Best Online Industrial Technology Programs
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Industrial technologists and technicians are entry-level positions that require an associate degree in industrial technology or a related field. Professionals can work in diverse areas, including supply chain management, quality assurance, and project management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects slower job growth for these technicians than the national average for all jobs between 2020-2030.
However, a bachelor's in industrial technology prepares graduates for careers that pay more and feature strong growth rates. For example, the BLS projects jobs for industrial engineers to grow 14% between 2020-2030, faster than the average for all occupations. In May 2020, the median wage in the top industries for industrial engineers ranged from $77,940-$98,680.
According to EducationData.org, an online bachelor's degree costs an average of $51,091. However, tuition prices vary by institution and program length. While a bachelor's typically takes four years to earn, students may finish quicker in an accelerated program at a top online school.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Program?
A bachelor of science in industrial technology is an excellent choice for technically savvy, creative, and strong communicators. Earning an online bachelor's degree usually gives students more flexibility than in-person programs. However, some programs may require scheduled class meeting times on video chat.
Online learners interact with classmates, professors, and course materials in various ways. Schools also typically provide online support services, such as tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling. Additionally, an online bachelor's in industrial technology program may offer various educational opportunities, including research projects and study abroad.
A bachelor's degree takes about 120 credits to complete. Students with college credits may graduate with an online bachelor's degree sooner. However, completion times depend on the program. Some programs use a cohort format where students enter and complete the program together.
Accelerated programs offer shorter terms throughout the year, allowing students to graduate quicker. Students can also choose degree-completion programs that often accept up to 90 transfer credits. They can also select from many tracks, including surveying and mapping, operations management and analysis, or manufacturing technology.
Depending on their course of study, graduates may need to meet extra requirements outside of standard classes.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Program?
Plant Layout and Facilities Planning
This course covers various aspects of site planning for an industrial facility, including site selection and layout. Learners may need to take prerequisites in computer applications and information systems software.
Manufacturing Processes
Learners examine manufacturing processes and materials, including sheet metal forming, injection molding, and 3D printing. They typically complete coursework using virtual labs that resemble in-person lab assignments.
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
This course explores manufacturing history and industrial engineering systems using computer-aided design and drafting. Computer integrated manufacturing studies include planning, integration, and communication networks. Learners also explore robotics and the implementation of automation.
Supply Chain Management
Students examine inventory management concepts and the supply chain's importance to firm success. They learn to identify market segmentation and understand complex international issues about global supply chains.
Quality Control Systems
This course lets learners explore the tools and procedures used to evaluate the cause of a quality problem. Students also learn how to propose a method to measure and decrease variabilities within the process.
Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Program?
Many online students are professionals returning to school for degree completion and career advancement. So, online bachelor's program admissions often cater to digital learners by waiving requirements such as standardized test scores. But applicants may need to pass technology tests to show readiness for studying virtually.
Application
Students who attend classes on campus may fill out a paper application. However, online students typically complete college applications through a digital platform or on the school's website. Additionally, platforms like the Common Application make it easy for applicants to fill out one application to send to their chosen schools.
Test Scores
Campus programs usually require ACT or SAT test scores, especially for recent high school graduates. But many online schools do not ask for college entrance exams. They assess students based on their overall GPA, experience, and leadership accomplishments.
Letters of Recommendation
Application requirements can include 1-3 letters of recommendation documenting a student's readiness for the program. Prospective students can make a list of potential people to ask. Options may include counselors, professors, colleagues, or supervisors. Students should specify the letter requirements and include application materials. They should also give writers at least two weeks' notice.
Essays
An applicant can use college application essays to let the admissions committee get to know them. Most schools want first-person essays that illustrate the applicant's personal beliefs and motivations. Brainstorm ideas by considering significant milestones, moments, and events. Then, choose a topic to craft a structured narrative.
Official Transcripts
Transfer credits can reduce a bachelor's in industrial technology's completion time. Students and professionals with an associate degree can transfer to a four-year school and enhance their career and earning potential.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Degree?
Career Outlook
Online bachelor's degree in industrial technology graduates qualify for higher-paying or faster-growing jobs than many other popular college majors. An online bachelor's degree in industrial technology qualifies graduates for jobs as industrial technologists.
