The future is technology, so electrical engineers are in high demand. Below are 35 best online master’s in electrical engineering.
Electrical engineering is a complex specialty that our world depends on for innovation. Whether you earn your degree to work on electric motors, communications systems, or power generation equipment, you’ll be an invaluable asset to your chosen profession.
I hope you like math and science because pursuing a master’s in electrical engineering involves a whole lot of it. Once you complete your master’s degree, you’ll be able to design, develop, test, and manage a variety of electrical equipment.
What is an Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering degree?
An online master’s degree in electrical engineering is the next step to further your knowledge within this complex discipline. When you become an electrical engineer, there are several different industries you can choose to work in.
Typically, individuals seeking this degree end up using their skillsets within industries such as information technologies, manufacturing, telecommunications, automotive, and aerospace.
Most students complete an online master’s in electrical engineering within two years. Some colleges will offer accelerated or part-time programs.
How much can you earn with an Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering degree?
There are several different career positions for this degree, so it’s hard to say what the average earnings will be for specific roles. However, according to PayScale, the average salary for a person who has obtained an M.S. degree in electrical engineering makes a median pay of $96,000 per year.
PayScale also reports that job satisfaction for this profession is 4.5 out of 5. Most participants said they are highly satisfied with their choice of study.
Here are some examples of what your possible job title could be:
- Electrical Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Computer Systems Administrator
- Construction Project Manager
For a general engineering degree, see OSR’s Best Online Master’s in Engineering.
What is required for an Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering degree?
Like most master’s programs, an online MS in electrical engineering typically takes two years to complete. Although each program you apply for will have different requirements, most programs will require you to hold a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution. Some programs may also require you to have at least two years of experience, and test for the GMAT or GRE.
Some courses that you can expect to take during your studies include digital signal processing, engineering electronics, communications theory, and digital systems testing.
What are the best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $26,226(in state) / $26,226(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Study plan is customized
- No thesis option available online
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreWorcester Polytechnic Institute offers the best online master’s degree program in electrical and computer engineering. Applicants are required to have 21 credits in electrical and computer engineering and nine credits in computer science, physics, or mathematics through their BS degree. Once enrolled, students work with an advisor to develop an appropriate plan that ensures each student takes courses that best suits their intended profession.
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,854(in state) / $28,951(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Earning a graduate certificate can qualify in place of the GRE
- Non-thesis and thesis option available online
School Wide
Program Level
98%OSR ScoreMissouri University of Science and Technology is nationally ranked for its online graduate programs, including its master’s in electrical engineering degree. Missouri S&T proves to value each student’s needs by offering several graduate degree funding opportunities. The program offers seven different concentrations to help prepare you for your dream career.
University of Southern California
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $43,200(in state) / $43,200(out of state)
- Total of 28 units is required
- Concentration is mandated into plan of study
- #1 Ranked Online Graduate Computer Science Program by U.S. News & World Report
School Wide
Program Level
98%OSR ScoreThe University of South California now offers a fully online MS program in electrical engineering that uses research and academic leadership to ensure students are equipped for the workforce. Online students are guaranteed the same learning experience as on-campus students. Some of the courses within your program may include computer networks, communications systems, and digital control systems.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $34,494(in state) / $34,494(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Optional dual-degree MBA offered
- Choice of Master of Science or Master of Engineering
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreThrough Stevens Institute of Technology, you can earn your master’s in engineering or science through the electrical engineering master’s program. Stevens Institute of Technology uses fundamental theory, applied skills, and cutting-edge research to teach concepts that stick. A concentration is mandated for this master’s program.
Johns Hopkins University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $52,170(in state) / $52,170(out of state)
- Must hold a BS in electrical or computer engineering
- 10 courses must be completed within five years
- Capstone project required
School Wide
Program Level
88%OSR ScoreEarning your master’s degree through Johns Hopkins’ part-time electrical and computer engineering program is one of the biggest graduate programs of its kind in the US. This program prepares students to develop, design, and conduct a variety of systems. Not all courses offered on campus are provided online.
Michigan Technological University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $18,252(in state) / $18,252(out of state)
- Total of 30 approved credit hours
- Three plans available to earn your MS
- Admissions accepted on a rolling basis
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreIf you’re ready to become a leader in your studies, earning a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Michigan Technological University is a great start. With the ability to choose between a thesis option, report option, or additional coursework option, you can complete your degree in your preferred way. Michigan Tech offers several research areas that students can choose to focus on.
