Success Story
"The program was fantastic for me because I work in the industry ... The lab classes have definitely stepped up my abilities at work to quantify things and to do the mathematical analysis so that I can make educated presentations and decisions about behaviors of things. It's been just an incredibly useful experience it's been immediately applicable. I can't say enough about it. I gush about it at work sometimes because I'm like, wow, I just did this in school."
Bill Johnson
Highest Lifetime ROI
UMass Lowell has the highest lifetime return on investment for public research universities in Massachusetts. Our online tuition is among the lowest in the U.S. Additionally, substantial scholarships, grants and other financial aid opportunities are provided.
Stackable Credits
Our engineering programs build upon themselves. As you move from certificates and bachelor's degrees to graduate certificates and master's degrees, you may apply previously earned credits toward your next pursuit.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
UMass Lowell is proud to be recognized by the American Society for Engineering Education for making significant, measurable progress in increasing our engineering programs' diversity, inclusion and degree attainment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the fast-paced world of modern manufacturing, the plastics industry has become one of the most dynamic and lucrative sectors. UMass Lowell is at the forefront of this booming industry, earning a reputation for preparing top-level professionals who drive innovation and lead the way in sustainability practices. With expertise in design, engineering and materials manufacturing, our online degree and graduate certificate programs have paved the path for future pioneers in the plastics industry.
Through cutting-edge research and collaboration with industry leaders, our plastics engineering programs have created thousands of graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in a highly competitive marketplace. From developing eco-friendly packaging materials to designing advanced medical devices, our students continue to advance multiple fields with groundbreaking contributions.
Many consider the plastics engineering program at UMass Lowell to be the best in the country. According to The Boston Globe, "UMass Lowell is among the nation's leading centers for plastics technology, and its Plastics Engineering program is helping to push new boundaries of how these versatile materials are used, produced and processed." From state-of-the-art facilities to hands-on learning opportunities, UMass Lowell is fostering a new generation of plastics industry leaders who are revolutionizing the way we think about materials and manufacturing.
UMass Lowell was among the first in the world to offer an MSE in Plastics Engineering online and six related online graduate certificates that enable participants to apply credits earned to the MSE program.
The perception of online engineering degrees within the industry is important when weighing their value and respectability. Industry recognition of online degrees has been steadily increasing for many years. Long before the COVID pandemic forced students to utilize virtual learning platforms, online degree programs began to rise in popularity because of their undeniable advantages, including flexibility for busy adults and affordability.
Employers increasingly recognize the value of online engineering degrees, especially as remote work becomes more prevalent. The key for prospective students is to choose an online engineering program from a reputable institution that industry organizations recognize.
One of the main concerns people have regarding online engineering degrees is how they compare to traditional, on-campus degrees. It's important to understand that the content and curricula of the best online engineering programs are very similar, if not the same, as an institution's on-campus programs. The main difference lies in the mode of delivery and the flexibility offered by online education.
Online engineering degrees allow students to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their own homes. This flexibility is particularly beneficial if you are already working or have other commitments. You can access course materials, lectures, and assignments online, allowing you to study at a time and place that suits you best.
Yes, engineering degrees are available online, and the best online programs will provide you with the same content as traditional, on-campus engineering programs. While on-campus degrees may offer more hands-on experiences through laboratory sessions and in-person interactions with professors and peers, online engineering programs often find innovative ways to provide similar experiences. For example, the online plastics engineering degree at UMass Lowell requires a two-week session at our state-of-the-art laboratories, where you will gain hands-on experience with the latest equipment in the industry. Some online programs offer virtual labs, interactive simulations, and online collaboration tools to bridge the gap between virtual and physical learning environments.
In addition to the Master of Science in Plastics Engineering, the Master of Science in Engineering Management is available online at UMass Lowell. Additionally, several online graduate certificates are available, including Renewable Energy Engineering and Design and Manufacturing Engineering, in addition to the six plastics engineering certificates.
At UMass Lowell, you receive the same degree whether you study online, on-campus or through a combination of both. That's because our online degrees are held to the same academic standards as on-campus degrees, and courses are taught and developed by the same faculty and industry experts. Regardless of your chosen course format, you will receive a diploma from the University of Massachusetts.
Online engineering degrees offer many benefits that make them an appealing option. Here are some of the advantages of pursuing your engineering degree online:
- Flexibility: Online programs allow you to study at your own pace and schedule. This flexibility is particularly beneficial if you are working or have other commitments.
- Greater value: Online programs often have lower tuition and fees than traditional on-campus programs. Additionally, you will save on commuting and accommodation expenses, making online engineering degrees even more affordable.
- Accessibility: Online programs eliminate geographical barriers, allowing you to access education anywhere in the world.
- Career advancement without a career break: An online engineering degree or graduate certificate can help you advance your career without taking a break from work. You can immediately apply your newly acquired knowledge and skills, enhancing your professional growth.
- Networking opportunities: Online engineering programs often provide opportunities for you to connect and collaborate with professionals and peers from around the world. This opportunity will expand your professional network and lead to valuable industry connections.
In conclusion, pursuing an online engineering degree offers numerous benefits, including flexibility, affordability, accessibility, career advancement, and networking opportunities. These advantages make online programs a viable and respected option if you want to advance in the engineering industry.