Best Online Engineering Management MBA Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online Engineering Management MBA Degree program?

• Blended Curriculum: Combines core business courses (e.g., finance, leadership) with engineering-focused topics like quality control, logistics, and project management.
• Asynchronous & Synchronous Delivery: Includes recorded lectures, live sessions, case studies, and team projects.
• Applied Leadership Skills: Emphasis on real-world problem solving, data-driven decisions, and strategic planning.
• Accelerated Path: Most programs can be completed within 12–18 months for fast career progression.
• Professional Network: Connect virtually with peers and faculty across engineering disciplines and industries.

Where can graduates of an online Engineering Management MBA degree work?

• Engineering Firms: Lead projects and cross-functional teams in sectors like software, aerospace, and manufacturing.
• Technology Companies: Manage engineering teams in R&D and product development environments.
• Construction & Infrastructure: Oversight of large-scale projects, budget planning, and regulatory compliance.
• Scientific R&D: Leadership roles in high-innovation environments like biotech or advanced manufacturing.
• Consulting & Enterprise: Technical strategy and operations roles in consulting firms and enterprise settings.

How much can you make with an online Engineering Management MBA degree?

• Entry or Junior Manager: Expect base compensation around $147,000–$150,000 annually
• Experienced Engineering Manager: Median salaries range from $150,000–$165,000, depending on specialization and location
• Senior or Director-Level: Directors of engineering can earn between $197,000 and $235,000+ base, plus bonuses and equity
• Top-Tier Remote Tech Roles: Remote engineering managers report salaries between $200,000–$225,000+, with additional cash compensation

Best Online Engineering Management MBA Degree Programs for 2025

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online concurrent MBA and MS in Industrial Engineering program tailored for working professionals, streamlining graduate education. Designed for those with at least one year of experience, it equips students to lead technical teams and transition into management roles. The curriculum combines advanced business training in marketing, leadership, and finance with technical instruction in optimizing complex systems. Students gain skills in analyzing workflows, managing control systems, and using data to improve processes and innovate products.

MBA coursework includes supply chain management, statistics, financial accounting, and strategic management, culminating in a capstone project. The industrial engineering track covers production systems, information systems, and reliability engineering, ending with an applied project.

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in industries like finance, transportation, healthcare, aerospace, consulting, and IT. Faculty from the W. P. Carey School of Business and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering bring deep industry experience and academic recognition to the program.

• Program Length: Typically 2.5–3 years (varies depending on course load)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Information systems and management systems; Operations research and production systems; Logistics/supply chain; Quality and reliability
• Tuition Cost: $12,414/calendar year; for both AZ residents and non-residents
• Required Credits to Graduate: Not specified; MBA and MSIE shared credits may reduce total
• Accreditation: Master of Business Administration—Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Master of Science in Industrial Engineering—Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

2. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers a fully online Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program, which serves as a strategic alternative to a traditional MBA for engineering and science-related professionals. This degree is a collaborative effort between the Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology and the Coles College of Business, and it is specifically designed to prepare engineering professionals to become business and management leaders within the engineering arena.

The program addresses complex industry issues by combining engineering, management, and business aspects through a comprehensive and quantitative curriculum, thus developing future industry leaders by blending learned science skills with sound business and management leadership methodology.

The MSEM curriculum provides advanced knowledge in engineering statistics, quality systems, Six Sigma, database and information systems engineering, project management, and engineering communications. Students also delve into leadership and law, with numerous electives focusing on engineering management, which makes the MSEM an excellent alternative to the traditional MBA. 

• Program Length: 1-2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management concentration (Electives within MBA)
• Tuition Cost: Resident: $361.00/credit hour; Non-resident: $1,361.00/credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Henderson State University

Henderson State University offers a 100% online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Engineering Management, which builds upon your business foundation with a strong focus on logistics and supply chain management, while also emphasizing quality control and improvement. The rigorous curriculum is taught by experienced faculty, many holding Ph.D.s, and it is designed to develop your skills in effective leadership and data analytics to achieve organizational objectives. Furthermore, the program conveniently includes online graduate certificates in Project Management and Supply Chain Management, giving you three valuable credentials within one streamlined degree.

Coursework covers essential topics like economic analysis for managerial decisions, strategic information systems, and marketing management, so you can earn your degree conveniently in as few as 14 months with its 7-week courses and multiple entry points.

