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Compare Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

As a working electrical engineer, advancing your career into leadership roles or achieving higher pay may be your next move. Pursuing a master’s in engineering can help you secure positions such as engineering managers with a median salary of $165,370 or positions within the top 10% of electrical engineers, earning a median salary of $172,050.

Typically spanning two years for full-time students and four to five years for part-time students, these degree programs are a wise investment in your future. With an average tuition cost of $19,749, the potential for significant salary increases post-graduation makes this initial expense a valuable investment in your future.

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  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Master’s in Electrical Engineering degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 34 Accredited Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs

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#1
Stanford, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Stanford University

Intelligent Score: 99.96
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $55,473

Out-of-state: $55,473

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $54,315

Out-of-state: $54,315

Test scores

SAT: 1420-1570

ACT: 31-35

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
5%
On-campus students
94%
Graduation Rate
95%
Students enrolled
16,000
Student to faculty ratio
4:01
Average Salary
$93k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,391

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

45

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 650-723-3931

#2
Columbia, SC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

USC Viterbi

Intelligent Score: 99.18
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $12,288

Out-of-state: $33,528

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,737

Out-of-state: $13,737

Test scores

SAT: 1140-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
68%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
78%
Students enrolled
35,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,543

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

28

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 213-740-7767

#3
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Columbia University

Intelligent Score: 98.76
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $57,864

Out-of-state: $57,864

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $49,024

Out-of-state: $49,024

Test scores

SAT: 1460-1570

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
7%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
96%
Students enrolled
30,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$78k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,462

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-854-4688

#4
Berkeley, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

Intelligent Score: 96.86
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $41,196

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $11,442

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1530

ACT: 30-35

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
17%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
42,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$13k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $341

Non-Resident: $760

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

48-52

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 858-534-3213

#5
Seattle, WA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Washington

Intelligent Score: 96.18
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,629

Out-of-state: $37,998

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,278

Out-of-state: $16,278

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1453

ACT: 27-33

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
56%
On-campus students
89%
Graduation Rate
82%
Students enrolled
48,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,064

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

45

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 206-543-2100

#6
San Luis Obispo, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

California Polytechnic State University

Intelligent Score: 95.21
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $33,522

Out-of-state: $53,706

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $40,608

Out-of-state: $40,608

Test scores

SAT: 1240-1470

ACT: 22-33

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
30%
On-campus students
98%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
19,925
Student to faculty ratio
21-to-1
Average Salary
20,130
Average Student Debt
66,900

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$398

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

45

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 805-756-2131

#7
St. Louis, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Washington University in St Louis

Intelligent Score: 93.26
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $83,476

Out-of-state: $83,476

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $87,900

Out-of-state: $87,900

Test scores

SAT: 1500-1570

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
12%
On-campus students
89%
Graduation Rate
93%
Students enrolled
7,801
Student to faculty ratio
4-to-1
Average Salary
86,182
Average Student Debt
17,500

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,688

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 314-935-5830

#8
Ann Arbor, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Michigan - Dearborn

Intelligent Score: 92.76
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $16,520

Out-of-state: $53,669

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $24,344

Out-of-state: $24,344

Test scores

SAT: 1340-1520

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
26%
On-campus students
9%
Graduation Rate
93%
Students enrolled
48,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $506

Non-Resident: $960

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 313-593-5420

#9
Tampa, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of South Florida

Intelligent Score: 92.45
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,559

Out-of-state: $15,473

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $8,350

Out-of-state: $8,350

Test scores

SAT: 1160-1320

ACT: 25-30

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
49%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
74%
Students enrolled
51,000
Student to faculty ratio
22:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $347

Non-Resident: $771

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 813-974-3350

#10
Newark, NJ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Intelligent Score: 91.29
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,448

Out-of-state: $30,160

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $20,624

Out-of-state: $20,624

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1390

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
66%
On-campus students
16%
Graduation Rate
70%
Students enrolled
12,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$55k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $593 - $938

Out-of-State: $876 - $1,388

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 973-596-3300

#11
Long Beach, CA | 4 years | Online | Public

California State University, Long Beach

Intelligent Score: 90.6
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,742

