program is 100% online and ideally suited to working professionals seeking career advancement in the field of engineering. While students may work at their own pace, many take one class each semester and finish their online engineering degree in five years. Transfer credits are accepted, though a minimum 22 out of the 30 required credits must be completed at Iowa State. In addition to offering affordable engineering programs, Iowa State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 121st best national university and the 101st best value school.

#6 – Texas A & M University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

College Station, Texas

Website

Texas A & M University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Texas A&M’s online master’s in electrical engineering is ideal for working students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,173

The Texas A&M University online master’s in electrical engineering program is a 30-semester credit hour program designed for working and busy engineering professionals. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same Texas A&M faculty who lead on-campus classes. These courses cover topics like advanced computer architecture, computer communications and networking, linear control systems, mixed signal interfaces, and principles of electrical engineering. At Texas A&M, students should expect rigor and research-driven curriculum. The school ranks with major publications, such as U.S. News and World Report, and is fully accredited. These rankings include #7 in best online master’s in engineering and #8 in best online master’s in electrical engineering.

#5 – Purdue University

Online Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering

West Lafayette, Indiana

Website

Purdue University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Affordable online engineering programs! Purdue University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,992

Top-ranked online engineering programs! Purdue University offers a master’s in electrical engineering online degree program that can be completed entirely through distance education. A total of 30 credits of coursework is required. However, students may tailor their degree to align with career goals by selecting one of seven interest areas. These specializations include automatic control, computer engineering, and fields and options, to name a few. The online courses cover topics like digital communications, electromechanics, energy conversion, and power electronic converters and systems. Purdue ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 57th best national university in the country. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #3 and the online master’s in electrical engineering programs rank #2, according to U.S. News.

#4 – University of Idaho

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Moscow, Idaho

Website

University of Idaho - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Part-time and full-time options add to the flexibility of the master’s in electrical engineering online at University of Idaho.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,876

University of Idaho’s online MSE degree may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis through the Engineering Outreach Department. All faculty leading the engineering courses hold PhDs in their field. In fact, the faculty have been internationally recognized for their groundbreaking projects in power systems and cybersecurity. The program offers several areas of emphasis, allowing students the opportunity to tailor their degree to align with career goals. Some areas of emphasis include circuits, control systems, digital systems and design, and electric power systems. U of I ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 179th best national university and 79th best value school.

#3 – University of Arkansas

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Website

University of Arkansas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
Affordable online engineering programs – University of Arkansas.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,841

The highly affordable online MSE program at University of Arkansas provides thesis and nonthesis options and a specialization in power engineering. The degree may be earned 100 percent online and with eight-week terms. A total of 30 credits are needed to complete the program. A typical timeline for completion is two years. Courses cover topics like control systems, electric circuits and machines, energy systems, modern control systems, and systems and signals. In addition to offering an accredited degree, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the University of Arkansas ranks #153 in best national universities and #46 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#2 – Oklahoma State University

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Stillwater, Oklahoma

Website

Oklahoma State University - 30 most affordable master's in electrical engineering online
One of the most affordable online master’s in electrical engineering programs – Oklahoma State University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,460

Oklahoma State University’s online master’s in electrical engineering (MSEE) program is designed for students seeking a research-oriented degree that culminates with a thesis. Students may complete the program requirements online by taking courses through OSU’s online learning portal. Here students will watch video lectures, turn in assignments, and interact with peers and faculty. The program consists of 30 graduate level credits, including a six-hour thesis credit. OSU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 192nd best national university and 95th top public school. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #17 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#1 – University of New Mexico

Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Website

University of New Mexico - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Electrical Engineering Online Programs 2020
University of New Mexico’s master’s in electrical engineering online program – #1 most affordable!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,456

The #1 most affordable master’s in electrical engineering online degree program is also the most unique. University of New Mexico’s online MSEE degree offers a unique completion pathway with a specialization in space systems engineering. This program is one of the first of its kind offering space systems engineering alongside the MSEE degree. Courses within this concentration cover topics like introduction to space situational awareness, orbital mechanics, satellite communications, and spacecraft attitude dynamics and controls. In addition to offering affordable engineering programs, the University of New Mexico ranks #218 in best national universities. Also, UNM’s online master’s in engineering programs rank #53 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master’s in electrical engineering online degree?

Electrical engineers design and develop new electrical systems, solve problems, and test equipment for safety and security. Advanced leadership roles also oversee teams of engineers and manage projects.

Currently, there is high demand for electrical engineers with education, experience, and knowledge of specialty areas in the field. These specialty areas include management and consulting, global positioning system (GPS) technologies, mobile networking, and renewable energy.

Electrical engineers work full time and generally are indoors in offices conducting their duties. However, there are times when an electrical engineer may be called upon to observe a problem in the field or conduct tests on a complex piece of equipment.

