Fastest Online Electrical Engineering 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 electrical engineering degree program?

Students can expect a structured, project-based learning experience that mirrors the demands of the electrical engineering field. This includes foundational courses in physics, calculus, circuit theory, and advanced topics like embedded systems, digital signal processing, and power electronics. Rather than relying on passive lectures, students often complete interactive assignments using tools like MATLAB, Multisim, or LabVIEW.

Some schools incorporate real-time collaboration, where students work in virtual teams to solve engineering problems, just like in the workplace. Enrollees should expect to be challenged, not only with technical concepts but also with deadlines, problem-solving, and hands-on simulations that build job-ready skills.

Where can I work with an electrical engineering degree?

As grids modernize, vehicles go electric, and devices become smarter, companies need engineers who can bridge hardware, software, and systems. This shift has made electrical engineering one of the most versatile degrees in the tech-driven economy. Graduates aren’t limited to traditional utility roles. They're building electric drivetrains, automating factories, designing advanced sensors, and developing next-gen communication systems.

Here are some of the top industries where electrical engineering graduates are making an impact:

• Power and energy companies
• Telecommunications firms
• Aerospace and defense industries
• Electronics and semiconductor companies
• Automotive manufacturers
• Robotics and automation firms
• Government agencies
• Engineering consulting firms
• Research and development labs
• Technology startups

How much can I make with an electrical engineering degree?

Graduates with an electrical engineering degree can expect strong earning potential across a range of industries. As of 2025, the median annual salary for electrical engineers is around $111,910, with those in the top 10% earning over $166,970. 

Entry-level roles typically start between $70,000 and $80,000, though this can vary based on industry, experience, and location. Engineers working in specialized fields like power systems, aerospace, or advanced electronics often command higher salaries. Even for those who earn their degree online, accredited programs can lead to similar income levels, especially when combined with relevant internships or hands-on experience.

The Fastest Online Electrical Engineering Degree Programs for 2025

Electrical engineering remains one of the most versatile and in-demand STEM fields, powering innovations from renewable energy systems to cutting-edge electronics. 2025’s fastest fully online programs combine rigorous technical training with accelerated schedules, helping students enter the workforce sooner—similar in pace to accelerated logistics and supply chain management online programs.

1. University of Arizona – B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Many students are drawn to the University of Arizona’s program. The curriculum covers areas such as embedded systems, wireless communications, signal processing, robotics, microelectronics, optics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, integrating both electrical and computer engineering topics. Strong employment outcomes are supported by long-standing industry partnerships with firms like Raytheon, Intel, NASA, and Microsoft.  

• Cost: $525 per credit
• Required Credits: 128
• Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission (ABET)
• What Makes It Stand Out: Residency-neutral pricing, industry partnerships, and the same curriculum and faculty as the on-campus program.

2. Arizona State University – B.S.E. in Electrical Engineering

Unlike many programs that follow a traditional 16-week format, ASU uses 7.5-week terms, allowing students to take two courses per session and complete their degree faster. Electives span areas like communications, control systems, photonics, robotics, and quantum engineering, giving students opportunities to specialize according to interest and career goals  The university also allows generous credit transfers (up to 90 credits).

• Cost: $580-$661 per credit
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: ABET (via Fulton Schools of Engineering)
• What Makes It Stand Out: Accelerated delivery with 7.5-week terms, no mandatory log-in times, asynchronous classes

3. University of North Dakota – B.S. in Electrical Engineering

University of North Dakota stands out for its long history of offering distance engineering education and its strong outcomes for graduates. Core subjects include circuit analysis, signals and systems, embedded systems, and complete a senior capstone design project in collaboration with industry partners. Notably, students purchase a home lab kit for assignments.

• Cost: $384 per credit
• Required Credits: 125
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: Flexible pacing, strong virtual labs, and top-tier salary outcomes for transfer and working students.

