40 Different Types of Engineering Degrees

Engineering is a broad term that covers a wide range of applications and industries.
Combining mathematics, science and technology, engineers produce creative solutions to
real world problems. As a result there are many different types of engineering degrees
available.

In the past, engineering could be divided into four major branches: Mechanical, Chemical,
Civil and Electrical, with sub branches of each discipline. Today however, the number of
engineering degrees available have increased dramatically. There are now six major
branches of engineering: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Management, and
Geotechnical, and literally hundreds of different subcategories of engineering under each
branch.

Take a look over the list below – all types of engineering degrees are provided in summary
with a link to a full article with more detail on each where available. You can also find links
to universities offering that specific degree, or use the below search to find available
engineering degrees. You can use the main navigation to find specifics on the different
types of engineering degrees, including the emerging online engineering degree. For
general engineering articles including information on the highest paying degrees, those with
the best employment potential, and steps to become an engineer, be sure to check
the blog.
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Available Types of Engineering Degrees

Below are the most popular types of engineering degrees sorted by branch of engineering.
Use the following links to quickly jump to your engineering category of interest:

Computer Engineering Degrees

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Electrical Engineering Degrees

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Civil Engineering Degrees

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Mechanical Engineering Degrees

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Online Engineering Degrees

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Engineering Management

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Architectural Engineering

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Environmental Engineering

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Geotechnical Engineering
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Biomedical Engineering Degrees

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Project Management Degrees

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Chemical Engineering Degrees

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Online Engineering Degrees
There are many different types of engineering degrees, but not all are available online. The
top online engineering degrees are: Computer Engineering, Engineering Management,
Mechatronics Engineering, and different variations of Masters in Engineering Degrees.

Online Engineering Degree

An up-and-coming concept in the field of engineering academics is the online engineering
degree, which is available at at least one school in every branch of engineering. Although
there are not exactly a plethora of choices right now for some branches, more and more
colleges and universities are adding online engineering degrees at every level. The most
common so far is an online Master’s in Engineering. Many engineers that have already
earned their PE (Professional Engineer) license and are currently employed opt for taking
online engineering classes to get their Master’s degree. Obviously there are different
specializations that cater more towards online engineering degrees, such as Engineering
Management, while others are more difficult to learn online.
ONLINE ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
Click on the tabs below to view undergraduate / graduate degrees.
Undergraduate
Certificate, Associates, BachelorsGraduate
Masters, Doctorate
There are a decent number of Online Masters in Engineering programs, all in different areas of
engineering. Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Engineering Management seem to be the
most popular online engineering programs. You may consider an online program from an accredited
university currently accepting applicants:
AD

 Syracuse University: M.S. in Computer Engineering (Bachelors required)

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Types of Mechanical Engineering Degrees

 Mechanical Engineering Degree

A Mechanical Engineering Degree involves the design of mechanical

systems. These systems assist industries such as: manufacturing, aeronautics,
nanotechnology, nuclear power production, heating and cooling. A primary focus is
on thermodynamics, structural analysis, materials science, and kinematics. This is arguably
the broadest of all engineering degrees available today and takes in a wide range of
engineering disciplines. The Mechanical Engineering Degree has a number of subsets that
intermix with electronics and electrical engineering, such as Mechatronics.
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
Click on the tabs below to view undergraduate / graduate degrees.
Undergraduate
Certificate, Associates, BachelorsGraduate
Masters, Doctorate
Most graduate programs for Mechanical Engineering are located on campus, but there are a few online
offerings for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering or a related program. You may consider an online
program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
AD

 Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals – Master of Mechanical Engineering (Bachelors

required)

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Aerospace Engineering Degree

An Aerospace Engineering Degree involves the study of air and space

travel. This might include military aircraft design and development, along with commercial
airline design and satellite technology. The terms Aerospace and Aeronautical are both
often used interchangeably, yet there are key differences between the two. Aeronautical
Engineering relates to craft that remain in our atmosphere, while Aerospace Engineering
refers to aircraft that venture outside our atmosphere. Most programs in the United States
have changed their names from Aeronautical to Aerospace over the past couple decades,
but there are still some programs that go by the historical name.
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
Click on the tabs below to view undergraduate / graduate degrees.
Undergraduate
Certificate, Associates, BachelorsGraduate
Masters, Doctorate
There are a few Aerospace programs online as most are on campus, but there are several online
Aeronautics programs at the undergraduate level. You may consider an online program from an
accredited university currently accepting applicants:
AD

 Liberty University – BS in Aeronautics

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Biomedical Engineering Degree

Biomedical engineering combines the study of medicine and biology.

