An online electrical engineering degree can help you prepare for various jobs in science and technology. With this degree, you can develop specialized skills and get hands-on experience applying engineering principles to real-world problems.
From research and development to product design and quality control, electrical engineering graduates often work on sophisticated products and systems.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
This practical program can lead to entry-level roles in thriving fields such as aeronautics, data science, manufacturing, and energy.
Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering Degrees Online
Electrical engineering encompasses any device or system that needs electrical power to work. This includes many of the tools that form the backbone of our day-to-day lives—such as cell phones, computer chips, power generators, robots, GPS systems, lighting in homes, and batteries.
Aside from electrical devices being so widespread, many of the most innovative developments in technology are because of electrical engineering. Depending on their specialization, electrical engineers can work in fields like:
- Robotics
- Software engineering
- Communications
- Sustainable energy
- Aeronautics
- Photonics
- Nanoengineering
- Space systems
- Machine learning
Since it’s a highly technical field, it’s necessary to get a degree in electrical engineering and pass the Professional Engineer (PE) exam.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Studying electrical engineering for your bachelor’s degree can give you a strong grounding in engineering skills like developing schematics and troubleshooting circuits. You can learn how to design, create, and improve electronic products while taking into account available resources and client requirements.
In general, an electrical engineering bachelors can be an intensive program, with classes featuring both lectures and laboratory work, where you may practice on actual engineering equipment. Aside from studying basic computer science, chemistry, and physics, it’s also necessary to become familiar with advanced calculus.
Beyond this, the core of the program would consist of specialized engineering subjects, such as digital design, electrical circuits, and electromagnetics. Towards the end of the program, you’ll typically work on your own capstone project, where you can build a prototype of a device or software system from scratch.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Careers & Salaries
Earning an engineering degree online can lead to many possible technical career paths. The most straightforward track is for graduates to become electrical engineers who develop and test electrical equipment—like motors, computers, heating systems, and manufacturing tools.
Because it’s a broad discipline, electrical engineers can work in network security, telecommunications, semiconductor technology, research and development, and many other industries. They can even specialize in fields like aerospace engineering and systems engineering.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median yearly salaries of careers related to electrical and electronics engineering.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | $128,170 |
| Aerospace Engineers | $122,270 |
| Software Developers | $120,730 |
| Computer Network Architects | $120,520 |
| Electronics Engineers (Except Computer) | $104,820 |
| Data Scientists | $100,910 |
| Electrical Engineers | $100,420 |
| Industrial Engineers | $95,300 |
| Technical Writers | $78,060 |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $63,640 |
Although individual salaries can vary, many electrical engineering jobs have above average salaries, with computer hardware and aerospace engineering being especially lucrative.
Since an electrical engineering degree involves working extensively with computers, graduates may also work in technology instead as software developers or programmers. Alternatively, some professionals pursue marketing, operations, or project management roles in engineering or technology companies.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Some graduates even venture into non-engineering sectors. For example, electrical engineering knowledge and skill sets can be applicable for business analysis, technical writing, teaching, and finance.
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering Curriculum & Courses
A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering usually consists of classes in the hard sciences along with specialized engineering courses.
Here are some examples of courses you may come across in an electrical engineering program:
- Calculus: You’ll likely take several calculus classes, with emphasis on differential and integral calculus for creating mathematical models of actual engineering problems.
- General Chemistry for Engineers: This course explores the behavior of chemicals and materials used in electronic devices, with modules on balancing chemical equations and calculating reaction rates.
- Fundamentals of Programming: This course teaches you how to create an algorithm and then execute it using a programming language. This course also includes an overview of major programming approaches.
- Physics for Engineers: You’ll cover fundamental physics concepts—such as electrodynamics, torques, kinematics, momentum, and relativity theory—while applying calculus and vectors.
- Applied Probability: You’ll study probability modeling through topics like Bayes’ theorem, Markov chains, queueing theory, limit theorems, and random variables.
- Electrical Circuits: This course teaches you how to design and analyze direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) circuits and how to use equipment like ampere meters and oscilloscopes.
- Control Systems: You’ll delve into the characteristics and design of feedback control systems, from representing them with block diagrams to assessing performance and stability.
