Best Online Master's In Electrical Engineering Degrees

A ranking of the most affordable online master's in electrical engineering degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 19, 2023

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Power up your career by attending of the 15 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering!

Are you ready to move forward in your engineering career? Maybe you’re tired of moving laterally in your current company. Maybe you just earned your bachelor’s degree and are ready to push to the next level.

Whatever the reason is, you will want to take note of these schools. Because they all meet a criteria that everyone’s looking for these days: affordability and flexibility.

A tight budget and a busy schedule should not keep you from meeting career goals. Believe me, you’re not the only one who is caught in this bind! That’s why some of the best educational options these days are offered online.

If this scenario fits your situation, look no further. You’ll find an affordable program that considers both your budget and your lifestyle with this list of the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering!

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What kind of Online Masters in Electrical Engineering should you get?

Electrical engineers keep our world in motion. Everything in your home (and beyond!) that uses electricity was likely designed or developed by an electrical engineer. That covers a lot of ground! From car engines to stereo systems to satellites, electrical engineer are the masterminds at work behind the scenes. Since this field is so vast, it’s natural that your selection of master’s program is varied too.

You’ll find a number of common areas of focus within these schools. Some, like the University of California at Riverside (#3) and the University of Arkansas (#15) specialize in power systems. Others, like Missouri University of Science & Technology (#8), emphasize electrical engineering research. A number of the schools give you the choice of a thesis track or a non-thesis track.

Clearly, you have options! One great way to start is to identify the area of electrical engineering that interests you the most. Then, find a school that features those areas. One great thing about all of these programs is that they share a common feature: affordability! No matter which school you choose, you know it’s one of the best “bang for your buck” programs in the nation.

If you’re looking for other affordable graduate programs, take a look at our ranking of the Most Affordable Online Graduate Colleges.

How much money do people make with a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering?

If your budget is tight now, you’ll be happy to hear that it won’t be that way forever. Electrical engineers make an impressive median annual salary of $94,210, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

You probably know by now that you can use your skills as an electrical engineer in practically any industry. The top-5 annual earning areas for electrical engineers are in the following sectors:

  1. Federal government: $107,510/year
  2. Navigational/measuring/electromedical manufacturing: $105,880/year
  3. Semiconductor and electronic manufacturing: $99,760/year
  4. Engineering services: $99,160/year
  5. Telecommunications: $92,380/year

Even more, with a global push toward technology and automation, the demand for innovative electrical engineers is on the rise. Employment rates are projected to increase by 7 percent in the next 10 years.

What can you do with an Online Masters in Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineers are situated at the forefront of modern society. They are innovators, creators, and big thinkers. Have you ever wondered who dreamed up smart phones, GPS, or hybrid cars? Electrical engineers!

You’re not only dealing with electrical circuit boards and computer systems; you’re saving the world! Here are a few (of the many) places to envision yourself in the working world:

What are the requirements for an Online Masters in Electrical Engineering?

Distance learning makes education accessible and affordable. Once you find the master’s program that fits your needs, you shouldn’t have much trouble jumping into the program.

You’ll encounter some common curriculum features, however. All of the program lengths tend to range from 19-24 months. This varies, of course, with whether or not you’re attending as a full-time or part-time student. As is common with a master’s degree, most of these schools include a curriculum that requires 30+ total credit hours.

Hands down, the biggest requirement is the completion of a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university.

What are the best Online Masters in Electrical Engineering?

While some of these programs specialize in telecommunications or power systems, and others emphasize nanotechnology or digital sound, all of these schools share one thing one common: affordability and flexibility. You’ll be able to launch (or re-launch) your career in electrical engineering without breaking the bank.

Here at College Choice, we’ve crunched the data. We started first with the net cost of each program in the nation and then factored in graduation rates, retention rates, and the early salaries of graduates.

Our final list offers the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering in the nation. Our figures and information come from the university and colleges’ websites, PayScale, and nationally recognized U.S. News & World Report and The National Center for Education Statistics.

Ranking

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of Michigan-Dearborn

  • Dearborn, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. The master's in electrical engineering is one of those degrees, designed for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering or a related field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

A 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio facilitates faculty mentorship opportunities and collaboration in this MS in electrical engineering program. Learners complete a strong curriculum in electrical engineering delivered by faculty with industry expertise. This degree positions the holder for career advancement and higher-paying positions.

Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges Michigan residents $12,770 per year and out-of-state residents $22,750 per year. Grants and scholarships, both from the school and from third parties, can help reduce this cost. At this institution, about 64% of enrollees use student loans to finance all or part of their program.

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

#2 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

The University of Texas at Arlington

  • Arlington, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Texas at Arlington enrolls students in one of the nation’s best master's in electrical engineering programs for online electrical engineering degree-seekers. This degree provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level job opportunities in the field. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a master of science in electrical engineering.

The effective management of time is a key consideration for many learners, and this program accommodates that need. Students can fit in other responsibilities such as work, caregiving, and family life because of the program’s flexibility. The school ensures that enrollees receive the personalized attention they need whether they study in person or online.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. The school accepts around 83% of all who apply, though different programs have different averages. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $8,474 per year for Texas residents.

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

#3 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of California, Riverside

  • Riverside, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of California, Riverside is a public college located in Riverside, California, with a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. Electrical engineering students can pursue the MS in electrical engineering among the options.

Graduate students can achieve their academic goals while attending to busy lives when they enroll. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. This format does not come at the expense of academic rigor or advanced career preparation.

Based on its latest statistics, the school accepts about 57% of applicants each year. A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. The department can tell you more about application requirements such as transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
25,547
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Arizona State University

  • Scottsdale , AZ
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn electrical engineering degrees at Arizona State University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. Accessibility is a key determining factor for many degree-seekers exploring graduate school, and the MSE in electrical engineering degree addresses that concern with a flexible format.

A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. The enhanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay make the electrical engineering MSE program a worthy pursuit for many people. A doctorate or another terminal degree is the next step for some people who graduate from this program.

Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to find out if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Another source of financial aid is loans, which students can pursue from the government or private banks.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#5 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Carolina State University at Raleigh’s master of science in electrical engineering ranks highly among similar programs and should be of particular interest to electrical engineering students wanting to study online. The program equips learners with advanced training that can lead to career advancement in their field. The MS in electrical engineering gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

The school designs this program to be delivered using an established online format, a big draw for many learners. Students may want an advanced degree but have other concerns such as caregiving and employment, and this flexible degree supports those endeavors. Enrollees also benefit from a learning environment that is student-focused, thereby giving them the attention they need for academic success.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. School data show the acceptance rate stands at 45%, but some programs may differ. In-state students can expect to pay around $9,095 per year, which they can help fund through grants, loans, and scholarships.

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

#6 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Georgia Institute of Technology

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Institute of Technology, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Atlanta, Georgia, campus. The institution’s 11 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to attend graduate school online. Among the options is the master of science in electrical and computer engineering for students in electrical engineering.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability attract many graduate students to this graduate program. Busy enrollees may have access to recorded videos that facilitates anytime viewing, and can complete their assignments within a reasonable timeframe as faculty allow. The degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.

An acceptance rate of 21% of applicants is the average, with some variations across programs. A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. Contact the program for all of the application details such as how to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.

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

#7 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Iowa State University

  • Ames, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Iowa State University’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. The master's in electrical engineering is an excellent choice for people with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering who want to advance their education with a master’s. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.

Master's in electrical engineering students enjoy an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio in their classes. They acquire the advanced training employers want in potential hires knowledgeable about electrical engineering best practices. Obtaining this degree gives the holder an advantage in career advancement opportunities and higher pay negotiations.

Paying for college is a top issue, and Iowa students can expect to pay $9,758 per year, and out-of-state students pay $24,720. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. Student loans are also available, with 48% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

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

#8 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Missouri University of Science and Technology

  • Rolla, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Missouri University of Science and Technology has a reputation for developing rigorous online graduate programs. The MS in electrical and computer engineering is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering who want to advance their careers in this field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

The benefits of an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that MS in electrical and computer engineering students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. The main feature of this degree is a rigorous curriculum that provides extensive electrical engineering training administered by scholars and experts. This academic preparation is a prerequisite for higher-level careers in business and industry or a doctoral program in some cases.

Making tuition competitive is a school priority, and Missouri residents pay an average $10,452 per year, and out-of-state residents $29,558. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Student loans are another option, and about 49% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,120
Out-of-state
$27,921
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,452
Out-of-state
$29,558
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
8,088
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Oklahoma State University

  • Stillwater, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Oklahoma State University, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master of science in electrical engineering is an excellent choice for people with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering who want to advance their education with a master’s. This program successfully combines the rigor of graduate coursework with the flexibility of the online format.

