2024 Best Online Master’s in Electronics Programs
Updated on September 19, 2024
You can expand your knowledge of electrical circuitry and the intricate components of electrical technology with a masters in electronics engineering.
Electronics engineering is a niche area within the broader field of electrical engineering. Experts in this subfield develop and improve technologies that rely on electrical currents, such as aviation equipment, glucose sensors, and radar guns.
Students who earn an online masters degree in electronics engineering can pursue careers in a variety of areas, including computer science, engineering, robotics, and telecommunications.
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Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arkansas Tech University offers a Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering program either online or on campus. The program typically provides labs, research, and a variety of other hands-on learning experiences. The program requires a total of 36 credit hours, and commonly teaches both theory and practical applications.
Arkansas Tech University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arizona State University offers a Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering program online. The program requires a total of 36 hours or 10 courses. Courses are typically 7.5 or 15 weeks long and include Fundamentals of Microelectronics Packaging, Advanced Analog Integrated Circuits, Electron Transport in Nanostructures, and more.
ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Clarkson University offers an MS in Electrical Engineering both online and on campus. The program requires 30 credit hours and may be completed in about 2 years of full-time study. Concentrations may include Power, Data Communications and Networks, and Communications and Signal Processing. Labs and faculty mentorship are commonly offered throughout the program.
Clarkson University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Colorado State University offers either an ME or an MS in Electrical Engineering program online. The program requires 30 semester credits and courses may include Digital Control and Digital Filters, Telecommunications, and Computer Organization and Architecture. The curriculum may be customized to meet interests and career goals.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Columbia University offers an MS in Electrical Engineering program online. Optional concentrations include Microelectronic Devices, Multimedia Networking, Wireless and Mobile Communications, and Telecommunications Engineering. The program offers the option to write a master’s thesis to gain hands-on research experience during MS studies. GRE scores and a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required for admission.
Columbia University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Drexel University offers a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program online. The program requires the completion of 45 credits, and a thesis option is typically available. Electives in project management and other disciplines are usually offered. Courses are typically taught over 10 week quarters, which start 4 times per year.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
New Mexico State University offers a Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering program online. Concentrations include Digital Signal Processing, Electric Energy Systems, Photonics, Microelectronics, Electromagnetics, Computer Engineering, and Communications. The program does not require a thesis. The full-time program may be completed in 2 years and the part-time one in 5.
NMSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Norfolk State University offers an online Master of Science in Electronics Engineering program with a concentration in Microelectronics and Photonics. The degree requires 30 credit hours and can potentially be completed in 10 months. Courses are commonly taught in 7 week terms and usually have multiple start dates each year.
Norfolk State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
North Carolina State University offers a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program online. The program requires 31 credit hours of coursework but no thesis. GRE scores and a bachelor’s degree in engineering are required for admission consideration. Start dates are typically available in the fall and spring.
North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Ohio University offers an MS in Electrical Engineering program online. Optional concentrations are offered in Micro-Nano Devices and Systems, Electronic Navigation Systems, Computer Engineering, Communications, and Digital Signal Processing. A general program is also typically available. The program may be completed in just 2 years.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Pennsylvania State University offers a Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering program online.
The program requires the completion of 30 credits of classes, such as Linear Control Systems, Commercial Solar Electric Systems, and Engineering Electromagnetics. The program does not require a thesis but focuses on practical applications and in developing problem-solving skills.
The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Purdue University offers a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering program online. Concentrations include Microelectronics and Advanced Semiconductors. The program requires 30 hours of coursework and may be completed in 1 year of full-time study. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Purdue’s electrical engineering graduate program number 1 in the US.
Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
San Diego State University offers an online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program online. Concentrations offered include Energy Systems and Power and Communications and Networks. The program requires 30 credits that may be completed in 2 years. Classes are usually taught in an asynchronous format, and virtual office hours with professors are commonly available.
San Diego State University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Stevens Institute of Technology offers an MS or an ME in Electrical Engineering both online and on campus. Concentrations offered include Communications, Power Engineering, and Robotics and Automated Systems.
A dual degree option for an MBA is also offered. Opportunities for hands-on projects and conducting research are also typically available. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Stevens in the top 30 for online graduate engineering programs.
Stevens Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Arkansas offers a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program online with concentrations in Electric Power and in Control Systems. Terms are typically 8 weeks long, and the 24 credits with a thesis option may be completed in 2 years. A non-thesis track is also available but requires 30 credit hours of classes.
