There are no fully online programs in electronics engineering that award bachelor's degrees, though there are some blended programs that require students to participate in on-site labs. Select colleges and universities provide online electrical engineering bachelor's degrees instead. Prior college credits may be required for entry into these programs.
Individuals earning online bachelor's degrees in electrical engineering develop basic proficiency in concepts fundamental to the understanding of electrical systems. A concentration in electronics, among others, may be available. These programs should be accredited by ABET.
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
A Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering program available online might incorporate courses in physics, chemistry and calculus. Completion of an accredited bachelor's degree also includes elective courses in humanities, such as anthropology, sociology and history. Some schools offer online lab components with virtual simulation. However, most bachelor's-level students attend on-campus lab sessions to learn the practical side of electrical engineering.
Some entirely online programs may be available as degree-completion programs for individuals with the equivalent of an associate degree. However, most of these programs use a semi-online format.
Information and Requirements
Before enrolling in an online bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, students in some programs must earn a minimum number of on-campus credits from an accredited higher education institution. Prerequisites may need to be completed in calculus, physics, design logic and programming. Programs often have students meet with advisors in person to monitor individual progress toward an online electrical engineering degree.
Instructors leading online electrical engineering courses are generally available through e-mail or instant messaging while students are studying at home. Students watch recorded lectures and complete certain lessons at home using their computers. Additionally, specific hardware and software components may be required for some courses. Programs may be completed asynchronously with required deadlines for assignments.
The curriculum may include the following core topics:
- Digital circuitry
- High-frequency devices
- Linear system analysis
- Sequential circuit design
- Data structures and algorithms
- Analog electronic circuits
- Signals and systems
- Database construction
- Control systems
- Digital signal processing
- Mathematical models in electrical engineering
By itself, an online bachelor's degree in electrical engineering doesn't qualify an individual for professional practice as an engineer. Individuals seeking a career as an electrical engineer should pursue licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). Requirements for PE licensure vary between states, but candidates are expected to possess a bachelor's degree and industry experience.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of available job openings for electrical engineers was only expected to increase by one percent from 2014-2024. That is slower than the national average for all occupations.
While electronics engineering bachelor's degree programs are not available online, there are bachelor's degree programs in electrical engineering which offer concentrations in electronics. These programs typically explore content areas such as circuitry, electromagnetics, control systems and digital signal processing.