The school has an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the MS in electrical engineering program. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by electrical engineering experts. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

Making tuition competitive is a school priority, and Oklahoma residents pay an average $5,531 per year, and out-of-state residents $21,034. If they qualify, degree-seekers can use grants and scholarships to help fund their master’s. They may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 42% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.

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

#10 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of California, Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can earn an electrical engineering degree at the University of California, Los Angeles, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs. A busy schedule is no barrier to graduate education with degrees such as the electrical and computer engineering master's program.

The admission criteria for a master's varies depending on the degree, but applicants typically need a bachelor’s in a related major. Students in the MS in electrical and computer engineering program complete rigorous coursework they couldn’t access in a bachelor’s degree alone. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.

Tuition is $11,442 per year for residents of California, and $26,544 per year for nonresidents of California. An avenue for exploration when it comes to paying for tuition are grants and scholarships. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
44,371
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#11 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Electrical Engineering students attend the University of Florida for top-ranked degrees such as the online master of engineering. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. The master of engineering prepares students for doctoral degrees and other terminal programs.

The school’s online format is very attractive to busy learners who have other obligations. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this engineering program's flexibility. Enrollees also like the fact that whether they study in person or online, faculty serve as mentors who can adequately prepare them for advanced work.

Unless otherwise stated, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. Acceptance letters go out to about 37% of applicants to this school, but expect some differences across programs. Tuition stands at around $10,770 per year for people who live in Florida, and students can help fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.

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

#12 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of Idaho

  • Moscow, ID
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Moscow, Idaho, the University of Idaho is a public college. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers seven online master's degrees. Among the options is the MS in electrical engineering for students in electrical engineering.

The program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Students can learn using video recordings often available and by completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. This format does not come at the expense of academic rigor or advanced career preparation.

The school admits about 78% of applicants each year, but this rate may vary across programs. The requisite background for entry into a master’s program is usually a bachelor’s degree and other requirements. The best way to find out more is to contact the program to explore entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,182
Out-of-state
$25,418
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,754
Out-of-state
$26,990
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,926
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#13 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

Old Dominion University

  • Norfolk, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can flexibly earn a degree at Old Dominion University without giving up their jobs and other responsibilities.F rom the Norfolk, Virginia, campus, the school delivers 16 online master's degrees that include an MS in electrical and computer engineering. Full-time workers and others who want to earn a graduate degree but cannot relocate should consider this adaptable degree.

Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the same field or a related one. Students complete a rigorous curriculum that immerses them in advanced knowledge and field preparation that a bachelor’s alone cannot provide. The program also provides the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

The average tuition for students living in Virginia is $10,207 per year, and $29,851 if they live elsewhere. Learners can contact the financial aid department to find out more about if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Loans may also be available to help students pay for all or part of the program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,029
Out-of-state
$26,664
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,207
Out-of-state
$29,851
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
23,675
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

#14 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

New Jersey Institute of Technology

  • Newark, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public college located in Newark, New Jersey, New Jersey Institute of Technology has a lot to offer. The institution’s 11 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to attend graduate school online. The MS in electrical engineering is ideal for learners interested in the field.

The program allows students to earn an advanced degree without sacrificing rigor or other obligations. They can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. This online format allows faculty to seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.

An acceptance rate of 73% of applicants is the average, with some variations across programs. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Consult with the program to find out more about entrance and application requirements like transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,448
Out-of-state
$30,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,624
Out-of-state
$30,540
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
11,518
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online Master’s In Electrical Engineering Degrees

University of Arkansas

  • Fayetteville, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn electrical engineering degrees at the University of Arkansas, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. At the school’s location in Fayetteville, Arkansas, faculty deliver 19 online master's degrees such as the master of science in engineering. The program’s appeal includes a flexible online format that allows degree-seekers to work and pursue other interests.

A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. What the master of science in engineering program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. Preparation for a doctoral program is another benefit of this degree.

Students can expect to pay $7,752 per year in tuition if they reside in Arkansas, and $21,032 if they are from out of state. Many learners help foot the bill by securing grants and scholarships from the institution and outside sources. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
27,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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