If you’re interested in the engineering field, or better yet, already working in it, getting an online masters in engineering management is a great way to set yourself apart from the pack.
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If you have a bachelors in engineering, you probably know that the high demand for workers in the field is good news, but it also means that many qualified candidates are competing with you for those jobs. That’s why we think getting your masters degree can make a real difference.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Engineering Management Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
1. Arizona State University
Arizona State University’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program consists of ten classes. Each class takes between seven a half and 15 weeks to finish.
Core courses include information systems engineering, designing experiments and simulating stochastic systems. Students should become adept at data analytics, task management and team development.
Arizona State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
2. Auburn University
The Master of Engineering Management program at Auburn University is consistently ranked highly in “Best Online Engineering Programs” list by U.S. News & World Report. It offers a non-thesis degree to working professionals looking to improve their technical and leadership skills in the fields of civil, chemical, aerospace and other types of engineering.
Auburn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
3. Colorado State University
Students at Colorado State University can enroll in the Master of Engineering program and select an engineering management specialization. Students can learn about marketing management, financial principles and practice, organizational communication, contemporary issues in engineering management and quantitative business analytics.
Courses are delivered through online coursework, lectures and hands-on experience.
Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
4. Drexel University
Drexel University was the first university in the country to offer a graduate program in engineering management. That program has grown and evolved over the years and is now offered to students online. Graduates of the program will become Certified Associates in Engineering Management without having to take the exam.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
5. Duke University
Duke University offers an online Master of Engineering Management program to its students that’s flexible and can potentially be completed in two years. Courses are delivered mainly online, although there are three required, on-campus residencies.
The core curriculum focuses on intellectual property and business law, marketing, finance, accounting and management.
Duke University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
6. Florida International University
The Master of Science in Engineering Management program at Florida International University requires 30 credit hours for completion. There are flexible enrollment dates starting three times a year, and students don’t have to take the GRE for admittance.
The program offers numerous financial aid options and boasts an exceptional, professional faculty.
Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
7. George Washington University
Students in the Master of Science in Engineering Management program at George Washington University can expect to learn about the most current management techniques in the fields of engineering.
In addition to courses on quality control, product and process and management of technology, students also get ample real-world, hands-on experience.
George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
8. Iowa State University
Iowa State University’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program is incredibly flexible, allowing students to enroll online or on-campus, full-time or part-time.
Students can improve their science, engineering and management skills in preparation for upper-level management jobs in numerous tech fields. Half the courses are business-related, and half are engineering-related.
Iowa State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
9. Johns Hopkins University
The Master of Engineering Management program at Johns Hopkins University is a part-time program that requires students to choose between one of 15 specialized tracks which include cybersecurity, computer science, space systems engineering, civil engineering and structural engineering.
Some tracks utilize blended learning, while others can be completed entirely online.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
10. Kansas State University
Kansas State University offers an engineering management master’s program that’s completely online with the exception of a single trip to the Manhattan, Kansas campus for a final oral exam.
It’s a management degree created specifically for engineering professionals, and students can learn about resource allocation, project management and quantitative problem solving.
Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
11. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University’s Master of Science in Engineering Management degree is offered as a partnership between the university’s schools of business and engineering.
Equal focus is placed on business, engineering and management courses, and students improve their science, technical and engineering skills while also learning to become more effective supervisors.
Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
12. Lawrence Technological University
The Master of Engineering Management program at Lawrence Technological University combines technical, leadership and management courses in order to prepare students for careers in mid-level and upper-level management positions in engineering.
The program is convenient, comprehensive and collaborative, with students building their teamwork skills and getting plenty of hands-on experience.
Lawrence Technological University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
13. Lehigh University
Students at Lehigh University have two options for earning a graduate-level degree in engineering management: a Master of Science (M.S.) or a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.), both in Management Science and Engineering. Both programs require 30 credit hours for completion. The M.S. degree is research-based; the M.Eng. degree is practice-based.
Lehigh University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
14. Louisiana Tech University
Louisiana Tech University offers a Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Management program whose main goal is to provide students with comprehensive, advanced knowledge of statistical, mathematical and risk modeling analysis.
There are also courses in financial analysis, project and engineering management and systems design. No thesis is required.