Iowa State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,944(in state) / $22,656(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Applications with a BS in Electrical Engineering is preferred
- Typically finish in five years
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreIowa State University provides a 100-percent online MEng program in Electrical Engineering. Throughout this program, courses are delivered live and on-demand via streaming video. Each semester typically consists of one course, which means you can finish your degree in five years at a comfortable pace.
University of Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,770(in state) / $27,335(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- You can take a semester off
- Hybrid options are available
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreBy furthering your education through the University of Florida, you can have your master’s in electrical and computer engineering at your own pace. UF allows you to take as little as one to three courses per semester. Throughout this program, students explore the processes and development of several electrical systems to equip them for several positions in the workforce.
Stanford University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $48,987(in state) / $48,987(out of state)
- Total of 45 credit hours
- Must complete the program within five years
- Not all courses are offered online
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreAt Stanford University, you can obtain an MS in electrical engineering at your own pace. This program gives you a general look inside what it takes to be a leader in the profession. If you’re looking to advance in your professional practice or teach at the junior college level, this is the program for you.
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $19,720(in state) / $29,166(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Must choose a specialization to study
- Not all courses are offered online
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreEarning a master’s degree in electrical engineering from New Jersey Institute of Technology is going to excel you forward in your understanding of electrical systems. NJIT emphasizes the importance of personal development and incorporates it throughout your program. These online classes are designed to be informational, creative-driven, and useful in real-world scenarios.
Arizona State University-Tempe
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,240(in state) / $24,320(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Must choose a specialization to study
- Applicants with a BS in electrical engineering is preferred
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreArizona State University-Tempe is ranked as one of the top programs in electrical engineering. By earning your master’s in electrical engineering, you’ll have a better understanding of your chosen specialization, which will equip you for the workforce. Arizona State students can study areas such as signal processing, microwave circuits, and antennas.
Auburn University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,342(in state) / $28,026(out of state)
- Total of 33 credit hours
- GRE is required
- Non-thesis program
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreIf you’re interested in power distribution biomedical research, earning your master’s degree at Auburn University is the right choice. It’s preferred when applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, but other degrees equivalent can apply. Control systems, digital signal processing and communications, wireless engineering, power systems, and computer engineering are just a few of the specialties offered at AU.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,186(in state) / $28,773(out of state)
- Total of 32 credit hours
- Focus area required
- Non-thesis program only
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreThe University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign focuses on specializing in a particular subfield of your choice. This program is expected to be completed within two to three semesters. There’s a variety of focus areas offered, including power and energy systems, biomedical imaging, and computing systems, networks, software, and algorithms.
Clarkson University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $32,280(in state) / $32,280(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Full scholarship opportunities
- Best College in New Jersey for Getting A Job, according to ZIPPA
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreThis master’s program is designed for professionals who are looking to further their knowledge in electrical engineering. Clarkson University offers part-time learning schedules for the working professional. This program will help you expand your understanding of a variety of electrical equipment and systems.
Mississippi State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,208(in state) / $22,248(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Non-thesis and thesis options available
- Accelerated program available
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreMississippi State University offers a master’s program in electrical and computer engineering. Students can decide whether to choose a thesis or non-thesis program, but students on the non-thesis track are still required to pass an oral examination. Some courses within this program include automotive engineering, digital communications, and electromagnetic theory.
University of Utah
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,725(in state) / $23,740(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Two-year program
- #58 Best Engineering Schools by U.S. News & World Report
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreEarning your master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering through the University of Utah’s online program is the closest thing it gets to being in the classroom. UT prides itself on creating an excellent learning experience for working professionals. Through recorded lectures, coursework, and virtual office hours, you won’t feel like you’re completing this degree alone.
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,712(in state) / $20,344(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Must choose a specialization to study
- GRE is not required
School Wide
Program Level
74%OSR ScoreAt the University of Michigan-Dearborn, you can obtain an MSE in electrical engineering entirely online. This program gives you the proper knowledge of where science, engineering, and mathematics collide in electrical engineering systems. Specializations offered include control systems, wireless networks, digital signal processing, embedded systems, image processing, and pattern recognition.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,492(in state) / $23,967(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- No thesis is required
- GRE is required
School Wide
Program Level
74%OSR ScoreIf you choose to earn your master’s degree in electrical engineering through North Carolina State University at Raleigh, you can select your course of action. Students can take up to nine credits or as little as three credits per semester. You must finish your degree within six years of enrolling as a graduate student.