You will enhance your skills in optimizing organizational performance in manufacturing, construction, technology, or production, and you will learn to apply ethical reasoning in leadership roles. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including project manager, chief executive officer, director of operations, or business consultant, which demonstrates the program's broad applicability in the engineering management sector.

• Program Length: As few as 14 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management specialization within MBA
• Tuition Cost: $12,837 total tuition
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

4. National University

National University’s online Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) is designed for engineers, scientists, and technologists interested in advancing their skills in a competitive global technological marketplace, and this program emphasizes management skills built on students' technical backgrounds. Unlike traditional MBA programs, the MSEM offers practical business perspectives necessary for engineering management, with specializations available in Project Management and Systems Engineering to help professionals become effective and efficient leaders.

This custom-designed mix of management concepts and technical expertise prepares individuals to direct major public and private organizations within today's increasingly complicated managerial environment. The program's principles are broadly based, drawing from diverse disciplines such as applied sciences, economics, business, and social sciences.

The curriculum includes core requirements in engineering management, project management, operations and supply chain management, and quality engineering, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students will also delve into advanced engineering economics and global economic and technological trends, which are crucial for navigating the modern technical landscape. 

• Program Length: Varies (typically 18-24 months with accelerated four-week courses)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Project Management; Systems Engineering
• Tuition Cost: $515 per quarter unit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 58.5 quarter units
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

5. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Engineering Management, a program designed to integrate both engineering and business worlds effectively. This degree is developed and taught by Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) faculty, and it focuses on deepening students' understanding of systems thinking concepts and systems engineering practices, enabling them to make informed business decisions that foster improved efficiency and performance in highly technical environments.

The program allows students to gain traditional business skills in pivotal areas like finance, project management, and technology, while also providing a tailored curriculum to lead in technical settings and execute solutions to complex engineering problems.

The online MBA in Engineering Management includes core business courses designed to meet workforce demands, and it helps students understand how to lead organizations and measure strategic opportunities. In addition to business courses, students take specialized engineering management classes, which are designed to help them guide engineers and scientists toward innovative and cost-sensitive project solutions. 

• Program Length: 15 months (accelerated pacing, two courses per term)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management concentration (includes 3 engineering courses taught by WPI faculty)
• Tuition Cost: $659/credit (same for all students); Active-duty military and spouses: $470/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

6. St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University offers a Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program, designed to prepare graduates for managerial roles across all engineering disciplines, as well as those from business, science, technology, and mathematics backgrounds. This program serves as a valuable STEM alternative to a traditional MBA for engineers seeking technical leadership roles, and it develops managerial skills while providing analytical and problem-solving tools to lead and manage projects effectively.

Students will learn about operations management, engineering data analytics, Six Sigma, engineering economy, supply chain management, and project management, enabling them to bridge the gap between engineering and business functions. The curriculum also enhances communication skills and prepares graduates for solving complex problems in various types of businesses.

Students benefit from faculty who actively work with local companies and provide opportunities for industry projects as part of their coursework, which offers practical, hands-on experience. The program is also international student-friendly, with a history of diverse student representation and an optional summer industry tour to Japan, and it prepares graduates for careers as project managers, product managers, operations managers, and quality engineers.

• Program Length: 12-24 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management specialization within MBA
• Tuition Cost: $596.15/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

7. St. Thomas University (Florida)

St. Thomas University’s online Master of Science in Engineering Management is designed to elevate engineering expertise by blending technical knowledge with essential management skills, empowering students for leadership roles in today's complex engineering landscape.

The curriculum is rooted in real-world applications and industry best practices, and students learn from experienced faculty and industry leaders who provide insights and strategies immediately applicable in the workplace. Moreover, the program offers specialized STEM-approved concentrations, such as project management, systems engineering, and data analytics, enabling students to customize their learning experience and gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Graduates gain industry-relevant skills, connect with a strong network of professionals and alumni, and are prepared to make immediate, significant contributions to their organizations and the broader industry. The streamlined admissions process further simplifies entry, as a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA are typically required, without the need for GRE or GMAT scores.

• Program Length: 12 months (accelerated option)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management concentration within MBA
• Tuition Cost: $1,350.00/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

8. Trine University

Trine University offers an online Master of Science in Engineering Management, specifically designed for individuals with engineering skills who aspire to step into a management role. As a student in this program, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of corporate culture, leadership, finance, operations strategy, and marketing, and your courses will include business ethics, public speaking, and decision-making classes geared toward the technical professional.

