Online Engineering Schools in Florida

Engineers play a vital role in the economy in Florida and throughout the United States. These skilled professionals are tasked with designing, testing, and ultimately building products and structures for the modern world. There’s a range of specializations to accommodate every industry and interest, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental. And while engineering is one of the more lucrative career fields in the US, some subfields are growing faster than others.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024) reported that job opportunities for architecture and engineering occupations are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. On average, about 188,000 openings are projected each year in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently.

That said, some specializations are expected to be in demand nationwide more than others. Here are a few of the fastest-growing engineering subfields listed with their expected growth:

Industrial engineering – 12 percent increase (38,400 new jobs)
Mechanical engineering – 10 percent increase (28,500 new jobs)
Chemical engineering – 8 percent increase (1,700 new jobs)
Aerospace engineering – 6 percent increase (3,900 new jobs)
Environmental engineering – 6 percent increase (2,900 new jobs)

In Florida (FL) specifically, the expected percentages were even higher. According to Projections Central (2024), the top-growing subfields of engineering between 2022 and 2032 included:

Industrial Engineers – 23.1 percent increase (2,930 new jobs)
Mechanical Engineers – 21.4 percent increase (1,730 new jobs)
Aerospace Engineers – 20.1 percent increase (950 new jobs)
Environmental Engineers – 20.1 percent increase (340 new jobs)
Chemical Engineers – 18.2 percent increase (40 new jobs)
Civil Engineers – 18.1 percent increase (2,950 new jobs)

In short, engineering is expected to be a relatively high-growth and high-paying career field in the future. Furthermore, while some students in FL choose to pursue a traditional degree on campus, there’s a growing number of online engineering programs, particularly at the graduate degree level and in certain subfields such as electrical or computer engineering. This guide explores what to expect from an online engineering program in Florida, including the state’s most prominent schools and the expected coursework.

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Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering in Florida

Ultimately, a bachelor’s degree in engineering is generally a prerequisite for any type of engineering-related work and is necessary to pursue graduate-level education. And while computer science and electrical engineering maybe two of the most commonly studied online disciplines, in reality, students can pursue nearly all engineering fields in a distance-based setting.

To illustrate this, the following includes descriptions of online bachelor’s degree programs in engineering based in Florida.

Online BS in Computer Science – Florida State University

Aspiring engineers may pursue an online bachelor of science degree in computer science through Florida State University in Tallahassee. Emphasizing the interdependence of design, distributed networks & systems, and object orientation, the program helps students develop a broad-based background that is sufficient for entering the field of computing. Students develop core competencies in database structure, programming, operating systems, and computer organization.

Topics covered include software engineering, computer organization, data structures, algorithms, and generic programming, an introduction to UNIX, ethics in computer science, probability, theory of computation, and operating systems and concurrent programming, among many others.

This program has received accreditation through SACSCOC and the Computer Accreditation Commission of ABET—the gold standard in programmatic accreditation in this field. Graduation from this program requires the successful completion of 120 credits.

Location: Tallahassee, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); Computer Accreditation Commission of ABET
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

Online BS in Computer Science – University of Florida

The University of Florida in Gainesville offers an online bachelor of science degree in computer science through its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The program encourages students to explore the theoretical foundations of computation and information and exposes them to a wide range of disciplines, including the theory of computer science, programming languages, physical science, software engineering, and mathematics.

The 120-credit curriculum includes courses such as engineering statistics, geometry and calculus, programming fundamentals, linear algebra, algorithm abstraction and design, data structures and algorithms, and introduction to computer organization. Course scheduling at the University of Florida is fairly flexible; students can take courses full-time or part-time, generally work on their schedule, and even take a semester off, if need be.

At the end of the program, graduates can pursue opportunities such as computer programmers, business intelligence analysts, computer systems analysts, information security analysts, database administrators, network systems administrators, web developers, and software applications developers.

Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

Online BS in Electrical Engineering – Florida International University

Florida International University’s College of Engineering and Computing offers an online bachelor of science program in electrical engineering, providing students with training in nanotechnology, electronics and electromagnetism, communications, power and energy systems, bio-engineering, computers, and controls. Graduates will learn about building, repairing, and calibrating equipment on-site and will also understand how to solve and troubleshoot developmental programs through testing electrical systems.