Biomedical Engineers apply their design skills to biological and medical sciences. They do
this to assist in advancements in healthcare treatment technology. They develop and
maintain diagnostic devices. Devices that include EEGs, MRIs, and other imaging
machines. Physicians use these machines to diagnosis their patients’ medical problems.
This is a fast moving industry and while challenging can be a rewarding career path to take.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Biomechanical Engineering Degree

 Biomechanical Engineering is the study of organisms and mechanics and
how the two solve problems in combination. This is a growing industry and practical
applications include environmental challenges such as waste control and keeping our
waterways free from pollution. It shares close ties with Biomedical Engineering and
Agricultural Engineering, as you might expect. Most working in Biomechanics have
a Biomechanical Engineering Degree at the Master’s level or above.
BIOMECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
For the most part, bio-mechanical degrees are specialized at the graduate level.
Graduate
Masters, Doctorate
Consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
AD

 Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals – Master of Science in Applied Biomedical

Engineering (Bachelors required)

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Automotive Engineering Degree

As the name implies, automotive engineering involves the design and production of
vehicles. The automotive industry is hugely diverse and requires engineers to work in areas
such as mechanical design, performance, manufacturing, electrical engineering and
systems management.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Types of Civil Engineering Degrees

Civil Engineering Degree
 Civil Engineering involves the development of infrastructure such as
buildings, railways, roads construction, bridges and general construction project
management. Civil Engineers also play an important role in rebuilding projects, such as in
the event of a natural disaster. Civil Engineers may work in the private or public sector at
any level. This is a very broad engineering degree. Environmental Engineering, Structural
Engineering and Marine Engineering are all specialties of Civil Engineering.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Structural Engineering Degree

Structural engineering is a specific branch of civil engineering, and specializes in the design
of different structures, including houses, commercial buildings, art museums, stores, and
more. It is important for structural engineers to understand the construction of buildings and
the effects of natural factors such as erosion, corrosion, wind, and water to ensure buildings
and structures are safe for a very long period of time. At some universities, structural
engineering is a concentration offered within a civil engineering degree.

Available in: Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Architectural Engineering Degree

Architectural engineers work in the construction, planning, and design phase

of projects. In conjunction with other team members, the focus is on building structure and
interior design. This includes: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Fire
protection, Lighting, Plumbing and other systems specific to the the project. In some areas
natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes have special consideration.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

ARCHITECTURAL ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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Types of Electrical Engineering Degrees

Electrical Engineering Degree

An Electrical Engineering Degree involves the study of energy. Energy is

available in various forms such as electrical, hydro and natural sources such as wind and
solar energy. An Electrical Engineerdevelops technologies to assist with the practical
application of such energies. Electrical Engineers design components for electronic
equipment, communications systems, power grids, automobiles, and more. Most employers
require an Electrical Engineering Degree at some level to work as an Electrical Engineer,
and other licensing or certification requirements may also be required depending on where
you live.
ONLINE ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
Click on the tabs below to view undergraduate / graduate degrees.
Undergraduate
Certificate, Associates, BachelorsGraduate
Masters, Doctorate
Availability of undergraduate online electrical engineering programs is limited, but many traditional
unviersities have on-campus programs, especially at the Bachelors level. You may consider an online
program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:

