Online Engineering Programs in Illinois

Engineering provides an abundance of opportunities for professionals throughout Illinois (IL). The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023) reported 79,940 engineering and architectural jobs in the state, comprising almost one-and-a-half percent of all occupations statewide (6,011,660). The bulk of these professionals were industrial engineers (17,760), civil engineers (13,530), or mechanical engineers (10,260 workers in IL).

Not surprisingly, these in-demand fields are relatively well-paid. The average salary for all occupations in the Land of Lincoln was $67,130, while the average annual salary of all architectural and engineering professionals was $95,790 (BLS May 2023). Of course, some specializations compensate better than others. Five of the top-paying engineering subfields with at least 1,000 people employed in IL included computer hardware engineers ($127,440 annual average salary), electronics engineers ($114,310) electrical engineers ($110,070), environmental engineers ($103,890), and mechanical engineers ($103,480).

Not only is engineering a lucrative occupation in Illinois and nationwide but also job opportunities are expected to grow in the coming decade; as proof of point, the BLS (2024) projected significant growth in many fields of engineering between 2022 and 2032 across the country. The following subfields are expected to boast the highest growth percentage over that period in the US:

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)

The growth projections within Illinois are slightly different. By illustration, Projections Central (2024) predicted that the fastest-growing subfields in the state between 2022 and 2032 would be:

Industrial engineering – 2,020 new jobs (12.7 percent increase)
Mechanical engineering – 1,270 new jobs (10.7 percent increase)
Civil Engineering – 710 new jobs (5.3 percent increase)
Aerospace engineering – 40 new jobs (5.3 percent increase)
Environmental engineering – 50 new jobs (5.1 percent increase)

To support the various fields of engineering, there are several prominent professional organizations in Illinois. These offer several benefits for engineers such as networking, journals or newsletters, conferences, continuing education opportunities, and credentialing services. Here are a few of the well-regarded engineering societies that operate in the state:

Illinois Society of Professional Engineers
Illinois Society of General Engineers
American Society of Civil Engineers – Illinois Section
Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers – Iowa and Illinois Section

With relatively high salaries, a bright growth outlook, and ample professional support, becoming an engineer in IL can be an enticing prospect. While some of these workers seek preparation for their careers through traditional, on-campus degrees, there’s a growing trend toward online engineering programs, particularly in computer-related and graduate-level specializations. For engineering students who work full-time, have family commitments, or live in rural regions of the state, a distance-based degree may be a more convenient starting point in an engineering career.

This guide features several online engineering programs in Illinois, expected coursework, and accreditation information.

Featured Online Engineering Programs
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Illinois-Based Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering

For many aspiring engineers, the first step in starting their careers is earning a bachelor’s degree. Having at least an undergraduate degree can lead to higher compensation, increased professional responsibilities, candidacy for graduate programs, and more opportunities to advance into the future. Here are four of the outstanding online bachelor’s degrees in engineering (or closely related fields) from institutions based in IL:

BS in Engineering Technology, Emphasis on Applied Manufacturing Technology – Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University in DeKalb allows students to pursue an online bachelor of science (BS) program in engineering technology with an emphasis on applied manufacturing technology, a degree offered through the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology.

The program helps students develop leadership skills in technology and manufacturing fields. Its faculty includes world-class professionals who bring real industry challenges into the classroom.

This program accepts students who already possess a technical associate degree and requires the completion of an additional 60 credits of courses on industrial quality control, supervision in industry, green technologies, industrial project management, and disaster preparedness, among other topics.

Through the program, students will be able to apply mathematical, engineering, and scientific principles to analyze, develop, and implement systems, effectively communicate and cohesively work on team-based projects, and develop applied solutions that meet society’s cultural, environmental, and ethical needs.

Location: DeKalb, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

BS in Electrical Engineering Technology – Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers an online bachelor of science program in electrical engineering technology. This program blends engineering design theory with lab experiences and problem-solving experience. Graduates of this program will be capable of contributing to the production, development, installation, and testing of electrical and electronic devices, systems, and circuits.

This ABET-accredited program, which is 120 credits long, includes courses such as Introduction to Electrical Engineering Technology, Introduction to Circuit Theory and Applications, Digital System Fundamentals, Microcontroller Applications and Design, Network Theory and Application, Electronic Circuit Analysis, and AC/DC Circuit Theory and Application.

Location: Carbondale, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); ABET
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

BS in Engineering Technology – DeVry University

DeVry University offers an online bachelor of science degree in engineering technology, preparing graduates to use basic engineering principles in the execution and application of processes, systems, and technical operations.

