MASTER'S DEGREE IN ENGINEERING PROGRAMS

The good news is there are many accredited traditional and online master's programs available.

Master's Degree Programs in Engineering

Master's degree in engineering programs equip students with in-depth knowledge and skills in a particular engineering specialty, expanding on the proficiency they gained as undergraduates. And students can design their master in engineering studies as either a platform for real-world application or a future in academics.

Depending on the college or university, master's-level engineering programs will grant graduates with either a Master of Science in Engineering (MS or MSE) or a Master of Engineering (MEng).

With the detailed training that a traditional or online master's degree in engineering provides, graduates can advance their careers to higher-level technical or management positions, depending on their organization and industry. Some master's students might choose to combine their engineering training with graduate-level business course work in an effort to demonstrate the breadth of their knowledge and capabilities.

Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)

A Master of Science in Engineering is the traditional graduate-level engineering degree that prepares students for advanced work in the engineering profession or academics. In general, students in engineering master's programs can expect their courses to focus exclusively on their chosen specialty, including hands-on practice attained through lab work, real-world experience or a combination of both.

Typically, MS or MSE programs take an interdisciplinary approach and involve completing both course work and a written thesis based on independent research. Most Master of Science in Engineering programs take one to two years to complete.

Master of Engineering (MEng)

Students interested in enhancing their practical engineering skills may prefer a Master of Engineering degree. Like an MS or MSE, MEng programs help students build on the technical skills and knowledge acquired through undergraduate engineering studies. But they are aimed more toward advancing an individual's professional credentials for employment rather than building a foundation for a career in research or academics. Usually, course work for a Master of Engineering degree takes about 12 months to complete.

Online Master's Degree in Engineering Programs

Online master's degrees in engineering offer their own unique advantages, particularly for working adults who want to earn a degree but still keep their day job. An online program lets you keep bringing home a paycheck while you attend school, take advantage of your employer's tuition reimbursement program, or simply remain a vital member of your organization's team, all in the midst of pursuing your master's in engineering.

Other benefits of online learning? Variety. Choose an MS or MEng program across the country, and study in the comfort of your own home. Plus, online master's in engineering programs are highly prevalent and cater to a wide variety of specialties, including computer science and software, civil, project management and sustainable energy engineering.