Search Electrical Engineering Schools

Computer Engineering Degree

 Another industry that continues to expand is of course the Information
Technology (IT) industry. This involves both computer sciences and electrical engineering.
Successful graduates may find themselves in Telecommunications, Networking, Software
Application Development, or Manufacturing, and additional industries are emerging, such as
Application Development, Web Development, Network Security / Cybersecurity, and Cloud
Computing, among others. This type of degree has good future potential as most industries
rely on information technology. Read more about the computer engineering degree.
COMPUTER ENGINEERING DEGREES ARE AVAILABLE IN:
Click on the tabs below to view undergraduate / graduate degrees.
Undergraduate
Certificate, Associates, BachelorsGraduate
Masters, Doctorate
The top graduate degree in computer engineering is the Masters in Computer Engineering. You may
consider an online program from an accredited university currently accepting applicants:
AD

 Syracuse University: M.S. in Computer Engineering (Bachelors required)

Search Computer Engineering Schools

Electronics Engineering Degree

Technology and specifically, electronics, have changed the way most of the world lives
every day. From the revolutionary computer to the latest mobile phone technology that fits
in your pocket, we all use electronics every single day. Electronics engineers are needed to
design and build electronic equipment. Most electronics engineers work with circuits,
switchboards, and other electronic configurations to design and build these devices.

Available in: Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s.

ELECTRONICS ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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Mechatronics Engineering Degree

A blend of mechanical engineering and electronics engineering, Mechatronics, or
Mechatronics Engineering, is an emerging area for hybrid engineers. Nearly all mechanical
equipment in this day and age is operated with a mix of electronics and software, all based
on computers and technology. Mechatronics engineers help bridge that gap, and have
intrinsic knowledge of electrical, electronics, and mechanical engineering. Some more
experienced Mechatronics Engineers also have computer, hardware, and software
engineering experience as well.

Available in: Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s.

MECHATRONICS ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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Robotics Engineering Degree

A robotics engineering degree has a primary focus on automation and the use of machines
to assist with repetitive tasks such as those found in manufacturing. Robotics engineers will
typically design robotic technology and develop maintenance systems to help achieve
optimal efficiency. this is an area with expected growth of up to 15% in the next five years.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

ROBOTICS ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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Microelectronic Engineering Degree

If you have an interest in electronics a Microelectronic Engineering degree might be of
interest. Microelectronics is a subset of Electrical Engineering with a focus on the word
‘Micro’. Microelectronic Engineers specialize in the development and design of small
electrical devices. Used in a wide range of industrial applications. As we move away from
bulky electronic devices such as the first mobile phones and desktop computers. We
develop smaller more convenient electronic devices. As a result the demand for
microelectronic engineers is high. Microelectronic engineers also assist in the technical
writing aspect of a project. As well as perform tests to verify product conformance.
Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.
MECHATRONICS DEGREE DETAIL
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Types of Chemical Engineering Degrees

Chemical Engineering Degree

As the name implies, Chemical Engineering is the practical application of

chemistry. This type of engineering degree involves technology that utilizes chemical
reactions to solve problems. A chemical engineer creates new products, including:
Cosmetics, foods, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and cleaners from raw chemicals. this is a
very broad engineering degree and allows for a number of different forms of employment. It
is also one of the most challenging degrees available.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

Environmental Engineering Degree

One of the most popular kinds of engineering degree. Environmental

Engineering involves the study of science and engineering to improve our environment. This
includes the air we breathe, food we consume, and water. Environmental Engineers also
study the environmental impact humans have on the planet, including pollution as a result of
development and manufacturing processes. Environmental Engineering is considered a
subset of Civil Engineering.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

ENVIRONMENTAL ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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 Materials Science Engineering Degree
A Materials Science engineering degree is a study of materials and why they behave a
specific way or react to things in a certain way. This includes plastics, ceramics and
polymers. Everything around us is made up of materials, as we evolve there is an
increasing demand for materials which are stronger, more environmentally friendly and
lighter. Employment opportunities include research positions along with industry
placements. Materials Science Engineering is a very hands on, practical degree and
graduates are in high demand.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

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Agricultural Engineering Degree

An Agricultural engineering degree involves learning how to apply engineering to the
agricultural industry to assist with area of farming including: soil conservation and salinity,
ground preparation, irrigation, farm machinery design and production and helping develop
more effective harvest techniques. Employment generally involves working in a consulting
capacity or employed in a related industry such as machinery design and production.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