This program helps graduates become creative problem solvers, lifelong learners, and critical thinkers. It will train students to stay current in their field of expertise and excel in their respective organizations. Moreover, graduates will be provided with a strong foundation necessary for pursuing advanced studies in electrical engineering.

This 128-credit program includes courses such as applied software techniques in engineering, circuit analysis, introduction to linear systems in engineering, signals and systems, logic design, control systems, power systems, and Unix programming.

Location: Miami, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); ABET
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering

Although a bachelor’s degree allows an individual to pursue meaningful work in the field of engineering, a graduate degree is often necessary for career advancement and leadership opportunities. Furthermore, an online graduate degree is often appealing, as it often allows the student to continue working while obtaining additional credentials and education to help them in their current pursuits. Anyone considering an online engineering graduate degree in Florida may wish to consider applying for one of the following distance-based programs.

Online MS in Industrial Engineering – University of Central Florida

Students can pursue an MS in industrial engineering online at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Students will lead the way in designing and improving products, processes, and systems within the services and manufacturing industries. Moreover, the program allows students to choose from six different focus areas: human systems engineering or ergonomics; interactive simulation & training systems; operations research; quality systems engineering; simulation modeling & analysis; and systems engineering.

The program features thesis and non-thesis options, both of which require successfully completing at least 30 credits. According to the program’s webpage, many students who are working full-time take six credits per semester and can complete the program in approximately six semesters or fewer.

Students in this program will take courses on engineering statistics; project engineering; advanced engineering economic analysis; systems engineering; and systems architecting, among others.

The major admission requirements include an undergraduate degree in mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, statistics, quantitative management, or a similar field, one official transcript, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, and a goal statement. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Graduates of the program can pursue roles such as engineering managers, industrial engineers, operations analysts, management engineers, technical professionals, project managers, and quality control engineers.

Location: Orlando, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Online MS in Aerospace Engineering – University of Florida

Students at the University of Florida in Gainesville can pursue a master of science degree in aerospace engineering with three distinct subspecialties: dynamics, systems & controls; solid mechanics, design, and manufacturing; and thermal science and fluid dynamics. The aerospace program is entirely online, and students are never required to visit the campus.

The program includes both a thesis and a non-thesis option; the former requires 24 credits of classwork and six credits of a thesis project, while the latter requires completing 30 credits of courses. Furthermore, because the online degree has the same structure as the on-campus version, distance students can communicate and collaborate with the local University of Florida students, while they study at their remote location.

Please note that UF also has online engineering program tracks in civil, computer, electrical and computer, environmental, industrial and systems, materials science, and mechanical with various sub-specializations available.

The curriculum includes courses such as analytical dynamics; control system theory; fundamentals of production engineering; continuum mechanics; conduction heat transfer; convection heat transfer; and gas dynamics.

Admission requirements to the program include a bachelor’s in engineering or a closely related STEM discipline from an ABET-accredited program, an undergraduate GPA of 3.0, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants.

Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Online MS in Systems Engineering – Florida A&M University and Florida State University College of Engineering

The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is the joint engineering institution for Florida A&M University and Florida State University. Designed for both full-time working professionals and full-time students, FAMU-FSU offers an online master of science program in systems engineering that integrates engineering disciplines with management and industrial practices.

For admission to the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related area with a minimum GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants.

This course-based non-thesis program comprises 30 credits and includes courses such as fundamentals of systems engineering; requirements analysis and knowledge management; cost estimating for engineering economic analysis; engineering risk analysis and decision-making with uncertainty; design considerations for systems engineering; and systems test and evaluation.

Location: Tallahassee, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months

Other Online Engineering Programs

While many aspiring engineers in Florida pursue a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, others look for alternative routes. Indeed, many other online options exist for aspiring engineering students in Florida, including those listed below:

AS in Computer Information Systems – Florida Tech

An associate of science (AS) degree in computer information systems from Florida Tech in Melbourne is an excellent option for those individuals aspiring to work as computer or software engineers. The degree can be completed entirely online, and students in this program will explore several programming languages, including C++, Java, and Visual Basic.

Students also take courses on business computer skills, foundations of information systems, electronic commerce, introduction to macroeconomics, principles of marketing, mastering eLearning, systems analysis and design, and several electives to satisfy the 61 credits necessary for successful completion.

