Online Engineering Schools in Oregon (OR)

Meet the Expert: Rita Munarwi

Rita Munarwi

Rita Munarwi is a technology leader, speaker, and community advocate serving as director of technical program management for Compute Silicon at Microsoft. With deep expertise in hardware-software integration and large-scale systems, she leads high-impact initiatives at the forefront of cloud and silicon innovation.

Beyond her work in tech, Munarwi is the president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Columbia River Section, where she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering. She is also a podcast host and author, using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices and share insights on leadership, career growth, and navigating the tech industry.

A sought-after keynote speaker, Munarwi brings a unique perspective that blends technical depth with authentic storytelling, inspiring audiences across industries to lead with purpose and resilience.

OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What do you wish more people understood about what it means to work as an engineer in Oregon today?

Munarwi: Oregon has a smaller, more connected engineering ecosystem than places like Silicon Valley or Texas, but it offers a surprisingly broad range of opportunities. People often associate the state with semiconductors, yet Oregon is also home to global leaders in sports innovation, advanced manufacturing, heavy‑duty transportation, cloud infrastructure, and test and measurement. Because these industries sit so close together, engineers here are exposed to disciplines that don’t typically intersect in larger, more specialized tech hubs.

What I wish more people understood is that this combination creates a unique kind of career mobility. Oregon is big enough to offer world‑class engineering work, yet small enough that the ecosystem feels accessible. It’s common for engineers to move between domains—from silicon to automation, from materials science to biomechanics, from cloud systems to electrification.

That breadth, paired with a connected community, shapes the engineering mindset here. You learn to think broadly, understand how technologies intersect, and contribute to systems that have real global impact. That blend of diversity, depth, and accessibility is what makes engineering in Oregon distinctive.

OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What advice would you give to someone just starting to explore engineering as a career path?

Munarwi: Begin with curiosity. Engineering isn’t about knowing everything upfront—it’s about being willing to explore, experiment, and learn how to approach problems from different angles. If you’re drawn to understanding how things work or how technology can improve people’s lives, you’re already on the right path.

Expose yourself to a variety of disciplines early. Try coding, build something hands‑on, join a robotics or STEM club, or attend local engineering events. The field is incredibly broad, and exploration helps you discover what energizes you.

And don’t underestimate the power of community. Join organizations like the Society of Women Engineers, connect with mentors, and surround yourself with people who believe in your potential. Engineering is a collaborative profession, and the relationships you build will support you just as much as the technical skills you develop.

If you choose engineering, you’re stepping into a career that is challenging, meaningful, and full of possibilities.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering in Oregon

To begin a career as an engineer, a person typically needs at least an undergraduate degree. Aspiring engineers can consider the following online bachelor’s degrees in engineering open to Oregon-based students.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Oregon State University

Although it is not a traditional engineering program, the online bachelor of science in computer science offered by Oregon State University’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of Corvallis may be an excellent option for those looking to pursue a career in computer hardware or software engineering. Students in this program will be provided with opportunities to evaluate and design solutions to complex computing problems. Graduates will also have regular opportunities to network with industry professionals as they build their career portfolios.

Students in this 180-credit program will have two options that will enable them to focus their studies on an area of interest. These include applied computer science and cybersecurity. Courses include introduction to computer science; data structures; web development; software engineering; operating systems; design engineering and problem solving; engineering computation and algorithmic thinking; and elements of discrete mathematics.

Notably, this degree is geared towards students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and offers a one-, two-, three-, or even four-year track for completion.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering – Oregon State University

Oregon State University’s online bachelor of science in mechanical engineering prepares students to design, build, and improve mechanical systems across a wide range of industries. The program blends traditional mechanical engineering training with computational engineering skills, teaching students to use computational models and algorithms to simulate, analyze, and optimize how different mechanical systems perform. Graduates are equipped for roles as mechanical engineers, aerospace engineers, robotics engineers, manufacturing engineers, and more.

A minimum of 180 credits is required for graduation, including a required computational engineering option that accounts for 24 of the 60 upper-division credits. Students complete a capstone project at the end of the program, applying engineering methodologies to develop real-world solutions to an engineering problem. Coursework spans statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, computer-aided design, manufacturing processes, and systems engineering.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering – Oregon State University

Described as one of the first online programs of its kind in the nation, Oregon State’s bachelor’s of science in electrical and computer engineering covers electronics, power systems, computer networks, and digital hardware design. Students work with an academic advisor to choose a focus area that aligns with their career goals.

Prospective students should be aware that upper-division ECE courses are still being developed, with 100- and 200-level courses currently available in 2025-26. Those with questions about how course availability may affect their start term are encouraged to contact Ecampus enrollment services before applying. Career paths include control systems engineer, embedded systems engineer, robotics engineer, and computer network architect.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering – Oregon State University

Oregon State’s online bachelor’s of science in chemical engineering is built around the design of scalable chemical processes, with applications spanning renewable energy, clean water, semiconductors, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The program is ABET-accredited and prepares graduates to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, the first step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer. It is also closely tied to OSU’s semiconductor initiative, which plays an active role in developing the next generation of semiconductor workers.

