2026 Easiest Online Engineering Degree Programs Ranking in Kansas

What can I expect from Online engineering degree in Kansas?

The average cost of an online engineering degree in Kansas is quite manageable, especially compared to traditional on-campus programs. Many residents benefit from in-state tuition rates offered by institutions like Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. These rates often range from $8,000 to $15,000 per year depending on the school and specific program, making it a practical choice for students balancing budgets and busy schedules.

Graduates from these programs often highlight how this affordability allowed them to pursue a degree without the financial strain of moving or commuting. For example, one graduate reported paying only a fraction of what their peers at out-of-state universities spent, while still receiving quality instruction accredited by recognized bodies such as ABET.

Additionally, many Kansas schools provide financial aid options and support services designed to ease the burden on online students. This includes academic advising and career counseling, which ensure that students stay on track without sacrificing income from current work commitments.

Overall, the cost-effective tuition combined with flexible learning options makes earning an online engineering degree in Kansas accessible and rewarding for those committed to advancing their careers.

Where can I work with Online engineering degree in Kansas?

Graduates with an online engineering degree in Kansas typically find rewarding careers across several thriving industries. Many from institutions like Kansas State University and the University of Kansas secure positions in the aerospace sector, working with companies such as Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita. These roles often involve designing aircraft components or managing quality control, offering salaries frequently above $80,000 with experience.

Others transition into manufacturing, applying skills to improve plant operations or develop automotive parts. Practical experience gained through campus projects often helps graduates step confidently into roles focused on automation or product innovation.

In agriculture, engineering graduates contribute to irrigation technologies and soil conservation, addressing real challenges faced by Kansas's leading crop producers. This hands-on work commonly brings fulfillment to those eager to impact sustainability.

Renewable energy is another growing field where graduates, especially from Kansas technical programs, build careers in wind farm maintenance and grid integration. Many report excitement about contributing to clean energy progress locally.

Finally, local government and construction projects provide steady opportunities for civil engineers, with state agencies valuing ABET-accredited online degrees for entry-level positions.

How much can I make with Online engineering degree in Kansas?

Graduates from online engineering degree programs in Kansas can expect competitive salaries, starting around $65,000 for entry-level positions. For example, those who earned their degrees from respected institutions like Kansas State University or the University of Kansas have reported starting salaries close to these figures, helping them manage early career expenses with confidence.

As you gain experience, salaries grow substantially. Mechanical engineers, common among Kansas graduates, earn a mean annual wage of about $105,220, allowing many to enjoy financial stability in mid-career. Electrical engineers often see even higher earnings, averaging $117,680 per year, particularly in hubs like Wichita where the aviation and energy sectors thrive.

Civil engineering graduates can expect mean wages near $101,160 annually, positioning themselves well for roles in infrastructure development across Kansas. Industrial engineers similarly net around $103,150. These numbers reflect practical returns on investment in an online degree and certifications from trusted Kansas programs.

Graduates consistently highlight how combining an online degree with local licensure, like the PE certification, opens doors to these higher pay brackets, making the journey not only feasible but rewarding.

How long does it take to complete Online engineering degree in Kansas?

Completing an online engineering degree in Kansas typically takes about four years for full-time students, especially at well-known institutions like the University of Kansas or Kansas State University. Graduates often share how balancing coursework with work and family commitments tests their time management, but the flexible online format makes it manageable. For example, many students appreciate the ability to accelerate their studies by taking extra courses or transferring credits from prior college work, shaving months off the timeline.

Part-time enrollment is common among working professionals, extending program completion to five or six years. Students from Wichita State University's online engineering programs often mention that pacing themselves this way reduces stress and improves retention without sacrificing career growth.