Louisiana Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
15. Missouri University of Science and Technology
Missouri University of Science and Technology offers graduate certificates, Master of Science degrees and doctoral degrees in Engineering Management. The master’s degree helps students find a balance between managerial and technical skills in engineering management.
Courses focus on theories and concepts of contemporary engineering fields. Specific GRE scores are required.
Missouri S&T is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
16. New Jersey Institute of Technology
The Master of Science in Engineering Management program at New Jersey Institute of Technology prepares graduate students for upper-level management careers as engineering technicians, project managers and configuration management engineers.
Course topics include total quality management, project management and control, cost estimating, financial analysis and human resources management among others.
New Jersey Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
17. North Carolina State University
Students in North Carolina State University’s Master of Engineering program can choose from several different concentration options including aerospace engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering and engineering management.
The program is open to U.S. residents and international students, and no GRE scores are required. The degree encompasses 30 total credit hours.
North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
18. Oakland University
Oakland University’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program is designed for professional engineers already working in the field who wish to learn more about business, leadership skills and management. Students can customize the curriculum to fit their needs and schedules, and there’s no single class required for every student.
Oakland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
19. Ohio State University
At Ohio State University, students enrolled in the Master of Engineering Management program will be able to complete the program totally online. They’ll take classes in financial accounting, leadership and team effectiveness, project management and visual analytics.
Particular emphasis is also placed on understanding policy making and business/government relationships.
Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
20. Ohio University
Students seeking advanced degrees in engineering leadership can pursue Ohio University’s Master of Engineering Management degree. No GMAT or GRE scores are required, and the program’s consistently ranked among the “Best Online Master’s Engineering Programs” in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
The curriculum features a blend of graduate-level leadership and high-level engineering courses.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
21. Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University’s Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Management program is a comprehensive, rigorous program created specifically for currently employed scientists and engineers looking to move into higher level positions.
Among other things, students are taught to apply systems thinking to problem-solving, communicate clearly and manage large-scale projects.
Oklahoma State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
22. Old Dominion University
The Master of Engineering Management program at Old Dominion University prepares students for high-level positions in many different engineering fields. There are six core courses, four elective courses and a final capstone course.
Classes focus on team building, design, project management, project costs and financing, organizational systems and technological leadership.
Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
23. Oregon State University
Oregon State University refers to its Master in Industrial Engineering program as being “like an MBA customized for engineers.” The program’s faculty consists of renowned professionals in various engineering fields who are constantly involved in industry collaborations.
This also allows students to work on real-world projects and gain valuable experience.
Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
24. Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
At Pennsylvania State University – World Campus, students can undertake the rigorous Master of Engineering Management program and build up both their leadership and management skills.
The program is primarily designed for engineering professionals who are seeking to blend their prior technical knowledge with new business savvy for higher level jobs.
Penn State World Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
25. Purdue University
Purdue University offers an online Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in engineering management & leadership through its College of Engineering. Students work directly with academic advisors to create customized plans of study that work for them.
Popular courses include strategic business planning and systems design and development.
Purdue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
26. Rowan University
Students in Rowan University’s Master of Engineering Management program can select from four different specializations: construction management, project management, engineering analytics and quality control or combat systems engineering.
Full-time students take two classes per semester for five semesters, meaning the degree can potentially be completed in less than two years.
Rowan University is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, a unit of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
27. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Students looking for an affordable, flexible engineering management master’s program often turn to South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. There are three start dates a year, and coursework is designed to meet today’s industry standards. Classes are delivered via live streaming and recorded classes. Students can even request DVDs.
The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
28. Stevens Institute of Technology
The Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program at Stevens Institute of Technology seeks to provide students with a strong understanding of today’s technology and how it relates to engineering and the management process. Students are encouraged to select classes that will also allow them to earn additional graduate certificates.
Stevens Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
29. Temple University
Temple University’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program is flexible and customizable. Its objectives are to teach students to manage large-scale engineering projects, understand financial reports, incorporate customer patterns into product design and account for the commercial and market factors when developing products.
Financial aid options are also available.
Temple University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
30. Texas Tech University
The Master of Science in Systems & Engineering Management curriculum at Texas Tech University is specifically designed to meet business and government needs for technical managers with backgrounds in engineering.
The program prepares students to work in the fields of consulting, research, higher education teaching, private industry and government work.
Texas Tech University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
31. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona features a comprehensive Master of Science in Engineering Management program that’s flexible, focused and extremely practical for professionals already established in their various fields.
