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Electrical engineers combine their creativity with scientific knowledge to develop new ideas and technological innovations. Professionals with an electrical engineering masters degree often work with with electricity, technology, and systems design. Students have a variety of specialization options and can focus on their passions. Graduates with a masters in electrical engineering design, create, and test new technologies and may work with circuits, motors, renewable energy sources, or communication systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electrical and electronics engineers earn an average annual salary of $97,970, and the bureau projects the profession to grow 7% by 2026. Keep reading to learn about the educational requirements to enter the electrical engineering field.
An online master’s degree in electrical engineering can open doors to exciting new career opportunities. However, with many programs to choose from, selecting the right one is key. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through what to look for when evaluating online electrical engineering master’s programs.
Whether you want to specialize in power systems semiconductor devices communications, controls, or another area, I’ll help you find a program that aligns with your goals. By the end, you’ll understand how to choose a program that provides the optimal mix of practical coursework, respected faculty, flexibility, and value for your investment.
Why Pursue a Master’s in Electrical Engineering?
Let’s first look at why a master’s in electrical engineering is a worthwhile educational investment. Here are some of the top benefits:
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Career advancement: A master’s degree allows you to take on more senior engineering roles and increases your earning potential. Many managerial positions require a master’s.
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Specialization: Master’s programs let you gain deeper expertise in a specific area like power electronics, RF engineering, etc. This helps you stand out.
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Cutting-edge knowledge Master’s curriculum covers the latest advancements in electrical engineering not taught at the undergraduate level
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Hands-on learning: Many master’s programs incorporate design projects, research opportunities, and lab work. This builds critical practical skills.
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Networking: You’ll build connections with classmates, professors, and alumni that can lead to job prospects.
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Higher starting salary: Master’s graduates typically start out earning 10-30% more than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
Now that you see the value of a master’s, let’s explore how to pick the right program for you.
Key Factors to Consider in Your Program Search
As you evaluate potential online electrical engineering master’s programs, keep the following factors in mind:
Reputation and Accreditation
A program’s reputation matters. Programs that are well-respected in the field indicate they provide a quality, rigorous education. Be sure to look for regional and ABET accreditation as well, which ensures standards are met.
Faculty Background
What is the educational and real-world experience of the faculty? Professors who actively work in electrical engineering fields can provide insider perspective. Look for student reviews on how accessible and engaging the instructors are.
Curriculum Alignment
Does the curriculum cover topics that align with your interests and career goals? Look for specializations in areas like communications, power systems, microelectronics, etc. Variety of electives is also useful.
Cost and ROI
What is the tuition cost and will your employer offer tuition assistance? Make sure the program offers strong enough ROI in terms of career prospects to justify the investment.
Flexibility
If working full-time, you’ll need flexibility. See if the program offers evening/weekend classes, mix of online and in-person courses, personalized pacing, etc. to accommodate your schedule.
Hands-on Learning
Look for opportunities like labs, research projects, and design challenges to apply your learning. Programs with remote access options to equipment are a plus.
Networking and Alumni
Having an engaged alumni network to tap into for mentoring and job connections is a huge benefit.
Now let’s look at two highly-ranked programs worth considering.
Johns Hopkins Electrical Engineering Master’s
Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals offers a top-ranked online electrical engineering master’s program designed for working professionals.
Some highlights include:
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#1 ranked online EE master’s by U.S. News & World Report
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Practical focus with remote access to conduct lab experiments
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Industry-leading faculty who work in the field
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Flexible pacing with both online and on-campus courses
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State-of-the-art curriculum covering communications, power, controls, microelectronics, and more
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Robust alumni network for career support and connections
This program is ideal for those looking for a rigorous curriculum taught by engineering leaders without having to put their career on hold.
Stanford Electrical Engineering Master’s
For those able to attend classes in-person, Stanford University offers an on-campus electrical engineering master’s with the following distinguishing features:
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World-renowned professors on the cutting edge of EE research
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Ties to Silicon Valley providing unparalleled industry connections
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State-of-the-art facilities like fabrication labs and cleanrooms
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Opportunities to join research groups tackling groundbreaking projects
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Vibrant community of high-caliber peers to collaborate with
Stanford provides access to some of the globe’s most brilliant electrical engineering minds. However, the program does require relocating to Stanford full-time.