The U of A is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of California–Los Angeles offers an online MS in Electrical Engineering program online. Several concentrations are available, including Communications and Telecommunications, Control Systems, Electromagnetics, Embedded Computing Systems, and Nanotechnology. The completion of 36 credit hours plus a capstone project is required. Elective options for courses in other departments are typically available.
UCLA is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
The University of California–Riverside offers an online Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering program with a focus on power systems. Potential courses include Smart Grid Technology, Power Semiconductor Devices, and Industrial Automation Systems. The program requires 36 units of coursework, including a design project. The program may be completed in 13 months.
The University of California – Riverside is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The University of Colorado–Boulder offers an online MS in Electrical Engineering through the Coursera platform. Concentrations include Embedded Systems, Power Electronics, and Photonics and Optics. UC Boulder typically uses a performance-based admissions process where applications, test scores, and recommendation letters are not required. Classes are usually 8 weeks long and have 6 start dates per year.
CU Boulder is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program online or on campus. The program offers an emphasis in Aerospace Controls. The program requires the completion of 28 credits and may be completed in 1.5 years of full-time study and in 3 years attending part-time.
USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The University of Virginia offers an ME in Electrical Engineering program online. The program requires the completion of 30 semester hours. Potential courses include Solid State Devices, Geometry of Data, and Optoelectronic Devices. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is preferred for admission into the master’s program, but degrees in other engineering fields or applied sciences are often acceptable.
The University of Virginia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Much like with an on-campus or online master’s degree in robotics, a master’s in electronics engineering enables you to develop advanced technical knowledge and skills. This degree prepares graduates to keep up with and drive rapid technological changes.
Many employers need workers who can develop innovative electrical tools—such as space exploration vehicles and communication devices powered by renewable energy.
As an electronics engineering student, you can learn how to harness and amplify electrical currents. You could also study how to build, maintain, and repair devices and systems that use electricity. For example, electronics engineers work with circuit boards, computer hardware, fiber optics, and video game consoles.
An online masters degree in electronics engineering will generally offer courses on topics like:
Many masters programs provide opportunities to gain hands-on experience with electronic technology. You may complete an internship, earn an industry certification, or participate in extracurricular activities like a school robotics team. These activities could boost your resume and help you develop valuable skills like collaboration and problem-solving.
Additionally, an online masters program may require you to write a masters thesis. This project allows you to conduct original research in electronics engineering under faculty supervision. You could use an excerpt from your masters thesis as a writing sample if you apply for PhD programs down the road.
Graduates who earn an electronics engineering masters degree may qualify for advanced engineering and leadership positions.
Here are a few common job titles for professionals in this field:
Electronic engineering graduates can also work for or start their own consulting firms. These companies help clients plan, implement, and complete projects.
Some students continue their education by earning a PhD in Electronics Engineering or a related field. A doctoral degree could prepare you for a career in academia or research.
An online masters degree in electronic engineering can help graduates secure positions in a range of industries. Examples include aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, military, nuclear energy, renewable energy, robotics, and telecommunications.
Many people who earn a masters degree in electronics engineering become engineers. There are dozens of types of engineers that specialize in different disciplines. Some begin their careers with an electronics associate’s degree before advancing to specialized fields. For instance, electronics engineering graduates may pursue careers as electrical, electronics, industrial, or nuclear engineers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries of possible careers associated with electronics engineering.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $152,350 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | $128,170 |
| Aerospace Engineers | $122,270 |
| Nuclear Engineers | $120,380 |
| Sales Engineers | $103,710 |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineers | $101,780 |
| Avionics Technicians | $69,280 |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $63,640 |
| Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers | $61,760 |
| Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians | $60,360 |
Some students take on leadership or project management roles. They may oversee teams of engineers and other professionals and help projects stay on track.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that many jobs related to electronic engineering will experience steady growth over the next ten years. For instance, employment for electronics engineers is projected to grow by 6% over the next ten years.
Every Master of Science in Electronic Engineering program has unique course offerings based on faculty expertise and degree requirements. Here are a few examples of courses you may take:
Many masters programs also require students to write a masters thesis or complete a capstone project.
Here are a few considerations to keep in mind as you search for the electronic engineering masters program that’s right for you:
Comparing programs can help you narrow your options and find the best fit.
Students must meet admissions criteria to get accepted into an electronic engineering masters program. Admissions requirements vary by school but may include:
It’s beneficial to research each program’s admissions requirements before applying to ensure you have all the documents you need.