Courses focus on business administration skills, decision-making skills and on teaching students to shape and manage small, medium, and large-scale projects.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
32. University of Arkansas
Students with bachelor’s degrees in engineering or closely related fields can enroll in the University of Arkansas’ online Master of Science in Engineering Management degree program. The key objective of the curriculum is to teach students to lead technical teams in systems design, technical improvement projects and research and development.
The U of A is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
33. University of California – Los Angeles
The University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a Master of Science in Engineering degree that’s collaborative between three schools – the schools of business, engineering, and law. This unique, diverse collaboration ensures students get a well-rounded view of the engineering management field from the business, technical, and legal sides.
UCLA is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
34. University of Colorado – Boulder
The Engineering Management Program at the University of Colorado – Boulder was founded in 1987 through an endowment from Lockheed Martin.
Now offered online, the program seeks to provide students with in-depth, advanced managerial and entrepreneurial skills with a focus in applied science and engineering. It’s both flexible and customizable.
The University of Colorado Boulder is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
35. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs
The Master of Engineering Management degree at University of Colorado – Colorado Springs features a curriculum that aligns with ASEM standards. There are 21 required credits on the engineering side and nine required credits on the business side. Graduates should have a firm grasp of technical, financial and leadership aspects.
UCCS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
36. University of Louisville
The University of Louisville’s 30 credit hour Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program builds upon students’ prior foundational knowledge of engineering concepts and experience.
The program allows students to gain the credentials, experience and knowledge needed to move into supervisory positions and play vital, active roles in organizational development.
The University of Louisville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
37. University of Massachusetts – Amherst
At the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, students can earn their Master of Science in Engineering Management degrees after only ten courses. They can take an additional nine credits if they want to earn a Graduate Certificate in Engineering Project Management and Leadership as well. Currently, no GRE scores are required.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
38. University of Massachusetts – Lowell
University of Massachusetts – Lowell’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program is affordable and flexible. It provides students with a cross-functional knowledge of engineering and management.
The main focus of the degree is placed on product design and support, quality and production operations, consulting services, supply management and engineering services.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
39. University of Michigan – Dearborn
The University of Michigan – Dearborn offers many graduate-level programs in engineering fields, including a Master of Science in Engineering Management.
By the program’s end, students should have a firm understanding of core engineering management areas, a comprehensive knowledge of engineering disciplines and the ability to undertake lower- and upper-management positions.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
40. University of Nebraska – Lincoln
The Master of Engineering Management program at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln is an advanced, practice-based degree that relies on hands-on, real-world experience for completion. It’s a non-thesis program designed to help students advance their careers, not prepare for doctoral work. There are no additional tuition costs for out-of-state- students.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
41. University of North Carolina – Charlotte
Students in the University of North Carolina – Charlotte’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program should learn to become creative problem solvers and prudent risk assessors.
They are expected to learn how to manage systems, projects, teams, programs and organizations and should be qualified for careers in consulting, research, private business or government work.
UNC Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
42. University of South Florida
The University of South Florida’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program is uniquely designed for professionals with technical backgrounds who are hoping to advance their careers. Specific electives can be selected by students to fit their current fields, areas of interest and future career goals.
The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Colleges.
43. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program teaches students to manage teams, lead technology projects and oversee engineering functions at every level. Most full-time students complete the program in a year and a half to two years, and students do have access to financial aid.
USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
44. University of Tennessee – Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee – Chattanooga has been educating prospective engineering professionals for over four decades. The school currently offers two Master of Science in Engineering Management degrees, one general track and one with a concentration in construction management.
Both programs allow students to work extensively with professional community partners.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
45. University of Texas – Austin
The University of Texas – Austin offers many engineering-related graduate degrees including a Master of Science in Engineering with an engineering management concentration.
The school considers the degree a “tech-savvy alternative” to a traditional MBA, and course topics support that. Classes meet one weekend a month, and students can “attend” virtually.
The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
46. University of Wisconsin Madison
Students enrolled in the engineering management master’s program at University of Wisconsin – Madison should learn the skills they need to become confident, highly competent, well-rounded leaders in engineering fields.
The faculty has tons of experience and top-notch credentials, and students can meet them via an optional three-day, on-campus residency.
