What an online mechanical engineering degree actually is
An online mechanical engineering degree is a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering delivered primarily through the internet rather than in a classroom. You watch lectures, submit assignments, and take exams from home, though some programs require you to visit campus for labs or proctored tests a few times per year. The degree itself — the credential employers see — is identical to one earned on campus; most universities do not mark the diploma to show it was completed online.
The main difference is how you learn, not what you learn. You will still study thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and machine design. The challenge is that mechanical engineering relies heavily on hands-on lab work — building prototypes, testing materials, running experiments. Online programs handle this in different ways: some use simulation software that mimics real equipment, some require you to build straightforward devices at home and test them, and some ask you to complete a week or two of in-person lab sessions on campus.
Before you choose a program, understand what "online" means for that specific school. A program that is 80 percent online but requires monthly weekend visits is very different from one that is fully remote except for a final capstone project.
Key Takeaways
- Online mechanical engineering degrees from accredited universities are recognized by employers the same way as on-campus degrees, though some programs require occasional campus visits for labs or exams.
- Most online programs use simulation software, at-home experiments, or short in-person lab sessions to replace traditional hands-on coursework, so confirm the lab structure before enrolling.
- Accreditation by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) matters for licensure and job prospects, so verify this before comparing programs.
- Tuition for online programs ranges widely depending on the university and whether you are a resident or non-resident student, so request detailed cost breakdowns from each school.
- Completion time typically ranges from four years for a bachelor's degree to two years for a master's degree, but part-time study can extend this significantly.
Accreditation and why it matters for engineering degrees
When you choose a mechanical engineering program, the most important credential to check is ABET accreditation. ABET is a nonprofit organization that evaluates engineering programs to may support they meet industry standards. If you want to become a Professional Engineer (PE) — which requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and gaining work experience — most states require your degree to come from an ABET-accredited program. Without it, you may be unable to sit for the PE exam later, even if you have years of experience.
You can search for accredited programs on the ABET website. Look for programs accredited under the "Mechanical Engineering" category, not just "Engineering" broadly. Some online programs are accredited; others are not. A degree from an unaccredited program is still a degree, but it closes doors if you ever want to pursue licensure or work on certain regulated projects.
Regional accreditation (which ensures the university itself is legitimate) is separate from ABET accreditation. A university can be regionally accredited but offer a mechanical engineering program that is not ABET-accredited. Always check both.
How labs and hands-on work happen in online programs
This is where online mechanical engineering differs most from on-campus study. Real mechanical engineering requires you to build things, measure them, and see how they fail. Online programs address this in three main ways.
Simulation software is the most common approach. You use programs like MATLAB, ANSYS, or SolidWorks to model machines, run virtual tests, and analyze results. These tools are industry-standard — engineers use them in real jobs — so the skills transfer directly. The downside is that simulation cannot replicate every real-world variable, and you do not get the tactile experience of building and breaking things.
At-home experiments are used by some programs. You might build a straightforward heat exchanger from PVC pipe, test a 3D-printed part, or measure properties of materials you source yourself. The university provides instructions and sometimes a kit. This gives you real hands-on experience but requires space, tools, and careful safety practices at home.
In-person lab sessions are required by other programs, usually one to four weeks per year on campus. You complete most coursework online, then come to campus for intensive lab work. This combines flexibility with real equipment access, but it means travel costs and time away from home.
Before enrolling, ask the program directly: What labs are required? Can they be done at home, or must you visit campus? Are there additional fees for lab materials or equipment? How many hours per week do labs take?
Comparing program structure and time to completion
Online mechanical engineering programs vary in how they are organized, and this affects how long they take and how much they cost.
Bachelor's degrees typically take four years of full-time study, the same as on-campus programs. If you study part-time — taking fewer courses per semester — you can extend this to five, six, or more years. Some universities let you transfer credits from community college or prior coursework, which can shorten the timeline. Ask whether the program accepts transfer credits and how many.
Master's degrees usually take two years full-time or three to four years part-time. Some schools offer accelerated options that can be completed in 12 to 18 months if you study intensively. A few programs allow you to count relevant work experience toward the degree, which can reduce the time further.
