If you’re seeking a promotion to a senior-level engineering management position, a master’s in engineering may be exactly what you need to succeed. These programs are designed to provide ambitious engineers with mastery of advanced concepts and skills to tackle challenges and drive innovation in the industry.
These programs focus on leadership, project management, and technical proficiency, preparing you to excel at the highest level of the field. As an engineering manager, you could earn a median salary of $165,370, with job opportunities projected to grow by 4% over the next decade.
Typically, completing these degrees requires two years of full-time study and costs an average of $19,749, representing a significant but worthwhile 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 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 50 Accredited Master’s in Engineering Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
University of California, Berkeley
Intelligent Score: 99.63In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$1,321
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
37
Harvard University
Intelligent Score: 98.45In-state: $49,653
Out-of-state: $49,653
In-state: $49,448
Out-of-state: $49,448
SAT: 1460-1580
ACT: 33-35
$1,988
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
64
Stanford University School of Engineering
Intelligent Score: 96.66In-state: $55,473
Out-of-state: $55,473
In-state: $54,315
Out-of-state: $54,315
SAT: 1420-1570
ACT: 31-35
$1,356 - $1,391
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
45
Texas Engineering Executive Education
Intelligent Score: 96.01In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: $34,100
Out-of-state: $34,100
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
$1,666
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
Duke Pratt School of Engineering
Intelligent Score: 95.58In-state: $55,880
Out-of-state: $55,880
In-state: $57,900
Out-of-state: $57,900
SAT: 1470-1570
ACT: 34-35
$2,749
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of Maryland
Intelligent Score: 95.37In-state: $8,824
Out-of-state: $34,936
In-state: $13,158
Out-of-state: $13,158
SAT: 1270-1480
ACT: 30-34
$1,130
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of California San Diego
Intelligent Score: 95.11In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$865 - $1,035
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
38-42
Cornell University
Intelligent Score: 94.53In-state: $58,586
Out-of-state: $58,586
In-state: $29,500
Out-of-state: $29,500
SAT: 1400-1540
ACT: 32-35
$1,840
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
Johns Hopkins University
Intelligent Score: 93.71In-state: $54,160
Out-of-state: $54,160
In-state: $57,010
Out-of-state: $57,010
SAT: 1470-1560
ACT: 34-36
Resident: $775
Non-Resident: $1,246
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
31
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 92.98In-state: $53,450
Out-of-state: $53,450
In-state: $53,450
Out-of-state: $53,450
SAT: 1510-1580
ACT: 34-36
$1,244
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
66-90
Texas A&M University
Intelligent Score: 92.57In-state: $8,395
Out-of-state: $36,849
In-state: $6,775
Out-of-state: $6,775
SAT: 1160-1380
ACT: 26-32
$1,800
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of Georgia
Intelligent Score: 92.39In-state: $9,790
Out-of-state: $28,830
In-state: $8,878
Out-of-state: $8,878
SAT: 1250-1460
ACT: 29-33
Resident: $370
Non-Resident: $1,050
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
33
Princeton University
Intelligent Score: 91.36In-state: $48,502
Out-of-state: $48,502
In-state: $53,890
Out-of-state: $53,890
SAT: 1450-1570
ACT: 32-35
$1,990
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of Pennsylvania
Intelligent Score: 90.72In-state: $53,166
Out-of-state: $53,166
In-state: $37,678
Out-of-state: $37,678
SAT: 1460-1570
ACT: 33-35
$2,043
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Intelligent Score: 89.85In-state: $9,273
Out-of-state: $37,161
In-state: $10,728
Out-of-state: $10,728
SAT: 1260-1460
ACT: 27-32
$1,312
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
Purdue University
Intelligent Score: 89.65In-state: $9,208
Out-of-state: $28,010
In-state: $9,208
Out-of-state: $9,208
SAT: 1170-1420
ACT: 25-33
Resident: $677
Non-Resident: $1,852
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
Stony Brook University
Intelligent Score: 89.54In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $24,740
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 1230-1440
ACT: 26-32
Resident: $471
Non-Resident: $1,020
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
University of Washington
Intelligent Score: 89.38In-state: $10,629
Out-of-state: $37,998
In-state: $16,278
Out-of-state: $16,278
SAT: 1200-1453
ACT: 27-33
Resident: $661
Non-Resident: $1,218
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
42
How to Choose a Master’s in Engineering Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your area of study is especially important for graduate engineering programs, where the focus is on expert proficiency in a particular area. Many students select a specialization that aligns with their undergraduate degree or current field of employment to build on existing knowledge and advance their careers.