Graduate engineering degrees typically require two years full-time, yet part-time options can stretch to three or more years, helping students maintain steady income. ABET accreditation at Kansas universities ensures the curriculum is rigorous but tailored to real-world demands, which contributes positively to graduates' confidence as they enter the workforce.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Ensuring your online engineering degree is ABET-accredited is the first step toward meeting industry standards and qualifying for licensure exams. Accreditation guarantees that coursework in areas such as mathematics, physics, and specialized engineering topics adheres to nationally recognized benchmarks. Graduates of ABET-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, the prerequisite for earning your Professional Engineer (PE) license. Passing the FE exam—often called the Engineer in Training (EIT) exam—typically requires a solid grasp of subjects like statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and circuit analysis, all core components of accredited curricula. After accumulating four years of work experience under a licensed PE, candidates can take the PE exam in disciplines such as civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Holding a PE license not only enhances credibility but also expands opportunities in consulting, project leadership, and public sector roles. When comparing programs, look for clear accreditation statements and support resources for exam preparation. For broader context on affordability and accreditation trends in nearby regions, you may also explore our Affordable Engineering Degree Programs Ranking in Alabama to see how institutional quality and cost intersect. By prioritizing accredited programs and understanding licensure pathways, Kansas students can confidently navigate their professional journey from online classrooms to licensed practice.

What's the difference between online and on-campus engineering degree?

Choosing between online and on-campus engineering degrees in Kansas hinges on how you want to balance flexibility with hands-on experience. Online programs, popular among working professionals, let you study remotely on your own schedule, a major benefit if you live far from schools like the University of Kansas or Kansas State University. Graduates often appreciate that asynchronous lectures and digital tools fit their busy lives without sacrificing academic rigor.

On-campus degrees, meanwhile, immerse you in lab work and face-to-face mentoring essential for engineering practice. Many graduates recall how direct access to campus resources-like engineering labs and career services-at Kansas's top universities boosted their confidence and skillset. They highlight the value of in-person teamwork and networking, which can spark opportunities in local industries.

Tuition for both paths typically aligns in Kansas, $8,000 to $12,000 annually for public schools, but online students save on housing and travel. Just remember to verify your online program's ABET accreditation to ensure professional licensing eligibility in the state.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

Ensuring that an online engineering degree in Kansas meets rigorous quality standards is essential for long-term career success and employer recognition. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the gold-standard accreditor for engineering programs, and ABET-accredited degrees demonstrate that a curriculum meets industry-accepted criteria in mathematics, science, and core engineering principles. Prospective students should confirm a program’s ABET status via the ABET website and verify institutional accreditation—typically granted by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)—to ensure their credits and qualifications are widely recognized. Beyond formal accreditation, program quality hinges on faculty expertise, curriculum relevance, and industry partnerships. Top online programs in Kansas engage faculty with real-world engineering experience and maintain advisory boards composed of industry leaders. These collaborations inform course content, capstone projects, and internship opportunities, giving students practical exposure to challenges they will face in the workforce. For example, many graduates leverage their ABET-accredited credentials to secure careers with industrial engineering degree, underscoring the tangible benefits of high-quality accreditation and experiential learning. Key quality assurance checkpoints: • ABET accreditation for program curricula and outcomes • Regional accreditation (HLC) for institutional standards • Faculty credentials, research activity, and teaching excellence • Industry advisory boards and hands-on project opportunities • Regular curriculum review cycles and student outcome assessments

What is the average cost of Online engineering degree in Kansas?

The average cost of an online engineering degree in Kansas varies notably based on residency and the institution chosen. Recent data shows the median total cost for such a degree is approximately $25,890, but in-state students often pay significantly less, around $12,243, compared to out-of-state students who might expect bills closer to $27,159. This difference makes attending a public university as a Kansas resident a financially smart choice. Graduates from schools like Kansas State University and the University of Kansas appreciate the manageable tuition paired with quality education, enabling them to focus more on hands-on learning experiences without the heavy burden of debt.

When planning your budget for an online engineering degree, it's important to consider additional expenses beyond tuition. These include fees for technology, course materials, and sometimes specialized software or lab kits that programs might require. Many engineering students recommend contacting financial aid offices early, as scholarships and aid can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs-helping make total tuition and fees for Kansas online engineering programs more affordable.

For students curious about maximizing their educational investment through credentials, exploring what certificate makes the most money can provide practical advice on supplementing an engineering degree with valuable certifications.