You can ensure that you’ll receive a high-quality education by enrolling in a regionally accredited university. A school earns regional accreditation by meeting stringent requirements established by a regional accrediting organization. Attending an accredited college can help you thrive academically and professionally.
A degree from an accredited school can also help your resume stand out to potential employers. Additionally, many PhD programs only admit students who have graduated from accredited institutions. It’s also necessary to be enrolled in an accredited university in order to qualify for certain financial aid opportunities.
Every state requires engineers in all disciplines to get licensed before practicing. Requirements vary by state but typically include:
After you earn your license, you may be required to take continuing education credits throughout your professional career. These classes help you stay on top of the latest trends and safety regulations in electronics engineering.
You could see if you qualify for financial aid to help you pay for your education. Many students receive assistance from the federal government.
You could see if you’re eligible for need-based grants, student loans, and work-study programs. You can determine your options by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You could also explore grant and scholarship opportunities from your college. It may be necessary to fill out a separate application for these opportunities, so it’s beneficial to inquire with your program’s financial aid office.
Many professional associations and community groups offer scholarships to eligible applicants as well. Some employers also provide professional development funds to help workers continue their education.
Joining a professional organization may give you access to conferences, professional development workshops, and networking events.
Here are three prestigious associations for electronics engineers:
Many professional organizations offer reduced membership prices for students.
A master’s in electronics engineering online degree may offer an opportunity to deepen your knowledge of electric currents and technology. You can learn about the inner workings of complex electronic devices and study components like microchips and transistors.
Electronics engineering has many applications in an increasingly technology-dependent world. For example, some professionals design consumer electronics like microwave ovens and home security systems. Alternatively, others specialize in emerging technologies like automation, bioelectronics, and robotics.
A masters in electronics engineering degree online can help prepare you for careers in a range of industries, including the automotive, consumer electronics, and healthcare industries.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the demand for electronics engineers is growing about as fast as average. Job openings for these specialists are projected to increase by 6% over the next ten years.
Several other jobs associated with electronic engineering will likely grow at a similar pace. For example, avionics technicians and computer hardware engineers are both expected to grow at a rate of 5%. Specializing in growing areas like automation and robotics may help you compete for the most in-demand jobs in electronics engineering.
Students who earn an online masters degree in electronics engineering can qualify for many rewarding careers. Most graduates become professional engineers. You can specialize in a variety of subdisciplines, like aerospace engineering, robotics engineering, industrial engineering, and sales engineering.
Some students use their graduate degrees to secure leadership or management jobs. For instance, some professionals become product managers or project managers. You could also consider working at an engineering consulting firm. Consultants advise clients and supervise engineering projects.
You can typically complete an electronic engineering masters degree in 2 years if you enroll full-time. Some online programs offer accelerated options. For example, you may complete your degree in as little as 1 year if you enroll year-round in a 36-credit hour program with no thesis requirement.
It will generally take you longer to finish if you write a masters thesis. You could also extend the length of your studies if you enroll part-time. You may prefer the added flexibility of part-time studies, though, if you have additional work or life commitments.
Electronics and electrical engineering are separate but closely related disciplines. Here are a few key differences.
| MS in Electronics Engineering | MS in Electrical Engineering |
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If you want to focus on studying electronic devices, a masters in electronics engineering could be a strategic choice.
Yes, a master in electronics engineering degree is worth it for many students. This degree can help you start or advance a career as a professional engineer.
You can apply your skills in a wide range of industries. For example, you could work in biotechnology, consumer electronics, manufacturing, mining, or telecommunications. People who love technology may enjoy studying and finetuning the complex inner workings of devices. Some even use their knowledge to develop innovative technologies that improve lives.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for electronics engineers is expected to increase by 6% over the next ten years.
You can expand your technical abilities by pursuing an online masters degree in electronics engineering. If you have an online engineering bachelor’s degree, this program will help you deepen your knowledge and skills.
This degree teaches you essential concepts and theories related to electrical currents and devices. You can study fascinating topics like advanced robotics, bioelectricity, and optics.
Graduates can pursue careers in numerous industries, ranging from automotive to telecommunications. Additionally, some students use their master’s as a stepping stone to a PhD program in electronics, electrical engineering, or a related field.
Are you ready to take the next step in your electronics engineering journey? You can begin today by researching online masters programs from accredited universities.
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