The University of Wisconsin – Madison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
47. University of Wisconsin – Platteville
At the University of Wisconsin – Platteville, students enrolled in the Master of Science in Engineering program can select from several concentrations including structural and geotechnical engineering, engineering design, control systems and applications of engineering management.
The applications of engineering management concentration helps students transition from technical engineers into managers of engineers.
UW-Platteville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
48. Washington State University
Washington State University offers both an online master’s degree and a certificate program in engineering and technology management.
The programs are NWCCU-accredited and teach students to cultivate business and human resources skills, understand the nature of ever-changing technology, develop leadership and technical skills and stay at the forefront of technology.
WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
49. Western New England University
The Master of Science in Engineering Management program at Western New England University is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed in as few as 15 months even by part-time students. It’s an advanced degree with an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates both business and engineering disciplines into it.
Western New England University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
50. Youngstown State University
Students enrolled in the Master of Science in Engineering program at Youngstown State University can select a concentration in management in order to develop leadership skills while honing their technical expertise.
Notable courses include engineering statistics, financial accounting for decision making, managing organizational talent, supply chain engineering and digital simulation.
Youngstown State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Online Master’s in Engineering Management Programs
With a masters in engineering management you can steer your career path into leadership roles that give you unique opportunities for new challenges as well as better pay. And, if getting an advanced degree always seemed out of reach, think again.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree and perhaps some on-the-job training, then you should find graduate coursework in engineering simply involves building on what you already know and getting exposure to highly useful leadership and management skills.
But what can make getting your masters in engineering management online really rewarding is…that’s right, learning about management.
After all, engineering involves teamwork and specialized knowledge, and someone has to manage the people, the timelines, the costs, and those head-scratching problem solving challenges.
An online engineering management degree can give someone like you the training needed to step into those roles.
In fact, not only can a master’s in engineering management online degree help you get ready to pursue management positions, it can train you in the most up-to-date tools and methods needed to excel at the job.
Finally, if you decide to study online, you should find flexible programs focused on practical skills. In other words, most of these online masters in engineering management programs, much like online bachelors in engineering management ones, are designed to get you on your way to new opportunities in the shortest time possible.
Engineering Management Careers & Salaries
As with any other online degree in engineering, an online engineering management masters can provide you with an opportunity to increase your technical skills and specialized engineering knowledge while equipping you with know-how for advanced management roles and some really well-paying jobs.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary in engineering management occupations, such as Architectural and Engineering Managers, is likely to be significantly higher than many non-management jobs in the field, reaching an average of $149,00 a year, with jobs expected to grow at a rate of 3% for the next ten years.
As you probably know, there are many engineering pathways, all in high-demand fields.
So if you received a traditional or online degree in industrial engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, aerospace, advanced architectural engineering, or any other type of engineering field, then a master’s in engineering management could be a great advancement for your education.
Be sure to select an online masters program that allows you to pursue the area of specialization that particularly interests you. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for engineering managers is $149,530 per year.
Here’s a sample from the BLS of some specific industries and salaries where architectural and engineering managers are employed:
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Engineering Research Manager | $174,710 |
| Engineering Director | $157,760 |
| Architectural and Engineering Manager | $149,530 |
| Process Engineering Manager | $148,880 |
| Engineering Design Manager | $148,120 |
| Industrial Production Manager | $108,790 |
| Construction Manager | $97,180 |
| Management Analyst | $87,660 |
| Project Management Specialist | $77,420 |
| Construction Estimator | $66,610 |
As you can see, there are plenty of areas to explore, and as you move into and gain experience in more senior management and supervisory roles, you can pursue even more exciting career choices that command higher pay.
Choosing an Online Master’s in Engineering Management
When choosing an online masters in engineering management program, be sure to think about bridging your present experience with your future career interests. You may also want to think about the mix of management vs. technical specialization you find in different programs to find what’s right for you.
In addition to these individual preferences, you may want to consider the variable length of time different programs require for completing the masters and the fact that tuition costs vary from school to school.
Here’s a helpful checklist to keep in mind as you compare schools:
- Type of management and administration courses offered
- Technical concentrations offered
- Time required for completing the program
- Scheduling flexibility (especially if you plan to work full time and study)
- Admissions requirements and enrollment timelines
- Capstone requirements may vary and can include extensive final exams, collaborative projects, a written thesis, or field-study requirements
Remember, some programs are better suited to those who love theoretical learning and others will want to hunt down programs with a highly vocational slant. Finally, we recommend you choose from among schools and programs that are fully accredited.