Tips for Success in Your Online Engineering Program

Embarking on an online engineering degree in Kansas requires strategic planning and proactive engagement with your academic environment. Begin by crafting a structured schedule that allocates dedicated time slots for lectures, assignments, and exam preparation. This disciplined approach helps mitigate the challenges of remote learning and ensures that you remain on track despite the flexible nature of online programs. Engage with your instructors and peers by participating in virtual study groups and discussion forums, as these communities foster collaboration and provide a support network integral to your academic success. Additionally, take full advantage of the tutoring services, academic advising, and career development resources available through your institution. These services can offer personalized guidance to help you navigate coursework and balance your professional and personal commitments. Moreover, if budget considerations are a factor, consider researching cost-effective options; for instance, many prospective students seek information on the cheapest engineering school in kansas to find programs that offer both quality education and financial feasibility. In combining disciplined study habits with active participation and informed decision-making, you can effectively turn the online learning environment into a launchpad for a successful and rewarding engineering career.

What financial aid is available to Online engineering degree students in Kansas?

Students enrolled in online engineering programs at popular Kansas institutions like Kansas State University or the University of Kansas often start their financial aid journey with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing this early opens doors to federal Pell Grants covering up to $7,395 annually, a relief many graduates recall as vital for covering tuition without added debt.

State-based options also ease the burden. The Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship and Kansas Comprehensive Grant helped several engineering students reduce costs substantially, especially those attending public universities. These grants target residents pursuing degrees in technical fields, making them a practical step for Kansas online students.

Many have also found merit and need-based scholarships through their colleges or organizations like the Kansas Society of Professional Engineers. These awards often come paired with internship offers, providing both financial support and valuable experience.

Working professionals benefit from tuition assistance programs offered by local manufacturing and tech companies, turning their current jobs into stepping stones for career growth without overwhelming costs. Graduates frequently recommend exploring these programs early to maximize savings and minimize loan dependence.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in Online engineering degree program in Kansas?

To enroll in an online engineering degree program in Kansas, you first need a high school diploma or GED, just like many graduates from major Kansas universities experienced. They ensured their transcripts clearly showed strong performance in core STEM subjects-math, physics, and chemistry-which form the backbone for engineering courses. For instance, completing algebra through calculus or proving math proficiency is a common hurdle you'll need to clear.

If you're transferring credits from another college, a GPA around 2.5 to 3.0 is typical, along with official transcripts that detail prerequisite courses similar to those at local institutions. Practical experience from grads at these universities highlights how submitting solid, organized documents speeds up acceptance.

Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT might be required, though some schools have recently become test-optional, so it's smart to check each university's policy. International students often must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores demonstrating English proficiency, an important step shared by many successful applicants.

Beyond academics, expect to provide letters of recommendation or personal statements and complete online application portals. Reliable internet and compatible technology were vital for Kansas students who thrived in their remote studies.

What courses are typically in Online engineering degree programs in Kansas?

Online engineering degree programs in Kansas equip students with a reliable mix of foundational and specialized courses tailored to real-world demands. Graduates from Kansas State University and the University of Kansas often highlight how core subjects like Calculus, Differential Equations, Physics, Statics, and Thermodynamics laid the groundwork for understanding complex problems they later tackled in internships and jobs.

Practical courses such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Engineering Graphics, and Project Management provide hands-on skills that many students found directly transferable to work environments. For instance, learning Engineering Economics helped graduates confidently evaluate project costs and budgets, a crucial step in their early careers.

Specialized tracks-whether mechanical, civil, electrical, or software engineering-allow students to focus deeply on areas like circuits or structural analysis. These courses, combined with capstone projects and virtual labs, create experiences that students describe as engaging and professionally rewarding.

Focusing on these courses when planning your studies ensures you build both technical expertise and practical problem-solving skills essential to succeed as an engineer in Kansas and beyond.

What types of specializations are available in Online engineering degree programs in Kansas?

