An online bachelor’s in engineering is a flexible way to build broad undergraduate knowledge across core subject areas. Most programs cover foundational topics and then let you tailor electives or a concentration based on your goals.
BS stands for Bachelor of Science and some schools offer a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng). Compare curriculum and requirements across programs, as structure and degree titles vary.
An online bachelor’s in engineering is an undergraduate degree that covers core subject areas through online coursework.
BS stands for Bachelor of Science and BEng stands for Bachelor of Engineering. Some schools award a BS, while others award a BEng with an engineering major, so compare curriculum and requirements.
Most programs include general education, a major core, electives or a concentration, and a capstone or integrative course.
Common coursework includes core engineering topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, circuits, and design projects, plus electives for specialization.
Requirements vary by school and student type, but commonly include a high school diploma or equivalent and official transcripts.
Transfer credits can reduce how many courses you need, but policies vary by institution.
For a full map of this program area, start here: Engineering Program Guide
How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Most online bachelor’s programs follow a similar structure:
Online formats may be asynchronous, but many still include weekly deadlines and participation. To compare how online formats differ, see: Online Course Formats
If you are trying to move faster, compare this degree level to accelerated pacing: Accelerated Engineering Programs
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Engineering Mechanics & Materials | Statics, dynamics, strength of materials, and material properties |
| Thermodynamics | Energy transfer, heat systems, and thermodynamic laws |
| Circuits & Electronics | Circuit analysis, digital logic, and electronic components |
| Systems Modeling & Analysis | Mathematical modeling, simulation, and optimization |
| Design Projects & Labs | Hands-on engineering design, prototyping, and testing |
| Engineering Mathematics | Calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and probability |
| Technical Communication | Report writing, presentations, and professional documentation |
Program outcomes vary, but many curricula emphasize:
For a deeper breakdown of coursework and how it maps across degree levels, see: Engineering Curriculum
Concentrations can help you specialize within engineering without changing the degree level. Availability varies by school, and some programs use elective tracks instead of formal concentrations.
Browse concentration pages here: Engineering Concentrations
If you already know your direction, jump into a concentration:
Admissions requirements vary by school and student type. Some programs admit first-time college students. Others focus on transfer students.
Common requirements include:
For a full checklist and degree level differences, see: Engineering Admissions Requirements
Transfer credits can reduce how many courses you need, but rules vary by institution.
Before you enroll, confirm:
These pages can help you evaluate policies and plan realistically:
Accreditation is a baseline quality indicator. Verify that the institution holds recognized accreditation, then compare how the program is structured, supported, and delivered online.
Learn what to verify and how to compare schools: Engineering Accreditation
| Level | Typical Credits | 1yr Median Earnings | 5yr Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Varies | $34,375 | $65,568 | $7,825 |
| Associate | 60 | $48,263 | $72,251 | $10,928 |
| Bachelor’s | 120 | $72,832 | $94,224 | $23,177 |
| Master’s | 30-36 | $93,343 | $112,814 | $27,988 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.
If you are comparing degree levels, these pages can help:
For a value and fit discussion, see: Is an Engineering Degree Worth It
Return to Online Engineering Degrees: Programs and Curriculum
