The most popular specialty areas for electrical engineering students to pursue include electronics, microelectronics, signal processing, power, controls, telecommunications, instrumentation, and computer engineering
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for electrical engineers is expected to grow by 5% over the next ten years. Much of this is due to the rapid pace of technological innovation.
Generally speaking, graduates with a master’s degree earn an average of 19.4% more than those with only a bachelor’s degree, and the highest-paid positions in electrical engineering often require a master’s degree.
Electrical Engineering is a science and math-related field, and the degree programs highlighted on our list generally award either Master of Science degrees or Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science degrees. The programs represent a range of delivery methods including strictly online, strictly on-campus, and a combination of the two. Many of the online programs are available asynchronously, allowing distance learners to earn their degree on their own schedule, while those that represent hybrid programs of online and in-person classes are generally offered synchronously.
Accreditation of a Master’s in Electrical Engineering program is extremely important. Not only does it ensure a high-quality education that meets the rigorous standards of the accrediting agency, but in many cases, having graduated from an accredited program is required in order to qualify for certain positions at the federal level or professional examinations. All of the programs included here are fully accredited by one of the regional or professional accrediting agencies.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
Engineering is a field that requires creativity, problem-solving skills, and an aptitude for math. But there are many different types of engineers, and there is a significant difference between mechanical engineers and electrical engineers. While electrical engineering is dedicated to the generation of power, whether that is developing new ways of using electricity or other energy sources or troubleshooting problems or inefficiencies, mechanical engineers focus on power’s application — they get parts, motors and components to act in a certain way.
Electrical engineers and mechanical engineers often work for the same companies and on the same projects and often share similar skills. The curriculum for a master’s degree in electrical engineering often overlaps that of the curriculum for a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Each academic institution makes its own decision as to which accrediting agency it works to meet the requirements of, but it is essential for any program offering a Master’s in Electrical Engineering degree program to be accredited. One of the most highly-respected accrediting agencies for this type of program is ABET, or the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
There are over 40 different national certifications available for electrical engineers, ranging from certificates in residential electronics to certification in critical infrastructure protection. Some are related specifically to military occupational specialties and other industrial settings. Choosing the core and advanced certifications appropriate for you to pursue will depend upon the industry you plan to work within.
Here are some questions to ask when researching Master’s in Electrical Engineering programs:
Admission into a Master’s program in Electrical Engineering is extremely competitive, so it is important that those pursuing this path pay attention to the deadlines set out by each of the programs and adhere to them meticulously.
Financing your studies for a Master’s in Electrical Engineering can be a challenge. The programs generally cost a minimum of $15,000 for an online program, and can go higher than $50,000 for an in-person program. Those seeking financial assistance can look to federal and state scholarships and loans as well as tuition reimbursement from employers. By filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, you will give yourself a sense of how much financing you are eligible for and how much you will need.