Online engineering degree specializations in Kansas commonly include mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering, each providing practical skills suited to regional industries. Graduates from local universities often highlight mechanical engineering due to its ties with Wichita's aerospace sector, making it ideal for those aiming at aerospace manufacturing. Civil engineering appeals to students focused on infrastructure projects across the state, where ongoing highway and water management improvements promise steady job growth.

Students pursuing Kansas online engineering program concentrations in software or systems engineering find themselves well-prepared for tech roles, blending engineering fundamentals with digital skills increasingly valued in agriculture technology fields here. Others appreciate how environmental or industrial engineering align with sustainability and production optimization demands, relevant for regional employers.

If affordability is key, public university tuition averages make selecting an online path attractive. Many recent graduates express satisfaction balancing study and work, affirming these pathways as achievable and rewarding. For those considering less traditional routes, exploring easy associates degrees can also provide a solid foundation toward advanced engineering opportunities.

How do you choose the best Online engineering degree in Kansas?

Start by verifying ABET accreditation, which graduates from Kansas State University and the University of Kansas often highlight as a key factor in their career readiness. This accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards, crucial for licensure and employment in Kansas's competitive job market. Next, match your interests with available specializations like mechanical or electrical engineering, as these align closely with Kansas's strong aerospace and manufacturing sectors.

Consider tuition costs realistically. Many students find programs within the range of $8,000 to $12,000 annually at public Kansas institutions offer a solid balance of quality and affordability. Financial aid or scholarships can make these affordable online engineering degrees in Kansas even more accessible.

Flexibility matters. Graduates appreciate programs with asynchronous classes that fit around work or family responsibilities. Strong faculty engagement, tutoring, and career services in these programs provide essential support. Lastly, look for connections with local employers like Garmin, which help ensure smoother job placement after graduation.

For those aiming to accelerate their studies, exploring accelerated online master's degree programs can save valuable time and launch your engineering career sooner.

What career paths are available for Online engineering degree students in Kansas?

Graduates with an online engineering degree in Kansas find strong career opportunities within the state's robust aerospace industry. Many secure positions in companies focusing on product design and systems integration, benefiting from the high demand for skills in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Those who studied at well-known Kansas institutions often share stories about applying classroom knowledge directly to projects at Spirit AeroSystems or Textron Aviation, fueling their career growth.

Civil infrastructure is another practical path for graduates, with roles in transportation planning and environmental consulting common among alumni from colleges offering online engineering programs. These graduates appreciate the steady demand in public works and construction firms throughout Kansas, reflecting the state's sustained investments in infrastructure.

Energy and manufacturing sectors are also thriving, particularly in wind power technology. Graduates specializing in sustainable energy design find success contributing to Kansas's renewable energy expansion, often relating how hands-on projects during their studies translated to job-ready skills. This diversity ensures online engineering degree jobs in Kansas remain promising.

Finally, graduates often enter software or systems engineering roles in tech hubs like Wichita and Kansas City, blending engineering fundamentals with data analysis and automation expertise. Choosing an affordable, reputable program is key, and many students leverage resources like the cheapest degree online to reduce costs while maximizing career returns.

What is the job market for Online engineering degree in Kansas?

The job market for graduates holding an online engineering degree in Kansas is strong, especially in sectors like aerospace, manufacturing, and agriculture technology. Graduates from universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University report landing positions within established companies in Wichita and Kansas City that value practical skills and accredited online education. Many appreciate the balance between competitive salaries-averaging around $80,000 annually-and the state's affordable cost of living, which supports a comfortable lifestyle.

For those evaluating the engineering careers demand Kansas 2026, steady growth in renewable energy and applied engineering roles makes this an ideal time to enter the field. Online programs offer the flexibility to gain current industry knowledge without relocating, which several graduates have found invaluable when balancing work and study. To maximize opportunities, students should pursue internships and certifications to complement their degree.

Prospective students exploring options can also consider the best school for trade skills online to reduce debt while preparing for the local job market. This pragmatic approach ensures they remain competitive and well-prepared for Kansas' evolving engineering landscape.