4. Mississippi State University – B.S. in Electrical Engineering

Mississippi State’s online EE program has earned a reputation for outstanding industry alignment and student support. The program requires 128 credit hours, covering digital devices, circuits and electronics, electromagnetic field theory, energy conversion, and culminates with a capstone design year with optional technical specialization in areas like telecommunications, power systems, signal processing, and microelectronics.

• Cost: $460.75 per credit
• Required Credits: 128
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: Strong student-advising resources and high employer recruitment in regional industries.

5. Florida International University – B.S. in Electrical Engineering

The electrical engineering program at FIU consistently ranks among the top online engineering programs nationally. Courses cover topics such as core circuits, signals & systems, logic design, senior design projects, academics and ethics, and electives spanning nanotechnology, cyber‑security, and AI & big data. Students frequently choose FIU for its dual‑concentration model, allowing focus in areas such as power systems or electronics.

• Cost: ~$235 (in‑state), ~$649 (out‑of‑state)
• Required Credits: 128
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: Dual concentrations and a community-college pathway guarantee.

6. ECPI University – B.S. in Electronic Systems Engineering Technology

ECPI’s program is structured for speed. Students take two courses at a time in five‑week terms, enabling degree completion in as little as 2.5 years. Coursework focuses on practical, hands-on topics such as analog/digital electronics, circuits, programmable logic controllers, robotics, microcontrollers, industrial automation, and communications systems. The program culminates in a capstone project where students design and validate an engineered system.

• Cost: ~$8,712 per semester
• Required Credits: ~120 (based on accelerated 30-month model)
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: True accelerated pacing and rolling start date model

7. National University – B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering

National University runs a month‑by‑month course format, helping students move quickly through their 180‑quarter‑unit degree. Core courses include Advanced Engineering Math, Circuit Analysis, Digital Logic Design, Computer Architecture, Embedded Systems, and Linear Systems & Signals. These courses are often paired with labs or simulation components. 

• Cost: $370 per quarter unit
• Required Credits: ~180 quarter units
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: One-course‑per‑month format, quarter system, veteran-focused services, year-round starts.

8. University of Arkansas Grantham - B.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology

The B.S. in Electronic Systems Engineering Technology program from University of Arkansas Grantham is tailored for working adults, with monthly 8-week courses that prioritize flexibility and steady progress. The program includes ~120 credits, with emphasis on digital/analog circuits, embedded systems, control systems, instrumentation, communication systems, and programming.

• Cost: $250 per undergraduate credit hour
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: Shortest focused timeline among online EET programs

9. Eastern New Mexico University – B.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology

ENMU offers a flexible online electronics engineering technology track. Key courses discuss analog/digital circuits, embedded programming, instrumentation, control systems, and communications. Capstone or project-based learning simulates real-world problem solving. Residents benefit from tiered lower tuition, and both synchronous and asynchronous delivery fit varied needs.

• Cost: $297 per credit (in‑state); $380 per credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: ~120
• Accreditation: ABET (EET)
• What Makes It Stand Out: Generous financial aid and strong transfer-friendly policies

10. Old Dominion University – B.S. in Electrical Engineering

ODU offers a fully online ABET-accredited engineering degree. The program requires 128–134 credit hours, including a required minor in engineering or science and the Capstone Design Project sequence. Students can also choose from concentrations such as  Communications Systems Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, and Embedded Systems Technology. 

• Cost: $268 (in‑state); $444 (out-of-state) 
• Required Credits: ~120
• Accreditation: ABET
• What Makes It Stand Out: Flexible transfer policies; credit for military training; strong hiring reputation in defense.

How long does it take to complete an online electrical engineering degree program?

Students should expect an online electrical engineering bachelor’s degree to take about four years of full-time study. Online programs require 120–126 credit hours, the same length as traditional on-campus programs. 

Part-time learners, especially those working full-time, often stretch the timeline to five or six years, due to lighter course loads. The best online degree programs for working adults typically offer flexible pacing to support this.

Some universities also offer accelerated tracks. With prior college credits or accelerated course pacing, students may complete their degree in as little as three years. For example, Arizona State University’s fully online EE program uses 7.5‑week terms, allowing students to take two classes per session. 

