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Dr. Diana Biswell is a seasoned technology leader and educator with over 20 years of dual experience in software engineering and higher education. As department head of information systems & technologies at Oklahoma State University-OKC, she bridges the gap between industry and academia, recently earning an EdD from Baylor University.
Recognized by The Journal Record as one of Oklahoma’s Power List’s IT Experts and Innovators in 2024, Dr. Biswell leverages two decades of programming expertise and teaching to translate industry needs into elite, workforce-ready degree programs at OSU-OKC.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What do you wish people knew about online engineering and tech education in Oklahoma?
Dr. Biswell: Being “online” doesn’t equate to “being alone.” There’s a common misconception that online students spend all their time staring at a screen in isolation. However, in our program, it’s quite the contrary! We provide virtual labs that allow students to work with real-world technology from their own homes, with ongoing support and access to instructors.
Additionally, these degrees are vital for Oklahoma’s economy. We’re not only teaching students coding skills; we’re developing the next generation of cyber defenders and software professionals who support local businesses. You don’t need to relocate to Silicon Valley for a meaningful tech career; you can access a top-tier education right here while continuing your job in Oklahoma City or Tulsa.
My advice for aspiring online students in Oklahoma? Don’t be a stranger. Communicate with us! Even if you’re not in a physical classroom, your professors are still available to support you. Reach out, ask questions, email your instructor early in the term, and connect with your classmates. This is how you develop a professional network.
Make use of your existing credits: If you already hold an associate degree (AAS), don’t let those credits go unused! Our “2+2” pathway values the effort you’ve invested so you can reach your bachelor’s degree quickly.
Establish your “office hours”: While online learning offers great flexibility, having a routine is beneficial. Consider your study time a high-priority meeting with yourself. If you have responsibilities from 8 to 5, dedicate either an hour in the morning or the evening after dinner to do homework or reading. I know from experience as a returning student if I didn’t schedule the time, fitting in study or homework time was almost nonexistent.
Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering Technology- Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University’s online bachelor of science in mechanical engineering technology prepares students for hands-on engineering careers focused on mechanical design, manufacturing, materials, mechanical power, and computer-aided technologies. The program emphasizes practical, industry-relevant skills for fields such as robotics, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, agricultural machinery, electronics manufacturing, and food processing. Students gain experience using modern design and analysis tools while building strong foundations in engineering principles, teamwork, ethics, and professional communication.
Delivered fully online through OSU’s Canvas learning platform, the program offers flexibility for working professionals while maintaining the same academic quality as on-campus courses. Graduates are prepared to contribute quickly in the workplace, introduce new technologies, and collaborate in multidisciplinary teams. The degree is ABET-accredited, and career outcomes include roles such as mechanical engineer, manufacturing engineer, project engineer, field engineer, quality control engineer, and mechanical designer.
Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology- Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University’s online bachelor of science in fire protection and safety engineering technology focuses on preparing students to manage and mitigate hazards in fire, industrial, and workplace environments. The program blends engineering fundamentals with applied safety science, covering areas such as fire behavior, hazard control, industrial safety, emergency management, and regulatory compliance. Students develop the technical and analytical skills needed to evaluate risk, design prevention strategies, and improve safety systems across a range of industries.
Built for students who need flexibility, the program is delivered fully online while maintaining the same academic standards as OSU’s on-campus offerings. Coursework emphasizes real-world application and prepares graduates to step into roles in safety engineering, fire protection, environmental health, risk management, and loss prevention. The degree is ABET-accredited and recognized by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals, supporting pathways toward professional certification and long-term careers in safety and risk reduction.
Master of Engineering and Technology Management – Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University’s online master of science in engineering and technology management is designed for engineers, scientists, and technical professionals who want to move into leadership and management roles. The program focuses on managing technology, people, and complex projects in fast-paced, global business environments, emphasizing strategic decision-making, systems thinking, and the effective integration of engineering and management practices.
The 32-credit-hour program is fully online and built for working professionals, with most students completing the degree in about three years (or as quickly as 18 months). Coursework includes required classes in decision analysis and a capstone series, plus electives that allow students to tailor the degree to their career goals. Graduates strengthen skills in project management, organizational strategy, communication, and technology leadership to advance in technical and managerial careers.
