Engineering is one of those fields where you need serious skills to get ahead. Whether you’re into software, systems, or electrical work, the competition is tough. That’s why more people are asking if an online degree in engineering is worth it.
If you’re thinking about studying engineering online but are not sure if it’ll lead to a good job, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down and see if going digital is the right move for your future.
What Makes a Degree Legit? Look at Accreditation First
The number one thing that gives a degree real value is accreditation. That’s basically a stamp of approval saying your school meets national standards.
In the US, engineering programs need ABET accreditation. This tells employers your education checks all the boxes. If a program doesn’t have it, you might have a hard time getting interviews, no matter how hard you worked.
So, before you sign up for any engineering online degree, double-check that it’s ABET-accredited. That’s your best way to make sure your degree will be taken seriously.
Bachelor’s or Master’s: Which Works Better Online?
You can study engineering online at either the bachelor’s or master’s level, but they don’t work the same way. Each comes with its own pros and cons.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees: Good in Some Cases
Most engineers need a bachelor’s degree to even get started. You can earn one online, but some types of engineering are more hands-on than others.
Fields like mechanical or electrical engineering often involve lab work or working with real equipment. That can be tough to do from home unless your program includes in-person sessions or lab access nearby.
In those cases, employers might prefer candidates from traditional schools. It’s not that online degrees are bad—it’s just harder to teach certain things without a physical setup.
Online Master’s Degrees: A Better Fit for Virtual Learning
Master’s degrees in engineering usually focus more on theory and leadership. That makes them a lot easier to complete online.
If you already have a bachelor’s and want to level up in your career, an online master’s could be a smart move. Many programs are made for full-time workers, so you can keep your job and study on the side.
Experience Still Matters Most
Let’s be real, degrees help, but experience is what really gets you hired.
If you’re already working in the field while studying online, that gives you a major advantage. It shows you can handle pressure, manage your time, and commit to your goals. Employers love that.
Plus, being in a real-world job while earning your engineering online degree means you’ll have more to talk about during interviews. You’ll also learn things that no textbook can teach.
What Do Employers Think?
This one’s simple. Most employers don’t care if your degree was earned online or in person. They care about what you know and what you can do.
As long as your program is accredited and teaches the right skills, hiring managers are more interested in your abilities than your study location. Some won’t even know your degree was online unless they dig deep or you bring it up.
So yes, online engineering degrees are respected. Just make sure your program is solid and matches what companies are looking for.
When Traditional Still Makes Sense
Even though online learning is growing fast, there are still times when traditional programs work better.
If you’re just starting and need a lot of hands-on practice, a campus program might give you a better foundation. Some students also learn better in person and like being around classmates and professors.
And that’s okay. If that’s you, go for it. You can always earn a master’s online later, once you have more experience and know where you want to specialize.
So, what’s the Best Move?
An engineering online degree isn’t just a backup plan anymore. It’s becoming a real and respected option, especially when backed by strong programs and real experience.
More employers care about what you know and what you can do, not just where you studied. Whether you’re aiming to level up in your current engineering job or shift into a new role, studying engineering online can help you get there.
It’s not about the format. It’s about showing you’ve got the skills to build, solve, and lead.