2026 Most Valuable Online Master's in Engineering Degree Programs Ranking in Chicago, IL

What can I expect from Online engineering degree in Chicago?

The average cost of an online engineering degree in Chicago typically ranges between $25,000 and $45,000, depending on the institution and program specifics. Graduates from universities like the Illinois Institute of Technology or the University of Illinois at Chicago often reflect that while tuition can be a significant investment, financial aid options and local discounts sometimes offer relief, especially for working professionals.

Many students appreciate the value, considering the flexibility to balance full-time jobs and family commitments without relocating. For example, one graduate mentions how the cost felt worthwhile compared to the benefit of gaining advanced skills while continuing to work in Chicago's demanding engineering sector.

However, it's important to note that price alone doesn't guarantee quality. Accreditation, such as from ABET, and program reputation are crucial factors students often weigh against cost. Some prefer slightly higher tuition at a well-connected college offering opportunities like virtual labs or industry internships, which can improve career prospects in Chicago's engineering landscape.

Where can I work with Online engineering degree in Chicago?

Graduates with an online engineering degree in Chicago often find promising career paths in diverse industries, reflecting the city's economic complexity. For instance, those from well-regarded programs at institutions like the University of Illinois Chicago report landing roles in manufacturing firms focused on automotive parts or electronics, where mechanical and industrial engineering skills are highly valued.

Others have leveraged their degrees into Chicago's growing tech scene, joining startups or established companies in software and systems engineering positions. These graduates frequently highlight how merging traditional engineering knowledge with data analytics improved their job prospects, especially when paired with skills gained from online coursework that allowed flexible learning around their schedules.

Civil and environmental engineering graduates often take roles with city infrastructure projects, contributing to transportation or sustainable development initiatives. Alumni from local programs describe the satisfaction of applying PE licensure to real-world urban planning, showing how Chicago's infrastructure investments create tangible impact.

While strong, the online degree's recognition can vary by employer, so graduates emphasize gaining relevant internships or certifications alongside their studies to boost credibility. Each career path reflects unique experiences shaped by industry demands and personal initiative within Chicago's vibrant engineering ecosystem.

How much can I make with Online engineering degree in Chicago?

Graduates with an online engineering degree in Chicago often see competitive salaries reflecting the city's diverse industry landscape. For instance, research engineers earn an average annual wage of around $120,630, while project engineers can expect about $137,750, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. These figures align with the experiences of graduates from institutions such as the Illinois Institute of Technology and DePaul University, who report entering the workforce with strong starting salaries.

Product development engineers make roughly $110,430 annually, and control systems engineers earn close to $118,350, illustrating solid earning potential across specialized fields. Even biomedical engineers, tapping into Chicago's medical research hubs, see mean wages of approximately $106,700. These salaries are bolstered by the city's investment in tech, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors.

While entry-level salaries vary, many online graduates share stories of rapid salary growth fueled by continuing education and certifications. The blend of practical skills gained in Chicago's dynamic environment enhances employability, allowing recent alumni to feel optimistic about their career trajectories.

How long does it take to complete Online engineering degree in Chicago?

Completing an online engineering degree in Chicago generally requires about four years for a bachelor's when studying full-time, but this timeline isn't fixed. For instance, graduates from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign mention how transfer credits and flexible scheduling helped them accelerate progress, fitting studies around busy work lives. Others highlight that part-time enrollment, common at Illinois Institute of Technology, can extend completion to three or four years, balancing professional responsibilities and personal commitments.

Master's degrees tend to take one to two years full-time, yet many Chicago students find part-time paths appealing despite the longer duration. They appreciate the ability to manage internships or capstone projects interactively, even online, which can sometimes slow pacing but enrich practical experience.

Factors like course availability and prerequisite requirements can introduce variability. While some graduates feel encouraged by strong transfer policies and well-structured curricula, others point out that hands-on engineering elements occasionally affect timelines, making patience and flexibility essential.

What's the difference between online and on-campus engineering degree?

One key difference between online and on-campus engineering degrees in Chicago lies in how students engage with their education. Graduates from universities like the University of Illinois at Chicago recall the vibrant campus energy, hands-on lab work, and spontaneous collaborations that come from face-to-face interactions. These experiences often spark creativity and confidence through direct mentorship and access to facilities such as engineering workshops and makerspaces.