As part of the program, students study process improvement, automation, computer-aided design, project management, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning as applied to healthcare systems, industrial processes, electrical power delivery, transportation of goods, and more.

This 126-credit program includes courses such as introduction to technology and information systems; introduction to operating systems; fundamentals of information technology and networking; electronic device and system foundations; automation and control; process improvement; and electromechanical systems.

Location: Lisle, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); ABET
Expected Time to Completion: 32 to 48 months

BA in Computer Science – Lewis University

Aspiring engineers interested in computers may wish to pursue an accelerated, distance-based bachelor of arts (BA) degree in computer science from Lewis University in Romeoville. Students in this program develop the programming, cyber-security, problem-solving, and networking skills needed to succeed in this high-demand field. The program’s faculty includes dedicated professionals who are experts in their fields and provide real-world, practical instruction.

For admission to the program, students must submit a completed application form, official transcripts from all colleges attended, and an application fee.

This degree can be completed entirely online and consists of eight-week courses on subjects such as discrete mathematics; programming fundamentals; operating systems; object-oriented programming; introduction to networks; programming languages; and computer organization. Students must complete a total of 128 credits.

Students will learn about cybersecurity tasks such as identifying vulnerabilities, encrypting data, sealing holes, and detecting intrusions in networks and computers. They will learn to solve complicated problems and implement machine learning and artificial intelligence in applications to gain insights from big data.

Graduates can take up roles such as software developers, security engineers, database developers, network engineers, web developers, and project managers, among others.

Location: Romeoville, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 48 months

Illinois-Based Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering

While some engineers obtain entry-level employment following a bachelor’s degree program, others pursue a master’s degree. Graduate education can allow for greater specialization and a comprehensive understanding of a specific field. It’s worth noting that there’s generally a greater variety of online degrees in engineering at the graduate degree level. Here are three online master’s degrees in engineering based in Illinois.

MAS in Biological Engineering – Illinois Institute of Technology

At the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, students have the opportunity to pursue an online master of applied science (MAS) degree in biological engineering preparing students for professional practice in any engineering field that emphasizes heavily on biological processes. Gaining exposure to biology-based technologies, students will learn to analyze and design biological systems for developing practical and innovative solutions in tissue scaffolding, biomimetic materials, and diabetes.

A thesis is not necessary for this 30-credit program. Core courses include transport phenomena, thermodynamics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entrepreneurship and IP management, and bioprocess engineering. Students are also required to take elective and professional development classes during this program.

Admission requirements include a four-year bachelor’s degree, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, transcripts from all colleges attended, a professional statement, a current resume, and letters of recommendation. International students will need IELTS and TOEFL scores.

Upon successful completion, graduates will be prepared for careers such as biomedical engineers, rehabilitation engineers, and cellular, tissue, and genetic engineers, among others.

Location: Chicago, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

MS in Computer Science – University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois at Springfield allows students to pursue an online MS degree in computer science. This program is ideal for candidates who are interested in the analysis, design, and implementation of software programs. The program’s faculty includes distinguished and highly educated leaders with several academic accomplishments, industry expertise, and teaching experience.

The major admission requirements for the program include a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.70, a completed program of study similar to a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a completed graduate admission application form, and official transcripts from every college or university attended. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Successful completion of this program requires a total of 32 credits, which are split into eight different courses, including a graduate research seminar. Courses include computer programming concepts, computer organization, data structures and algorithms, programming languages, and an introduction to operating systems.

The University of Illinois at Springfield also offers a BS in computer science and a bachelor’s degree in information systems security.

Location: Springfield, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

MEng with a focus area in AI and Machine Learning – University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago offers an online master of engineering program with a focus area in AI (artificial intelligence) and machine learning. This program professional, non-thesis degree comprises nine courses in the areas of leadership development and AI/ML.

The 36-credit program includes courses such as engineering law, engineering management, innovation tools and methods, image analysis and computer vision, introduction to deep neural networks, artificial intelligence, and natural language processing.

Location: Chicago, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months

Other Online Engineering Programs in Illinois

In addition to online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Illinois, certificate and associate degree programs are available. Here are three other distance-based engineering programs in Illinois.

Certificate in Pavement Engineering – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign gives students the option of pursuing a certificate in pavement engineering entirely online. The program falls within the general purview of civil and environmental engineering, providing students with technical expertise in pavements and transportation materials.