You will also learn about new product development and innovation from Trine’s experienced business and engineering faculty, which provides a competitive edge in the engineering management field upon graduation. The program is entirely online, offering flexibility to complete your degree in the comfort of your home, and new classes start every eight weeks, allowing you to finish in as little as a year or at a more gradual pace.

The curriculum encompasses core courses in executive communication, statistics, project management, and organizational leadership for engineers, and it culminates in an engineering management capstone. Students can choose from specialization options in Systems Engineering or Operational Excellence, or they can self-design their focus by selecting from program electives. These electives include topics like Lean Six Sigma, advanced plant management, and systems engineering analysis, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with specific career goals. 

• Program Length: Approximately 12 months (accelerated)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management concentration within MBA
• Tuition Cost: $575 per credit (all students)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

9. University of Nebraska–Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers a fully online Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program, which is a professional practice-oriented degree resulting from a collaboration between the College of Engineering and Nebraska's MBA program. This program equips graduates with the essential business acumen needed to effectively lead within an ever-changing engineering environment, and it also offers a Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management for those seeking a more focused credential.

The curriculum is designed to provide immediate impact on professional work, as students benefit from the expertise of Big Ten faculty renowned for their innovative teaching, research, and industry experience. The program's ASEM certification allows graduates to be exempt from testing to become a Certified Associate Engineering Manager (CAEM®), and it has also been recognized for "Excellence in Engineering for Veterans."

The MEM program features four core courses focused on leadership, decision-making, engineering economics, and strategic planning in technology. Students personalize their education by selecting six electives, including the option to take up to three from the MBA curriculum. Elective subjects range from project management and engineering leadership to financial accounting and supply chain strategy, supporting diverse career goals.

• Program Length: Typically 1.5–3 years (self-paced)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management specialization (customizable electives)
• Tuition Cost: $675/credit (uniform for all students)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

10. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers an online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Engineering Management, uniquely designed to meet the business management needs of working engineers, and this program prepares you for leadership roles in technology, manufacturing, construction, research and development, or industrial management.

You will gain essential knowledge in project management, quality control, and supply chain distribution, which provides a competitive edge in various engineering management careers like engineering, architectural, or industrial manager. This program is taught by experienced faculty, and its rigorous curriculum develops your skills in leadership and data analytics to achieve organizational objectives.

The online MBA program offers flexibility through accelerated courses and multiple start dates, covering topics like economic analysis, information systems, and marketing. Core and specialized coursework emphasizes leadership, decision-making, and operational efficiency across industries such as manufacturing and technology. Graduates gain the ethical and strategic skills needed to lead teams, enhance performance, and succeed in engineering management roles.

• Program Length: 12 months (accelerated option)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Engineering Management concentration within MBA
• Tuition Cost: $13,950 total tuition
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

There are also many popular engineering degrees online, though this list includes only Engineering Management MBA degree programs.

What is the average cost of an online engineering management MBA degree?

The cost of an online Engineering Management MBA degree can vary significantly depending on the institution, program length, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. While some programs are more affordable, others from highly-ranked universities can be quite substantial. They may be more expensive than the online MBA programs cost range.

• Total Program Tuition: The overall cost for an online Engineering Management MBA can range from approximately $14,000 to over $149,000.
• Cost Per Credit Hour: Some universities list tuition on a per-credit basis, which can range from around $500 to over $1,900 per credit.
• Program Length Impact: Shorter, accelerated programs might have a higher per-credit cost but a lower overall total due to fewer required credits.
• Public vs. Private Institutions: Public universities often offer lower tuition rates, especially for in-state residents, compared to private institutions.

Prospective students should thoroughly research the specific tuition and fees for each program they are considering, as these costs can be a major factor in their decision. It's also important to inquire about any additional fees or required materials that may not be included in the stated tuition.

These costs are worth it as graduates enter a booming U.S. construction industry, shown in the graphic below, which experienced a 10% rise in nominal value added and a 12% increase in gross output, with spending surpassing US$2 trillion in the first half of  2024. Employment hit 8.3 million in July, exceeding its 2006 peak of 7.7 million and sustaining steady growth despite ongoing labor shortages.