Final Tips for Choosing the Best Program
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Take time to research programs in depth and weigh all the factors important to you, from cost to curriculum focus.
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Speak with current students and alumni to get insider perspectives on different programs.
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Determine whether an online or in-person format best suits your situation.
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Apply to 3-5 programs to give you options to compare offers.
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Contact faculty and advisors with any questions you have about a given program.
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Trust your instincts on which program feels like the best culture fit.
Earning a master’s in electrical engineering opens up an array of new career opportunities. But choosing the right program for your goals and needs is crucial. Use this guide to evaluate programs on factors like curriculum, cost, flexibility, and networking to select one that will successfully propel you forward as an electrical engineering leader.
How to Choose a Master’s Program in Electrical Engineering
When choosing between electrical engineering masters programs, students should consider factors including program length, course format, available concentrations, and final project requirements. Most programs take about two years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated programs that require only one year. Students can study on a part-time or full-time basis, and learners may continue working while earning their degree. Part-time students typically take about three to five years to graduate.
Students can pursue online or on-campus programs. Working professionals often benefit from the flexibility of online programs, which do not require learners to commute to campus. Asynchronous classes, which are commonly offered online, allow students to complete coursework at their convenience.
Students should also consider each prospective programs curriculum and choose a program that offers a concentration that is relevant to their career goals. Additionally, many programs require a capstone project, which may involve creating a new engineering design or participating in a final seminar or internship.
Master’s in Electrical Engineering Program Admissions
Though admissions requirements vary by school, most electrical engineering masters programs require applicants to hold a bachelors degree from an accredited school, complete an application essay, and submit letters of recommendation. Most applicants choose three to eight graduate programs. When selecting schools, learners should consider each programs curriculum and cost.
Applicants to online programs may need to demonstrate their ability to succeed in school while meeting personal and professional obligations. Online learners may also need to declare their planned timeline for graduation and prove they have necessary resources, such as a laptop and internet access.
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Bachelors Degree:
Graduate applicants typically need a bachelors degree in engineering. Applicants with a degree in an unrelated field may need to have completed a certain amount of coursework in the subject.
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Professional Experience:
Though most schools do not require applicants to have professional experience, work experience in the field can improve a students application.
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Minimum GPA:
Graduate admissions typically require a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and some competitive programs require at least a 3.4 GPA. Schools may consider applicants who do not meet GPA requirements if they have significant achievements or experience.
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Application:
Completing an application, which includes gathering materials and writing essays, can take several months. Most graduate programs provide online applications.
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Transcripts:
Applicants must request official transcripts from previous schools. Transcripts show the students completed courses, GPA, and conferred degrees. Most schools charge a small fee to release official transcripts.
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Letters of Recommendation:
Most graduate applications require two letters of recommendation from professors in the engineering field. Learners should request letters at least a month in advance and can assist recommenders by supplying copies of their transcripts.
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Test Scores:
Though not always required, many programs require GRE scores. Competitive scores, especially on the quantitative section, demonstrates the applicants analytical abilities.
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Application Fee:
Graduate application fees typically cost $50-80 per school. Some schools waive this fee for students who demonstrate financial need.
The Best Online Electrical Engineering Programs (MS) 2023.
What is a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering?
The master’s degree program in Electrical Engineering provides advanced preparation for professional practice through a highly customizable, coursework-based curriculum. The information on this page is intended for external applicants who wish to pursue the MS degree on a full-time basis.
Where can I get a Master’s in Electrical Engineering online?
Electrical and Computer Engineering ranked #1 for Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering by U.S. News & World Report Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals Electrical and Computer Engineering online, part-time master’s program is one of the largest in the country.
How long does it take to get a Master’s in Electrical Engineering?
Master’s in electrical engineering programs typically require 30-33 credits. Full-time students can graduate in one year, but most programs take two to three years to complete. Some schools offer joint bachelor’s-master’s programs that allow students to graduate with both degrees in five years.
What accredits a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering?
Students planning to pursue an electrical engineering master’s degree should look for programs with accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET accredits associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs in the applied and natural sciences.