To get accepted into the program, applicants must have a bachelor of science degree in science or engineering from an accredited university or college in the United States, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, a completed online application, and official transcripts reflecting the bachelor of science degree or any other degrees obtained.

Courses include probability and statistics; queuing systems and intelligent transportation networks; computer networking fundamentals; network protocol and systems software design for wireless and mobile; internet architecture and protocols; advanced computer networks; and computer security. Students must complete these 12 credits to obtain the certificate.

Apart from the pavement engineering program, the Grainger College of Engineering also offers certificate programs in construction management, railroad engineering, data science in civil & environmental engineering, foundation engineering, and underground engineering.

Location: Urbana, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Less than a year

AAS degrees in Computer Networking and Systems and Network Security Administration – Oakton Community College

Oakton Community College offers two online associate degree programs: computer networking and systems, and network security administration.

The AAS in computer networking and systems program is designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain positions in networking. The associate degree in network security administration provides students with a foundation in network security. It provides them with the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain positions as technical security support personnel and cybersecurity analysts.

Both programs comprise 60 credits each. Courses include an introduction to computer information systems, networking essentials, principles of information security, network defense and countermeasures, cybersecurity operations analysis, introduction to computer forensics, network security, ethical hacking, and microcomputer hardware systems.

Location: Des Plaines, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Certificate in Architectural Engineering – Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology offers an online nine-credit graduate certificate in architectural engineering, which provides additional education in architectural building systems engineering. This program is primarily for professionals in the building engineering fields and serves as a foundation for those who intend to pursue Illinois Institute of Technology’s master of engineering in architectural engineering program.

Courses include plumbing and fire protection design; lighting systems design; building science; building electrical/lighting systems design; building envelope rehabilitation; building energy modeling; structural forensic engineering; control of building environmental systems; and applied building energy modeling, among others.

Location: Chicago, IL
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Less than a year

Online Engineering Programs – What to Consider

Beyond the lure of generous compensation and the desire to study under accomplished professors, aspiring engineers are encouraged to consider other factors before deciding on a school. Before applying to an online engineering program in IL, students should ask:

Do online students have in-state status (and tuition rates)?
Is the program entirely online? If it’s a hybrid program, how often are campus visits required? Can practical experience credits be completed in the student’s home area?
Will the school help with job placement after graduation? Do other services exist for alumni?
Can students complete the program on a part-time basis? How long does the program take to complete, on average?

Two other important considerations are a program’s accreditation and “state authorization” statuses.

Accreditation of Online Engineering Programs

Accreditation is an indicator of programmatic or institutional quality. Pursuing accreditation from an esteemed organization is voluntary and demonstrates that a school is committed to offering a useful, reliable, and standardized education that can prepare a student for employment.

To become accredited, a program (or school) must generally meet certain standards in regard to education offered, the management of finances, the provision of student services, and student outcomes, among other criteria.

Bear in mind, however, that not all accreditation organizations carry the same weight; students should search for programs that have received accreditation through one of the entities approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), including the organizations below, which approve engineering schools in IL:

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:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Programmatic accreditation:

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

State Authorization Status

In addition to accreditation, students should also search for programs that have proper “state authorization” status as well. Students can only attend programs that have been authorized to operate in Illinois. When students reside in the same state as their distance-based institution, this generally isn’t a problem; however, when schools and their students are in different states, students must ensure they’re eligible for admissions.

Most schools display this information on their websites (e.g., the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), and for those that don’t, students are encouraged to reach out to program coordinators before applying.

Admissions Requirements

Online engineering programs in Illinois typically require students to meet the same prerequisites as their on-campus counterparts. Naturally, some programs may have institution-specific requirements, but many have similar application processes and materials. Broken down by degree level, here are some common criteria for online engineering programs:

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Requirements:

A high school diploma
Proof of completion of courses in physics, chemistry, calculus, and other related courses
A competitive GPA (e.g., >2.5 or 3.0)
Letters of recommendation, either by teachers or other qualifying individuals
Personal statement
ACT or SAT scores

Online Master’s Degree in Engineering Requirements:

BS in engineering (some programs may admit students from other disciplines on a case-by-case basis with proof of prerequisite coursework)
A competitive GPA (e.g., >3.0)
Test scores for the GRE or other similar exam
Personal statement
Letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, or employers

Online Graduate or Professional Certificate Requirements:

An undergraduate degree in engineering
A CV or resume
Two or more letters of recommendation from qualifying individuals
Personal essay or statement of purpose

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...