Online Design Engineering Degree Program Options

Systems engineering programs cover aspects of engineering design, as well as other engineering disciplines. Online programs are available at the graduate level, and take 2-3 years to complete. Master's degree programs generally require students to have a bachelor's degree in engineering and are intended for professional engineers who want to gain more proficiency and advance in the field.

Overview of Online Master's Degree Programs in Systems Engineering

Systems engineering degree programs are meant to develop students' abilities to analyze, design and build complex systems within the field of engineering. Online master's degree programs in the field are typically intended for working engineers who want to improve their skills and abilities.

Program Information and Requirements

Online master's degree programs in systems engineering typically require students to have a bachelor's degree in engineering. Systems engineering applies to large-scale systems like power plants as well as small-scale systems like circuit components.
Online courses allow students to retain their current engineering job, while gaining proficiency in the field. Coursework, lectures, class discussions and resources are typically available through the course website. Specific hardware and software may be required to access certain course materials, such as video components and ebooks.

Common Coursework

Coursework for online master's degree programs in systems engineering typically take an interdisciplinary approach. Subject matter often includes studies in modeling, architecture, integration and management of complex systems.

Systems Engineering Course

This course covers the fundamentals of systems engineering, including methodology, design and management. Students will analyze the human factors, maintainability and reliability of systems.

Software Architecture Course

This course explores topics in the architectural designs and principles of software systems architecture. Students learn document and evaluate processes involved in software architecture.

Decision and Risk Analysis of Engineering Course

Students analyze engineering decisions that may cause uncertain results in this class. This course provides students with the tools needed to identify and resolve problems that may arise.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of an online master's degree program in systems engineering may go on to work as a software engineer. As of May 2009, the average annual income for engineers was $96,620, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS reported that, between 2008 and 2018, job opportunities for engineers are expected to increase by 32% (www.bls.gov).