Looking to 2025, the industry is expected to benefit from a 50 basis point interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in September 2024, likely boosting residential construction demand. Continued funding through the IIJA, IRA, and the CHIPS and Science Act should further stimulate activity, particularly in manufacturing, energy, and data center development, supported by emerging technologies and easing inflation. These indicators point to sustained, moderate growth in the sector.

What are the financial aid options for an online engineering management MBA degree?

Pursuing an online Engineering Management MBA can be a significant investment, but various financial aid options are available to help offset the costs. These options aim to make advanced education more accessible to a wider range of students.

• Federal Student Aid: Students may be eligible for federal loans, such as Stafford Loans or Grad PLUS Loans, which are provided by the U.S. government.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarships for graduate students, which can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: A common option for working professionals, many companies offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees pursuing further education relevant to their careers.
• Private Loans: These are offered by banks and other financial institutions and can help cover costs not met by other forms of aid, though they typically have different interest rates and repayment terms.
• Graduate Assistantships: While less common for fully online programs, some universities may offer limited opportunities for online students to work as research or teaching assistants in exchange for tuition waivers or stipends.

Exploring all available financial aid avenues is crucial for managing the cost of an online MBA, just as it is when pursuing an online bachelor's mathematics degree or any other academic program. These resources can significantly reduce the financial burden. Students are encouraged to contact the financial aid office of their prospective universities for detailed information and application procedures.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online engineering management MBA program?

Admission to an online Engineering Management MBA program typically requires a combination of academic qualifications, professional experience, and standardized test scores. Specific requirements can vary between institutions, so it's essential to check each program's admission criteria carefully. Also. various types of engineering careers require different prerequisites.

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants generally need an undergraduate degree, often in engineering or a related STEM field, though some programs may accept degrees from other disciplines.
• Minimum GPA: A competitive undergraduate GPA, often around 2.75 or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, is usually required.
• Professional Experience: Many MBA programs, especially those in engineering management, prefer or require several years of relevant work experience in an engineering or technical role.
• GMAT/GRE Scores: While some programs offer waivers, many still require applicants to submit scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE).
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs ask for one or more letters of recommendation, typically from professional or academic contacts who can attest to the applicant's abilities and potential.
• Statement of Purpose/Essays: Applicants are often required to submit a personal statement or essays outlining their career goals, reasons for pursuing the MBA, and how their experiences align with the program.

Meeting these prerequisites is a vital first step in the application process for an online Engineering Management MBA. Prospective students should prepare their application materials well in advance to ensure they meet all deadlines and requirements.

What courses are typically in an online engineering management MBA program?

Online Engineering Management MBA programs are designed to blend advanced engineering concepts with core business and management principles, preparing graduates for leadership roles. The curriculum typically includes a mix of foundational business courses and specialized engineering management topics.

• Core Business Courses: These often cover areas such as financial management, marketing, organizational strategy, economics, and operations management, similar to what you’d find in an online MBA general business program.
• Engineering Administration: Courses focusing on the administrative aspects of engineering projects, teams, and departments.
• Project Management: Instruction on methodologies and tools for planning, executing, and closing complex engineering projects effectively.
• Systems Thinking and Engineering: Exploring how to analyze, design, and manage complex systems, often including concepts like system lifecycles and model-based engineering.
• Financial Engineering: Applying financial principles and quantitative methods to engineering and business decisions.
• Technology Management: Courses that delve into managing technological innovation, product development, and the strategic use of technology within organizations.
• Supply Chain Management: Understanding the principles of supply chain and logistics as they apply to engineering and manufacturing industries.
• Capstone Project: Many programs culminate in a capstone project where students apply their learned skills to a real-world engineering management challenge.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that graduates are well-equipped with both the technical knowledge and business acumen necessary for effective leadership in engineering fields. The combination of these subjects prepares students to tackle complex challenges at the intersection of technology and business. These do not include software engineering - if you are interested in this field, please consult our cheapest online software engineering bootcamps article.

One would need this set of knowledge and skills as the U.S. engineering services industry is evolving rapidly due to new technologies, major infrastructure investments, and a push for sustainability. According to IBIS World, in 2025, it is projected to reach $367.4 billion in annual revenue with a 1.9% growth rate and steady 9.4% profitability, as shown in the graphic below.