Masters in Engineering Management Curriculum & Courses
When you look into getting your master’s in engineering management, or as some people refer to it, your Master of ENGg Management (MEM), you’ll probably notice that a similar feature of virtually all programs is exposure to management and leadership concepts and methods.
In addition, most programs also require some more advanced coursework in technical engineering skills as well.
Courses vary by school and program, but here’s a list of the kinds of management-oriented subjects you are likely to encounter in a Masters of ENGg Management or “MEM” program:
- Accounting and Finance for Engineers: Learn about cost estimating, cost tracking, budget forecasting and other financially-related project management skills.
- Management Strategy and Statistical Analysis: Learn how to use data to define management strategy and goals and to measure strategic success.
- Technology or Product Development and Commercialization: In addition to technical expertise for product development, your management role will likely require knowledge of how to gauge and plan for longer term commercial success with regard to engineering innovations.
- Operations and Supply Chain Management: In this class, students study the knowledge and methods for designing, improving, and expanding complex logistical production and distribution challenges.
- Law for Engineers and Scientists: Whether its liability, patents, compliance with regulatory statutes, trade sanctions, or environmental law, this course can help you learn to anticipate the kinds of legal issues that may impact any aspect of engineering development, commercialization, and distribution efforts.
- Quality Control Engineering: Learn concepts and methods for quality assurance and control in the context of large production processes and complex sourcing challenges.
- Logistics Planning: An introduction to empirical frameworks and methods for planning and executing cost-effective and efficient supply chains and logistics networks.
- Organizational Psychology and Behavior: Gain an understanding of group dynamics in work settings and learn techniques for facilitating positive organizational norms, attitudes, and structures in your role as supervisor, manager, and team leader.
- Technical Management Skills: Learn about specific management skills and challenges for facilitating and overseeing teams and projects in specific kinds of engineering concentrations.
- Advanced Data Analysis: Future senior managers learn how to use reliable and thorough data collection and data-modeling methods to guide high-level oversight, planning, and decision making.
Remember, we have focused here a bit more on the management side of the degree program, but you will see that most programs also include advanced study in specific engineering specialties or industries.
Admissions Requirements
You should find admissions criteria are similar across most schools. The most common requirements you will need to prepare for are:
- Transcripts for all undergraduate coursework and degrees
- Prior science and engineering coursework and degrees
- A satisfactory GPA, usually 3.0 or above for graduate degree programs
- A GRE/GMAT score, if required
You may come across some programs requiring work experience in the engineering field in addition to your bachelor’s degree.
Finally, be sure to check if the schools that interest you require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or accept a less specialized bachelors of science degree.
Accreditation
We recommend sticking with schools and programs that are fully accredited. Accreditation means an independent agency has certified important academic quality standards, and it also means your coursework, transcripts, and degree should be fully honored by other colleges and by prospective employers.
CHEA (the Council for Higher Education Accreditation) also points out that attending a school that is not accredited may impact your eligibility for government loans and other tuition assistance programs.
CHEA also offers resources to help you verify if a school and degree program are properly accredited. ABET offers similar resources with a focus on programs in the engineering and engineering technology fields.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you are a professional working in an engineering job already, you may want to keep your job while you earn your online masters degree. Some institutions structure their programs in order to accommodate working students. Keep this in mind as you compare schools and programs.
Also, if you’re currently employed, your employer may be interested in offering you some form of tuition assistance as an investment in your professional development. If you’re not working, remember that graduate degrees in growing fields are generally great investments despite the short-term debt you take on.
Also, master’s programs in technical fields may have a total cost comparable to or less than a four-year degree, since they can often be completed within one to two years. If you do decide to apply for federal aid or subsidized student loans, filling out a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is always a good place to start.
Keep in mind that assistance programs for graduate programs may be more limited than those typically available for those seeking their first undergraduate degree.
What Can I Do With a Masters in Engineering Management?
While getting your engineering management masters will take some time and money, it can open doors to new levels of opportunity by adding valuable managerial, business administration, and organizational leadership skills to your technology tool belt.