Conversely, online students from institutions such as DePaul University appreciate the flexibility of attending lectures and completing assignments around work or family commitments. Many report feeling empowered by the convenience, though some miss the immediacy of in-person networking and the tactile aspect of lab exercises. While online programs may offer virtual simulations or local lab partnerships, the hands-on element can feel less immersive.

Cost and community also differ. Chicago-based on-campus students benefit from networking events in the city's engineering sector, a bridge to local internships and job offers. Online students often rely on virtual meetups, which work well for connecting but might lack the organic feel of campus life. Both modes are validated by ABET accreditation, ensuring quality regardless of delivery.

What is the average cost of Online engineering degree in Chicago?

The average cost of an online engineering degree in Chicago typically centers around $30,348, reflecting the median total expenses for completion. Students enrolled in well-regarded programs at institutions like the University of Illinois at Chicago often find tuition rates that balance quality and affordability. Graduates recall experiences where managing tuition alongside additional fees such as technology and registration charges required careful budgeting, yet the overall investment felt justified given the career opportunities unlocked by the degree.

When considering the average cost of online engineering degree in Chicago, it's important to note that expenses can fluctuate based on residency status. Public universities tend to offer lower rates for Illinois residents, though those attending private colleges or out-of-state students might encounter higher tuition burdens. The cost per credit hour can range widely-from roughly $700 up to $1,300 or more-affecting the total sum students must plan for. Some learners appreciate accelerated or specialized online tracks that allow them to finish sooner, positively impacting total financial commitments and return on investment.

Many engineering students emphasize the value of financial planning tools along with exploring aid options. Scholarships, employer tuition assistance, and innovative payment plans can significantly ease the burdens. Additionally, the flexibility of online study eliminates expenses related to commuting or housing, which often leads students to view the overall financial impact more favorably. For those looking for alternative or complementary credentials, exploring 6 month certificate programs that pay well might offer practical short-term options alongside or before committing to a full master's degree.

What financial aid is available to Online engineering degree students in Chicago?

Online engineering students in Chicago often rely on multiple financial aid options to ease the strain of tuition costs at institutions like the Illinois Institute of Technology or DePaul University. Federal loans, such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans accessed through FAFSA, are commonly used because they offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms. Many students find meeting the March 1 FAFSA priority deadline critical to securing the best aid packages.

Scholarships and grants specifically aimed at engineering students provide additional support. For instance, some recipients at Loyola University Chicago have successfully applied for awards from the Society of Women Engineers or the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers, which help cover supplies or partial tuition.

Moreover, employer tuition assistance proves invaluable to working professionals in Chicago's tech and engineering sectors, often reimbursing significant portions of degree expenses. While assistantships are less frequent for online learners, a few graduate students have shared positive experiences receiving stipends or tuition waivers through research roles at local universities.

These diverse aid sources make pursuing an online engineering degree in Chicago financially feasible for many, especially when combined thoughtfully.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in Online engineering degree program in Chicago?

Enrolling in an online engineering degree program in Chicago typically requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, often in engineering or a related technical field. Graduates from programs at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Illinois Institute of Technology frequently highlight how foundational coursework in calculus, physics, and differential equations was critical to their smooth transition into master's level studies. This quantitative background is emphasized by many Chicago programs, ensuring students are ready for intensive technical material.

While some programs might occasionally accept candidates from non-engineering backgrounds, these applicants often need to demonstrate strong foundational knowledge through relevant work experience or additional coursework. For example, some graduates recall leveraging prior internships or projects to compensate for less traditional academic paths.

Regarding standardized tests, the GRE is sometimes required but increasingly optional, especially since the pandemic. Applicants are encouraged to verify these criteria directly with admissions, as policies vary even among Chicago's top institutions.

Financial readiness is essential; Chicago online engineering degrees usually cost between $30,000 and $50,000, so careful budgeting and exploring employer tuition support make a big difference for students pursuing these programs.

What courses are typically in Online engineering degree programs in Chicago?

Online engineering degree programs in Chicago typically include core courses such as engineering mathematics, statics, thermodynamics, materials science, and electrical circuits. Graduates from popular Chicago universities often reflect on how these foundational subjects directly prepared them for complex problem-solving in everyday professional scenarios, like designing efficient HVAC systems or analyzing structural integrity on large-scale projects.

Many students emphasize the value of applied learning through programming languages like Python and MATLAB, which are frequently integrated into coursework. For instance, alumni recall how mastering MATLAB simulations at local institutions helped them tackle fluid dynamics problems more confidently during remote internships with Chicago tech firms.