Credit transfer can significantly shorten the time it takes to complete an online electrical engineering degree, especially for students with prior college coursework or an associate degree. Most accredited programs accept transfer credits for general education courses like math, physics, English, or lower-division engineering classes.

Schools usually evaluate transcripts to determine how many credits align with their curriculum. Some universities, like Arizona State and Southern Illinois University, allow up to 90 transfer credits.

How does an online electrical engineering degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Most online programs are taught by the same faculty, use the same textbooks, and follow similar course structures. The main difference is in how students attend classes and complete labs. Online students access lectures, assignments, and exams through a virtual platform, often with options to study at their own pace. To replace physical labs, schools use simulation software, remote labs, or short on-campus residencies.

While on-campus students may benefit from more face-to-face interaction and immediate access to facilities, online learners gain the ability to study from anywhere without relocating or commuting.

As long as the program is ABET-accredited, the online degree holds the same weight in the job market as its on-campus counterpart. Electrical engineering isn’t the easiest college degree, but online options make it more flexible and accessible for today’s students.

What is the average cost of an online electrical engineering degree program in 2025?

The average cost of an online electrical engineering degree in 2025 ranges from $40,500 to $59,000, depending on the school and the student's residency. Public universities tend to offer more affordable options, with in-state public students paying around $337 per credit, while private universities charge closer to $516 per credit. 

At public institutions, in-state online students typically pay around $337 per credit, whereas out-of-state students may pay up to $574 per credit. These differences matter because students located out of state should look for schools that offer uniform online tuition or waive out-of-state fees. That can reduce the total cost by thousands.

When comparing schools based on cost, students should also consider what that cost includes. Some programs charge extra for online platform fees, lab kits, exam proctoring, or mandatory campus visits. Others may bundle these into the tuition. 

Students pursuing engineering degrees online should compare per-credit rates alongside total credit requirements. A lower per-credit rate might still result in a higher total cost if the program requires more credits to graduate. 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online electrical engineering degree program?

Nearly 91% of online engineering students receive some form of aid, whether from institutional grants, merit‐based scholarships, or federal assistance. To begin, every student should file the FAFSA to qualify for federal programs such as Pell Grants (up to $7,395 per year) and FSEOG (up to $4,000 per year).

Other aid options include work-study, low-interest federal loans, and sometimes income-share agreements (ISAs) that tie repayment to post-graduation income. Many top online colleges also offer institutional scholarships specifically for online learners. Public colleges may award average grants of around $10,000 per year in grant and scholarship aid to first-time, full-time undergraduate students. 

Some private or corporate‐sponsored scholarships (e.g., Google and Lockheed Martin) are also available to engineering students with strong academic records or STEM interests .

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online electrical engineering degree program?

Many students assume getting into an online electrical engineering program is simple. However, schools still have clear standards to ensure applicants are ready for the technical workload. Since the degree involves complex problem-solving and applied math, institutions want to see a solid academic foundation, not just interest. 

Common prerequisites include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completed coursework in algebra, trigonometry, and calculus
• At least one year of high school physics (chemistry is a plus)
• A minimum GPA (usually between 2.5 and 3.0, depending on the school)
• Official high school or college transcripts
• SAT or ACT scores (optional in many schools but still considered at some)
• Basic computer skills or prior exposure to programming (recommended)

For students who don’t meet some of these requirements, alternatives include enrolling in bridge courses, completing math refreshers at a local community college, or taking CLEP exams to prove mastery. Some accredited online degree programs also offer conditional admission if students complete foundation-level coursework first.

What courses are typically in an online electrical engineering degree program?

Most online electrical engineering bachelor’s programs require around 120 credits and expect students to complete four years full-time. In practice, these programs mirror on-campus schedules and include both core engineering courses and technical electives aligned with industry needs.

