Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

A ranking of the most affordable online master's in industrial engineering degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 27, 2023

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Industrial engineers work to eliminate waste and make more efficient systems by collecting relevant data and problem-solving new solutions.

Industrial engineering focuses on the optimization of complex systems and processes. Sometimes industrial engineers are referred to as manufacturing engineers, as many focus on complex machinery that are involved with the manufacturing process.

Industrial engineers also use mathematical models to develop new systems and improve current ones. These engineers must also apply health and safety procedures to the manufacturing process. Because of the wide variety of skills that industrial engineers use, it is imperative that they are excellent in computer systems, mathematics, and management.

What kind of industrial engineering degree should you get?

The majority of graduate industrial engineering degrees will either be a master of science or a master of engineering. An MS is a slightly more academic program that often requires research; this degree is ideal for future PhD candidates. In contrast, an ME is considered a more professional degree that emphasizes more hands-on learning.

Both degrees can be taken either in person or online. An online degree is preferred for those who are already working and may find it difficult to take classes during a traditional schedule. Online programs allow students to complete their classwork and tests on their own time. Many are also able to complete the degree part-time.

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How much do people make with a degree in industrial engineering?

Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not differentiate salaries for this career based on bachelor’s or master’s degree holders, as of May 2017 the mean salary for industrial engineers is $90,340. According to Salary, the range of a master’s degree holder is anywhere from $119,519 to $127,000. The industries with the highest average salary include natural gas distribution ($127,720) and pipeline transportation of natural gas ($120,500).

Location by state is also an important factor when it comes to salary. The top three states with the highest mean salaries are Texas ($108,330), Washington ($106,730), and California ($106,650). Experience is also important; those who stay in the field at least 10 years can expect to receive a significant pay increase.

What can you do with a degree in industrial engineering?

In the beginning, most industrial engineers work for a manufacturing or production company under senior engineers. Some daily tasks include collecting and analyzing data. After a few years, engineers are able to get involved with the problem-solving process more and even move into some beginning management positions. Senior engineers are in charge of organizing and assigning tasks to other colleagues. The most successful in the field will move on to becoming senior-associates or presidents of consulting firms.

Industrial engineers work in both the public and private sector. Some common positions as an industrial engineer include management engineer, ergonomist, operations analyst, or a quality engineer. According to the BLS, jobs in this industry are expected to grow 10 percent from 2016 until 2026.

What are the requirements for a degree in industrial engineering?

Admission to a graduate industrial engineering program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, preferably in engineering, math, or other related field. Most schools look for candidates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In addition to supplemental essays and letters of recommendation if applicable, students must take the Graduate Record Examination.

Within the program, students are required to take core engineering classes along with several electives depending on if they are specializing in an area. Most master’s programs are between 30 to 36 credit-hours and have either a thesis or non-thesis track. While some degrees may require a residency or internship, most online programs do not. Students can expect to finish in roughly two years depending on full or part-time status.

What are the most affordable online master’s in industrial engineering?

College Choice has compiled a list of the 15 most affordable online master’s in industrial engineering programs. Well we organized this list by Data was collected and compiled from the National Center for Education Statistics’ IPEDS database, Payscale, the U.S. News & World Report, and individual college websites.

Most Affordable Online Master's in Industrial Engineering Degrees

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Binghamton University

  • Vestal, NY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Binghamton University offers 81 bachelor's degrees, including the top-ranked bachelor's in industrial and systems engineering. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. Bachelor's graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in industrial engineering. Undergraduates gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with learners to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Binghamton University at a Glance:

Location: Vestal, New York

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 41%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,070

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,660

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,660
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
18,124
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Louisiana Tech University

  • Ruston, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial engineering program at Louisiana Tech University, a public institution, stands out for its quality. The Ruston-based school serves students of all backgrounds through campus and online courses. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.

The program builds enrollees' skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students gain an understanding of diverse academic fields through the general education curriculum. Upper-division industrial engineering classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

Louisiana Tech University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 64%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 62

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,400

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,141

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $10,384

Graduation Rate: 60%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,400
Out-of-state
$13,141
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,592
Out-of-state
$13,333
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
11,510
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

New Mexico State University-Main Campus

  • Las Cruces, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New Mexico State University-Main Campus, a public institution, enrolls learners in its top-ranked bachelor's in industrial engineering program. From its Las Cruces campus, the school offers in-person and online programs. The institution's flexible course options and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

Learners take major-specific courses and meet general education requirements to complete their degree. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Advanced industrial engineering courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

New Mexico State University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 55%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 89

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,875

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $21,864

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,853

Graduation Rate: 48%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $29,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,875
Out-of-state
$21,864
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,844
Out-of-state
$16,834
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
14,296
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

University of Michigan-Dearborn

  • Dearborn, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Michigan-Dearborn offers a top-ranking bachelor of science in engineering in industrial and systems engineering. The public school provides on-campus and online courses. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.

The program requires general education and major courses that build key knowledge and skills. Students take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced industrial engineering courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.

University of Michigan-Dearborn at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 62%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 78

Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,729

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $25,845

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,694

Graduation Rate: 56%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $41,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,729
Out-of-state
$25,845
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,770
Out-of-state
$22,750
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
9,191
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial engineering program at Purdue University-Main Campus, a public institution, earns top marks. From its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, the school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academics and comprehensive college support services.

Students earn a bachelor's degree by taking general education and industrial engineering courses. Enrollees take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Within the program, learners gain a theoretical and practical understanding of industrial engineering, preparing them for the workforce.

Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 60%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 145

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,208

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,010

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,883

Graduation Rate: 82%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $49,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Texas A&M University-Kingsville

  • Kingsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial engineering degree at Texas A&M University-Kingsville stands out for its academic quality. The public school enrolls degree-seekers in on-campus and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive college support services.

Students graduate with a bachelor's degree after taking industrial engineering and general education courses. Classes in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced industrial engineering courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Texas A&M University-Kingsville at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 77%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 44

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,801

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $18,191

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,420

Graduation Rate: 39%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $39,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,801
Out-of-state
$18,191
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,228
Out-of-state
$10,824
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
7,479
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

The University of Texas at Arlington

  • Arlington, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in industrial engineering program at The University of Texas at Arlington enrolls degree-seekers with flexible options. The public school offers on-campus and online courses. The college's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

The program helps learners develop in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Humanities, math, and natural sciences courses, which make up the general education curriculum, strengthen critical thinking and communication skills. Degree candidates gain a theoretical and practical understanding of industrial engineering, preparing them for the workforce.

The University of Texas at Arlington at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 83%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 60

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,624

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $25,713

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,603

Graduation Rate: 51%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $43,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,624
Out-of-state
$25,713
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,474
Out-of-state
$21,206
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
48,635
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Arizona State University-Tempe

  • Tempe, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in engineering in industrial engineering at Arizona State University-Tempe, which offers 97 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. The program builds the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry-level and mid-level careers. Bachelor's graduates can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum covers core and advanced topics in industrial engineering. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps students stand out in the job market.

Student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with enrollees to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Arizona State University-Tempe at a Glance:

Location: Tempe, Arizona

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 86%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,710

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$26,160
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
53,286
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial engineering at North Carolina State University at Raleigh is one of 90 total bachelor's programs. This degree builds broad knowledge and skills that prepare students for entry- and mid-level careers. Bachelor's graduates can also continue their education in master's programs.

The curriculum includes introductory industrial engineering classes and upper-division courses. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students gain interdisciplinary skills by declaring a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates receive strong support from the school's student services. For example, career counselors help enrollees identify strengths and plan for the job market.

North Carolina State University at Raleigh at a Glance:

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 45%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,535

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $26,654

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus offers 39 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in industrial engineering that prioritizes flexibility. This program helps learners develop the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. Bachelor's graduates also meet the requirements for master's programs.

The curriculum introduces core industrial engineering topics and methods. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Electives, minors, and double majors allow degree candidates to explore other academic and professional interests.

Student services supports incoming enrollees academically and socially. For example, academic advisors meet with students to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus at a Glance:

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 21%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,258

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,370

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,258
Out-of-state
$31,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,064
Out-of-state
$29,140
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
36,302
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Iowa State University

  • Ames, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Iowa State University, a public institution, offers a top-ranking bachelor's in industrial and manufacturing systems engineering. The Ames-based school serves students of all backgrounds through campus and online courses. The institution sets high academic standards while offering flexible course options.

The curriculum includes industrial engineering and general education courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Enrollees can prepare for the workforce or further education by taking upper-division industrial engineering classes.

Iowa State University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 92%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 104

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,042

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $23,230

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,887

Graduation Rate: 74%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $44,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,042
Out-of-state
$23,230
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,758
Out-of-state
$24,720
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
33,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

  • Stillwater, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus offers 90 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in industrial engineering and management that stands out for its quality. This program builds broad knowledge and skills that prepare students for entry- and mid-level careers. Bachelor's graduates also meet the requirements for master's programs.

The curriculum includes introductory industrial engineering classes and upper-division courses. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Students can explore other academic and professional interests by declaring a minor or a second major.

Student services help incoming degree candidates transition into the school's community. For example, career counselors help learners identify strengths and plan for the job market.

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Location: Stillwater, Oklahoma

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 70%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,366

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,877

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,366
Out-of-state
$20,877
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,531
Out-of-state
$21,034
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
24,079
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

University of Alabama in Huntsville

  • Huntsville, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial and systems engineering and engineering management at the University of Alabama in Huntsville earns top marks. The public school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. The institution sets high academic standards while offering flexible course options.

Enrollees complete major-specific courses and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Humanities, math, and natural sciences courses, which make up the general education curriculum, strengthen critical thinking and communication skills. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

University of Alabama in Huntsville at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 83%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 39

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,730

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $22,126

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,013

Graduation Rate: 58%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $40,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,730
Out-of-state
$22,126
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,632
Out-of-state
$24,430
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,988
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Florida offers 102 bachelor's degrees, including the top-ranked bachelor's in industrial and systems engineering. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. Bachelor's graduates can also apply to master's programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum trains learners in the core principles and practices of industrial engineering. Undergraduates also strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills during general education classes. Degree-seekers can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

Student services support incoming learners as they begin taking classes. For example, career counselors work with degree candidates to determine their professional goals and create a plan to reach them.

University of Florida at a Glance:

Location: Gainesville, Florida

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 37%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 19

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,477

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $25,694

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Online Industrial Engineering Degrees

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in industrial, manufacturing, and systems engineering at Texas Tech University ranks high among programs of its type. The degree prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. The degree also prepares graduates for master's-level programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum introduces major principles and practices in industrial engineering. Undergraduates also gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Enrollees can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support, whether they enroll on campus or online. Financial aid counselors work with students to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

Texas Tech University at a Glance:

Location: Lubbock, Texas

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 69%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,744

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,704

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,744
Out-of-state
$16,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,958
Out-of-state
$13,428
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
38,742
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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