Innovations like building information modeling (BIM) and 3D printing are streamlining operations and cutting costs. Government funding, which makes up 34.4% of industry revenue, supports continued growth but requires navigating interest rate shifts and sustainability demands.

What types of specializations are available for engineering management MBA graduates?

Online Engineering Management MBA programs often provide opportunities for students to specialize in particular areas, allowing them to tailor their degree to specific career interests or industry demands. These specializations enhance a graduate's expertise in a chosen niche within the broader field of engineering management. 

• Project Management: Focuses on advanced techniques and certifications for leading large-scale engineering and technical projects.
• Systems Engineering: Concentrates on the design, integration, and management of complex systems throughout their lifecycle.
• Technology Management: Explores the strategic management of technological innovation, research and development, and the commercialization of new technologies. MBA Information Technology Management programs focus on this area exclusively.
• Operations Management: Deals with optimizing processes, production, and supply chains within engineering and manufacturing environments.
• Business Analytics: Emphasizes using data and analytical tools to inform decision-making in engineering and business contexts.
• Construction Management: Tailors management principles to the unique challenges and processes of the construction industry.
• Enterprise Architecture: Focuses on designing and implementing an organization's overall structure, processes, and technology to align with business goals.

These specializations enable graduates to develop deeper expertise in areas that align with their career aspirations and industry needs. Choosing a specialization can significantly enhance a graduate's marketability and career trajectory in specific sectors.

How do you choose the best online engineering management MBA program?

Selecting the best online Engineering Management MBA program requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure it aligns with your career goals, learning style, and personal circumstances. A thorough evaluation will help you find a program that offers the most value and a strong return on investment.

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) or ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) for quality assurance.
• Curriculum and Specializations: Evaluate if the program's course offerings and available specializations match your professional interests and desired career path.
• Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty's background, industry experience, and research interests to ensure they align with your learning objectives.
• Program Flexibility: Consider the program format (synchronous vs. asynchronous), course delivery methods, and term lengths to ensure it fits your schedule as a working professional.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition rates, fees, and the availability of scholarships or employer assistance programs.
• Program Length: Determine if the program's duration, whether accelerated or standard, meets your timeline for completion.
• Reputation and Rankings: While not the only factor, consider the program's standing in reputable rankings for online MBA or engineering management programs.
• Alumni Network and Career Services: Investigate the strength of the alumni network and the career support services offered, as these can be valuable for networking and job placement.

By carefully weighing these aspects, prospective students can make an informed decision and choose an online Engineering Management MBA program that best supports their academic and professional ambitions. A well-chosen program will provide the necessary skills and connections to advance your career.

What career paths are available for graduates of online engineering management MBA programs?

Graduates with an online Engineering Management MBA are well-positioned for a diverse range of leadership and management roles across various industries. This degree combines technical expertise with business acumen, making them highly valuable in organizations that rely on engineering and technology.

Much like how an online exercise science degree military program prepares service members for career advancement by blending specialized knowledge with leadership training, this MBA equips professionals to lead in technical fields.

• Engineering Manager: Leading teams of engineers, overseeing projects, and managing technical operations within a company.
• Project Manager: Planning, executing, and closing complex engineering or technical projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
• Operations Manager: Optimizing production processes, supply chains, and overall operational efficiency in manufacturing or technology firms.
• Technical Consultant: Providing expert advice to businesses on engineering, technology, and operational strategies.
• Product Manager: Guiding the development and lifecycle of technical products, bridging the gap between engineering, marketing, and sales.
• Director of Engineering/R&D: Holding senior leadership positions responsible for research and development initiatives and engineering departments.
• Supply Chain Manager: Managing the flow of goods and services, from raw materials to finished products, in engineering-intensive industries.

The interdisciplinary nature of this MBA prepares graduates to take on roles that require both deep technical understanding and strong business leadership skills. These professionals are crucial for driving innovation and efficiency in technology-driven organizations.

2024 figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that architectural and engineering managers are primarily employed in the architectural, engineering, and related services industry, which accounts for 54,710 positions. Significant employment is also found in scientific research and development services, with 12,620 managers, and in the management of companies and enterprises sector, employing 11,490 individuals.

Furthermore, the aerospace product and parts manufacturing industry has 10,200 such managers, while semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing employs 9,310, as shown in the graph below.