In addition, bachelor's in industrial technology degree-holders can become health and safety engineers or logisticians. The BLS projects logistician jobs to grow 30% from 2020-2030. Both careers pay a median wage of $75,000-$94,000 or more per year.
Since many industrial technology jobs feature positive growth rates, graduates may enter a strong job market upon earning their degree.A bachelor's in industrial technology from an ABET-accredited engineering program and work experience can make candidates stand out.
See where a bachelor's in industrial technology degree can take you. Learn more about technology careers.
Career Paths
Industrial Engineer
Some industrial engineers design systems for manufacturing plants. Others create automated manufacturing processes, including computer networks, robots, and materials. They focus on efficiently balancing time, labor, workers' safety, cost, and environmental concerns. Industrial engineers can work in various industries, governments, and nonprofits.
Median Annual Salary: $88,950
Industrial Production Manager
Industrial production managers carry out quality control programs and oversee an entire manufacturing plant or a specific production area. They help identify product defects, identify the cause, and fix it. These professionals work closely with managers from other departments, such as procurement, sales, and warehousing.
Median Annual Salary: $108,790
Health and Safety Engineer
Health and safety engineers develop safety procedures and design systems to protect people from illness, injury, and property damage. They need knowledge and experience in engineering and health and safety to ensure the safety of chemicals, machinery, and other products. They may also investigate industrial accidents, conduct interviews, and evaluate solutions to health inspection violations.
Median Annual Salary: $94,240
Mining and Geological Engineers
Mining and geological engineers design open-pit and underground mines. They also supervise construction and create transportation methods to processing plants. These engineers ensure that mines are safe and environmentally sound, prepare technical reports, and monitor mine production for operational effectiveness. Mining and geological engineers also provide water and air pollution solutions.
Median Annual Salary: $93,800
Logisticians
Logisticians manage product acquisition, allocation, and delivery. These professionals use supply chain planning and management systems and software to manage logistical functions. Examples include procurement and inventory management.
Median Annual Salary: $76,270
Industrial Technology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Graduates with an associate in applied science degree in a technical field can continue their education by transferring credits. Many professionals pursue a bachelor's degree while gaining work experience in entry-level positions. A bachelor's in industrial technology is also typically a prerequisite for advanced degrees.
The best online master's degrees enable professionals to specialize in specific areas, such as construction technology or industrial sustainability. For example, graduates with a master's in industrial technology and operations can advance into managerial positions. Advancement opportunities include quality assurance and quality control manager, logistics manager, or sales and operations planner.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Program?
Cost
When considering an online versus on-campus bachelor's in industrial technology, a few variables influence the true program cost. Firstly, private institutions tend to cost more. In addition, out-of-state students may pay more for their degrees. However, online programs often waive residency requirements.
Program Format
Part-time versus full-time enrollment status affects the number of credits a student takes each semester. Additionally, accelerated degrees offer full-time course loads for faster graduation. Also, synchronous versus asynchronous program formats can affect schedule flexibility for working students.
Location
Although many online programs waive residency requirements, there are other reasons why students might choose a program near home. Taking classes online or on campus provide different learning experiences. Synchronous classes often mimic the in-class experience. But online students use tools and software that often come with a learning curve.
Accreditation
College accreditation ensures that an institution and specific programs meet educational standards. If a school lacks proper accreditation, students may not be able to transfer credits to other accredited colleges. The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) accredits applied engineering, technology, and management programs.
Student Support
Most colleges offer student services such as accommodations for students with disabilities and counseling services to help learners succeed. The best online bachelor's in industrial technology programs provide advisors or mentorships, career services, tutoring, and internships. Learners should review online student services to ensure their chosen school offers virtual assistance comparable to on-campus support.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Programs
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Southeast Missouri State University
Based in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, SEMO offers an online bachelor's degree in applied technology that includes courses like industrial safety, technical communication, engineering economic analysis, and manufacturing research in a global society. Students in this bachelor's in industrial engineering program can access career support and IT help.
