Online Systems Engineering Degree Programs

Systems engineers are expert problem-solvers who help design, test, and implement sophisticated solutions for customers in the technology, electronics, manufacturing, industrial, energy, agriculture, or healthcare industries. They usually combine knowledge of general engineering with specializations in advanced engineering disciplines. On the job, systems engineers must understand a variety of industry standards to meet customer business needs, technical requirements, and processes while maintaining cost efficiency, reliability, and safety. In essence, they provide big-picture perspective to mechanical, financial, and IT-related problems within the manufacturing, science, and engineering industries.

Find the right school for you

Degree:

Subject:

Program:

Systems Engineering Degrees

If you're interested in becoming a systems engineer, you should consider obtaining a bachelor's degree in some aspect of engineering. This four-year degree is usually the bare minimum required for entry. Thereafter, you should pursue graduate specialization in whatever branch of engineering is most relevant to your intended career track. The tools and skills required of systems engineering in aeronautics are quite different from those required of civil or mechanical engineers. In almost all cases, however, career training includes a blend of science, math, physics, business administration, mechanics, and manufacturing. If you plan on working in the public sector, you should also prepare for the local, state, and federal certification exams that regulate these disciplines.

Online Degrees in the Field

Because certified engineers often pursue additional training to become systems engineers, online education can be an appealing option. Given the freedom and flexibility of distance-based education, you can continue working while taking classes at nights and on weekends. Due to online education's emphasis on information technology, expect your coursework to include areas such as UNIX fundamentals, databases, strategic planning, systems security, and software testing. Be sure to supplement your online training with real-world experience, however. This shouldn't be a problem if you're already an engineer moving into systems engineering.

Salary and Career Outlook for Systems Engineers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that starting salaries for engineering professionals are among the highest for all college degree holders. In 2006, entry-level computer systems engineers holding a bachelor's degree earned an average salary of $56,201, and those with a master's degree earned $60,000. Employment prospects are equally encouraging, with the entire engineering industry expected to grow by 11 percent from 2006 to 2016. With a master's degree under your belt, you are better positioned to capitalize on this growth than those engineers who only bring bachelor's degrees to the table. Each successive year of schooling potentially provides you with more salary and employment options after you graduate. This trend is expected to become even more pronounced as mechanical, commercial, and manufacturing systems become more sophisticated due to technology advancements and growing user demand.