Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Updated October 25, 2023
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If you aspire to a rewarding career in electrical engineering - especially if your sights are set on management or design positions - an online master's in electrical engineering can put you at a distinct advantage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% employment growth for electrical engineers through 2032, and data from Georgetown's Center on Education and the Workforce indicate increased salary potential for graduate degree holders. In wireless communications, robotics, and photonics, a master's degree is typically required. Some companies also invest in their employees by subsidizing the cost of a graduate degree, so be sure to check with your employer.
Featured Online Schools
Choosing a Program
You can look forward to fascinating coursework and concentrations for a master's in electrical engineering program. Sample classes include embedded systems design and architecture, digital signal processing, power system dynamics, advanced robotics, renewable energy integration, and solid state electronics. Most programs offer thesis and non-thesis degree paths comprising 30-36 units of coursework, including six to 12 credits of electives and independent study. Business professionals focused on management and practical aspects of engineering may elect to pursue a non-thesis path.
Specializations available include systems and information processing, wireless communication systems and technology, microwave, antenna, and photonic systems, signal processing and communications, electronic circuits and systems, electromagnetics, and photonics.
Master's programs are typically flexible and tailored toward working professionals. Many courses are taught early in the morning or late in the afternoon to allow students working in the industry to attend.
Other available options include GRE waivers for eligible applicants, customized degree plans, and opportunities to complete coursework in related departments, such as physics, computer science, mathematics, or aerospace engineering. Some schools maintain membership in regional consortiums, and agree to accept transfer credits from affiliated schools for up to half of the required coursework. Exceptional undergraduates can also pursue accelerated programs in which they earn both a bachelor's and master's degree.
For career information, skip down:
Online Master's in Electrical Engineering Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
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The Best Online Master's in Electrical Engineering Degree Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in electrical engineering at University of Florida, located in Gainesville, prioritizes flexibility. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in electrical engineering. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in electrical engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through networking events.
University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master's in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
#2 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Stanford University
Stanford, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in electrical engineering can earn their degree from Stanford University, located in Stanford, California. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to electrical engineering. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in electrical engineering or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Stanford University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 4%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $52,479
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $52,479
#3 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's can earn their degree from North Carolina State University at Raleigh. One option includes a master of science in electrical engineering. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to electrical engineering. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in electrical engineering.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of science in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
#4 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, located in Minneapolis, enrolls master's students in its online master's in electrical engineering program. The rigorous curriculum prepares enrollees for leadership responsibilities. Master's graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in electrical engineering or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master's of electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,580
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,204
#5 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in a graduate degree can earn their master's in electrical and computer engineering at Purdue University-Main Campus, located in West Lafayette, Indiana. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing students for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in electrical engineering. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a degree in electrical engineering or a related field may need to meet prerequisites to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master's in electrical and computer engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,208
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,010
#6 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in a master's can earn their master's in electrical and computer engineering at Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, Maryland. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on electrical and computer engineering. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through online events.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master's in electrical and computer engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
#7 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in a master's can earn their master's in electrical and computer engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, located in Worcester, Massachusetts. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing learners for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree allows graduates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to electrical and computer engineering. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a background in electrical engineering may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 49%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in electrical and computer engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $28,188
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,188
#8 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Atlanta, Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus offers an online master of science in electrical and computer engineering. The rigorous curriculum prepares students for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in electrical engineering. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in electrical engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 21%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of science in electrical and computer engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,064
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,140
#9 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio-based University of Cincinnati-Main Campus enrolls students in its online master of engineering in electrical engineering program. The degree builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the electrical engineering field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum explores electrical engineering research and methodologies. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in electrical engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of engineering in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,790
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,532
#10 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of science in electrical engineering at Oklahoma State University-Main Campus, located in Stillwater, offers high academic quality. The program helps students move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in electrical engineering. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the field.
Online enrollees complete local internships to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of science in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034
#11 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of science in electrical engineering degree at Missouri University of Science and Technology, located in Rolla, uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to electrical engineering. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in electrical engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Missouri University of Science and Technology at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of science in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,452
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,558
#12 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking an online master's in electrical engineering can enroll in the program at University of Idaho, located in Moscow. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training students for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum explores electrical engineering research and methodologies. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a background in electrical engineering may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
University of Idaho at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,754
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,990
#13 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Arizona State University-Tempe
Tempe, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of science in engineering in electrical engineering at Arizona State University-Tempe, ranks as a top degree. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing students for leadership positions. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in electrical engineering. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program recommends a background in electrical engineering.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Arizona State University-Tempe at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of science in engineering in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,160
#14 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Clarkson University
Potsdam, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clarkson University, located in Potsdam, New York, offers a flexible online master's in electrical engineering. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in electrical engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with local internships. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Clarkson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master's in electrical engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $33,312
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $33,312
#15 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University hosts a top-ranked master's in electrical engineering. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the electrical engineering field and related industries. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in electrical engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Master's in electrical engineering.
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
Online Master's in Electrical Engineering Careers
Graduates of electrical engineering master's programs may work in research and development, nanotechnology, robotics, consulting, semiconductors, navigation systems, biomedical systems, physics, circuit design, aviation, or technical sales. In later career stages, some graduates advance to supervisory positions and become licensed as professional engineers, which offers them greater independence in decision making.
- Electrical engineer: Electrical engineers design and implement components for electrical equipment, instruments, facilities, systems, or products, such as motors or radar systems. They research, develop, test, and improve electrical devices, prepare technical specifications and drawings to meet established standards, and supervise installation, maintenance, manufacturing, and testing of electrical equipment to ensure proper compliance with regulations.
- Median Annual Salary: $104,610
- Projected Growth Rate: 5%
- Sales engineer: Technical sales engineers demonstrate and sell technically complex products and services to businesses, such as tools, devices, and machinery. They use their engineering expertise and extensive, detailed knowledge of their products' technical specifications to research and identify potential clients, understand their needs, and present products in persuasive, convincing ways.
- Median Annual Salary: $108,530
- Projected Growth Rate: 5%
- Engineering manager: Engineering managers plan, implement, and maintain procedures for the design, development, installation, testing, and maintenance of electrical equipment. They direct engineering teams, ensuring that projects are properly staffed and production plans are coordinated. They review and improve manufacturing processes, prepare budgets, and consult with marketing and production to develop product specifications.
- Median Annual Salary: $159,920
- Projected Growth Rate: 4%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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