A master's in engineering can expand your opportunities for career advancement. In an engineering graduate program, you can learn the latest technology in the field, gain expertise in a particular sector, or prepare for a leadership role.
Completing a master's program can give engineers of all specializations a competitive advantage. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 42% of all engineers held an advanced degree in 2022.
Read on to learn more about what you can do with a master's in engineering.
What jobs can I get with a master's in engineering?
Master's in engineering graduates can pursue specialized roles and senior leadership positions. Graduate studies can boost your credentials and help you access these higher-paying careers.
It's important to note that master of engineering programs are centered on specific subjects, such as artificial intelligence, chemical and biomolecular engineering, or civil engineering. When considering your track of study, consider the fast-growing careers listed below.
Computer engineer
Computer engineers research, develop, and improve computer systems and components. They often collaborate with software designers to ensure optimal product functionality.
Computer engineers often work at technology companies, but they can also find jobs in the healthcare, government, automotive, and gaming industries. They typically work in laboratories or office settings.
According to the BLS, computer hardware engineers earned a median annual salary of $138,080 in 2023. The BLS projects 7% employment growth for these professionals from 2023 to 2033.
Industrial engineer
Industrial engineers manage and optimize production and workflow systems in various industries, including healthcare, energy, automotive, and construction. Most engineers work in office settings, but they also visit worksites to gather information.
The BLS reports that industrial engineers made a median annual salary of $99,380 in 2023 and projects 12% employment growth for these engineers from 2023 to 2033.
Industrial engineering graduate coursework can help you build and refine skills for improving production and manufacturing systems, as well as prepare you for research and leadership positions.
Mechanical engineer
Mechanical engineers develop systems with moving parts, such as engines, wind turbines, thermal sensors, biomedical devices, and air conditioning systems.
Mechanical engineers made a median of $99,510 in 2023, according to the BLS. The Bureau projects jobs for these professionals will grow by 11% between 2023 and 2033, which is significantly faster than the average job growth rate across all occupations.
Master's programs for mechanical engineering typically require students to choose an area of focus, such as biomechanics, hypersonic technologies, advanced manufacturing, or robotics. Choosing a specialization can help you stand out to employers and qualify you for higher-paying positions.
Software engineer
Software engineers create computer systems, applications, and programs. Software engineering professionals often work at tech companies, but these roles can also be found in the finance, the automotive industry, manufacturing, and e-commerce sectors.
According to the BLS, in 2023, the median pay for software engineers was $130,160 per year. The BLS projects 17% job growth for these engineers between 2023 and 2033, significantly higher than average.
Roles within this field include software developers, quality assurance analysts, and software testing engineers.
What is the salary range for masters' in engineering jobs?
According to the BLS, engineers can earn between $48,000 and nearly $200,000 per year, depending on their specific role and level of experience.
The occupations with the highest median salaries include aerospace, computer hardware, nuclear, and petroleum engineers. The occupations with the lowest median salaries are environmental engineering technologists and technicians, surveying and mapping technicians, and mechanical engineering technologists and technicians.
Salaries vary by specialization and experience. Education also influences earnings. Per the BLS, in 2022, more than 42% of engineers held an advanced degree, such as a master's or doctorate.
Opportunities for advancement with a master's in engineering
Master's in engineering graduates with multiple years of experience can pursue specialized roles and positions in research and development or leadership.
You can study a particular area of the industry to increase your chances of obtaining a specialized role with higher pay. Many schools also offer graduate courses for engineering leadership roles, in which you can grow your knowledge of the industry while also studying the foundations of management.
Regardless of your focus track, an online master's in engineering can make you a more competitive candidate to employers.
Frequently asked questions about what you can do with a master's in engineering
How valuable is a master’s in engineering?
A master’s in engineering can be valuable in career advancement. In 2022, 42% of engineers had an advanced degree, such as a master’s or a doctorate, according to the BLS. Earning a master’s can help you stay competitive and qualify for specialized roles with higher earning potential.
What is the best master's degree to earn after a bachelor’s in engineering?
The best master’s degree after earning a bachelor’s in engineering depends on your interests and goals. Look to occupation descriptions and salary data when considering your options. If you want to develop deeper skills in your field, you may consider a master’s in engineering that provides a specialization you’re interested in pursuing, such as computer engineering or mechanical engineering, among others.
How should I choose an engineering master's?
You should choose an engineering master’s program that fits your career objectives. Consider your interests in the field and salary ambitions when choosing a program.
