Due to the hands-on nature of various engineering specializations, most schools exclusively offer these degrees on campus. However, some disciplines, like electrical engineering and computer engineering, are well suited for online enrollment opportunities.
Students throughout the Lone Star State have access to fully online degrees that will prepare them for entry-level engineering careers or to prepare for graduate degrees or other advanced higher education. These affordable online engineering degrees have the same accreditation as their on-campus versions and cover in-demand subjects in the engineering field.
Affordable Online Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
Online learning has become a popular and affordable alternative to traditional college education. Although not all schools offer online engineering degrees, there are many undergraduate and graduate programs available to Texan students from in-state and out-of-state schools, including affordable online colleges in Texas. Most schools offer financial aid programs and scholarships for online students as well.
Learn more: How to Find Financial Aid for Online Classes & Degrees
1. University of Texas Permian Basin
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. This degree combines multiple engineering disciplines and also covers the skills needed to enter engineering management. Graduates can use electives to tailor this degree program toward petroleum engineering, environmental engineering, and more.
This degree has a $362.34 per credit hour tuition rate and includes 120 credit hours, which can be reduced with transfer credits.
2. West Texas A&M University
Students at West Texas A&M University can enroll in a fully online Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering. This ABET-accredited program can lead to online master's degree programs in engineering or engineering technology. Online students have the same access to faculty members as on-campus students do.
West Texas A&M University has a very affordable $50 per credit hour tuition rate for in-state students.
Affordable Online Engineering Degree Programs in Other States
The availability of online courses doesn't stop with state borders. Students in Texas can pursue full-time enrollment opportunities at top-ranking schools across the country.
1. Mississippi State University
Online students at Mississippi State University can earn a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering. This online degree program combines electrical systems engineering, computer science, and software engineering to prepare students for multiple electrical-related career paths.
MSU has an In-state for Everyone policy, which means students pay the same $419 per credit hour tuition rate no matter where they live.
2. Southern Illinois University
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in industrial management and applied engineering can enroll in an affordable program at Southern Illinois University. This program can be used toward an accelerated master's degree program in quality engineering and management.
Online students at SIU have a $321.25 per credit hour tuition rate, regardless of residency.
3. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University offers students a fully online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences with a concentration on electronics engineering technology. Students can further specialize their learning with computer engineering, digital, analog, and renewable energy focuses.
The tuition rate at ENMU is $257.25 per credit hour for out-of-state residents.
4. Kennesaw State University
The Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering technology at Kennesaw State University offers flexible scheduling. Students can attend scheduled online courses or review pre-recorded lessons to complete coursework on their schedule. KSU offers two concentrations for this degree program, including quality principles and logistics.
KSU's tuition rate for online, undergraduate degrees is $190 per credit hour.
5. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University's Bachelor of Science in computer engineering can be a full degree program or serve as degree completion for students with previous credits. Students will review skills like data analytics, software development, cybersecurity, and computer networks. This ABET-accredited program is taught through synchronous courses.
ODU has two residency-based tuition rates, and out-of-state students pay $439 per credit hour with military service members receiving a discount.
6. Murray State University
The Bachelor of Science in manufacturing engineering covers both engineering and related subjects. This well-rounded education prepares students to work as project managers and manufacturing engineers in industries like plastics, automotive, and metalworking manufacturing.
Students at MSU with a full-time credit load (15 credits) will pay approximately $330 per credit hour, while part-time students pay $412.50 per credit hour.
7. Excelsior University
Online students at Excelsior University can earn a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering technology. This ABET-accredited degree covers relevant electrical engineering methodologies to prepare graduates to work with and lead electrical engineering teams. Students can choose from power systems or electronics as concentrations.
Undergraduate tuition at EU costs $510 per credit hour, but students can use financial aid and payment plans to reduce these costs.
FAQs About Online Engineering Programs
Online degree programs have become a common part of higher education, but it is rare for schools to offer engineering degree programs online. This leads to many common questions for online students around online engineering degrees, like if these programs are respected and what it will cost to earn one.
Are Online Engineering Degrees Respected?
Online engineering degrees, like all online degrees, are generally respected based on accreditation. If your degree comes from a school with regional, national, or program-specific accreditation (e.g., ABET), then your degree will most likely be respected by employers. Most schools don't differentiate between their online and on-campus degrees on transcripts or diplomas.
Can You Become an Engineer With an Online Degree?
It is possible to become an engineer with an online degree. Some entry-level positions will be available to undergraduate degree holders, while more advanced positions might require students to pursue an online Master of Science or similar degree. Even if your online engineering degree doesn't lead directly to a job, it can lead to advanced higher education.
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Cost?
An online bachelor's degree costs around $41,000 on average, but that can change due to various factors. Even for online programs, some schools differentiate tuition based on residency.
Choosing an in-state public school will often be the most affordable program. Some engineering degrees will cost above this average when class and supply fees are factored into total costs.
Explore Online Programs in Engineering and Apply Today
Finding engineering degree programs online can be hard; however, engineers know the importance of using the right tools. Review our resources to learn more about individual degree programs and admission requirements. Most importantly, you can find the information you need to submit your application today.