Online Engineering Schools in Wisconsin

The state of Wisconsin is home to a strong engineering industry that allows professionals in this field to thrive. Engineers in Wisconsin and throughout the United States play an important role in the economy. 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.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023) reported that there were 52,550 engineering and architectural jobs in the state, which comprises almost two percent of all occupations statewide (2,885,990). The bulk of these professionals were industrial engineers (12,270), mechanical engineers (8,400), or civil engineers (6,520 workers in IL).

And while engineering is one of the more lucrative career fields in the US, some subfields are growing faster than others.

The engineering industry in Wisconsin (WI) is currently strong, and will likely only continue to expand throughout the future. 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 from 2022 to 2032. About 188,000 openings are projected, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently.

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

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)

In Wisconsin (WI) specifically, the expected percentages were even higher. According to Projections Central (2024), some popular top-growing subfields of engineering between 2022 and 2032 included:

Chemical Engineers – 31.4 percent increase (110 new jobs)
Civil Engineers – 18.9 percent increase (1,130 new jobs)
Industrial Engineers – 17.4 percent increase (2,050 new jobs)
Mechanical Engineers – 17.2 percent increase (1,610 new jobs)
Environmental Engineers – 16.0 percent increase (130 new jobs)

Furthermore, engineers earn relatively competitive salaries; the average salary for the 52,550 engineers and architectural workers in WI was $84,360, according to the BLS (May 2023); some earned substantially more such as nuclear engineers, a field that has an annual average (mean) wage of $116,230. By comparison, the average annual salary for all positions in the state was $59,500.

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

Nuclear Engineers – $116,230 annual average salary
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers – $111,910
Computer Hardware Engineers – $110,860
Chemical Engineers – $107,780
Aerospace Engineers – $103,970

Finally, Wisconsin engineers can also benefit from the myriad of professional organizations in the state offering continuing education, events, networking opportunities, and other resources. Here are some of the most prominent professional engineering societies that support members in the state:

To become an engineer in WI, one typically needs at least a bachelor’s degree. While many aspiring engineers opt for a traditional, on-campus experience, many future professionals opt for online degrees. Online engineering programs provide a high level of flexibility while allowing students the ability to retain their current employment or other responsibilities while working toward a degree.

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

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Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering in Wisconsin

A majority of engineers in Wisconsin have at least a bachelor’s degree. In addition to the abundance of campus-based programs, there’s a growing array of distance-based options. Here are three online bachelor’s degree programs to consider.

Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing – University of Wisconsin

Aspiring engineers interested in software and computer engineering may pursue a BS in applied computing through the University of Wisconsin. This program is offered entirely online and includes 21 courses (61 credits). Applicants must have completed approximately 45 to 60 qualifying credits to be eligible for this program.

Designed for working adults, this bachelor’s degree completion program will help students develop the skills in both business and programming technologies that will prepare them to stand out and secure their spot in this growing field. Students take classes on programming; database management; systems analysis and design; object-oriented programming; applied communication networks; and web development, among others.

Graduates will be ready for positions such as software engineers, database developers, software developers, systems administrators, video game developers, and web developers, among many other roles.

Location: Madison, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Technology – University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Aspiring computer and software engineers can earn an online BS in information science and technology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This degree, which immerses students in information architecture, information science, information organization, human factors in information seeking and use, applications of the Internet, and storage and retrieval, prepares graduates to become IT leaders in today’s increasingly digital culture and economy.

The flexible nature of this degree allows students to customize their program by developing a focused area of study or by choosing a certificate or minor in another field. This 120-credit program includes courses on web design, systems analysis, web application development, and database information retrieval systems, among others.

Upon completing the program, graduates can take up roles such as software engineers, solutions engineers, information security analysts, computer systems analysts, software developers, web developers, and network and computer systems administrators.

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

Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science – Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University at Wisconsin offers an online bachelor of science program in applied computer science equipping graduates with practical skills and knowledge for a career working with technology. As such, students can explore several domains within computer science, including computer information systems, information technology, software engineering, database administration, machine learning, robotics, coding, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more.

The program’s 120-credit curriculum includes courses such as theory and fundamentals of computer science, operating systems, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics, cybersecurity, and advanced database and web development.

Graduates can take up roles such as software engineers, computer programmers, and database administrators.

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

Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering in Wisconsin

To achieve a greater degree of specialization, higher pay, or opportunities in leadership, there are also online master’s degrees in engineering available from institutions in Wisconsin.

Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering – University of Wisconsin – Madison

At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, engineers can enhance their skills with an online MEng in civil and environmental engineering. This program has consistently been rated among the top online engineering programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Students in this program gain an in-depth understanding of the environmental challenges faced by the world and will be able to find environmental engineering solutions for some of the most pressing problems. They develop the skills required for leading teams and building relationships with stakeholders.

Applicants to the program must have a bachelor of science degree in engineering from an accredited institution with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. International applicants must Submit evidence of English language proficiency.

The program covers courses on hydraulics and applied fluid mechanics, environmental engineering, water treatment plant design, hazardous waste management, sustainable microgrids, energy principles, chemical principles, biological treatment processes, and physical-chemical treatment processes. Students must complete 30 credits to graduate.

Location: Madison, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years

Master of Science in Manufacturing Engineering – University of Wisconsin – Stout

Aspiring engineers interested in the manufacturing process can consider an online MS in manufacturing engineering through the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Courses are entirely online, with projects and assignments that apply to real-life industry problems. Students develop expertise in lean manufacturing, continuous process improvement, project management, and manufacturing engineering processes.