AGRICULTURAL ENG. DEGREE DETAIL
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Paper Engineering Degree

Paper Engineering is a specialization of chemical engineering and involves understanding
the processes involved (chemical and mechanical) of paper production. This type of degree
involves both research based work and practical assessment which is typically lab work.
Students learn the principles behind molecular science, wood pulping and fluid mechanics
to name just a few.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

 Sustainability Design Degree
Sustainable engineering takes into account the three major areas of sustainability:
environmental impact, social and economic considerations. This includes not only the initial
construction process but the complete life cycle of the product being developed. Graduates
may complete further post graduate study or work in industries such as: Industrial waste
water management, emission control and hazardous waste management.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

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Types of Engineering Management Degrees

Engineering Management Degree
An Engineering Management Degree combines engineering with business management
training to arm the successful graduate with the ability to manage engineering projects or
manage a team of engineers. A degree in engineering management limits the shortfall of
engineers with limited business and management skills or managers with limited
engineering knowledge. This type of degree is expected to rise in popularity over time.

Available in: Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

ENG. MANAGEMENT DEGREE DETAIL
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MBA in Engineering Degree

Generally speaking, the MBA has become a staple among successful businessmen and
businesswomen, and the engineering field is no exception. The MBA in Engineering is
specifically tailored for engineers that already hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering. The
program is ideal for FE’s or PE’s that wish to get into management, or VP/C-level positions
in a company. Typically the MBA in Engineering has more benefit to those working in the
private engineering sector.
Available in: Master’s
MBA – ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Industrial Engineering Degree

Industrial engineers work for manufacturing companies, or as consultants to the
manufacturing industry. The role of an Industrial engineer is to increase productivity and
reduce waste and spending. Many new start-ups will hire an Industrial engineer to help
make their business more efficient. Industrial engineers are also hired to test employee
productivity and in house processes. Which will improve the efficiency of the company.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Systems Engineering Degree

Systems engineering is a multi disciplined engineering degree. While it has has evolved
over time as systems have evolved with technology and greater efficiency it’s primary focus
is on developing and improving upon existing systems. Systems engineers develop systems
for workplace efficiency, risk management, measuring and refinement.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate.

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Manufacturing Engineering Degree

A Manufacturing Engineering degree focuses on manufacturing processes and machinery
and quality control systems. Manufacturing makes up over 20% of America’s GDP and over
15% of our employment. As a result it’s important we refine our manufacturing processes
for increased efficiency. This is a very broad discipline and can overlap other types of
engineering studies including robotics and systems engineering. Students will study diverse
areas of engineering such as: Material science, manufacturing technology and automation
(robotics) along with fluid mechanics and hydraulics.
Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.
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Types of Geotechnical Engineering Degrees

Petroleum Engineering Degree

A petroleum engineer handles the extraction of oil and gas from beneath the
earth. They are also involved in developing new extraction methods and technologies
including new methods that are more efficient and less damaging to the
environment. Petroleum Engineering is one of the highest paid engineering positions
available. Petroleum engineers play a significant role in locating reservoirs beneath the
earth’s surface for gas and oil companies.
Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.
PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREE DETAIL
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Geological Engineering Degree

Geological engineers combine engineering and research skills for mining and construction
projects. Construction firms hire Geological engineers. They assess ground conditions and
other natural hazards (earthquakes, etc.) before starting construction. With declining natural
resources available, Geological engineers are in high demand. Geological Engineers work
in the private sector or governmental agencies.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Nuclear Engineering Degree

Nuclear engineers are at the core of development for the ever growing use of nuclear
power. The medical field has become the largest beneficiary of many new developments.
Nuclear engineers work for consulting firms, power plants, and government agencies. As
expected, the demand for nuclear engineers in nuclear power plants is high. The design,
implementation, and maintenance of the plant is one aspect of their duties. Many Nuclear
Engineers also move into supervision and management.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Marine Engineering Degree

A Marine engineer applies knowledge to the development of ocean

technologies. Technologies include fixed and floating structures, such as pontoons and
jetties, propulsion and power generation for boats, ships and other marine transportation,
and developing new forms of energy that are reliant on our oceans including wind farms.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

