Online Engineering Schools in Michigan

Michigan is home to a strong engineering industry that allows professionals in this field to thrive. Engineers in Michigan and throughout the United States play an important economic role. These professionals design, test, and ultimately build structures and products for the modern world. A wide range of specializations are available to accommodate every industry’s interest, including mechanical, civil, environmental, and electrical engineering. 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 (BLS 2024) reported that job opportunities for architecture and engineering occupations are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations between 2023 and 2033. About 195,000 openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations.

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

Industrial engineering – 12 percent increase (40,900 new jobs)
Mechanical engineering – 11 percent increase (32,100 new jobs)
Chemical engineering – 10 percent increase (2,100 new jobs)
Electrical and electronics engineering – 9 percent increase (26,200 new jobs)
Agricultural engineering – 8 percent increase (100 new jobs)
Computer hardware engineering – 7 percent increase (6,100 new jobs)
Environmental engineering – 7 percent increase (2,900 new jobs)
Materials engineering – 7 percent increase (1,800 new jobs)
Bioengineers and Biomedical engineering – 7 percent increase (1,500 new jobs)
Civil Engineering – 6 percent increase (22,100 new jobs)

In Michigan (MI) 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 – 10.2 percent increase (2,690 new jobs)
Chemical Engineers – 8.4 percent increase (70 new jobs)
Mechanical Engineers – 8.2 percent increase (2,640 new jobs)
Environmental Engineers – 8.1 percent increase (210 new jobs)
Health and Safety Engineers – 5.7 percent increase (40 new jobs)

Furthermore, engineers earn relatively competitive salaries; the average salary for the 126,220 engineers and architectural workers in MI was $90,900, according to the BLS (May 2023); some earned substantially more such as nuclear engineers, a field that has an annual average (mean) wage of $121,870. By comparison, the average annual salary for all positions in the state was $60,600.

Annual mean wages for some of the most popular fields of engineering in the state include:

Nuclear Engineers – $121,870 annual average salary
Computer Hardware Engineers – $119,150
Petroleum Engineers – $119,090
Aerospace Engineers – $114,410
Chemical Engineers – $111,040

Along with growing job prospects and high salary expectations, Michigan engineers may seek professional support from one of the many engineering societies and organizations that operate throughout the state. Such agencies, a few of which are listed below, generally offer job advocacy, educational opportunities, a calendar of events, and a number of other benefits for participating members in the state:

In general, a career in engineering can lead to many opportunities and generous compensation. Those interested in becoming an engineer in MI must generally complete at least an undergraduate degree before seeking work. While many aspiring engineers choose to complete a degree on campus, many more are now looking to the various online engineering programs. Distance-based engineering degrees offer a high-quality, flexible education with skilled professors, allowing working professionals to continue on with their careers while pursuing a degree.

This guide explores the wealth of online engineering programs in Michigan, including expected coursework and accreditation information.

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Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering in MI

Most engineering positions and many professional certifications require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Luckily there are several distance-based bachelor’s degree programs from Michigan’s schools. Some of these include:

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Baker College

At Baker College with locations across MI, students interested in software or computer engineering can pursue an online BS in computer science. This program offers two concentration options: a computer programming concentration and a data analytics concentration. While many of the courses are offered online, prospective students are advised to contact the school directly with any specific questions regarding attendance requirements.

Both concentrations include core computer science courses such as computer operating systems and maintenance, database management and design, systems development methods, computer architecture, Python and Java programming, and trends in computer science. The program comprises 120 credits. Students in both concentrations must complete a senior project and a 150-hour work experience course.

The computer programming concentration includes courses such as advanced computer architecture, advanced Java programming, C # programming, emerging programming languages, and artificial intelligence.

The concentration in database analytics includes courses in database administration; database programming; and advanced database topics.

Location: Owosso, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Davenport University

Davenport University’s online bachelor of science program in computer science where students can customize their degree to their future career plans by choosing one of the three available cutting-edge specialties: gaming and simulations; computer theory and algorithms; and artificial intelligence (AI). While most of the program can be completed entirely online, the gaming specialty course requires hands-on learning in Davenport’s state-of-the-art gaming lab.