Specializations may vary slightly depending on the institution, but typical options include mechanical, electrical, civil, software, and environmental engineering.
Research schools and programs
With your specialization in mind, you can begin researching schools and programs that will help you meet your career goals. You may come into this process with questions of your own, but here are a few more to consider:
- What are the qualifications and industry experience of the faculty?
- How does the program integrate practical experience with learning?
- What are the program’s facilities and resources like?
- Does a recognized engineering accreditation body accredit the program?
Information on these aspects can typically be found on university websites, but you’ll also benefit from attending an information session or speaking with an admissions counselor.
Prepare for tests and applications
Now that you know the schools you’d like to attend, it’s time to prepare for tests and applications. The most important parts of this process are simple: starting early and organizing the application process carefully.
For example, be sure to secure letters of recommendation and transcripts well in advance and allocate sufficient time to write your statement of purpose — reflecting your goals and readiness for graduate-level study. In addition, consider enrolling in a GRE test prep program to boost your scores, particularly if your top programs require this exam.
Select your program
Once acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Take a moment to revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on the aspects most important to you, such as the availability of your chosen specialization, the faculty you’ll learn from, and campus facilities. Then, evaluate the total cost of attendance and explore financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and assistantships, to ensure affordability.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
As you prepare to fund your degree, prioritizing financial aid resources is essential. Begin by exploring scholarships and grants; although grants are more common for undergraduates, many scholarships are specifically designated for graduate students. Next, consider assistantships, which provide a stipend and often tuition remission in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities.
If applicable, ask about employer tuition reimbursement programs, especially if your degree will improve your current job skills. If additional funding is necessary, opt for federal loans over private loans due to better interest rates and repayment terms.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Engineering Program?
A master’s in engineering will provide you with advanced technical and practical skills in specific engineering fields, like civil, mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering. As a student, you’ll also develop soft skills in project management and teamwork. In addition, many curriculums provide opportunities to take additional coursework in specialized topics like sustainable design, robotics, manufacturing processes, and more.
Most programs offer a non-thesis track, focusing instead on practical projects, coursework, and internships that provide real-world experience and boost your employability. This degree takes approximately two years to complete, depending on program specifics and whether you enroll full- or part-time.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in engineering program
- Engineering Analysis: A cornerstone in many curriculums, this course is fundamental for mastering advanced mathematical techniques used in engineering problem-solving, including differential equations and linear algebra. Students learn to apply these methods to model and solve complex engineering problems effectively.
- Project Management for Engineers: Essential for engineers aiming to lead projects or manage teams, this course covers project lifecycle management, risk assessment, and resource allocation. It gives students the skills to oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring they meet specifications, budgets, and timelines.
- Sustainable Energy Solutions: Often deemed an elective, this course examines solar, wind, and other renewable technologies, focusing on transitioning to sustainable energy sources. Participants learn about the challenges and technological solutions in integrating these systems into existing grids and their potential environmental impacts.
- Machine Learning in Engineering: This elective delves into applying machine learning algorithms and data analysis in engineering tasks. Students explore how to implement these technologies to optimize processes, improve decision-making, and innovate within their fields.
Master’s in Engineering Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in engineering degree program?
To apply for these programs, start by checking the specific requirements of the schools you’re interested in, as these can vary. However, many share similar criteria — typically including:
- A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- GRE scores, although some programs may waive this requirement for various reasons
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
Contacting an admissions counselor before applying is essential, as they can help clarify any program-specific requirements and ensure your application is as strong as possible.
How much does a master's in engineering degree cost?
For the 2020-2021 academic year, the average cost of a graduate degree was $19,749, but this can vary significantly by institution. Factors such as whether the school is private or public and whether you qualify for in-state or out-of-state tuition can considerably impact tuition prices.
You’ll also want to anticipate expenses not typically included in the tuition price — such as textbooks, course materials, lab fees, and living expenses. It’s essential to review the specific costs and expenses listed by the institution to fully understand the total investment required.
How long does it take to earn a master's in engineering degree?
Earning this degree takes about two years for full-time students, while part-time students might need three to four years to complete degree requirements — depending on their course load each semester. It’s also important to note each program’s number of required credits, as this can vary by institution and significantly affect program duration. While some programs may require as few as 30 credits, others may need 45 or more.