Online Engineering Programs in New York

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Engineers play an essential role in the economy in New York and throughout the United States. These professionals are involved in designing, testing, and ultimately building products and structures for the modern world. There are several engineering specializations to accommodate every industry, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental, among others. 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 2023 to 2033—around 195,000 openings are projected each year, on average.

That said, some specializations are expected to be in demand around the country more 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 New York (NY) specifically, the expected percentages were even higher. According to Projections Central (2024), the top-growing subfields of engineering between 2022 and 2032 included:

Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators – 20 percent increase (1,010 new jobs)
Environmental Engineers – 13.4 percent increase (380 new jobs)
Biomedical Engineers – 10.9 percent increase (70 new jobs)
Civil Engineers – 8 percent increase (1,320 new jobs)
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators – 6.5 percent increase (1,030 new jobs)

Furthermore, engineers earn relatively competitive salaries; the average salary for the 104,260 engineers and architectural workers in NY was $99,160, according to the BLS (May 2023); some earned substantially more such as computer hardware engineers, a field that has an annual average (mean) wage of $143,530. By comparison, the average annual salary for all positions in the state was $78,620.

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

Computer hardware engineers – $143,530 annual average salary
Nuclear Engineers – $138,360
Aerospace Engineers – $119,590
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers – $116,010
Electrical Engineers – $114,880
Civil Engineers – $113,610

While engineering, on the whole, boasts impressive salary figures and growth projections, aspiring professionals in this field must have the requisite training and credentialing before seeking employment. Traditionally, prospective engineers across all subfields were relegated exclusively to on-campus training programs, but there’s a growing array of online engineering programs across all disciplines.

It’s important to note that many distance-based engineering programs are concentrated in certain subfields related to computers or at the graduate degree level. This is due to the imperative laboratory training in many fields, such as mechanical, biomedical, and environmental engineering. That said, with the growing availability of approved mentors or facilities close to online students’ homes, many established engineering programs have developed comprehensive online counterparts to their on-campus programs.

This guide explores the wealth of online engineering programs in New York, including admissions and accreditation information, required coursework, and what to consider before enrolling.

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NY-Based Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering

Generally, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum academic credential for those seeking engineering employment. As mentioned above, the majority of distance-based programs are concentrated in specific engineering subfields, especially electrical engineering, and management, or at the graduate-degree level. Here is a sampling of accredited online bachelor’s programs in engineering from institutions based in New York.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering – Stony Brook University

At Stony Brook University, students can pursue an online bachelor of science in electrical engineering. This program is not only ABET-accredited but also has an asynchronous class schedule, providing great flexibility for students with other commitments, such as full-time work.

Providing thorough education and training in the fundamentals of electrical engineering, this two-year program is ideal for qualified students and professionals who are seeking an excellent education in electrical engineering and commensurate opportunities for career advancement.

Courses in this 120-credit program include electronics, random signals, calculus, semiconductor devices, electromagnetics, digital signal processing, power systems engineering, and engineering design.

Location: Stony Brook, NY
Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Science, Mathematics, and Technology (Computer Science Concentration) – Empire State College

Students at Empire State College in Saratoga Springs can obtain an online bachelor’s degree program in science, mathematics, and technology with a concentration in computer science. Students develop a thorough knowledge of mathematics, programming, and other subjects. The program typically requires 120 credits to complete.

Focusing on aspects of the computer field with a well-defined set of abstract principles and concepts, this computer science concentration is ideal for students interested mostly in systems programming, computer hardware design, or algorithms.

The coursework includes an introduction to networks, computer operations, and security, advanced computing models, such as virtualization, cloud, and mobile computing, systems analysis and design, computer organization and architecture, software engineering, web systems development, information assurance, and advanced digital crime and digital terrorism.

Location: Saratoga Springs, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science (various) – Excelsior University

Finally, Excelsior University based in Albany provides three distance-based BS degree programs, all ABET-accredited: electrical engineering technology; information technology; and nuclear engineering technology.

In its electrical engineering concentration, students have the option to specialize in electronics or power systems. This concentration prepares students for allied and electrical engineering technology positions in industries such as electrical power, electronics, nanotechnology, semiconductors, and computers. The curriculum of this 124-credit program includes courses such as circuit theory, electronics, digital electronics, microprocessors, computer programming, and project management.

The concentration in information technology provides students with the skills, knowledge, practices, and applications they need to make an immediate impact in the field of information technology. In addition to the general concentration, students can specialize in either cybersecurity technology or network operations. The curriculum of this 120-credit program includes courses such as an introduction to programming, intermediate programming, data communications and networking, operating systems and computer systems architecture, database management systems, and web design and development.