Some of the courses in this 120-credit curriculum are database design; discrete structures; introduction to game design; software engineering; artificial intelligence; computer vision; parallel & distributed systems; operating systems; concepts of program languages; and security foundations.

Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity – Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor University’s bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is overseen by the School of Engineering. Students in this program are equipped with the necessary certifications and knowledge to become leaders and critical thinkers in the cybersecurity industry. In this fully online program, students will complete five industry certifications: Security Pro, PC Pro, Linux Pro, Ethical Hacking, and Network Pro.

Notably, students in this 120-credit program can transfer up to 80 credits from another college or university. The curriculum includes courses such as operating systems; data communications and networking; computer systems security; foundations of Linux for cybersecurity; ethical hacking tools and techniques; cyber threats, analysis, and response; and security and management controls.

Location: Spring Arbor, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering in MI

While completing a master’s program isn’t mandatory to seek work as an engineer, this advanced degree can provide greater specialization and may lead to positions in management or higher salary prospects, as well.

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering Power Systems – Michigan Technological University

At Michigan Technological University in Houghton, current engineers can continue their education with a distance-based MS degree in electrical and computer engineering with a focus on power systems. This program is entirely online and is designed to provide full flexibility for working professionals; online students enroll in the same lectures as on-campus students and complete nearly all of the same coursework.

To graduate from this program, you must complete 30 credits, including classes on power electronics, circuits and instrumentation, power system protection, distribution engineering, wind power, and transient analysis methods.

Notably, Michigan Tech has several more engineering programs offered in an online format, one of which is an online master of science program in mechanical engineering. This 30-credit master’s degree allows students to personalize their curriculum to align with their current careers or prepare them for future ones. Some popular focus areas of study include advanced power systems; alternative fuels and renewable energy; intelligent systems; autonomous systems; design and dynamic systems; and noise, vibration, and harshness.

Graduates of the mechanical engineering program will be ready for roles such as test engineers, robotics engineers, manufacturing engineers, engineering managers, design engineers, automation engineers, and aerospace engineers.

Location: Houghton, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years

Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering – University of Michigan

At the University of Michigan based in Ann Arbor, one of the state’s most renowned institutions, students can complete an online M.Eng degree in systems engineering. Students in this program learn about conventional and alternative energy technologies, the environmental and societal impact of technology developments, and the economic benefits of those developments. Moreover, students can select from three concentration options: sustainable chemical conversion; transportation power; and energy generation, distribution, and usage.

This 30-credit program includes courses on energy generation and storage using modern materials; advanced energy solutions; materials for energy solutions; energy technology manufacturing; energy sustainability and process; energy systems platforms; and other courses. This program can be completed in one or two years full-time.

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: One of two years

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering – Michigan State University

Michigan State University’s online master of science program in mechanical engineering prepares students to confront major challenges in automation, manufacturing, biomechanics, cryogenics, and design optimization. Graduates gain the expertise they need to excel as leaders at the forefront of rapidly evolving processes and technologies. The program offers a choice of two in-demand tracks: mechanics, dynamics, and manufacturing; and thermal fluids science and engineering.

The 30-credit program includes courses such as linear elasticity, advanced dynamics, computer-aided optimal design, advanced classical thermodynamics, conductive heat transfer, convective heat transfer, fluid mechanics, theory of vibrations, and additive manufacturing.

Location: East Lansing, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Other Online Engineering Programs in MI

In addition to online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, aspiring engineers may choose to obtain a distance-based associate degree or even a graduate certificate to supplement their education.

Graduate Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering – Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University offers several online engineering graduate certificates, including an online graduate certificate in manufacturing engineering. This graduate certificate encompasses the building blocks of advanced manufacturing. These blocks include advanced materials and manufacturing processes; product tooling and assembly engineering; manufacturing competitiveness; and manufacturing systems and operations.

Applicants to the program must have a baccalaureate degree with a major in a technical field such as technology or engineering with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, they must have work experience or have completed undergraduate courses in computer-aided manufacturing, computer-aided design, statics, strength of materials, and quality control.

The program, which comprises nine credits, includes courses such as organizational leadership, tolerance analysis with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, and design for additive manufacturing.