These clearly indicate that architectural and engineering managers are most heavily concentrated in industries directly involved in design, research, and high-tech manufacturing. The trend highlights a strong demand for these leadership roles within sectors that drive innovation and complex technical projects.

How much can I earn with an online engineering management MBA degree?

Earning an online Engineering Management MBA can significantly enhance your earning potential, as the degree equips you with advanced skills valued in leadership and strategic roles. Salaries for graduates can vary widely based on factors such as industry, location, years of experience, and the specific role.

Just as an online associate degree in medical assistant helps professionals increase their employability in healthcare, an Engineering Management MBA opens doors to higher-paying leadership positions in technical fields.

• Increased Earning Potential: An MBA, especially with an engineering management focus, generally leads to higher salaries compared to those with only a bachelor's degree in engineering.
• Industry Variation: Salaries can differ significantly across industries, with roles in high-tech, consulting, and manufacturing often offering competitive compensation.
• Role and Responsibility: Leadership positions like Engineering Manager, Director of Operations, or Senior Project Manager typically command higher salaries.
• Experience Level: Professionals with more years of experience prior to and after earning their MBA often see greater salary increases.
• Geographic Location: Salaries can also be influenced by the cost of living and demand for engineering management professionals in different regions.

2025 PayScale salary data, shown in the graph below, reveal that a chief operating officer (COO) earns an average of $88,289. An electronics engineer typically receives an average salary of $88,387. A naval architect's average earnings are approximately $88,743. For a product manager (unspecified type), the average salary stands at $89,294. A reliability engineer commands an average of $92,009.

A project engineer earns an average of $92,379. The average salary for a senior manufacturing engineer is $97,068. A quality assurance manager typically earns $97,594. A controls engineer has an average salary of $100,905. A quality manager's average earnings are $101,352.

A materials manager earns an average of $104,440, while a software engineering manager typically receives $109,089. A design engineering manager averages $109,128, and a senior electrical engineer commands $111,094.

A product owner earns $113,970, reflecting a central role in development, while a chief technology officer (CTO) averages $119,025, indicating top-tier executive status.

A senior program manager earns $125,579, showing strong leadership compensation, and a senior strategic sourcing manager brings in $130,615, underscoring supply chain expertise.

A business manager averages $132,239, reflecting broad management potential, while the highest salary goes to a product management director at $153,588, demonstrating peak executive earnings.

The data reveals a clear trend: positions with higher levels of management responsibility and strategic oversight, particularly those in product, program, and executive leadership, generally command significantly higher average salaries. While specialized engineering roles offer competitive compensation, the greatest earning potential appears to be in roles that blend technical expertise with extensive business and team management.

What is the job market like for graduates of an online engineering management MBA degree program?

The job market for graduates with an online Engineering Management MBA degree is generally robust and growing, driven by the increasing complexity of technology and the need for skilled leaders who can bridge the gap between engineering and business. These professionals are in high demand across various sectors.

• Growing Demand: Industries such as manufacturing, technology, consulting, and civil engineering consistently seek individuals who can manage technical teams and projects effectively.
• Interdisciplinary Roles: The unique skill set acquired through an engineering management MBA makes graduates suitable for roles that require both technical knowledge and strong business acumen.
• Leadership Shortage: There is a continuous need for leaders who can drive innovation, optimize operations, and manage complex technical initiatives.
• Adaptability to Trends: Graduates are prepared to navigate evolving industry trends, including advancements in AI, automation, and sustainable engineering practices.
• Global Opportunities: The skills are highly transferable, opening up opportunities in both domestic and international markets.

The combination of engineering expertise and strategic business knowledge positions graduates of these programs for strong career growth and a competitive edge in a dynamic global economy. The demand for professionals who can lead technical endeavors from a business perspective continues to expand.

As shown in the graphic below, according to 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, architectural and engineering managers in the United States earned a median annual salary of $167,740, which translates to approximately $80.64 per hour. As of 2023, there were 210,200 positions in this occupation, and employment is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in an employment change of 11,600 new jobs over the decade.

Most individuals entering this field typically hold a bachelor’s degree and have at least five years of related work experience. No on-the-job training is generally required for these roles. These figures suggest that architectural and engineering managers continue to command high salaries and stable job prospects, reflecting the critical role they play in overseeing complex technical projects and teams.

What are some current and future trends in engineering management?