Coursework includes electrochemical processing, fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, chemical reactor design, thermodynamics, and biochemical processing. The program requires 180 credits and culminates in a senior capstone design experience.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering – Oregon State University

For students drawn to infrastructure, the environment, and the built world, OSU’s online bachelor’s of science in civil engineering offers rigorous training in structural analysis, hydraulic modeling, transportation systems, and environmental impact assessment. The program is ABET-accredited and designed to prepare students to sit for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, a key milestone on the path to becoming a licensed professional engineer. Career options for graduates include structural engineer, water resources engineer, geotechnical engineer, transportation engineer, and construction manager. The program requires 180 credits for completion.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering – Oregon State University

Oregon State’s online bachelor’s of science in architectural engineering covers structural analysis, lighting, HVAC, and building systems design, positioning students to thrive in modern design and construction roles. The program takes a systems-level approach to how buildings are engineered, touching on everything from structural integrity to energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality. Graduates go on to careers as structural engineers, building systems engineers, lighting engineers, HVAC design engineers, and construction project managers.

This 180-credit program is part of OSU’s College of Engineering and is delivered fully through Ecampus, one of the top-ranked online education providers in the country. Students who are not yet calculus-ready at admission can begin in a related program and transition into the degree once prerequisites are complete.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Management – Oregon State University

Oregon State’s online bachelor’s of science in construction engineering management combines technical construction knowledge with project leadership and business skills, preparing students to oversee large-scale building projects from planning through completion. The program holds specialized accreditation from the American Council for Construction Engineering, which sets the highest standard of excellence for construction education. Graduates of ACCE-accredited programs are in high demand among construction employers.

The curriculum covers construction estimating, project management and scheduling, virtual design and construction, highway location and design, contracts and specifications, and human resources management. Career paths include construction project manager, field engineer, estimator, and land development project manager. Like all OSU Ecampus engineering programs, this 180-credit degree is taught by the same faculty who teach on campus and earns students the same diploma.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); American Council for Construction Engineering (ACCE)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Engineering – Eastern Oregon University

Eastern Oregon University offers an online IT and data-focused bachelor’s degree in computer science that allows students to focus on user interface design or big data while leveling up mathematics skills to prepare for a career in software development.

Featuring the latest tech skills, operating systems knowledge, and programming languages, this 180-credit program includes courses such as foundations of computer science; C/C++ programming; data structures; database management systems; software engineering; object-oriented programming; algorithm analysis; and operating systems.

  • Location: La Grande, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering in Oregon

For many engineers, a master’s degree can help them further develop their knowledge and skills to remain more competitive in the workforce.

Master of Engineering in Engineering Management – Oregon State University

Designed for professionals with a STEM background, OSU’s master of engineering in engineering management combines the business, financial, and management knowledge needed to be an effective leader with marketable, engineering-specific expertise not found in a generalized MBA. The program is a coursework-only degree with no thesis requirement, making it well suited for working engineers who want to advance into leadership without stepping away from their careers.

A total of 45 quarter credits are required to graduate, and students can finish in about two years by taking one to two courses per term. Course topics include project management, systems engineering, strategic planning, operations management, ethics, and risk management. Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical sciences, or technology, along with one year of full-time paid work experience in a relevant engineering field.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Engineering or Master of Science in Computer Science – Oregon State University

Oregon State offers two online pathways to a graduate degree in computer science, both delivered fully through Ecampus. The 45-credit master’s of engineering and master’s of science programs are developed and delivered online by OSU faculty members, many with industry experience, and prepare students to lead work and solve complex problems in data structures, artificial intelligence, database management systems, software engineering, and more. The choice between the two degrees comes down to whether a student wants a coursework-only path or a research component. The MEng is reviewed on the basis of academic record, professional experience, and written statements, while the MS involves the same criteria with additional consideration for matching students with a faculty advisor for a thesis or project, making MS admissions generally more selective. The MS requires students to complete a computer science-related project in collaboration with an OSU faculty member, which can be done entirely from a distance with no in-person requirements.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Radiation Health Physics – Oregon State University

The master of radiation health physics program is one of the highest regarded programs of its kind in the nation, providing a rigorous curriculum developed by world-renowned faculty who are actively engaged on the front lines of radiation detection. The program prepares graduates for careers dealing with nuclear energy, ionizing radiation, and radioactive materials, particularly within security, national defense, medical health, and safety. Concentration areas include arms control technology; nuclear instrumentation and applications; nuclear power generation; nuclear reactor engineering; nuclear waste management; and space nuclear applications.

The program requires 45 credits and admits students once per year for a fall term start. An advanced degree is required for most career paths in radiation protection, and the Health Physics Society projects a shortage of radiation safety professionals across federal, state, and local environmental protection agencies; medical care facilities; nuclear reactor sites; national laboratories; and private consulting firms.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Science in Engineering – Oregon Institute of Technology

The Oregon Institute of Technology offers an online master of science in engineering (MSE) with several specialization options to fit different backgrounds and career goals. Students can choose a multidisciplinary MSE, a specialized MSE, or a more classical MSE in electrical engineering. The multidisciplinary MSE is designed as a highly customizable and modular degree, enabling students to draw coursework from multiple disciplines to create specialties not typically available in classical engineering master’s programs.