Talented candidates with senior-level “soft skills” and advanced project analysis and management insights combined with technical engineering expertise, are not easy to come by. You should find great opportunities to land well-paid positions that employers are struggling to fill.
Indeed, you should find yourself qualified to apply for lucrative jobs with an average annual earnings potential of about $149,000 for occupations in architectural and engineering management (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
How Much Does an Online Masters in Engineering Management Cost?
Although costs vary, tuition for an online engineering masters degree program should add up to about $8,000 to $28,000, with tuition costs spread over one to three years. Most schools calculate your tuition based on credit hours.
Anticipate that your master’s degree program online will require about 28 to 36 credit hours, with costs in an average range from $350 to $1,000 per credit hour. Be aware that graduate program credit hours typically cost more than credit hours for undergraduate programs.
State schools may offer options for competitive tuition rates, with in-state tuition offering you a great discount overall in terms of the academic quality you get in return, in many cases. If you’re applying to a state-run college or university, be sure to check residency requirements to confirm if you do in fact qualify for in-state tuition rates.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Online Master’s in Engineering Management?
If you’re studying full-time, you can probably complete the online engineering management degree in about two years, about the same amount of time to complete a mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering masters online. You may find some schools offering one-year programs that follow an 8-week semester and allow for continuous year-round enrollment.
Keep in mind that working while studying may indeed be possible given the flexibility that many online programs offer. If you do decide to work while enrolled, it will probably take you a little longer to get your online engineering management masters.
These are trade-offs worth thinking about based on your individual circumstances and career goals.
What’s the Difference Between a Masters in Engineering Management vs. MBA?
When pursuing your Master of ENGg Management or (MEM), you’ll most likely encounter many concepts and methods that are taught in MBA programs as well.
That said, there are many engineering management programs to choose from that are tailored to prepare you for the unique challenges and demands of occupations in the engineering field.
If you are already working in an engineering and technology role and want to stay in the engineering field, you should find that the background, real-world savvy, and technical orientation of both your professors and your classmates make an engineering-oriented program more interesting and rewarding, as compared to a typical MBA program.
Lastly, you will see that most masters in engineering degree programs provide you opportunities to build additional advanced expertise in selected technology pathways.
This combination of business training and technology specialization means you enter the job market with both management training and some additional engineering expertise to apply on the job, something an MBA program doesn’t offer.
Since you will be eligible to work in senior-level supervisory, planning, and problem-solving roles in an engineering setting, it should be helpful to be in a masters program where you get advanced engineering insights alongside business administration training.
Is a Masters in Engineering Management Worth it?
Yes, a masters in engineering management is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in management occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include construction estimator, management analyst, engineering design manager, process engineering manager, and engineering director.
A degree in engineering management can help you combine your technical expertise with the kinds of business skills needed for a range of higher-level management roles in larger corporations and government agencies.
Remember to calculate your future earnings based on the years you anticipate being active in the workforce, and including future promotions and pay increases. You should easily earn enough over this time frame to offset the investment in online learning needed for obtaining your graduate degree.
In today’s increasingly technology-driven economy, the more you know and learn, the more you are likely to earn. Also, don’t underestimate the breadth of opportunities offered by so many engineering subfields.
Engineering knowledge spans a range of industry-related concentrations:
- industrial processes
- robotics and automation
- aerospace
- green energy technology
- public works infrastructure planning, design, and construction
- mechanical and electrical product testing and development
- new materials innovations
- the integration of computer, information, transportation, and communications networks
As technology innovations in these diverse fields go to scale, the demand for talented individuals who understand the engineering field and are equipped to take on large-scale project management roles is likely to grow for decades.
Getting Your Masters in Engineering Management Degree Online
If you think you are ready for the challenge, ready to step out of a mostly technical role and get the training you need to lead organizational planning, expansion, and innovation in an engineering setting, we strongly encourage you to pursue an online masters degree in engineering management (MEM).
Getting an advanced degree means you can learn about cutting-edge trends and industry developments—a great way to expand your dreams and goals—while getting the training you need to move forward with more confidence and more success.
We think you’ll find making a move into graduate-level study highly stimulating and rewarding in itself. It’s also likely to prove a very sound investment in light of a life-time career trajectory with opportunities for more responsibility, seniority, and financial rewards. What do you think?
