Online vs On-Campus Engineering Bachelor's Programs

Online: Online engineering bachelor's programs offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, often at a lower cost than traditional on-campus programs. These programs typically utilize a combination of self-paced coursework, live virtual classes, and hands-on lab experiences through simulations or on-site intensives.

On-Campus: On-campus engineering bachelor's programs provide a traditional, in-person learning experience with access to campus resources, such as labs, libraries, and face-to-face interactions with professors and peers. These programs may be better suited for students who prefer a structured, on-site learning environment.

Choosing the Best Online Engineering Bachelor's Degree Program for You

When selecting the best online engineering bachelor's degree program, it's important to consider factors such as cost and program duration. Online programs can often be more affordable and completed faster than traditional on-campus programs, making them an attractive option for many students.

Is it cheaper to get an Engineering bachelor's degree online?

In many cases, yes, it is cheaper to get an engineering bachelor's degree online. Online programs typically have lower tuition rates, as they don't require the same overhead costs as on-campus programs, such as maintaining physical facilities and providing on-campus amenities. Additionally, online students may be able to save on costs associated with commuting, housing, and other expenses related to attending an on-campus program.

Financial aid options, such as FAFSA and Pell Grants, are also available for eligible online students, helping to make the cost of an online engineering bachelor's degree more manageable. Many online programs also offer scholarships and other forms of financial assistance to help offset the cost of tuition.

Is it faster to get an Engineering bachelor's degree online?

Yes, it is often faster to get an engineering bachelor's degree online. Online programs typically offer more flexible and accelerated course schedules, allowing students to complete their degree requirements at a faster pace than traditional on-campus programs.

When looking for an online engineering bachelor's degree program, consider the following:

• General admission requirements: Many online programs have more lenient admission requirements compared to their on-campus counterparts, making it easier to enroll.
• The enrollment process: The enrollment process for online programs is often more streamlined and can be completed entirely online, reducing the time it takes to get started.
• Accelerated course options: Online programs may offer accelerated or condensed course options, enabling students to complete their degree requirements faster.
• Asynchronous learning: The flexibility of asynchronous learning, where students can access course materials and complete assignments on their own schedule, can allow for a faster completion timeline.

Compared to traditional on-campus programs, online engineering bachelor's degrees can often be completed in a shorter timeframe, making them an attractive option for students who want to earn their degree more quickly.

How Do Employers View Bachelor Degrees Earned Online?

In general, employers view online bachelor's degrees in engineering positively, as long as the program is properly accredited. Many employers recognize that online education has become a mainstream and reputable option for earning a degree.

However, it's important to ensure that the online engineering bachelor's program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), as this ensures the program meets rigorous educational standards. Employers often place a higher value on ABET-accredited online engineering degrees, as they can be confident that the graduate has received a quality education.

Additionally, employers may be more interested in the specific skills and knowledge gained through the online engineering program, rather than solely focusing on the delivery method. As long as the online program provides the necessary technical and practical training, employers are generally receptive to candidates with online engineering bachelor's degrees.

Online Colleges with High Acceptance Rates

Several accredited colleges and universities have made a mark with their online Engineering bachelor's programs, showing high acceptance rates and strong student retention and graduation, according to the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Here are five such schools:

Walnut Hill College

Acceptance Rate: 100%
Full-time Retention Rate: 42.19%
Graduation Rate: 84.02%
Type of Educational Institution: Proprietary