The Multidisciplinary MSE and the MSE in Systems Engineering can be completed fully online, while the other MSE programs can be completed partially online but also require attendance at the Oregon Tech Portland-Metro campus in Wilsonville. All tracks require 45 credits, at least 15 of which must be in the area of specialization.

  • Location: Klamath Falls, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Other Online Engineering Programs in Oregon

An array of other online programs exists for aspiring engineers in Oregon, including certificates and associate degrees. For those looking for an education outside of traditional bachelor’s or master’s degrees, the following may provide excellent options:

Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management – Oregon State University

In addition to the online master’s in engineering management program, Oregon State University also offers an online graduate certificate in engineering management. Ideal for those with a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field and those who are already working as professional engineers, this online program provides key soft and technical skills along with engineering-focused operational and business expertise.

Students can begin their transition into management without committing to a full master’s degree, and credits earned in the certificate can be applied toward the MEng if they later decide to continue.

This 18-credit program includes courses such as project management in engineering; supply and sourcing management; operations management; statistical concepts for engineering managers; financial and cost analysis; introduction to management for engineers and scientists; and advanced engineering economics analysis.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: One year

Undergraduate Certificate in Mechatronics for Manufacturing Engineering – Oregon State University

Automation is the future of advanced manufacturing, yet a shortage of workers trained to integrate automation and mechatronics technology into manufacturing systems persists across industry. Oregon State’s online undergraduate certificate in mechatronics for manufacturing engineering is designed to fill that gap. The program is well-suited both for working professionals looking to upskill and for engineers who need to learn how mechatronics applies in manufacturing contexts.

This 33-credit certificate is affiliated with OSU’s Corvallis campus ABET-accredited bachelor’s of science in manufacturing engineering program. Coursework covers electrical engineering fundamentals, automation, robotics, logical control, digital control theory, and digital signal processing. Graduates are prepared for roles in robotics engineering, automation engineering, control systems design, and mechanical design.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: One year

Undergraduate Certificate in Humanitarian Engineering – Oregon State University

Oregon State’s online undergraduate certificate in humanitarian engineering is designed for students who want to apply engineering thinking to society’s most pressing challenges. The program offers tracks in sustainability, project management, and public health, and takes an interdisciplinary approach that extends beyond technical problem-solving to consider social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors. At 27 credits, it can be completed entirely online. Graduates go on to roles in humanitarian organizations, nonprofit management, conflict relief project coordination, and design engineering.

  • Location: Corvallis, OR
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Expected Time to Completion: One year

Online Engineering Programs – What to Consider

It’s true that the future looks promising for aspiring engineers in Oregon. That said, prospective students are encouraged to thoroughly research the online engineering degree programs available to them to ensure they are able to receive the education they need to succeed. And, in doing so, potential applicants may wish to ask the following questions, among others:

  • Can the program be completed on a part-time basis?
  • On average, how long does the program take to complete?
  • Does the school assist with job placement upon graduation?
  • What is the cost of the program? Does this include additional fees?
  • How many campus visits are required throughout the program?

In addition, anyone searching for an online engineering degree in Oregon should understand the concepts of accreditation and state authorization status.

Accreditation

Completing an accredited program is not a prerequisite to succeed as an engineer, but it has benefits; ultimately, because accreditation is synonymous with value, those with a degree from an accredited program may find it easier to secure employment or financial aid for further education.

Not all accrediting organizations are the same. Instead, prospective applicants are advised to search for programs that have received accreditation through one of the organizations approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The following includes a list of various agencies that provide accreditation on a national, regional, and programmatic level to engineering schools across Oregon:

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

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Programmatic accreditation

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

State Authorization

In addition to accreditation, prospective applicants should also research state authorization status, as well. To elaborate, students in Oregon may only study at programs that have been deemed eligible to operate within the state, known as “state authorization.” Fortunately, this information is often readily available on a school’s website (e.g., Oregon State University), and for those that don’t, aspiring students should contact admissions departments to ensure eligibility.

Admissions Requirements for Online Engineering Programs

Overall, the admissions requirements for many online engineering programs are similar to their on-campus counterparts. Naturally, some differences will exist between institutions; however, in general, the criteria will remain almost identical, at least when broken down by level. For example, those seeking admission to the online master of engineering in industrial engineering at Oregon State University must have:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a field related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (ideally from an ABET-accredited program)
  • One year of full-time, continuous, paid work experience in engineering, or a field that aligns with the undergraduate degree
  • Professional references from previous professors or employers
  • A 3.0 GPA
  • GRE scores (this criterion is not required if the applicant holds a degree from an ABET-accredited undergraduate program)

Other common admissions requirements include letters of recommendation, candidate interviews, additional test scores, proof of specific coursework, and a personal statement.