Master Of Engineering In Electrical Engineering – Oklahoma State University
Designed for working engineers who want advanced technical depth without a thesis, the master of engineering in electrical engineering at Oklahoma State University is a fully online, non-thesis program focused on professional practice and career advancement. The curriculum supports students seeking to strengthen expertise in electrical engineering subfields aligned with their industry goals, while emphasizing applied problem-solving, advanced engineering concepts, and workforce-ready skills.
The program requires 33 graduate credit hours, including coursework at the advanced ECEN 5000 level across multiple electrical engineering topic areas, plus additional approved graduate electives. Delivered through OSU’s online learning platform, courses match the rigor and quality of on-campus instruction and are structured for flexibility alongside full-time work or other commitments. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in engineering design, systems development, research support, and technology-driven industries
Master Of Engineering In Electrical Engineering – Oklahoma State University
Built for students interested in research, innovation, and potential doctoral study, Oklahoma State University’s master of science in electrical engineering is a thesis-based, research-oriented graduate program that emphasizes advancing knowledge in engineering science and electrical engineering technologies. The curriculum supports students who want to make fundamental contributions to areas such as electrical systems, computing technologies, and advanced engineering methods, while developing strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Unlike the master of engineering in electrical engineering (MEN), which is a non-thesis, professionally focused degree designed for workforce advancement, the MS follows a traditional academic path and requires a thesis. The program includes 30 total graduate credit hours, with coursework in advanced ECEN topics plus six hours of thesis credit, making it better suited for students pursuing research careers, academic roles, or future PhD programs rather than purely industry-focused professional tracks
Master of Science in Engineering Technology in Mechatronics and Robotics – Oklahoma State University
The online master of science in engineering technology in mechatronics and robotics is a 30‑credit graduate program designed to provide interdisciplinary, applied training in the design, integration, and operation of robotic and mechatronic systems. Students gain hands-on experience through projects, coursework, and an optional thesis, preparing them to address real-world challenges in automation, control, and advanced manufacturing.
The curriculum covers areas such as systems integration, sensing and actuation, modeling and control, and robotics applications. Students can tailor their studies with electives in specialized fields like autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for careers in engineering, technology development, and industrial innovation.
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and Management – Oklahoma State University
The online master of science in industrial engineering and management is a graduate program that prepares students to analyze, design, and improve complex systems in manufacturing and service environments with options for research or professional practice.
Students complete a flexible curriculum entirely online, choosing a plan with or without a thesis and selecting a specialty track such as general industrial engineering, engineering management, operations research, or supply chain and logistics, gaining advanced technical and analytical skills for careers in industry, research, or consulting
Master’s of Science in Engineering Leadership and Management – University of Oklahoma
The online master of science in engineering leadership and management at the University of Oklahoma is a 30‑credit graduate program designed to prepare engineers and technical professionals to lead teams, manage complex projects, and drive innovation across industries by blending advanced leadership strategies with engineering applications. It emphasizes communication, ethical decision‑making, strategic thinking, and real‑world problem solving so students gain the skills to navigate multidisciplinary environments and advance into managerial roles.
Delivered 100 percent online through OU Online and the Gallogly College of Engineering, the program offers flexible pacing for working professionals and integrates topics like systems thinking, data analysis, cost engineering, and team leadership. Graduates are equipped to take on roles such as engineering manager, operations leader, or technical project director, applying both technical insight and leadership acumen to complex organizational challenges.
Master’s of Science in Engineering Leadership and Management – University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma offers an online master of science in civil engineering designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in designing, analyzing, and managing critical infrastructure projects. This 30‑credit program is delivered fully online through OU Online and the Gallogly College of Engineering, with specialization options in areas like structural, geotechnical, transportation, and water resources engineering.
Students engage in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing them to tackle real-world engineering challenges in both public and private sectors. Graduates are equipped to take on leadership roles in infrastructure design, project management, and civil systems planning, applying advanced technical skills to improve communities and support sustainable development.
