Engineering Curriculum: Courses and Structure
Engineering curricula are built around core subject areas plus electives or concentrations. Course titles vary by school, but the topics below are common.
Quick Answers
What is included in an engineering curriculum?
Engineering programs typically start with a shared core and add electives or concentration courses.
How does the curriculum change by degree level?
Associate programs emphasize fundamentals, bachelor’s programs broaden depth, and master’s programs focus on advanced topics.
Do online programs use the same curriculum?
Most online programs follow the same curriculum requirements as on-campus programs, with differences in delivery.
At a Glance
- Structure: Core subjects + electives or concentration courses
- Foundation: Mathematics, physics, and engineering fundamentals at all levels
- Progression: Complexity increases with each degree level
- Online delivery: Same curriculum as campus-based programs
- Hands-on: Labs, design projects, and capstone experiences at most levels
Core course topics by degree level
| Course Topic | Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calculus & Physics | Intro sequence | Full sequence | Assumed prerequisite |
| Engineering Mechanics | Statics basics | Statics, dynamics, materials | Advanced analysis |
| Thermodynamics/Circuits | Introduction | Full courses | Specialized electives |
| Design Projects | Introductory | Multi-course sequence | Capstone or thesis |
| Systems Modeling | Basics | Intermediate methods | Advanced optimization |
| Technical Communication | Fundamentals | Reports and presentations | Research writing |
| Lab Work | Introductory labs | Discipline-specific labs | Research lab work |
Core subject areas
| 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 |
Skills you can compare across programs
Programs vary, but common skill areas include:
- Quantitative analysis and modeling
- Design and prototyping workflows
- Systems thinking and problem solving
- Technical documentation and reporting
How curriculum differs by degree level
- Associate programs focus on foundational coursework and general education
- Bachelor’s programs add depth, methods, and applied projects
- Master’s programs emphasize advanced topics, specialization, and capstone work
Engineering curricula are heavily sequential. Courses like statics, dynamics, and thermodynamics build on specific math and physics prerequisites. Plan your course sequence carefully, especially if transferring credits or studying part-time.
For degree-level options, see: Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s
Example assignments and assessment types
Depending on the program, you may see:
- Reading and analysis tasks
- Applied projects or labs
- Case studies or scenario-based work
- Presentations or group projects
- Exams or proctored assessments
Back to Online Engineering Degrees: Programs and Curriculum
Return to Online Engineering Degrees: Programs and Curriculum