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Search the top engineering programs online with over 40 different types of engineering degrees and careers reviewed. We have hundreds of schools in our database with a wide variety of engineering degrees, including ABET-accredited engineering degrees at all levels, as well as dozens of engineering program reviews written by technology experts.
Engineering is expected to be a growth sector in the upcoming decade, and it is considered to be a top career. You can view some of the highest paying engineering jobs, which is updated often and based on salary data from the US Department of Labor and other reputable sources. Continue reading to research the top engineering degrees, or use the school search to get immediately matched to online schools that are accepting applicants.
Engineering is a broad term that covers a wide range of applications and industries. Combining mathematics, science and technology, engineers produce creative solutions to real world problems. As a result there are many different types of engineering degrees available.
In the past, engineering could be divided into four major branches: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil and Electrical, with sub branches of each discipline. Today however, the number of engineering degrees available have increased dramatically. There are now six major branches of engineering: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Management, and Geotechnical, and literally hundreds of different subcategories of engineering under each branch.
Take a look over the list below - all types of engineering degrees are provided in summary with a link to a full article with more detail on each where available.You can also find links to universities offering that specific degree, or use the below search to find available engineering degrees. You can use the main navigation to find specifics on the different types of engineering degrees, including the emerging online engineering degree. For general engineering articles including information on the highest paying degrees, those with the best employment potential, and steps to become an engineer, be sure to check the Engineering Career Guide.
Below are the most popular types of engineering degrees sorted by branch of engineering. Use the following links to quickly jump to your engineering category of interest:
There are many different types of engineering degrees, but not all are available online. The top online engineering degrees are: Computer Engineering, Engineering Management, Mechatronics Engineering, and different variations of Masters in Engineering Degrees.
An up-and-coming concept in the field of engineering academics is the online engineering degree, which is available at at least one school in every branch of engineering. Although there are not exactly a plethora of choices right now for some branches, more and more colleges and universities are adding online engineering degrees at every level. The most common so far is an online Masters in Engineering. Many engineers that have already earned their PE (Professional Engineer) license and are currently employed opt for taking online engineering classes to get their Masters degree. Obviously there are different specializations that cater more towards online engineering degrees, such as Engineering Management, while others are more difficult to learn online.
Undergraduate: Certificate, Associates, BachelorsYear by year, more engineering schools bring their programs online. The first engineering programs to go online were mostly at the Masters level, but as of late more online Bachelors in Engineering programs are coming online too. You may consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
Graduate: Masters, DoctorateThere are a decent number of Online Masters in Engineering programs, all in different areas of engineering. Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Engineering Management seem to be the most popular online engineering programs. You may consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
A Mechanical Engineering Degree involves the design of mechanical systems. These systems assist industries such as: manufacturing, aeronautics, nanotechnology, nuclear power production, heating and cooling. A primary focus is on thermodynamics, structural analysis, materials science, and kinematics. This is arguably the broadest of all engineering degrees available today and takes in a wide range of engineering disciplines. The Mechanical Engineering Degree has a number of subsets that intermix with electronics and electrical engineering, such as Mechatronics.
Undergraduate: Certificate, Associates, BachelorsTypically, mechanical engineering programs that are at the Certificate or Associates level are offered by Junior or Community Colleges. There are several online programs available at the Bachelors level that combine Mechanical and Electronics into a degree called Mechatronics Engineering. You may consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
Graduate: Masters, DoctorateMost graduate programs for Mechanical Engineering are located on campus, but there are a few online offerings for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering or a related program. You may consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
An Aerospace Engineering Degree involves the study of air and space travel. This might include military aircraft design and development, along with commercial airline design and satellite technology. The terms Aerospace and Aeronautical are both often used interchangeably, yet there are key differences between the two. Aeronautical Engineering relates to craft that remain in our atmosphere, while Aerospace Engineering refers to aircraft that venture outside our atmosphere. Most programs in the United States have changed their names from Aeronautical to Aerospace over the past couple decades, but there are still some programs that go by the historical name.
Undergraduate: Certificate, Associates, BachelorsThere are a few Aerospace programs online as most are on campus, but there are several online Aeronautics programs at the undergraduate level.
