EAST LANSING—The Michigan State University College of Engineering announced the launch of its first two online master’s degree programs. The new online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering enable students in these disciplines to reap the benefits of an MSU engineering education without having to relocate to East Lansing.

The programs expand the options for working professionals to earn an MSU degree and update and refresh their specialized skills—from anywhere, at any time. They also are an extension of the university’s strong commitment to lifelong learning.

A multidisciplinary group of MSU faculty members and online learning experts designed the online delivery platform for the new online degrees. Both programs aim to prepare students for today’s ever-evolving and demanding engineering workplace.

Online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering

“Our new online master’s will challenge engineers to integrate their creativity and technical knowledge using state-of-the-art applications,” said John Papapolymerou, chair and MSU Foundation Professor of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

The degree is customizable, with both thesis and non-thesis plans of study. Courses cover topics including:

  • Signal processing
  • Electromagnetics
  • Electronic circuit design
  • Advanced power systems
  • Autonomous systems
  • High speed wireless communication systems
  • Diamond technology

“We will continually update the curriculum to ensure our online students receive a quality and modern electrical engineering education,” Papapolymerou added.

For more on MSU’s online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, visit the program website.

Online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

“This is an exciting first for the Department of Mechanical Engineering,” said James Klausner, chair and MSU Foundation Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. “The new online advanced degree in mechanical engineering leverages the college’s extensive research programs and industry connections in Michigan and the Midwest. It also provides online students with the full support of a faculty advisor so they can tailor their education to their interests.”

Online students will be able to access many of the department’s disciplines including fluid mechanics, energy, dynamics and control, robotics, advanced manufacturing, biomechanics, and autonomous vehicles.

The program’s two inaugural tracks in mechanical engineering are:

  • Thermal fluids science and engineering
  • Mechanics, dynamics, and manufacturing

For more on MSU’s online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, visit the program website.

Each of the new graduate online engineering programs can be completed part time in two years for a total tuition cost of $29,850. Registration is now open for the programs, which start when MSU begins its 2019-20 academic year on Aug. 28.

This story was published in Technology Century.