Specialized courses vary by discipline: civil engineering involves structural analysis and transportation systems; mechanical engineering covers heat transfer and manufacturing processes; electrical engineering dives into signal processing and power electronics. One graduate noted that practical assignments mimicking real Chicago infrastructure challenges created a rewarding, relatable learning experience.

Although curricula differ, Chicago's programs often align with ABET standards, giving students assurance that their education meets rigorous industry expectations in this competitive urban market.

What types of specializations are available in Online engineering degree programs in Chicago?

Online engineering degree specializations Chicago typically include Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Environmental, and Industrial Engineering. Graduates from institutions like the University of Illinois at Chicago often highlight how Civil Engineering's focus on infrastructure design connects directly to real projects shaping the city's landscape. Mechanical and Electrical Engineering cater to Chicago's strong manufacturing and tech sectors, giving students applicable skills for local employers.

Some engineering master's concentration options Chicago IL students explore, such as Computer Engineering, allow integration of software and hardware expertise valuable for Chicago's startup ecosystem. Environmental Engineering responds to urgent urban sustainability goals, while Industrial Engineering supports the logistics complexities unique to this metropolitan hub. While less frequently available online, fields like Aerospace and Systems Engineering offer alternatives depending on the university's industry partnerships.

While specialization choices are broad, prospective students should balance interests with practical outcomes, considering costs and industry demand. Those unsure might benefit from exploring lists of the easiest degrees to get, which often correlate with program availability and flexibility.

How do you choose the best Online engineering degree in Chicago?

Choosing the best online engineering degree in Chicago involves more than just looking at rankings or cost. Graduates from well-known universities in the area often emphasize the importance of ABET accreditation, which assures that the program meets rigorous standards necessary for licensure and professional credibility. For example, those who studied at popular Chicago institutions note how specialized courses in fields like mechanical or electrical engineering helped them secure jobs in local industries such as manufacturing or software development.

Cost can be a deterrent, but it's worth exploring affordable online engineering programs Chicago offers, especially at public universities known for blending quality with reasonable tuition. Students often recommend comparing tuition alongside available financial aid and employer tuition assistance to avoid overcommitment. Flexibility in course delivery-whether synchronous or asynchronous-is another crucial factor, as many balance full-time work with study.

Additionally, consider programs that support networking, internships, and offer strong student services. For those undecided about their path, exploring a fast track associates degree online may provide valuable foundational skills and a clearer direction.

What career paths are available for Online engineering degree students in Chicago?

Graduates with an online engineering degree in Chicago find diverse career paths reflecting the city's industrial and technological strengths. Many pursue roles in mechanical, civil, electrical, and industrial engineering, supporting Chicago's manufacturing plants or infrastructure projects like roads and bridges. For instance, graduates from leading colleges appreciate how their education directly applies when optimizing production lines or designing essential transit systems, fostering a sense of meaningful impact.

Others gravitate toward the city's rapidly growing technology sector, where software and systems engineering roles are expanding, especially in automation and robotics. Graduates often highlight how their problem-solving skills gained through online programs prepare them to contribute effectively to firms innovating in these areas. While some question if an online degree limits networking opportunities, many find Chicago's industry demand compensates with strong job openings.

Those exploring engineering degree job opportunities Chicago benefit from programs that combine flexibility with access to licensure guidance, important since many positions require Professional Engineer certification. Financial considerations also play a role; prospective students often explore online colleges that take financial aid to make their education more affordable while maximizing career potential.

What is the job market for Online engineering degree in Chicago?

The market for online engineering jobs in Chicago is steadily expanding, driven by a diverse industrial base that includes manufacturing, technology, and transportation. Graduates from respected local universities and colleges offering online engineering degrees often share positive experiences about balancing work and study, highlighting how flexible program schedules helped them maintain employment while upgrading skills. Many find roles in civil or electrical engineering sectors within companies working on infrastructure and technology projects, revealing a practical pathway for career advancement.

Chicago engineering degree employment outlook suggests demand for professionals with both technical acumen and strong communication skills. Employers value graduates who can manage projects effectively while adapting to new tools and sustainable design principles. Salaries in the region typically range between $75,000 and $110,000 annually, which, despite being modest compared to other metropolitan areas, reflect steady opportunities and growth potential for those committed to continuous learning.

For students interested in exploring options to begin or elevate their engineering careers, accredited online programs offer flexibility and recognized credentials. Some graduates recommend reviewing online trade schools to identify the best fit for their professional goals, especially when balancing job demands with education.