Graduate: Masters, DoctorateThere are a decent number of Online Masters in Engineering programs, all in different areas of engineering. Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Engineering Management seem to be the most popular online engineering programs.
Biomedical engineering combines the study of medicine and biology. Biomedical Engineers apply their design skills to biological and medical sciences. They do this to assist in advancements in healthcare treatment technology. They develop and maintain diagnostic devices. Devices that include EEGs, MRIs, and other imaging machines. Physicians use these machines to diagnosis their patients medical problems. This is a fast moving industry and while challenging can be a rewarding career path to take.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Biomedical Engineering Degree Detail
Biomechanical Engineering is the study of organisms and mechanics and how the two solve problems in combination. This is a growing industry and practical applications include environmental challenges such as waste control and keeping our waterways free from pollution. It shares close ties with Biomedical Engineering and Agricultural Engineering, as you might expect. Most working in Biomechanics have a Biomechanical Engineering Degree at the Masters level or above.
As the name implies, automotive engineering involves the design and production of vehicles. The automotive industry is hugely diverse and requires engineers to work in areas such as mechanical design, performance, manufacturing, electrical engineering and systems management.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
Civil Engineering involves the development of infrastructure such as buildings, railways, roads construction, bridges and general construction project management. Civil Engineers also play an important role in rebuilding projects, such as in the event of a natural disaster. Civil Engineers may work in the private or public sector at any level. This is a very broad engineering degree. Environmental Engineering, Structural Engineering and Marine Engineering are all specialties of Civil Engineering.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Civil Engineering Degree Detail
Structural engineering is a specific branch of civil engineering, and specializes in the design of different structures, including houses, commercial buildings, art museums, stores, and more. It is important for structural engineers to understand the construction of buildings and the effects of natural factors such as erosion, corrosion, wind, and water to ensure buildings and structures are safe for a very long period of time. At some universities, structural engineering is a concentration offered within a civil engineering degree.
Available in: Associates, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Structural Engineering Degree Detail
Architectural engineers work in the construction, planning, and design phase of projects. In conjunction with other team members, the focus is on building structure and interior design. This includes: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Fire protection, Lighting, Plumbing and other systems specific to the the project. In some areas natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes have special consideration.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Architectural Engineering Degree Detail
An Electrical Engineering Degree involves the study of energy. Energy is available in various forms such as electrical, hydro and natural sources such as wind and solar energy. An Electrical Engineer develops technologies to assist with the practical application of such energies. Electrical Engineers design components for electronic equipment, communications systems, power grids, automobiles, and more. Most employers require an Electrical Engineering Degree at some level to work as an Electrical Engineer, and other licensing or certification requirements may also be required depending on where you live.
Undergraduate: Certificate, Associates, BachelorsAvailability of undergraduate online electrical engineering programs is limited, but many traditional unviersities have on-campus programs, especially at the Bachelors level.
Graduate: Masters, DoctorateThere are some options for Online Electrical Engineering Degrees, but some also consider the Masters in Computer Engineering.
Another industry that continues to expand is of course the Information Technology (IT) industry. This involves both computer sciences and electrical engineering. Successful graduates may find themselves in Telecommunications, Networking, Software Application Development, or Manufacturing, and additional industries are emerging, such as Application Development, Web Development, Network Security / Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing, among others. This type of degree has good future potential as most industries rely on information technology. Read more about the computer engineering degree.
Undergraduate: Certificate, Associates, BachelorsThe most common computer engineering degrees are at the Bachelors level.
Graduate: Masters, DoctorateThe top graduate degree in computer engineering is the Masters in Computer Engineering.
Technology and specifically, electronics, have changed the way most of the world lives every day. From the revolutionary computer to the latest mobile phone technology that fits in your pocket, we all use electronics every single day. Electronics engineers are needed to design and build electronic equipment. Most electronics engineers work with circuits, switchboards, and other electronic configurations to design and build these devices.
Available in: Associates, Bachelors, and Masters.
Electronics Engineering Degree Detail
A blend of mechanical engineering and electronics engineering, Mechatronics, or Mechatronics Engineering, is an emerging area for hybrid engineers. Nearly all mechanical equipment in this day and age is operated with a mix of electronics and software, all based on computers and technology. Mechatronics engineers help bridge that gap, and have intrinsic knowledge of electrical, electronics, and mechanical engineering. Some more experienced Mechatronics Engineers also have computer, hardware, and software engineering experience as well.