Incoming transfer students can earn prior learning credit for coursework and life experience. First-time applicants must have a minimum 2.75 high school GPA. If students don't meet this threshold, they can submit ACT or SAT scores to supplement their application.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $318/credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
East Carolina University
Located in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU offers a bachelor of science program in industrial technology with a concentration in industrial engineering technology. The online version of the program is designed for part-time students. Relevant courses in the 27-credit industrial engineering technology concentration include plant layout and materials handling, manufacturing system planning, work methods and ergonomics analysis, and industrial safety.
Prospective students must submit an application, a $75 fee, and official transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $204/credit in-state; $883/credit out-of-state
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Located in Carbondale, Illinois, SIU offers an online bachelor's degree in industrial management and applied engineering. Students who already hold an associate of applied science degree can complete the program in two years. The 120-credit curriculum includes courses like industrial safety, facilities planning, project management, and lean management.
During the program, students gain expertise in areas like Six Sigma and quality control. First-year applicants can earn automatic admission if they have a minimum 2.75 high school GPA, rank in the top 10% of their class, or score at least 23 on the ACT or 1130 on the SAT.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $397/credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lamar University
Based in Beaumont, Texas, LU offers a bachelor of science degree in industrial technology. Students applying to this degree completion program can bring up to 75 transfer credits, and many students who enroll in the program continue to work full time. Students typically complete an associate of applied science degree at Houston Community College or Lamar Institute of Technology before transferring to LU.
Major courses include engineering management and quality control applications. Applicants need to complete at least 34 credits of an associate of applied science degree or LU's engineering common program with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $259/credit in-state; $667/credit out-of-state
- Program Length: 2-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: Yes
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Southern Mississippi
Operating out of Hattiesburg, Southern Miss offers an online bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering technology. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The 120-credit curriculum includes courses like plant layout and material handling, lean production systems, industrial quality control, and performance technology. All students must also complete a senior project during their final year.
Prospective students must submit an application, proof of certain immunizations, a $45 fee, transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $327/credit in-state; $394/credit out-of-state
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Industrial Technology Programs
Is a bachelor's in industrial technology worth it?
Online degrees are worth it, depending on institutional and programmatic accreditation. The best online bachelor's in industrial technology programs offer the same curriculum as their on-campus counterparts. Program accreditation through ATMAE ensures that students receive a quality education while pursuing their online bachelor's in industrial technology. Attending an accredited online program likely means students can transfer to graduate programs.
In addition, online programs make higher education accessible for students who need convenience and flexibility. And while online programs are not always more affordable, some schools may waive fees for online learners.
What can I do with a bachelor's in industrial technology?
A bachelor's in industrial technology can lead to careers in construction, government, or healthcare. Learners develop technical, scientific, and managerial skills for various jobs that focus on designing systems and processes. Additionally, a bachelor's degree could make a graduate a top candidate for entry-level positions such as industrial technicians.
Also, professionals with experience can find advanced career opportunities as industrial production managers, industrial engineers, and safety and health engineers. Students who graduate from an accredited program can transfer credits and earn a graduate degree. Some professionals pursue graduate studies as teachers or sales and operations planners.
Are industrial technology majors in demand?
Some jobs for industrial technology majors are growing slower than other industries. For example, the BLS projects industrial engineering technologist and technician jobs to grow slower than average between 2020-2030. But the BLS projects jobs for logisticians to grow much faster than average during the same time. This amounts to about 6,300 openings for industrial engineering technologists and technicians and about 24,500 logistician jobs.
The top candidates have experience and a degree. Also, graduates with an online degree in industrial technology can apply their skills in other industries.
How much money can I make with a bachelor's in industrial technology?
Potential earnings for graduates with an online degree in industrial technology vary depending on the industry. For example, in May 2020, the top two industries for logisticians were the federal government and manufacturing. Logisticians working for the federal government made a median annual salary of $88,280. The same workers in manufacturing made $77,840.
Similarly, industrial production managers in chemical manufacturing earned a median salary of $120,330 in May 2020. But professionals working in fabricated metal product manufacturing made $99,510. While most salaries in industrial technology average over $50,000 a year, graduates should consider the industry.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in industrial technology?
Some of the highest-paying jobs in industrial technology include management positions and engineering roles. For example, industrial production managers make over $100,000 annually, and health and safety engineers make over $90,000.
Candidates can become more competitive by pursuing advanced education and gaining work experience in other entry-level positions.