- Digital Design: This course focuses on building and improving digital circuits with different levels of complexity while using computer-aided design (CAD) tools.
- Applied Electromagnetism: You’ll learn about how electromagnetic principles work in modern systems like power generation, sensors, microwaves, and LCDs.
- Signals and Systems: This course tackles discrete-time and continuous-time signals and systems, covering techniques like Fourier transform, Laplace transform, and linear time-invariant systems.
An electrical engineering major will also do plenty of laboratory work in addition to class lectures.
Online Electrical Engineering Degree Admissions Requirements
Here are some typical admission requirements for online electrical engineering degrees:
- High school transcripts. Many electrical engineering programs have a minimum required GPA.
- SAT or ACT scores. A growing number of schools no longer require standardized test scores, but it’s still considered part of the traditional admissions process.
- Personal essay. You will often be asked to write about your life experiences, achievements, and college goals.
Some electrical engineering schools will also ask for recommendation letters.
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Programs
Schools and universities can only qualify for regional accreditation if their programs pass high educational standards, as reviewed by official accrediting organizations.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Many employers put greater value on a degree from an accredited school. Attending an accredited school also ensures that you can apply for federal financial aid. It can increase your chances of transferring credits to other schools or programs as well. The US Department of Education has an online list of accredited schools nationwide.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
As an incoming electrical engineering student, there are many possible resources for financial aid that you can explore.
Grants and scholarships are among the most sought-after, and they are usually awarded based on merit or financial need. There are also scholarships that are specifically for engineering or science and technology students. Scholarships may be awarded by your prospective school or outside organizations.
Another popular option is federal student loans, which have to be repaid with interest after graduating. To apply for federal financial aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
What Can You Do with a Degree in Electrical Engineering?
An electrical engineering degree covers working with a wide range of devices, from nanotechnology to computers and navigation systems.
As a result, electrical engineering graduates can often pursue various technical careers. They may work as engineers across different specializations, including telecommunications, aeronautics, and machine learning. Because of the major overlap with computer science, graduates may opt to work as developers, software engineers, and data scientists instead.
Some professionals with a background in electrical engineering even take on non-engineering roles in technical companies. For instance, they might take on operations, marketing, or finance roles.
How Long Does It Take to Get a BS in Electrical Engineering Online Degree?
If you study full-time, an online electrical engineering program will generally take 4 years to complete. An electrical engineering degree typically consists of around 120 credits.
Since online degrees tend to have more flexible schedules, many students opt to take their degree part-time. While convenient, part-time study will often extend your time to completion. On the other hand, online programs that offer 8 week terms may allow you to finish your degree faster if you take on a full-time course load and stay enrolled year round.
Is a Bachelors in Electrical Engineering Degree Worth It?
Yes, a bachelors in electrical engineering degree is worth it for many professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for electrical and electronics engineers over the next ten years. This highly specialized field requires formal training and certification, and an electrical engineering degree can help you develop technical and practical skills that are necessary to this sector.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
An electrical engineering degree may even give you an edge in pursuing non-engineering roles in science and technology companies. Electrical engineering expertise is also highly valued in major industries like manufacturing and computing.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Electrical Engineering Degree Program
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
American Public University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. Applicants do not need to take any entrance exams. Classes start every month and are 8 or 16 weeks long. Coursework includes Circuits I and II, Continuous and Discrete Signals and Systems, Electromagnetic Field Theory, and more.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arizona State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Electrical Engineering. The curriculum consists of 40 classes that are 7.5 weeks long. Courses include Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming, Random Signal Analysis, Digital Design Fundamentals, Fundamentals of Electromagnetics, and more.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Clemson University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Not all classes are available online, so students must have already taken certain classes on campus or at another school before beginning the online work. This program is intended for adults who work full-time, not for recent high school graduates.
Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Online classes start three times per year and are designed to provide flexible scheduling. The program requires 190.5 credit hours of coursework, including Problem Solving Concepts with C++, Embedded Microcontrollers, and Advanced Engineering Mathematics.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Eastern New Mexico University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. Classes are available both online and on campus. Online classes include both recorded and live lectures and are intended to meet the needs of working adults. ENMU provides tutoring, an online library, job placement assistance, and other services.
Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Excelsior College offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology. Accepted students can choose a concentration in either Electronics or Power Systems. Courses include Circuit Theory I and II, Electronics I and II, Digital Electronics, Microprocessors, Computer Programming, Project Management, and more.
Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Florida International University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. The degree is available fully online, and accepted students can start in the fall, spring, or summer. The curriculum consists of 128 credits of coursework, including Applied Software Techniques in Engineering, Circuits Analysis and Lab, and Introduction to Linear Systems in Engineering.
Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Indiana State University offers an online program for a BS in Electronics Engineering Technology. This is a degree completion program for transfer students who have already earned some college credits elsewhere. Courses are taken in a logical sequence so students can progress carefully through their studies from the most basic knowledge to more complex concepts.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Lamar University offers both hybrid and online programs for a BS in Electrical Engineering. The curriculum provides hands-on experiences working with hardware and opportunities to participate in co-ops and internships. Online students are allowed to participate in on-campus activities when they can, and the school aims to provide them with the same quality of education as on-campus students.
Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
National University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The curriculum provides studies in theoretical knowledge and how to apply this knowledge to solve real problems. Accelerated courses are just 4 weeks long to help students finish faster. Prospective new students may apply year-round.
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Old Dominion University offers an online degree completion program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology. The program offers a major in Electrical Engineering Technology and a concentration in Mechatronic Systems Technology. Graduates are eligible to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam in the state of Virginia.
Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
South College offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning with tools and software. To graduate, students must complete a capstone project to demonstrate their ability to solve problems. Coursework can be completed from any place with an Internet connection. Online students are still given opportunities to collaborate with one another.
South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern Illinois University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology. The program is designed for working adults who have already completed an AAS degree. While the program is 100% online, it still emphasizes hands-on learning. Online courses are 16 weeks long, except for the summer semester, which is 12 weeks long.
SIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Stony Brook University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. It is designed to provide flexibility for students who work full-time. Students are required to purchase equipment to do labs at home. Courses may be synchronous or asynchronous. The curriculum includes classes such as Signals and Systems, Electromagnetics, and Semiconductor Devices.
Stony Brook University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Thomas Edison State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Systems Engineering Technology. This 124 credit program includes courses such as Solid State Devices and Circuits, Digital Electronics, Electronic Communication Systems, Linear and Integrated Circuits, and more. To graduate, students must also finish a capstone course.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Arizona offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Online students are given opportunities to have one-on-one interactions with their professors, The program is designed to provide the same education as the on-campus program, and it has a high job placement rate. Many graduates also go on to earn master’s or doctoral degrees.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Massachusetts—Lowell offers a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering Technology. Classes are available both online and on campus to provide flexibility. The program aims to prepare graduates for entering the job market or pursuing more advanced degrees. Coursework includes Signals and Systems, Microprocessors, Electromagnetic Theory, and more.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of North Carolina—Charlotte offers an online program for a BS in Electrical Engineering Technology. This program is for students who have already earned an AAS in a related field. Online students are required to come to campus during the summer to complete lab requirements. The degree includes 56 credit hours of coursework.
UNC Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of North Dakota’s BS in Electrical Engineering can be earned on campus or 100% online. The program requires the completion of 125 credit hours and can usually be completed in 4 to 5 years. Prospective students can apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Toledo’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program emphasizes lab work and hands-on learning. Students in the program can participate in co-ops to gain work experience. Classes are available during the day, in the evening, and online, and accepted students can enroll part-time or full-time.
The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Electrical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online
Studying electrical engineering can pave the way for a career in many impactful fields, including bioengineering, communications, solar technology, surveillance systems, and computer vision.
An electrical engineering bachelors degree can help prepare you to build technological innovations. Some graduates choose to utilize their skills in product design, research and development, or business operations.
In this day and age, education is becoming more accessible, as many accredited schools now offer electronic engineering degrees online, including both bachelors and masters in electrical engineering online degree options.
You can start exploring electrical engineering bachelors programs today to find the ones that best match your interests and career goals.