Here are common courses found in an accredited online electrical engineering degree:

• Calculus I & II – Core to all engineering math; these cover limits, derivatives, integrals, and applications to physics and circuit models.
• Circuit Analysis – A foundational class that teaches students how to evaluate and design basic electrical circuits.
• Signals and Systems – Introduces concepts like filtering, frequency response, and time-domain analysis used in communication and control systems.
• Electronics – Covers semiconductors, diodes, transistors, and amplifiers; essential for designing real-world hardware.
• Digital Logic Design – Focuses on binary systems, logic gates, and circuit design for computing devices.
• Electromagnetics – Explores electric and magnetic fields and their applications in transmission lines and wave propagation.
• Capstone Design Project – A final-year course where students apply their skills to solve a real engineering problem, often in collaboration with industry partners.

Among the core courses in an online electrical engineering degree, some stand out not just for their importance but also for their difficulty. In fact, nearly 50% of electrical engineering students drop out or switch majors, and specific courses are often the tipping point.  

Moreover, difficult subjects like Electromagnetics (EM), Signals and Systems, and Control Systems frequently lead to high failure and withdrawal rates. These courses often have failure rates exceeding 30%, largely due to their abstract content and advanced mathematical demands—making them as challenging as technical tracks in top online technical communication degree programs.

What types of specializations are available in an online electrical engineering degree program?

Students pursuing an online electrical engineering degree often choose a specialization to shape their skills toward specific tech fields. These specialization tracks are increasingly common, with several programs offering focused coursework in areas like renewable energy or embedded systems .

Common specializations include:

• Power Systems and Smart Grids – Focuses on clean energy integration, grid modernization, and smart infrastructure.
• Control Systems and Robotics – Covers automation, feedback systems, and embedded control used in robotics and industrial processes.
• Signal Processing and Telecommunications – Teaches system design, modulation techniques, and DSP algorithms powering communication networks and IoT devices.
• Microelectronics and Semiconductor Design – Centers on circuit design and hardware architecture for chips and semiconductor devices. Roles here are among the highest-paid in engineering.
• Embedded Systems and IoT – Combines hardware, software, and sensors to build smart devices and real-time control systems.
• Renewable Energy and Sustainable Engineering – Focuses on power conversion, solar and wind systems, and energy storage solutions aligned with sustainability initiatives.

These specializations not only help students develop deep technical skills but also open doors to some of the top-paying industries in electrical engineering. Fields like microelectronics and power systems often lead to careers in semiconductor manufacturing, energy infrastructure, and aerospace—similar in career potential to top mobile app development degree online graduates.

For example, electrical engineers in industries such as aerospace product manufacturing earn over $136,500 annually. Selecting a specialization aligned with these high-demand areas can significantly enhance both career prospects and long-term earnings.

How do you choose an online electrical engineering degree program?

Students should start by checking whether the school is regionally accredited and whether the program follows ABET standards, which are often required by top employers. Next, they should consider whether the program offers courses or specializations that align with job markets in high-demand areas.

For example, California, Texas, and Michigan have the highest employment levels for electrical engineers in the U.S., with California alone employing over 27,000 professionals in this field.

Programs that integrate industry partnerships, internships, or faculty connections in these states can give online students a hiring advantage. It’s also important to compare faculty credentials, transfer credit policies, and the school’s online learning technology. Some universities use outdated platforms, which can make it harder to complete lab-heavy courses remotely—an issue worth weighing as carefully as when selecting top humanities degree online options.

What career paths are available for graduates with an online electrical engineering degree?

An online electrical engineering degree opens the door to high-level careers that go far beyond becoming an electrician. While both roles deal with electrical systems, electrical engineers often lead large-scale projects, design complex circuitry, and work in high-tech industries. Graduates can choose from several specialized career paths based on their interests and skills.

Career paths include:

• Power Systems Engineer: These professionals design and maintain electrical power systems used in utilities and energy companies. They earn a median annual salary of $80,062.
• Electrical Design Engineer: These engineers work on electrical schematics and hardware layouts, especially in the manufacturing and tech industries. Their average annual salary is about $106,950.
• Systems Engineer: They oversee complex systems that blend electrical, mechanical, and software components. Total compensation often ranges from $120,000 to $143,000 annually in high-demand roles.
• R&D Engineer: These professionals work in research and development, creating next-generation technologies and prototypes. The median pay for an R&D electrical engineer is approximately $88,000.