This 30-credit program includes courses on six-sigma quality improvement methods, planned experimentation for quality improvement, organizational research methods, principles of occupational risk control, quality engineering, polymer engineering, and reliability engineering, among others.

Applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology, engineering, or a closely related discipline with a GPA of at least 3.0. Additionally, they must have the appropriate mathematical and statistical background. TOEFL or IELTS test scores are required of candidates who have English as their second language.

Location: Menomonie, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Master of Science in Computer Science – Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University offers an online master of science program in computer science. With concentrations in computer information systems, business data applications, and software engineering, this computer science master’s degree helps students stay on the cutting edge of advancements in the world of computer science.

With start dates available every six to eight weeks throughout the year, this STEM-designated online program helps students learn about creating complex software and hardware systems, managing complex computer information systems, and leading a technical team.

This 30-credit program includes courses in vocation and ethical computing, applied artificial intelligence, user experience, data security and information assurance, applied computer networking, mobile computer architecture, advanced algorithms, and system analysis and design.

Graduates can take up positions such as software engineers, information technologists, and data analysts.

Location: Mequon, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Other Online Engineering Programs in Wisconsin

Beyond online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, distance-based graduate certificates and associate degrees can complement an engineering career and education.

Graduate Certificate in Engineering – University of Wisconsin – Platteville

Through the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, aspiring engineers can pursue an online graduate certificate in engineering in a number of different specialties, including engineering management, geotechnical engineering, structural/geotechnical engineering, or engineering design. Students must complete 12 credits to complete their certificate successfully. Credits earned from all these certificate programs can be applied toward completing the online master of science in engineering program.

The engineering management graduate certificate includes courses such as applied statistics; advanced production and operation analysis; quality engineering and management; and engineering management.

The certificate in geotechnical engineering includes courses such as advanced shallow foundation design w/ LRFD applications; advanced deep foundation design w/ LRFD applications; geosynthetics engineering; and earth retaining structures: design, analysis, and LRFD.

The online structural/geotechnical engineering certificate includes courses such as structural steel design with LRFD; dynamics of structures; geosynthetics engineering; and earth retaining structures: design, analysis, and LRFD.

Finally, the engineering design certificate includes courses such as design for manufacturability; product design and development; control systems engineering; and sustainability in engineering design and manufacturing.

Location: Platteville, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Within a year

Associate Degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology – Northcentral Technical College

Aspiring engineers interested in pursuing a degree over a shorter period of time may consider completing an online associate degree in manufacturing engineering technology through the Northcentral Technical College, which is provided online and at various other campuses. Preparing learners to work in several positions in the manufacturing sector, this associate degree will help students gain a specialized education in lean manufacturing, manufacturing processes, production management, project management, problem-solving, ergonomics, CAD, and process safety.

Consisting of 63 to 65 credits, this program includes courses such as team building and problem-solving; interpreting engineering drawings; lean manufacturing fundamentals; manufacturing process planning; tooling & production; operations management in manufacturing; workplace ergonomics; and fluid power systems.

Graduates will be ready for roles such as quality engineers, manufacturing engineering technicians, industrial engineering technicians, quality engineering technicians, assistant manufacturing engineers, and assistant industrial engineers.

Location: Wausau, WI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Online Engineering Programs – What to Consider

Aspiring engineers are lured by the promise of a growing job market and a competitive salary upon graduation. Before enrolling in an online program, however, engineering students should ensure they have the answers to the following questions before applying:

What is the total cost of the program? Ultimately, cost is often a determining factor for many students.
Is attendance required? Some programs require students to visit the campus on a periodic basis, while others are offered entirely online.
Does the school assist with job placement after graduation? Having assistance while searching for a job can be invaluable for a recent graduate.
What are the professional and educational outcomes of graduates? The success and opportunities open to past graduates of specific programs are indicators of what future students can expect.
Can the program be completed on a part-time basis? Some students may need to work while completing their degree, and may not be able to study full-time.

In addition to the above, prospective students should also make sure to search for programs that are accredited and have appropriate state authorization status.

Accreditation

Graduating from an accredited program has significant benefits. While it is not required in order to be an engineer, many employers prefer applicants who have a degree from an accredited program, and some graduate degrees may only accept students whose undergraduate school was accredited, as well. As such, future students are highly encouraged to look 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). Many other accrediting agencies exist, yet it is difficult to verify their reputability if they have not received CHEA’s approval.

Generally, accrediting organizations are separated into the level at which they offer accreditation: regionally, nationally, or programmatically. Here are some of the most reputable organizations accrediting engineering schools in WI:

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

Students in Wisconsin are only eligible to enroll in programs with authorization to operate in this state. This is only an issue for distance-based students attending programs located in another state. Typically, state authorization information is available on program websites (e.g., University of Wisconsin), and for those who don’t have it, students should contact program coordinators to ensure eligibility.

Admissions Requirements for Online Engineering Programs

Admissions requirements for most online engineering programs are similar to their on-campus versions. To provide a better idea of what to expect, here is a general overview of application materials derived from real online engineering programs across the country:

Completed application and fee (NOTE: Some graduate programs require applications both to the graduate school and the relevant department)
Official transcripts from high school or an accredited bachelor’s degree program with proof of prerequisite coursework (e.g., calculus, physics, chemistry)
3.0 or higher GPA
Three letters of recommendation
Test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, GRE)
Resume
Personal statement or letter of intent
Candidate interview

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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...