online engineering associates degree ABET accredited

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by stufftoad, Oct 15, 2013.

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  1. stufftoad

    stufftoad New Member

    I'm looking for an associates in mechanical/industrial engineering or engineering technology from an abet accredited school. Any help or suggestions would be highly appreciated.
     
  2. CalDog

    CalDog New Member

    In the US, engineering degrees are not normally offered at the associate's level. ABET only accredits bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering.

    That leaves engineering technology degrees (which are different from engineering degrees). Technology degrees are commonly offered at the associate's level. However, it is difficult for online schools to meet ABET's accreditation requirements, which typically require a lot of supervised "hands-on" lab work.

    There is a (short) list of 100% online ABET-accredited programs here. No AS degrees in mechanical or industrial engineering technology are listed.

    You will have more options if you look for programs with a B&M component, or drop the ABET accreditation requirement. ABET accreditation is generally considered important, or even essential, for engineering degrees (depending on the discipline), but it is generally considered optional for technology degrees.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Oct 15, 2013
  3. Kizmet

    Kizmet Moderator

    Another option is to drop the Associates restriction and jump to the full Bachelors degree. Increased time for completion, that's true but also increased utility. Here's an example:

    Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Online & Distance Education

    good luck.
     
  4. CalDog

    CalDog New Member

    The University of North Dakota online engineering programs are ABET accredited, but have some significant drawbacks, including:

    - estimated completion times of 6+ years
    - 129 credits at $911.38 per credit for non-residents
    - mandatory one to two week visits to North Dakota during the summers for labs

    There are significant tuition discounts for residents of North Dakota and neighboring states/provinces, so if you live in that part of the world, this might be a realistic option. But otherwise, the costs of this program (including summer travel and accommodations) would easily be in the $100,000 to $150,000 range.
     
  5. Kizmet

    Kizmet Moderator

    You're probably right about the costs (I never checked) but as even you pointed out, there are few alternatives. I always just like to provide options for people and let them make the decisions. Thanks.
     

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