Available in: Associates, Bachelors, and Masters.
Mechatronics Engineering Degree Detail
A robotics engineering degree has a primary focus on automation and the use of machines to assist with repetitive tasks such as those found in manufacturing. Robotics engineers will typically design robotic technology and develop maintenance systems to help achieve optimal efficiency. this is an area with expected growth of up to 15% in the next five years.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
Robotics Engineering Degree Detail
If you have an interest in electronics a Microelectronic Engineering degree might be of interest. Microelectronics is a subset of Electrical Engineering with a focus on the word Micro. Microelectronic Engineers specialize in the development and design of small electrical devices. Used in a wide range of industrial applications. As we move away from bulky electronic devices such as the first mobile phones and desktop computers. We develop smaller more convenient electronic devices. As a result the demand for microelectronic engineers is high. Microelectronic engineers also assist in the technical writing aspect of a project. As well as perform tests to verify product conformance.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
Mechatronics Degree Detail
As the name implies, Chemical Engineering is the practical application of chemistry. This type of engineering degree involves technology that utilizes chemical reactions to solve problems. A chemical engineer creates new products, including: Cosmetics, foods, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and cleaners from raw chemicals. this is a very broad engineering degree and allows for a number of different forms of employment. It is also one of the most challenging degrees available.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
One of the most popular kinds of engineering degree. Environmental Engineering involves the study of science and engineering to improve our environment. This includes the air we breathe, food we consume, and water. Environmental Engineers also study the environmental impact humans have on the planet, including pollution as a result of development and manufacturing processes. Environmental Engineering is considered a subset of Civil Engineering.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Environmental Engineering Degree Detail
A Materials Science engineering degree is a study of materials and why they behave a specific way or react to things in a certain way. This includes plastics, ceramics and polymers. Everything around us is made up of materials, as we evolve there is an increasing demand for materials which are stronger, more environmentally friendly and lighter. Employment opportunities include research positions along with industry placements. Materials Science Engineering is a very hands on, practical degree and graduates are in high demand.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
An Agricultural engineering degree involves learning how to apply engineering to the agricultural industry to assist with area of farming including: soil conservation and salinity, ground preparation, irrigation, farm machinery design and production and helping develop more effective harvest techniques. Employment generally involves working in a consulting capacity or employed in a related industry such as machinery design and production.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Agricultural Engineering Degree Detail
Paper Engineering is a specialization of chemical engineering and involves understanding the processes involved (chemical and mechanical) of paper production. This type of degree involves both research based work and practical assessment which is typically lab work. Students learn the principles behind molecular science, wood pulping and fluid mechanics to name just a few.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
Sustainable engineering takes into account the three major areas of sustainability: environmental impact, social and economic considerations. This includes not only the initial construction process but the complete life cycle of the product being developed. Graduates may complete further post graduate study or work in industries such as: Industrial waste water management, emission control and hazardous waste management.
An Engineering Management Degree combines engineering with business management training to arm the successful graduate with the ability to manage engineering projects or manage a team of engineers. A degree in engineering management limits the shortfall of engineers with limited business and management skills or managers with limited engineering knowledge. This type of degree is expected to rise in popularity over time.
Available in: Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Engineering Management Degree Detail
Generally speaking, the MBA has become a staple among successful businessmen and businesswomen, and the engineering field is no exception. The MBA in Engineering is specifically tailored for engineers that already hold a bachelors degree in engineering. The program is ideal for FEs or PEs that wish to get into management, or VP/C-level positions in a company. Typically the MBA in Engineering has more benefit to those working in the private engineering sector.