Capitol Technology University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,800(in state) / $10,800(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Capstone course required
- Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers Approved
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreIf you’re interested in learning the changes in technology and being a part of technological innovation, Capitol Technology University sounds like the right fit for you. You will earn your master’s degree in engineering technology within three to five years. You will take courses like mathematical analysis, security risk management, and designing for testability throughout the program.
Columbia University in the City of New York
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $44,864(in state) / $44,864(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- GRE is required
- Optional concentrations offered
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreObtaining your master’s degree in electrical engineering from Columbia University in the City of New York is going to prepare you for a wide range of career possibilities. You have the option to choose from a variety of concentrations, and they just added Systems Biology to the list. To become an innovator in technology, this is a step in the right direction.
Kansas State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,960(in state) / $22,483(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Oral examination is required
- Two study emphases to choose from
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreIf you’re interested in electric power systems or communications and networking, earning your master’s degree at Kansas State University is an excellent choice. It’s preferred when applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical or computer engineering. Graduates of this program end up holding several different engineering titles, including design, project, and test engineers, to name a few.
Clemson University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,226(in state) / $19,528(out of state)
- Summer sessions only
- Required to participate in live video lectures
- Proctored exams required
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreYou can earn your master’s in electrical and computer engineering through Clemson’s online summer session program. During this program, students will take courses relating to electronics, programming systems, and computer communications. This program requires you to be interactive, even though it’s remote learning.
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,552(in state) / $26,048(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Three assessments required upon graduating
- Applicants with a BS in electrical engineering are preferred
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreWith an innovative curriculum, you will set yourself apart from your peers by earning your master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering through the University of Virginia. You can complete your MS within five years or less by going at your own pace.
Villanova University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $18,373(in state) / $18,373(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis options available
- Custom degree plan offered
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreIf you’re ready to advance in your profession, earning your master’s degree in electrical engineering at Villanova University can help you develop new skill sets and prepare you for any opportunity. Within the program, there are five concentration areas offered, as well as a custom degree plan option. Students typically graduate within two to three years, depending on their level of commitment each semester.
Purdue University-Main Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,208(in state) / $28,010(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Six specializations offered
- You can take a semester off
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreThere are two paths offered for furthering your education at Purdue University. You can choose to earn an MS in electrical and computer engineering or an IMS in engineering with a concentration in electrical and computer engineering. Purdue recommends enrolling in one class during the first semester to get familiar with balancing work, life, and school.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,917(in state) / $24,312(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Same curriculum as on-campus students
- Two degree options to choose
School Wide
Program Level
66%OSR ScoreColorado State University offers two different degree paths. You can choose to earn an MS in electrical engineering or a ME (master of engineering), specializing in electrical engineering. CSU emphasizes its online program being an identical learning experience as the on-campus program.
University of Arkansas
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,563(in state) / $19,784(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- 8-week terms
- Non-thesis and thesis options available
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreThe University of Arkansas offers a 100-percent online master’s program in electric power engineering. This program will further your knowledge in former, current, and future electrical energy systems. Online classes at the U of A are designed to be affordable, accelerated, and useful in the real-world workforce.
University of Arizona
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,486(in state) / $31,463(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Must complete degree within six years
- Custom academic plan offered
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreThe University of Arizona offers a master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering entirely online. Students are taught with lectures that are recorded and uploaded into the online portal. There are eight specializations to choose from, and you are required to plan out your academic plan with a faculty advisor.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,728(in state) / $25,884(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Three different degree plans offered
- An additional $100 per credit UNITE fee
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreThe University of Minnesota-Twin Cities works with you on achieving your master’s degree in electrical engineering in a way that fits your schedule. UNITE is where you will enroll for classes, which is the distributed learning center for remote students. Students that have completed this program have been employed by respected companies like 3M, American Medical Systems, and St. Jude Medical.
University of Colorado Boulder
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,160(in state) / $29,502(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Not eligible for US federal financial aid
- Three core focus areas
School Wide
Program Level
64%OSR ScoreWhen you start your master’s degree through the University of Colorado Boulder’s electrical engineering program, it’s entirely up to you how you complete it. With pay-as-you-go tuition, you can complete your degree as fast or as slow-paced as necessary. There is no application form required, all you have to do is submit a student form, pay your tuition, and you’re ready to begin your master’s degree.