Master’s of Science in Engineering – Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma Christian University’s master of science in engineering is a graduate program that helps students build advanced technical and leadership skills for designing and managing complex engineering systems. The curriculum blends real‑world projects with ethical, systems‑focused training, and can typically be completed in as little as one year through flexible course options.
This program emphasizes practical problem solving, multidisciplinary teamwork, and professional development with small class sizes and connections to industry leaders. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in engineering disciplines and have gone on to work with major employers across technology, defense, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors.
Certificate of Engineering Management – Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University offers an online certificate of engineering management. It consists of 12 credits and requires a one-credit introductory course titled introduction to strategy, technology, and integration, plus 11 additional hours in areas such as engineering teaming, strategic project management, failure mode and effects analysis in design, new product introduction and commercialization, engineering economics analysis, lean sigma implementation, and others. The program is 100 percent online and can be completed in conjunction with the master’s program or as a stand alone certificate. The cost is $446 per credit for Oklahoma residents and military personnel, while non-residents pay $1,061 per credit.
Associate in Applied Science in Engineering Technology – Oklahoma City Community College
Oklahoma City Community College offers an associate in applied science in engineering technology that blends foundational math, technical skills, and workplace practices to prepare students for careers in fields like aviation technology and industrial support. The program features flexible class schedules and access to experienced faculty, helping students build practical knowledge and problem‑solving abilities relevant to today’s dynamic technical workplaces.
While many of the required courses are available online to fit around work and life commitments, some components may still require in‑person participation, and the degree is designed to supplement technical certifications such as the FAA airframe and powerplant license. Graduates are equipped for entry‑level roles where hands‑on skills and applied technical training are valued, and the college provides academic and career support throughout the program.
Associate in Applied Science in Engineering Technologies- Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City
Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City (OSU‑OKC) offers an associate in applied science in engineering technologies designed to give students a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical, hands‑on skills across electrical, mechanical, robotics, automation, and manufacturing topics. The program prepares students to meet industry demands with up‑to‑date coursework taught by experienced faculty and a curriculum that evolves with current technological trends.
Students benefit from connections with local employers and partnerships like OKC‑FAME that blend classroom learning with real‑world work experience, helping them build technical competence and workplace readiness. Graduates are positioned for entry‑level roles in sectors such as manufacturing, automation, and industrial support, and the degree provides a seamless pathway into OSU‑OKC’s bachelor of technology programs for those who want to continue their education.
Prospective engineering students must consider several factors when pursuing an online engineering degree. These include examining the quality of the program and faculty, accreditation, how long it takes to complete the program, cost, and other variables. Distance education requires substantially more independence than traditional, on-campus degree programs. Therefore, students pursuing an online engineering program should consider:
In addition to the above questions, aspiring students should determine their program’s accreditation and state authorization statuses before making a final decision.
Accreditation means a program has met the quality standards set by an accrediting agency. To receive accreditation, a school must meet criteria related to student outcomes and services, educators, and academic objectives. Because of this, accreditation from recognized entities can indicate a high-quality program. As a student, graduation from an accredited program may be required to qualify for certain graduate programs, certifications, or employment opportunities.
Since not all accrediting organizations are the same, 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, students should understand that accreditation is available through different organizations. Here are the prominent organizations that accredit online engineering programs in Oklahoma:
National accreditation
Regional accreditation
Programmatic accreditation
Students in Oklahoma are only eligible to enroll in online engineering programs that have been authorized to operate in OK. Also, some online engineering programs in other states may not provide admissions to non-residents, or have differing tuition for residents and non-residents. Online students should carefully examine state policies before applying to any programs and be sure to contact program coordinators to ensure out-of-state eligibility.
Admission requirements vary by university and program. Prospective students should contact the specific program of interest to learn the exact requirements and deadlines. Here are some typical admissions requirements for online engineering programs:
With a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities in higher education, Kimmy Gustafson regularly contributes insightful articles to OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com, providing readers with a comprehensive view on the evolving landscape of engineering education since 2019. She has intervi...
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...