Explore the best online engineering courses
Engineers design the systems that power the world. They build and work with computers, electronics, machinery, infrastructure, aircraft, and much more. Learn engineering with online courses and programs delivered through edX.
Key takeaways
- To become an engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree, field-specific experience, and, depending on your role and location, PE licensure.
- edX offers university-backed online engineering courses and certificate programs that can help you explore branches, build technical skills, and prepare for degree-level study.
- Engineering-related careers pay well: the BLS reports a median salary of $97,310 and 186,500 annual openings for architecture and engineering roles.
Popular online engineering courses with certificates
What is engineering?
Engineering is the practice of utilizing math, science, and technology principles to solve real-world problems. Engineers are responsible for designing and constructing many of the products, buildings, equipment, systems, and technologies we use in everyday life.
Engineers power much of the world around us. Any time you use an electronic device, cross a bridge, or fly in a plane, you're benefiting from the work of engineers. Aspiring engineers can choose from a variety of popular specializations, including mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering.
Why learn engineering?
- Engineering degrees are versatile, offering excellent cross-industry transferability and global relevance.
- Engineers earn higher-than-average salaries: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that engineers earned a median annual salary of $97,310 in 2024.
- The BLS projects 186,500 job openings for these professionals each year between 2024 and 2034.
Browse online Engineering Certificates
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Certificates
Careers you can pursue with an engineering background
Engineering knowledge can open up new career opportunities, with roles varying by specialization. Some careers may require additional training, certifications, licensure, or advanced degrees.
Discover common engineering roles below, with salary and job outlook data from the BLS:
Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineers develop and test products and technologies for aviation, spacecraft, and defense systems.
- Education requirements: Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related field
- PE license: Preferred for leadership roles
- Median annual salary (2024): $134,830
- Projected job growth (2024-34): +6%
Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineers develop and test products and technologies for aviation, spacecraft, and defense systems.
- Education requirements: Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related field
- PE license: Preferred for leadership roles
- Median annual salary (2024): $134,830
- Projected job growth (2024-34): +6%
Why learn engineering online with edX
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My educational experience...will help me in the future to distinguish and elevate myself academically, which will give me a chance to work in the field of engineering in my country. I see this as an opportunity to compete for a good job, which means these courses may allow me to achieve my dreams of a future in engineering.
How to learn engineering online
Online learning can be an accessible way to explore the engineering field before committing to a specific path. Through edX, you can find engineering courses, certificate programs, and degree programs with curricula developed by institutions such as MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and others.
These learning options span introductory, intermediate, and advanced topics across engineering disciplines. Depending on the course or program you choose, you can earn a verified certificate that demonstrates your completion of rigorous, university-backed coursework.
Start your engineering career with these steps:
1. Take introductory courses to find your path
Engineering is a broad field with many branches, including civil, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, and computer engineering. If you are still deciding which path to pursue, start with introductory courses that expose you to different engineering problems, tools, and applications.
For example, explore engineering simulations, electrical and electronic engineering, or aeronautical engineering before committing to a degree or specialization.
Featured courses
1. Take introductory courses to find your path
Engineering is a broad field with many branches, including civil, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, and computer engineering. If you are still deciding which path to pursue, start with introductory courses that expose you to different engineering problems, tools, and applications.
For example, explore engineering simulations, electrical and electronic engineering, or aeronautical engineering before committing to a degree or specialization.