Out-of-state: $17,622

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,176

Out-of-state: $7,176

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1240

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
42%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
40,000
Student to faculty ratio
24:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $512

Non-Resident: $908

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

WASC Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 562-985-5102

#12
Evanston, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Northwestern University

Intelligent Score: 88.63
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $58,227

Out-of-state: $58,227

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $56,067

Out-of-state: $56,067

Test scores

SAT: 1430-1550

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
9%
On-campus students
99%
Graduation Rate
95%
Students enrolled
23,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$72k
Average Student Debt
$16k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,044

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 847-491-5410

#13
Lubbock, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Texas Tech University

Intelligent Score: 87.37
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $8,683

Out-of-state: $20,953

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,788

Out-of-state: $6,788

Test scores

SAT: 1070-1240

ACT: 22-27

Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
70%
On-campus students
46%
Graduation Rate
63%
Students enrolled
40,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$47k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $544

Non-Resident: $972

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 806-742-2787

#14
Philadelphia, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Pennsylvania

Intelligent Score: 86.67
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $53,166

Out-of-state: $53,166

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $37,678

Out-of-state: $37,678

Test scores

SAT: 1460-1570

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
9%
On-campus students
15%
Graduation Rate
96%
Students enrolled
27,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$91k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,725

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 215-898-9253

#15
Raleigh, NC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

North Carolina State University

Intelligent Score: 85.23
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $6,535

Out-of-state: $26,654

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,095

Out-of-state: $9,095

Test scores

SAT: 1230-1410

ACT: 27-32

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
46%
On-campus students
9%
Graduation Rate
84%
Students enrolled
36,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $525

Non-Resident: $1,635

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

31

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 919-515-2336

#16
Long Beach, CA | 4 years | Online | Public

California State University, Los Angeles

Intelligent Score: 84.89
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,742

Out-of-state: $17,622

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,176

Out-of-state: $7,176

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1240

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
42%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
40,000
Student to faculty ratio
24:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $598

Non-Resident: $994

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

WASC Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 323-343-4470

#17
Washington, DC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

George Washington University

Intelligent Score: 84.33
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $55,961

Out-of-state: $55,961

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $31,770

Out-of-state: $31,770

Test scores

SAT: 1270-1450

ACT: 30-33

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
43%
On-campus students
75%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
27,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$59k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,200

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 202-994-6083

#18
Cleveland, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Case Western Reserve University

Intelligent Score: 83.73
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,448

Out-of-state: $52,448

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $47,920

Out-of-state: $47,920

Test scores

SAT: 1340-1520

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
30%
On-campus students
91%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
11,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$70k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,248

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 216-368-2800

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How to Choose a Master’s in Electrical Engineering Program

Choose your area of study

Selecting an area of study is crucial when considering a master’s in electrical engineering, as this decision will directly influence your career trajectory and program selection. For instance, students aiming to work in energy transmission or renewable sources may be well-suited for a specialization in power systems, while those seeking careers in telecommunications may prefer to concentrate in communications and signal processing. Meanwhile, individuals interested in automation and advanced manufacturing may excel in robotics and control systems.

Research schools and programs

Once you’ve chosen your specialization, it’s time to research potential programs. Consider asking the following questions to help guide your search:

  • How does the curriculum support my intended specialization?
  • Who are the faculty, and what are their credentials and expertise?
  • What are the research and lab facilities like?
  • How does the program integrate with industry?
  • What are the career outcomes for graduates?

Answers to these questions can typically be found on university websites, by contacting program coordinators directly, or by attending an information session. You can also reach out to current students or alumni through LinkedIn or Reddit to gain more of an insider perspective.

Prepare for tests and applications

Now that you have a shortlist of schools that will be an excellent fit for your career goals, you’ll want to begin preparing early to streamline your application process.

It’s generally recommended to first focus on two of the most time-consuming elements of preparing your application — writing your personal statement and preparing for the GRE. For your personal statement, dedicate ample time to highlighting your academic achievements, career goals, and reasons for choosing your specialization. If your program requires GRE scores, consider enrolling in a test prep program well in advance to improve your performance.