Engineering Physics
An engineering physics degree combines engineering with physics and allows students to
study the areas where these two areas intersect. It is also a precursor to graduate studies in
either physics or engineering. Most graduates will work in research or another field of
engineering such as mechanical engineering or nuclear engineering. The demand for this
type of graduate is particularly high.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

Photonics Engineering Degree

Photons are a specific type of light. Photonics engineering concerns itself with the
exploration of light. this includes generation of light, processing of light signals, amplification
of light and modulation. Industries that utilise this kind of technology include
Telecommunications (optical signal processing and communication), Medical,
Manufacturing, Aviation and computing to name just a few. Over the course of the next
decade opportunities for qualified Photonics Engineers is expected to increase significantly.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Nanotechnology Engineering
Nano essentially refers to a billionth e.g. one nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter or between
2 and 20 atoms in length. Nanotechnology is the study of extremely small elements such as
molecules and single atoms and the production of extremely small devices. Nanotechnology
is expected to be as important to us as the industrial revolution over time as it has the
potential to help solve some of the world’s major problems including health and
environmental concerns. Nanotechnology is a very specialised discipline that can be
applied to a very broad range of industries and fields.

Available in: Certificate, Master’s and Doctorate.

Mining Engineering Degree

A mining Engineering degree involves studying the extraction of mined resources from the
earth in a safe, economical and environmentally responsible manner. Engineers are
involved in the mining industry in areas such as: machinery production and design, mine
design, mine construction. Mining Engineers may work closely with Geologists to discover
the most effective extraction techniques and can be employed on site or work remotely.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Ceramics Engineering Degree

As the name implies. Ceramics engineers develop products from ceramics (ceramics being
non metal, non organic materials that are generally produced by heating and cooling).
Ceramics are often more suitable than metals in many cases due to their heat and cool
resistance and can often be found in industries such as: medical, mining and electronics.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

 Metallurgical Engineering Degree
A Metallurgical Engineering Degree involves the study of engineering principles to extract
and in many cases purify metals and other minerals from ore. Metallurgical Engineers
develop and design processing techniques and machinery and have to take into account
the environmental impact of mineral processing.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Geomatics Engineering Degree

A Geomatics Engineering degree involves the study of precise measurement for mapping
the earth’s environment using advanced equipment and techniques. Geomatics Engineers
play an important role in planning future infrastructure and often work with large amounts of
data to form digital replications of terrain and develop 3D maps. This also includes the study
of GPS technology. There is a shortage of qualified Geomatics professionals and as a result
they are in great demand.

Available in: Master’s and Doctorate.

Project Management Degree

Many engineers that wish to continue advancing in their corporation choose to pursue a
project management degree. Some engineers can become a project manager without a
project management degree, but a project management degree helps you learn PM
principles to ensure all engineering branches work together for the completion of typically
large projects. Many engineers work with project managers, but civil engineers, architectural
engineers, and electrical engineers work with a project manager for nearly every
road/highway or building/construction project. Having the PM experience can give you a
more comprehensive vantage point from all engineering angles.

Available in: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT DEGREE DETAIL
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Engineering Degrees by Degree Level
For those that may be undecided on which specific type of engineering they want to study,
but are interested in entering an engineering program, consider viewing engineering degree
by degree level. There are multiple options here: undergraduate options include Associate’s
and Bachelor’s degrees in Engineering. Graduate-level options include Master’s of
Engineering, MBA in Engineering, and Doctorate of Engineering programs. You can view
more specifics on our degree detail summaries:

Undergraduate Engineering Degrees

Associate’s in Engineering Degree – entry level, 2-year program (or less), online programs
Bachelor’s in Engineering Degree – entry level, typically 4-year program, online programs
Graduate Engineering Degrees
Master’s in Engineering Degree – Bachelor’s degree typically required, 2-year program (or
less), many online options
MBA in Engineering Degree – Bachelor’s degree typically required, 18-24 month program,
many online options
Doctorate in Engineering Degree – Master’s degree typically required, some online options