Find College Degrees Online

Engineering Degrees

Design, build, and solve — one of the highest-paying fields.

About Engineering degrees

Engineering degrees consistently rank among the highest-earning and most respected in higher education. Whether you're drawn to building machines, structures, circuits, or software systems, engineering trains you to solve real-world problems with math and science.

Programs are rigorous and accreditation (ABET) matters. The schools below are ranked on graduate earnings and outcomes for this field.

Engineering by the numbers

248+

Schools offering Engineering

$102,154

Median earnings (top schools)

$24,185

Median net price (top schools)

Figures reflect the top-earning four-year schools for this field, using official U.S. Department of Education data.

Careers in Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Design machines, engines, and mechanical systems.

Electrical Engineer

Design circuits, power systems, and electronics.

Civil Engineer

Design infrastructure — roads, bridges, and buildings.

Software / Computer Engineer

Build hardware-software systems and embedded devices.

Degree levels

Associate (Engineering Tech)

A two-year path into technician and support roles.

Bachelor's

The standard degree for professional engineers; choose a discipline.

Master's

Specialize, boost earnings, or move toward research and management.

Doctorate

For research, academia, and advanced R&D roles.

Top schools for Engineering

See all →

Engineering — Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with an engineering degree?+

Engineers design and build everything from bridges and machines to circuits and software. Common paths include mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and computer engineering — all with strong earning potential.

Is engineering a good career?+

Engineering ranks near the top for graduate earnings and job satisfaction. The coursework is demanding, but the payoff — in pay and opportunity — is among the best of any field.

Why does ABET accreditation matter?+

ABET accreditation signals that an engineering program meets professional standards. It's often required to sit for the Professional Engineer (PE) license and is preferred by employers.

Can I earn an engineering degree online?+

Some engineering degrees — especially at the master's level and in fields like software or industrial engineering — are available online. Lab-heavy undergraduate programs are more often on campus.

What's the difference between engineering and engineering technology?+

Engineering focuses on design and theory; engineering technology focuses on applying and implementing existing designs. Technology degrees are often more hands-on and shorter.

Do I need a PE license?+

It's required for engineers who sign off on public projects (common in civil engineering) but optional in many industry roles. It involves exams and work experience and can raise your earning potential.

Which engineering discipline pays the most?+

Petroleum, computer, and electrical engineering often top earnings charts, though pay depends on industry and location. Compare the schools above for real graduate-earnings data.

How hard is an engineering degree?+

Engineering is math- and physics-intensive and demands consistent effort, but strong support systems and study habits make it very achievable. Many students thrive who didn't consider themselves 'math people' at first.

What math do engineers need?+

Expect calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and statistics, applied to physics and design problems throughout the program.

Can I get an engineering job with an associate degree?+

An associate in engineering technology qualifies you for technician and support roles. Most professional engineering positions require a bachelor's degree.

Is financial aid available for engineering students?+

Yes — federal aid plus a wide range of STEM and engineering-specific scholarships, and funded assistantships at the graduate level.