Many find roles with major U.S. electrical services companies, such as Quanta Services, EMCOR Group, APi Group, MYR Group, and MasTec, where they contribute to critical infrastructure. These roles combine technical knowledge with large-scale project execution and align well with the specializations that online programs often offer.

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

Graduates of an online electrical engineering degree program enter a U.S. job market that is anchored in a rapidly expanding electrical services industry. The U.S. market was valued at approximately $163.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to nearly $252.8 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.6%. 

This growth is driven by investments in grid modernization, smart infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and the integration of renewable energy sources and automation technologies.

Demand is particularly high for engineers who specialize in technologies like smart grid deployment, IoT-enabled monitoring systems, and automated distribution networks. As utilities and commercial industries invest heavily in upgrades and new infrastructure, electrical engineers are increasingly sought after to design and implement these complex systems.

Graduates can take advantage of this growing market by aligning their skills with industry demands.  Pursuing certifications such as the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or eventually the Professional Engineer (PE) license can boost employability, particularly in sectors like utilities or infrastructure development.

Gaining hands-on experience through internships, co-ops, or capstone projects during their degree also makes candidates more competitive.

What networking opportunities and support services are available in online electrical engineering programs?

Online electrical engineering programs increasingly integrate robust support networks and digital collaboration tools to foster professional growth. Many programs offer virtual career fairs, mentorship with experienced alumni, and online student communities that facilitate peer-to-peer learning and industry insights. In addition to career services that connect students with recruiters and potential employers, select institutions partner with professional organizations to offer webinars, workshops, and specialized training sessions. These initiatives help students expand their professional networks and remain competitive in a dynamic job market. For those interested in broadening their technical expertise across disciplines, exploring affordable biotechnology master's programs may reveal complementary areas of growth.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Electrical Engineering Degree Program

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Electrical Engineering Degree Programs in 2025

What is the easiest degree to get in electrical engineering?

The easiest degree to get in electrical engineering is usually Electrical Engineering Technology (EET). It focuses more on practical, hands-on skills than on complex math and theory. Students learn how to work with circuits, test systems, and use engineering tools, without needing advanced calculus or deep physics. 

Many EET programs are available online and can be completed in less time than a traditional engineering degree. They’re ideal for working students or career changers who want flexibility and a clear path to technical roles in the field.

How difficult is electrical engineering?

Electrical engineering is considered one of the more challenging fields of study. It requires strong problem-solving skills, especially in math, physics, and programming. Students often deal with complex concepts like electromagnetism, circuit theory, and signal processing.

To make it easier, students can break topics into smaller parts and focus on understanding the “why” behind formulas. Using visual aids like circuit simulators or online videos can help make abstract ideas clearer. Joining study groups, seeking help early, and using academic support services also go a long way in reducing the learning curve.

What is the highest-paid type of electrical engineer?

The highest-paid type of electrical engineer works in specialized roles like RF engineering, ASIC design, or embedded systems for aerospace and defense. In practice, engineers in these specialized roles, especially those working at companies like Intel, Apple, Lockheed Martin, or NVIDIA, can make well over $150,000 annually. These positions are competitive, but demand is rising due to rapid growth in AI, 5G, and electric vehicle systems.

Which certification is best for electrical engineering?

For electrical engineers looking to specialize or move up fast, the Professional Engineer (PE) license is often the most impactful. In many states, this certification is legally required to sign off on public projects or work as a consultant. According to the National Society of Professional Engineers, licensed PEs earn about 20% more on average than their non‑licensed peers. 

Other certifications that also offer value are:

• Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) – ideal for engineers working with complex, integrated systems.
• Certified Energy Manager (CEM) – favored in the power and utilities sectors.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) – common among engineers overseeing multi-disciplinary projects.