Available in: Masters
MBA Engineering Degree Detail
Industrial engineers work for manufacturing companies, or as consultants to the manufacturing industry. The role of an Industrial engineer is to increase productivity and reduce waste and spending. Many new start-ups will hire an Industrial engineer to help make their business more efficient. Industrial engineers are also hired to test employee productivity and in house processes. Which will improve the efficiency of the company.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
Industrial Engineering Degree Detail
Systems engineering is a multi disciplined engineering degree. While it has has evolved over time as systems have evolved with technology and greater efficiency its primary focus is on developing and improving upon existing systems. Systems engineers develop systems for workplace efficiency, risk management, measuring and refinement.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
A Manufacturing Engineering degree focuses on manufacturing processes and machinery and quality control systems. Manufacturing makes up over 20% of Americas GDP and over 15% of our employment. As a result its important we refine our manufacturing processes for increased efficiency. This is a very broad discipline and can overlap other types of engineering studies including robotics and systems engineering. Students will study diverse areas of engineering such as: Material science, manufacturing technology and automation (robotics) along with fluid mechanics and hydraulics.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
A petroleum engineer handles the extraction of oil and gas from beneath the earth. They are also involved in developing new extraction methods and technologies including new methods that are more efficient and less damaging to the environment. Petroleum Engineering is one of the highest paid engineering positions available. Petroleum engineers play a significant role in locating reservoirs beneath the earths surface for gas and oil companies.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
Petroleum Engineering Degree Detail
Geological engineers combine engineering and research skills for mining and construction projects. Construction firms hire Geological engineers. They assess ground conditions and other natural hazards (earthquakes, etc.) before starting construction. With declining natural resources available, Geological engineers are in high demand. Geological Engineers work in the private sector or governmental agencies.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
Nuclear engineers are at the core of development for the ever growing use of nuclear power. The medical field has become the largest beneficiary of many new developments. Nuclear engineers work for consulting firms, power plants, and government agencies. As expected, the demand for nuclear engineers in nuclear power plants is high. The design, implementation, and maintenance of the plant is one aspect of their duties. Many Nuclear Engineers also move into supervision and management.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
A Marine engineer applies knowledge to the development of ocean technologies. Technologies include fixed and floating structures, such as pontoons and jetties, propulsion and power generation for boats, ships and other marine transportation, and developing new forms of energy that are reliant on our oceans including wind farms.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
An engineering physics degree combines engineering with physics and allows students to study the areas where these two areas intersect. It is also a precursor to graduate studies in either physics or engineering. Most graduates will work in research or another field of engineering such as mechanical engineering or nuclear engineering. The demand for this type of graduate is particularly high.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
Photons are a specific type of light. Photonics engineering concerns itself with the exploration of light. this includes generation of light, processing of light signals, amplification of light and modulation. Industries that utilize this kind of technology include Telecommunications (optical signal processing and communication), Medical, Manufacturing, Aviation and computing to name just a few. Over the course of the next decade opportunities for qualified Photonics Engineers is expected to increase significantly.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
Nano essentially refers to a billionth e.g. one nano-meter is 1 billionth of a meter or between 2 and 20 atoms in length. Nanotechnology is the study of extremely small elements such as molecules and single atoms and the production of extremely small devices. Nanotechnology is expected to be as important to us as the industrial revolution over time as it has the potential to help solve some of the worlds major problems including health and environmental concerns. Nanotechnology is a very specialised discipline that can be applied to a very broad range of industries and fields.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
A mining Engineering degree involves studying the extraction of mined resources from the earth in a safe, economical and environmentally responsible manner. Engineers are involved in the mining industry in areas such as: machinery production and design, mine design, mine construction. Mining Engineers may work closely with Geologists to discover the most effective extraction techniques and can be employed on site or work remotely.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
As the name implies. Ceramics engineers develop products from ceramics (ceramics being non metal, non organic materials that are generally produced by heating and cooling). Ceramics are often more suitable than metals in many cases due to their heat and cool resistance and can often be found in industries such as: medical, mining and electronics.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
A Metallurgical Engineering Degree involves the study of engineering principles to extract and in many cases purify metals and other minerals from ore. Metallurgical Engineers develop and design processing techniques and machinery and have to take into account the environmental impact of mineral processing.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
A Geomatics Engineering degree involves the study of precise measurement for mapping the earths environment using advanced equipment and techniques. Geomatics Engineers play an important role in planning future infrastructure and often work with large amounts of data to form digital replications of terrain and develop 3D maps. This also includes the study of GPS technology. There is a shortage of qualified Geomatics professionals and as a result they are in great demand.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
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40 Different Types of Engineering Degrees
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