The field of engineering management is constantly evolving, influenced by technological advancements, global economic shifts, and changing societal demands. Staying abreast of these trends is crucial for professionals in this domain to remain competitive and effective.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI Integration: Engineering managers are increasingly leveraging AI tools for project optimization, data analysis, and even design, requiring a new understanding of AI's capabilities and ethical implications.
• Sustainable Engineering Practices: A growing emphasis on environmentally friendly and sustainable design, production, and operational processes is shaping engineering management decisions.
• Digital Transformation: Managers are leading initiatives to integrate digital technologies across all aspects of engineering operations, from design to manufacturing and service delivery.
• Agile and Lean Methodologies: The adoption of agile and lean principles is becoming more prevalent in engineering projects to enhance flexibility, efficiency, and responsiveness to market changes.
• Global Collaboration and Remote Work: Engineering management increasingly involves leading diverse, geographically dispersed teams and navigating international project complexities.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing big data and analytics to inform strategic decisions, improve operational efficiency, and predict market trends.
• Cybersecurity in Engineering Systems: A heightened focus on securing industrial control systems, intellectual property, and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

These trends highlight the dynamic nature of engineering management, requiring professionals to continuously adapt and acquire new skills to lead effectively in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The future of engineering management will be defined by its ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with strategic leadership. The fastest online MBA programs are also incorporating engineering into their curricula, so this may be more suitable if you want a general MBA degree.

What accreditation and quality certifications should I consider?

When evaluating an online Engineering Management MBA program, it is essential to verify that the institution is accredited by recognized agencies, such as AACSB or ACBSP, as well as its regional accrediting body. These credentials ensure adherence to rigorous academic and industry standards, impacting credit transferability, financial aid eligibility, and overall degree recognition. Additionally, consider quality indicators like experienced faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and robust career support services. For a cost comparison that also reflects quality benchmarks, review the cheapest MBA online programs to align both affordability and academic excellence with your career objectives.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Online Engineering Management MBA Degrees

Other Things You Should Know About Online Engineering Management MBA Degree Programs

How does an online Engineering Management MBA differ from an MS in Engineering Management?

An online Engineering Management MBA is primarily a business degree with a specialized focus on engineering, designed to prepare professionals for broader leadership roles across various industries. It typically emphasizes general business functions like finance, marketing, and organizational strategy, while integrating how these principles apply within a technical context. The curriculum often attracts a diverse student body from various professional backgrounds, including but not limited to engineering.

An MS in Engineering Management is a specialized technical degree designed for STEM professionals aiming to move into leadership roles without leaving technical fields. It blends business fundamentals with a deep focus on engineering-specific challenges, emphasizing systems thinking and technical problem-solving in tech-driven organizations.

What are the prerequisites for non-engineering backgrounds?

While many online Engineering Management MBA programs prefer applicants with an undergraduate degree in engineering or a related STEM field, some programs are designed to be accessible to individuals from non-engineering backgrounds. These programs typically look for candidates who demonstrate strong analytical skills, leadership potential, and a keen interest in the intersection of business and technology. They may require foundational coursework or a "boot camp" to ensure all students have a baseline understanding of key business and, in some cases, introductory engineering concepts.

For applicants without a traditional engineering degree, prerequisites might include a strong undergraduate GPA, competitive GMAT or GRE scores (though many programs waive these for experienced professionals), and significant professional work experience that showcases managerial or project leadership capabilities. The admissions committee will often evaluate an applicant's resume, essays, and letters of recommendation to assess their readiness for a rigorous MBA curriculum that incorporates technical management principles.

What is the difference between an online and on-campus Engineering Management MBA?

The primary distinction between an online and an on-campus Engineering Management MBA lies in the delivery method, which in turn affects flexibility, networking, and the overall learning experience. Online programs offer significant flexibility, allowing students to access course materials and participate in classes from anywhere, often at their own pace (asynchronous learning) or through scheduled live virtual sessions (synchronous learning). This format is particularly beneficial for working professionals who need to balance their studies with existing careers and personal commitments, and it can often result in lower overall costs due to reduced commuting and living expenses.

On-campus programs offer a traditional, structured experience with set schedules and in-person interaction, encouraging direct networking and access to campus resources. They often appeal to younger students or career changers, but may be less practical for working professionals due to relocation and time demands. Despite differences in delivery, both online and on-campus formats typically share the same curriculum and result in equivalent degrees, making personal preference the deciding factor.