Additionally, collect letters of recommendation and secure your transcripts ahead of time to avoid any last-minute stress.

Select your program

Ultimately, selecting your program is a personal decision. Still, you can make this easier by revisiting your initial research criteria and focusing on what matters most to you out of your educational experience.

This is also an excellent time to carefully review each program’s total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid offers, as this will ensure you’re making an economically feasible decision that’s aligned with your career goals.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

When planning how to finance your degree, it’s essential to prioritize options that minimize debt rather than increase it. Begin by seeking scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment and can often be found through your institution. If available, consider assistantships that offer stipends or tuition waivers for teaching or research roles. If you’re continuing with the same employer, ask if your company provides tuition reimbursement as part of its employee benefits package.

Although federal loans are preferable to private loans due to more favorable interest rates and repayment terms, they should be used sparingly. Remember, every dollar borrowed will need to be repaid with interest, adding to the overall cost of your education.

What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Electrical Engineering Program?

Graduate-level electrical engineering curricula typically include core courses in signal processing, power systems, telecommunications, and semiconductor technology. Like most other engineering degree programs, these programs emphasize practical application through hands-on labs and industry-relevant projects, allowing students to apply theories they’ve learned to real-world challenges.

While some programs offer a thesis option, many are more focused on application rather than research and, therefore, emphasize coursework and projects to develop problem-solving skills without a thesis requirement.

Full-time students can complete their master’s in electrical engineering in two years, while part-time students may take four to five years to complete degree requirements.

Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in electrical engineering program

  • Advanced Digital Signal Processing: Often a core requirement, this course explores the algorithms and methods used to analyze and manipulate digital signals. Students learn techniques such as spectral estimation, adaptive filtering, and discrete Fourier transforms. Typically, the focus is on practical applications in communications, radar, and audio processing, giving learners the tools to innovate in these fields.
  • Power System Analysis: Another standard core course, this class covers the operation and design of electrical power systems. Topics include power flow analysis, stability of power grids, and fault detection. After completion, students will significantly understand how modern power systems are managed and optimized.
  • Semiconductor Device Fundamentals: Frequently an elective, in this course students analyze the physics and operation principles of semiconductor devices, including diodes, transistors, and LEDs. The course emphasizes the role of these components in electronic circuit design and the development of microelectronic systems.
  • Embedded Systems Design: While some curriculums consider this a core course, many offer it as an elective. This class provides practical experience in designing and implementing embedded systems, which combine hardware and software to perform specific tasks. Participants learn to integrate microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators, applying their knowledge to real-world applications like robotics and smart devices.

Master’s in Electrical Engineering Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a master's in electrical engineering degree program?

To apply for your master’s in electrical engineering, you’ll need to meet several standard admission requirements, often including:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field
  • GRE scores, although some programs may waive this requirement for meeting specific criteria
  • Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
  • Letters of recommendation, usually two to three
  • Statement of purpose outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing this degree
  • Resume or CV highlighting relevant work and academic experience

Given the variability in program requirements, it’s essential to consult an admissions counselor to ensure you meet specific prerequisites. They can also clarify program expectations and help strengthen your application.

How much does a master's in electrical engineering degree cost?

For the 2020-2021 academic year, the average tuition among graduate programs was $19,749. However, costs can vary significantly based on the institution’s reputation, whether it’s public or private, and your residency status.

In addition to tuition, you should also budget for textbooks, course materials, housing, and commuting costs. Considering these expenses will help provide a more comprehensive financial picture, helping you plan effectively for this educational investment.

How long does it take to earn a master's in electrical engineering degree?

Obtaining your master’s in electrical engineering will typically take two years if you enroll full-time, while part-time enrollment may extend this timeline to four or five years.

Completion timelines are considerably influenced by the total number of required credits, which can vary between programs. Some programs might require as few as 30 credits, but it’s more common for programs to require up to 45, affecting how quickly you can complete your degree.