Pace and flexibility differ between schools. Some programs offer courses on a fixed schedule — you start in the fall, follow a set sequence, and graduate in four years. Others let you start any semester and take courses in any order, which is more flexible but requires more self-direction. If you work full-time, a flexible program may suit you better, but you need to be disciplined about staying on track.
Request a sample course schedule from each program so you can see exactly what you will take each semester and whether the timing fits your life.
Cost and financial considerations
Tuition for online mechanical engineering degrees varies widely. A bachelor's degree from a public university might cost $30,000 to $80,000 total, depending on whether you are a resident of that state. Private universities typically cost more. Master's degrees range from $20,000 to $60,000 or higher. Some universities charge the same tuition for online and on-campus students; others charge less for online.
Beyond tuition, factor in software costs. You will need access to programs like MATLAB, CAD software, or simulation tools. Some universities include these in tuition; others charge separately, sometimes $500 to $2,000 per year. Ask whether these are included before you compare prices.
Financial aid works the same way for online degrees as for on-campus degrees at accredited universities. You can use federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Some employers offer tuition reimbursement if you are working in engineering or a related field. If you are a veteran, the GI Bill covers online engineering degrees at many universities.
Request a detailed cost breakdown from each program, including tuition per semester, software fees, lab fees, proctoring fees, and any required campus visits. This lets you compare the true total cost, not just the advertised tuition.
Prerequisites and what you need before starting
Most mechanical engineering programs require you to have completed certain math and science courses before you enroll. Typically, this includes calculus (through calculus 2 or 3), physics (mechanics and electricity), and chemistry. If you do not have these, you will need to complete them first, either at a community college or through the university's own prerequisite courses. This can add a year or more to your timeline.
Some universities offer "bridge" or "prep" programs for students who are rusty on math or science. These are usually shorter and cheaper than a full degree program, and they prepare you for the rigor of engineering coursework. If it has been years since you studied calculus, a bridge program is worth considering.
You will also need reliable internet, a computer capable of running engineering software, and a quiet space to study and take exams. Engineering software can be demanding — check the system requirements before you enroll. If your computer is old or slow, you may need to upgrade or use the university's remote lab computers.
Choosing between a bachelor's and a master's degree
If you already have a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, a master's degree in mechanical engineering is a faster path to specialization. You can focus on areas like thermal systems, robotics, or automotive engineering without repeating foundational courses. A master's also qualifies you for some advanced roles and can lead to higher pay in certain industries.
If you do not yet have a bachelor's degree, you will need to start with a bachelor's in mechanical engineering. Some universities offer combined bachelor's-master's programs that let you earn both in five years instead of six, though this requires full-time study and is more demanding.
A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is the standard entry point for most engineering jobs. A master's is valuable if you want to specialize, move into management, teach, or work on advanced research. It is not required for most entry-level engineering positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will employers care that my degree is online?
No, if the degree is from an accredited university and is ABET-accredited. Employers care about the credential and your skills, not how you earned it. Many large companies hire engineers with online degrees. However, some employers in highly specialized fields may prefer on-campus degrees, so research companies you are interested in if this concerns you.
Can I take exams at home, or do I have to go to a testing center?
It depends on the program. Some use proctored exams at home through software that monitors you via webcam. Others require you to visit a testing center or campus. Ask each program about their exam policy before you enroll, especially if travel is difficult for you.
How much does engineering software cost if it is not included in tuition?
Student licenses for MATLAB, CAD software, and simulation tools typically cost $500 to $2,000 per year, though some are cheaper. Many universities negotiate discounts for students or provide free access through campus labs. Always ask whether software is included in your program's fees.
Can I work full-time while earning an online mechanical engineering degree?
Many people do, especially in part-time programs. However, mechanical engineering is demanding — expect 40 to 60 hours per week of study, labs, and projects. Part-time study (two to three courses per semester) makes this more manageable, but it extends your completion time to five or six years for a bachelor's degree.
What if I do not have the math and science prerequisites?
You will need to complete them before or alongside your degree program. Community colleges offer calculus and physics courses, often at lower cost than universities. Some universities offer online prerequisite courses. Budget an extra year and $5,000 to $15,000 if you need to fill these gaps.