Location: Houghton, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two to three semesters

Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering – University of Michigan-Dearborn

The systems engineering graduate certificate at the University of Michigan-Dearborn can be completed entirely online, on campus, or through a combination of both. Students through this program will be prepared for defining, planning, managing, and supporting large integrated systems. Additionally, graduates will have a strong foundation to pursue the Project Management Professional® (PMP®) certification or the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) multi-level professional certification program.

For admission to the program, applicants must possess an undergraduate degree in business, engineering, computer science, physical science, or applied mathematics, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. A probability & statistics course is a prerequisite for this certification program.

The program comprises 15 credits, four graduate-level core courses, and a graduate-level elective course. Course topics include systems engineering, program management fundamentals, total quality management and Six Sigma, human factors and ergonomics, and safety engineering.

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

Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management – Central Michigan University

Current engineers seeking managerial opportunities and a significant skills upgrade may pursue a graduate certificate in engineering management through Central Michigan University. Qualifying applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Graduates will be ready to lead both processes and people. Credits earned in this certificate will transfer toward the MSA with a concentration in engineering management program.

This six-course program includes 18 credits of coursework in production concepts, project management, technology and the environment, sustainability and green technology, lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, and the application of industrial management principles.

The program’s graduates will be ready to take on roles such as alternative energy managers, engineering project managers, and electrical engineering managers.

Location: Mount Pleasant, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: One year

Online Engineering Programs – What to Consider

Aspiring engineers should consider several factors beyond the competitive salary and promising job opportunities in the field. Before enrolling in an online engineering program, prospective students should ensure that they have answers to the following questions:

Can the online program be completed entirely online? If not, how much on-campus attendance is required for the program?
Will the school assist with job placement after graduation? Does the institution have other resources in the student’s home community?
What is the total cost of the program? Does that number include fees and other related expenses, as well?
For undergraduate programs, will they prepare the student for a graduate degree? Or will additional bridging modules be required?

It is important to note that these are only a handful of the questions prospective students should ask to prepare themselves for the application. There are two other major considerations in applying to online engineering programs in MI: accreditation and state authorization status.

Accreditation

While graduating from an accredited program is not necessary to begin a career as an engineer, it can be extremely beneficial. Most credentialing agencies and some employers require job applicants to hold a degree from an accredited program, and several graduate schools may only accept students with an accredited degree as well. In general, accreditation status shows a school’s commitment to meeting specific standards related to the quality of education, financial management, student services, and other important considerations.

Not all accreditation bodies hold the same esteem. Specifically, students should look for programs accredited by one (or more) of the organizations approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The following is a list of accrediting agencies nationwide that offer accreditation on a regional, national, and programmatic level:

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

While researching accreditation, prospective students are also advised to look for programs that retain appropriate state authorization status. Students in Michigan are only eligible to attend programs authorized to operate in their state. This will be an issue for prospective students attending online institutions based in their home states, but rather when a distance-based program is located out-of-state; furthermore, many programs display their state authorization information conveniently on their website (e.g., Michigan State University).

Admissions Requirements for Online Engineering Programs in MI

Prospective students should be pleased to learn that many online engineering programs maintain a similar, if not identical, application process to their on-campus counterparts. Here’s a general overview of the prerequisites for many online engineering programs in Michigan:

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

Completed application and fee
Official high school or GED transcripts
Strong high school GPA (typically >2.75 with strong marks in math and science)
Proof of prerequisite courses (e.g., calculus, biology, physics, etc.)
Letters of recommendation
SAT or ACT scores
A personal essay (500-600 words)

Online Master’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

Completed application and fee (Note: Some schools require separate applications to the graduate school and the Department of Engineering)
Transcript from an undergraduate degree in engineering (or a related field)
Proof of prerequisite courses (varies by engineering subfield)
Competitive GPA (typically >3.0)
GRE scores
A statement of purpose
Letters of recommendation

Online Graduate or Professional Certificate Requirements

An engineering bachelor’s degree (or a related field)
Resume or CV
Letters of recommendation
A personal essay

Farheen Gani

Farheen Gani has researched a wide array of topics related to engineering since 2018. She has written about electrical and computer engineering programs, structural engineering programs, mechanical engineer salaries, environmental engineering programs, and many other subfields of engineering. She...

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...