Graduates of the program can take up roles such as computer support specialists, support analysts, help desk administrators, java developers, and junior program analysts.

Location: Melbourne, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Fundamentals of Engineering Review Course – Florida International University

This course taught at the Florida International University in Miami does not lead to a degree; instead, it is an online course meant to prepare individuals for the fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam. The course lasts for 12 weeks and provides students with an in-depth study of the topics covered in the computer-based exam.

Location: Miami, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: 12 weeks

Online Engineering Programs in Florida – What to Consider

Many aspiring students focus on certain considerations when selecting a specific engineering program—namely the school’s location, program reputation, cost of the school, admission rates, and other relevant factors. That being said, many students are now also considering whether an online program may be the right choice for them as well.

In reality, strong online engineering programs will provide the student with a high-quality education while allowing for greater flexibility in terms of location and time. Of course, before applying to an online program, aspiring students should still ask certain questions, including the following:

What is the rate of employment after graduation? What types of jobs do graduates hold?
How long will the program take to complete?
Can the program be completed on a part-time basis?
Do student support services exist, such as job placement help, advisors, and student-run organizations?
Do online students retain in-state status?
Are students required to visit the campus during the program? If so, what are the requirements?
Can the program be completed entirely on the student’s schedule? Or are scheduled logins required for certain courses?
Do students have the option to complete practical courses and internships in their local community? Or are students required to travel to complete these requirements?

In addition, students should be sure to examine whether or not a program has received accreditation and/or state authorization before making a final selection.

Engineering School Accreditation

Receiving accreditation means that a program has met certain standards set forth by an accrediting organization. More specifically, accreditation is synonymous with quality and will be treated as such; for example, students may find that graduate schools and employers will only consider applicants who have graduated from an accredited school, and the same goes for financial aid providers.

Before awarding accreditation, an accrediting body will examine several factors, including the quality of the education provided, the financial management of the school, the services provided to students, the services provided to graduates, and student outcomes (i.e., student debt figures, graduate rates of employment, etc.), among other variables.

Not all accrediting organizations carry the same weight. Because of this, aspiring engineering students should consider looking for online programs that have received accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In addition, students should be aware that national, regional, and programmatic accreditation is available through different organizations. For example, the following includes a list of organizations that accredit online engineering colleges in Florida:

National accreditation

Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET)
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

Regional accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Programmatic accreditation

Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)

State Authorization Status for Online Engineering Programs

Students are only allowed to attend online engineering schools that retain authorization to operate in their specific state. In general, Floridians who are enrolled in online programs based in the state will not likely experience any issues; however, engineering programs based in other states may not be able to provide admissions to specific out-of-state residents.

As such, students from outside of Florida who are interested in pursuing an online engineering degree in the state are highly encouraged to review state policies before applying. Fortunately, this information is easily accessible on the websites of many programs. For example, the University of Florida has a readily available state authorization page.

Admissions Requirements – Online Engineering Programs in FL

In general, online engineering programs in Florida typically maintain the same admissions requirements as their on-campus counterparts. And while some specific prerequisites will vary depending on the institution, some criteria will likely remain the same across all programs. The following provides a brief overview broken down by level of study:

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

A high school diploma or GED with proof of coursework in biology, chemistry, and other relevant subjects
A GPA of above 2.5 for some programs, or 3.0 for others
Letters of recommendation provided by two high school teachers
An admissions essay or personal statement as described by the school
SAT or ACT scores

Online Master’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in engineering, although other degrees may be accepted on a case-by-case basis
An undergraduate GPA of above 2.5 for some programs, or above 3.0 for more selective institutions
GRE scores (not always be required)
A personal essay or statement of purpose
Letters of recommendation from professors or advisors, employers, or other qualifying positions

Online Graduate or Professional Certificate Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in engineering
Two letters of recommendation
A statement of purpose or personal essay
CV or resume
Test scores (vary by institution)

Jocelyn Blore

After graduating from UC Berkeley, Jocelyn traveled the world for five years as an English teacher and freelance writer. After stints in England, Japan, and Brazil, she settled in San Francisco and worked as a managing editor for a tech company. She’s recently become interested in the underrepr...