The largest employers for electrical engineers were found in the following industries:

  • Engineering services. Nearly 19% of all electrical engineers worked in some engineering services industry.
  • Electric power generation. Nine percent of electrical engineers worked in power generation, distribution, or transmission.
  • Navigational and control instruments manufacturing. Approximately seven percent of electrical engineers worked in navigational, measuring, electromedical, or control instruments manufacturing.
  • Research and development. Six percent of electrical engineers worked in research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences industries.
  • Semiconductor. Five percent of all electrical engineers worked in semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing.

How much money can I make with a master’s in electrical engineering online degree?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for electrical engineers is $98,530 and for electronics engineers is $105,70. And while the lowest ten percent earned less than $63,020, the highest ten percent of earners made over $155,880. These numbers are contingent on industry. We’ve broken the highest paying industries for both electrical engineers and electronics engineers.

  • Top paying industries for electrical engineers:

Research and development in engineering, life sciences, and physical: $113,050

Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing: $104,170

Navigational, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing: $103,400

Electric power generation, both distribution and transmission: $99,610

All other engineering services: $96,540

  • Top paying industries for electronics engineers:

Navigational, measuring, and control instruments manufacturing: $114,260

Federal government, excluding the United States Postal Service: $112,870

Semiconductor and all other electronic component manufacturing: $106,240

Engineering services: $101,580

Telecommunications and related services: $98,600

Most of the engineering roles within the above industries require full-time employment; however, few part-time options exist.

Another factor, besides industry, that impacts the earnings of an electrical engineer is location. Typically, electrical engineers working in urban settings earn more than their rural community counterpart. The states with the highest employment for electrical engineers include California, Texas, Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in electrical engineering online degree?

The job outlook, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), shows a relatively slow employment growth of 2 percent through 2028. This slower than average growth is expected by a decline in telecommunications and manufacturing industries.

While the job growth should be slower than average, growth will still occur for electric and electronic engineers in professional, scientific, and technical services firms. As companies expand services and tap into the knowledge and skills of these highly trained engineers, job openings will be available. However, applicants will face strong competition with few jobs available.

Electrical engineers will be in higher demand than electronics engineers. In fact, the employment growth for electrical engineers is five percent over the next several years. This number is slightly higher than the growth rate for electronic engineers and is on par with the average for all other occupations.

As technology advances, the demand for electrical and electronics engineers in areas like research and development will increase. Candidates with expertise in design distribution systems should stand out among competition. Also, earning a certification and completing a specialization alongside the degree should help in this highly competitive market. Specifically, specializations or concentrations in communications technology, semiconductors, or solar arrays will prove to be the most beneficial to employers.

Are there licenses and certifications for individuals with a master’s in electrical engineering online degree?

For entry-level electrical engineering jobs, licensure is not required. However, a Professional Engineering (PE) license can be obtained later in one’s career. With a PE license and a master’s in electrical engineering online degree, you may qualify for advanced leadership roles in the field. A PE oversees teams and other engineers, provides services to the public, and signs off on projects.

The state licensure requires that certain criteria be met. This includes a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, a passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, and relevant work history. And while initial examinations may be taken after earning an accredited bachelor’s in engineering degree, students are better prepared for the exam after a master’s in electrical engineering has been acquired.

Each state issues its own licenses. Working in a particular state does not necessarily mean you are eligible for employment in another state. But most states do recognize licensure from other states, especially those in a nearby geographic location. Several states do require continuing education. This means an engineer will need to enroll in classes to keep their license active.

By earning an online master’s in electrical engineering, you will be better prepared for passing the required licensing exams and obtaining employment.

What are the admission requirements for master’s in electrical engineering online programs?

While admission requirements for master’s in electrical engineering online programs vary, most institutions have the same criteria. To be admitted to a top online master’s in electrical engineering, you will need to begin preparing in high school.

High school students interested in engineering as a career should take as many courses as they can in math and science. Of particular benefit is taking advanced math classes, such as trigonometry and calculus. Other high school courses that will help lay a foundation for engineering studies include drafting and physics.

Before applying to a college engineering program, you should make sure it is ABET-accredited. Most graduate schools require an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or closely related field. During the bachelor’s program, you will further explore appropriate classes. Courses include digital systems design, differential equations, and electrical circuit theory.

For individuals preparing for graduate school, maintaining a strong undergraduate GPA is critical. Some of the top programs on our list require a minimum GPA of 3.0, and top-tier programs require a minimum GPA of 3.5. However, the good news is that there are schools that will waive the GRE requirement if the applicant offers a strong undergraduate GPA.

Many schools on our list also ask for letters of recommendation and relevant work experience when applying for admission to an online master’s in electrical engineering program.

BCO Staff
July 2020

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This concludes our list of the 30 most affordable master’s in electrical engineering online programs of 2021.