Finally, the online BS in nuclear engineering technology program prepares graduates for technical positions in the nuclear industry. Providing knowledge and skills in areas such as health physics, reactor operations, chemistry, quality assurance, and instrumentation, this program allows students to choose between two technical concentrations in nuclear cybersecurity or nuclear leadership. The curriculum of this 124-credit program includes courses such as introduction to computers; health physics and radiation protection; radiation measurement; introduction to heat transfer and fluid mechanics; and electrical theory.

Notably, Excelsior University also offers an online bachelor of science program in computer science with concentration options in artificial intelligence; networking and cloud computing; software development; and data science. This computer science program, however, is not ABET-accredited.

Location: Albany, NY
Accreditation: Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

NY-Based Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering

While a bachelor’s degree allows individuals to begin working in the field of engineering at the entry-level, a master’s degree is often necessary to expand one’s career, allowing graduates to take on greater responsibilities and higher pay, as well. In addition, a master’s degree allows students to develop a level of knowledge and expertise in their field that is more comprehensive and specialized. Here are five standout online master’s degree programs based in NY:

Master of Science in Energy Management – New York Institute of Technology

New York Institute of Technology’s College of Engineering & Computing Sciences offers an online master of science program in energy management, providing students with the essential knowledge and tools to implement and develop policies to improve energy efficiency. Graduates will gain interdisciplinary skills in modern energy technology, policy development, business practice, cost-benefit evaluation, program analysis, and computer-assisted management techniques.

Building on their undergraduate studies, students in this program will engage in state-of-the-art research at the institute’s Energy and Green Technologies Lab and will closely collaborate with faculty members who are experts in risk assessment, facilities management, and alternative energy systems. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in funded research projects for the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, and other organizations in New York Tech’s Entrepreneurship and Technology Innovation Center (ETIC).

The program’s 30-credit curriculum includes courses such as energy management; systems engineering and management; energy technology in perspective; power plant systems; alternative energy systems; energy equipment assessment; facilities operation and maintenance; computer applications for energy management; wind energy technology; and geographical information systems.

Graduates of this program will be ready to take on positions such as energy auditors, energy managers, environmental managers, facilities managers, and renewable energy professionals.

Location: Long Island, NY; New York, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: 10 months

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering – Columbia University

At Columbia University in New York, students can pursue a master of science program in biomedical engineering entirely online. The program prepares graduates to apply applied science and engineering to problems in medicine, biology, and the understanding of living systems, and to develop biomedical systems and devices.

Students must complete 30 credits to complete this program successfully. They will take courses on computational neuroscience, including circuits in the brain, quantitative physiology, solid biomechanics, sound and hearing, physiological control systems, principles of applied mathematics, and cardiac mechanics.

Applicants to the program must possess an undergraduate degree in science, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or any other related field from an accredited academic institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Application requirements include three recommendation letters, official transcripts, a current resume, a personal professional statement, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students. GRE scores are optional.

Location: New York, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Science in Computer Science – Syracuse University

Syracuse University provides an online master of science program in computer science that prepares students to analyze, question, and create solutions for future technological challenges. Preparing graduates to drive new developments in the field, the program’s curriculum focuses on emerging topics such as security and assurance, advanced programming, artificial intelligence, and computer architecture.

The curriculum requires 30 credits of coursework in subjects such as structured programming and formal methods, computer architecture, principles of operating systems, algorithm design and analysis, software engineering, software modeling, computer security, mobile application programming, object-oriented design, and introduction to cryptography.

Admission requirements to the program include a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a related field from an accredited institution, with an average grade point average of 3.0 or better and demonstrated core competencies in calculus, discrete mathematics, programming (C and C++), computer organization, and data structures. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Location: Syracuse, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: 15 months

Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering – Cornell University

Cornell University offers an online master of engineering program in systems engineering, ideal for students who have already entered the workforce and want to earn their master’s degree without taking a break from their employment. Engineers from several undergraduate disciplines are deeply involved in implementing and designing complex systems. This master’s degree supports their career goals and gives them the tools to continuously improve their professional skills.

This 30-credit program includes courses such as model-based systems engineering; systems analysis behavior and optimization; systems engineering management for virtual teams; creativity and innovation within systems engineering; energy policies for systems transition; systems integration, verification, and validation; and sociotechnical systems modeling and simulation.

Applicants to the program must have a baccalaureate degree, preferably in mathematics, science, or engineering, conferred by an accredited college or university and must document at least one year of work experience in a relevant field to be eligible. Additionally, they must submit a statement of purpose, unofficial transcripts from each college or university previously attended, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL or IELTS test scores for international applicants.

Location: Ithaca, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Engineering in Engineering Management – University at Buffalo

University at Buffalo’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers a nationally ranked online master’s in engineering management program providing graduate study for students who desire to enhance their technical competence and effectively take leadership positions within an organization. Graduates can make strategic decisions and shape policies about finance, personnel, and operations.

