Online Associate's Degrees In Manufacturing Engineering

Online Associate's Degree in Manufacturing Engineering FAQs

Earning a degree online in manufacturing engineering is a great option for students who don't have the time to attend a traditional campus degree program. A few schools offer specialized associate's degrees in manufacturing engineering. However, many aspiring manufacturing engineers may prefer a similar, more accessible degree program, such as industrial engineering.

An online degree in manufacturing engineering typically leads to a position in one of three areas: product innovation, manufacturing operations and systems/operations research. Within these subsections of manufacturing engineering, students may find employment as technicians, service operators, production workers or engineers. Management positions are also available, but may require the completion of a bachelor's or master's degree in manufacturing engineering.

What Topics of Study Are Covered in an Online Manufacturing Engineering Degree Program?

An associate's in manufacturing engineering typically requires students to take a variety of mathematics and science classes. Topics of study usually include algebra, thermodynamics, stress analysis, physics and chemistry. Online degree programs also feature hands-on instruction with industry software such as computer-aided design (CAD).

What Skills Are Beneficial When Seeking a Career in Manufacturing Engineering?

One of the main tasks of a manufacturing engineer is to design or streamline processes to create minimal waste and maximum production. As such, strong efficiency and analytical skills are helpful.

A strong attention to detail and ability to think creatively are also highly sought after skills. A strong grasp of math and science will be an additional benefit to the aspiring manufacturing engineer.

What Salary Can I Expect to Earn With an Online Associate's Degree in Manufacturing Engineering?

Earning potential for manufacturing engineers is quite high. An associate's degree in manufacturing engineering offers immediate entry level positions that tend to range from $30,000 to $40,000 each year.

Students who use an associate's degree as a springboard to further education can expect higher salaries. The median salary for manufacturing engineers with a bachelor's degree is approximately $50,000 annually. Ph.D. diploma holders can earn upwards of $90,000 each year.