The 30-credit curriculum includes courses such as principles of engineering management; technical communications for engineers; case studies in engineering management; quality assurance: management tools that ensure success; and production planning and control.

Graduates can take up roles such as engineering project managers, industrial management engineers, cost systems analysts, senior lead analysts, chief technology officers, and construction management engineers.

Location: Buffalo, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Other Online Engineering Programs in NY

Here are two online associate degree programs in engineering based at institutions in NY:

Associate of Science in Computer Science (Transfer Program) – Monroe Community College

At Monroe Community College in Rochester, students can pursue a distance-based AS degree in computer science. While some attendance is required, the school website states that 50 percent or more of the program can be completed entirely online. This associate degree transfer program helps students develop sharp creative and analytical skills so they can thrive in a computer science bachelor’s degree program and a rewarding career after graduation.

Students require 62 to 64 credits to graduate from this program, which covers courses in calculus, data structures, digital computer organization, computer programming, and discrete mathematics, among other areas of study.

With a solid foundation at Monroe Community College and a bachelor’s degree, graduates will be ready for positions such as computer systems analysts, software developers, computer science teachers, computer and information systems managers, and computer programmers.

Location: Rochester, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Associate of Science in Computer Science – Jamestown Community College

Students at Jamestown Community College in Jamestown can pursue an AS degree in computer science, a two-year program designed for students who intend to transfer to a four-year college. Attendance is not required for this program, as it can be completed entirely online. Focusing on software development and design, this program will include studies in programming, networking, database design, web technologies, computer theory, and advanced mathematics.

Students take 60 credits of courses, including those on programming concepts & applications; data structures; computer organization; discrete mathematics; and a number of others related to computer science, along with elective credits.

Location: Jamestown, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Above all, there are many online engineering degree programs in NY and beyond. To explore the opportunities at all levels—many of which are open to students living in the Empire State—please visit any of the specialization or degree types pages. Some of the online programs catering to high-growth career subfields in NY include:

Online Engineering Programs – What to Consider

As mentioned above, aspiring online engineering students must weigh several factors in their degree program search, including the education quality, the program’s total cost, the institution’s reputation, the time required to complete the degree, admissions rates, and other variables. Since online learning requires substantially more independence than traditional, on-campus degree programs, students considering a distance-based engineering program should consider:

Does the program assist with job placement after graduation? Can the program provide employment statistics for graduates?
Can the program be completed entirely online? Or is campus attendance required?
Do online students have in-state status?
What is the estimated completion time for full-time students? Can the program be completed on a part-time basis?
Are students able to complete practical experience credits near their home communities?

In addition to the above questions, aspiring students should determine their program’s accreditation and state authorization statuses before making a final decision.

Accreditation

Accreditation shows that a program has met certain quality standards set forth by an accrediting agency. To receive accreditation, a school must meet some requirements such as providing student services; strong student outcomes; sound administrative and financial management; high-quality education, and several other criteria. In sum, accreditation is an indicator of academic quality, and for students, graduation from an accredited program may be required to qualify for certain graduate programs, certifications, or employment opportunities.

However, not all accrediting organizations are the same, as some carry more weight than others. Aspiring students should seek out programs that have been accredited by an organization approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In addition, aspiring students should understand that accreditation is available through different organizations on a programmatic, national, and regional level. To be sure, the following includes a list of prominent organizations that accredit online engineering programs in New York:

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

Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Programmatic accreditation

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

State Authorization

Students are only eligible to enroll in online engineering programs that have been authorized to operate in their home state. In general, New York residents enrolled in online programs based in NY will be fine; however, some online engineering programs in other states may not provide admissions to non-resident students. All online students should carefully examine state policies before applying to any programs. Fortunately, many programs show this conveniently on their website (e.g., NYU). For those who don’t, online students are encouraged to contact program coordinators to ensure eligibility.

Admissions to Online Engineering Programs

Finally, online engineering programs in New York maintain admissions requirements that are similar to their campus-based counterparts. Here is a list of common admissions requirements for online engineering schools in New York:

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

A high school diploma or GED with proof of prerequisite coursework (e.g., physics, chemistry, calculus, etc.)
A competitive GPA; generally 2.5 or 3.0, depending on the program
Letters of recommendation provided by two teachers
A statement of purpose or other personal essays
ACT or SAT scores

Online Master’s Degree in Engineering Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in engineering with proof of prerequisite coursework
An undergraduate GPA of above 2.5 for some programs, or above 3.0 for more selective institutions
GRE test scores
A statement of purpose or other types of personal essay
Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, advisors, or other qualifying professionals

Online Graduate or Professional Certificate Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in engineering
A resume or CV
Letters of recommendation
A personal essay