Online Systems Engineering Master’s

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
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Exploring Systems Engineering Master’s Programs online provides an in-depth grasp of technology and its role in crafting sophisticated systems. With a curriculum spanning engineering, logical principles, programming, and intelligence, students engage in a flexible online learning environment. Here, they immerse themselves in system design and development, gaining the expertise to conceive, create, and program innovative projects. This program typically requires 30-36 credits, ensuring graduates emerge well-prepared to tackle intricate challenges within the ever-evolving realm of systems engineering.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Systems Engineering Programs

Systems Engineering courses are designed to ensure knowledge and experience in the technical discipline, including engineering concepts. The curriculum comprises the theory and application of fundamental systems engineering principles to develop a system’s functional, physical, and operational architectures to meet user requirements. Additionally, the course covers basic design, strength of materials, thermodynamics, electrical theory, applied physics, and machining. Enhanced leadership skills are emphasized in skill development, teaching effective team management across multi-disciplinary systems. The course integrates human factors, technology, process engineering, and management studies into one multi-faceted discipline.

Program curricula may differ from school to school; however, some standard core courses may be part of the coursework, including

Systems Modeling & Simulation: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to model, analyze, and simulate complex systems. Topics include system dynamics, modeling techniques, simulation tools, and applications, equipping students to address real-world challenges in diverse engineering domains.

System Architecture and Design: This course explores the principles and methodologies of creating effective and scalable system architectures. Students delve into design processes, component integration, and optimization strategies, acquiring the expertise to engineer robust and efficient systems for various applications.

Design of CPS: Ensuring Systems Work and Robust: This course focuses on Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) design principles. Students learn to create resilient and effective CPS by integrating computing elements with physical processes, ensuring reliable and robust system functionality.

Software Architecture and Component-Based Design: This course explores advanced software design methodologies. Students explore software architecture principles and learn to create complex systems through component-based design, emphasizing modularity and scalability for effective engineering solutions.

Upon graduation, students in Systems Engineering Programs acquire the following skills:

• Optimization Techniques: Apply mathematical and computational methods to enhance system performance.
• Project Management: Effectively plan, execute, and oversee projects within any given constraints.
• Modeling and Simulation: Create and analyze models to simulate and understand system behaviors.
• Risk Analysis: Identify and assess potential risks in system design and implementation.
• Decision Analysis: Make informed decisions based on systematic analysis and evaluation.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work effectively with professionals from various fields to achieve common goals.
• Communication Skills: Clearly convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Quality Control: Implement measures to ensure the reliability and quality of system outputs.
• Adaptability: Navigate changing environments and adjust strategies to meet evolving requirements.
• Ethical Considerations: Integrate ethical principles into decision-making processes within the systems engineering context.

Online Master’s in Systems Engineering Degree Types

The degree options available in a Master’s in Systems Engineering program can differ among institutions; however, there is only one degree type in systems engineering: a Master of Science in Systems Engineering (M.S. in Systems Engineering).

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

The Master of Science in Systems Engineering (M.S. in Systems Engineering) is designed to provide advanced training in a research-oriented career. The program covers foundations of systems engineering to advanced systems engineering coursework. The learning outcome of this Master’s degree in systems engineering involves applying mathematics, science, and engineering knowledge to identify, formulate, and solve systems engineering problems. The curriculum emphasizes the impact of engineering solutions in the context of the global, economic, environmental, and societal aspects. The degree offers comprehensive learning experiences with practical applications in real-time scenarios.

Areas of Specialization for Systems Engineering Students

Specializing in a specific study area provides students with advanced knowledge and skills to greatly benefit their future careers. By focusing on their studies, graduates gain a deeper understanding of their chosen field, allowing them to stand out in the job market. Specializations enhance graduates’ expertise, making them more competitive and increasing their chances of success in their chosen profession. The following are some systems engineering specializations:

Timeline for graduation from Systems Engineering Master’s Programs

The timeline for completing a Systems Engineering Master’s Program varies, typically spanning 1.5 to 2 years. However, part-time programs are available for one’s feasibility designed by the universities. These programs comprise all the learnings and chapters structured for a full-time course. Some professionals or students seek part-time Master’s programs to enhance their skills, even if it takes longer to complete their studies.

Accelerated Systems Engineering Programs

Accelerated programs offer an efficient route to advanced degrees by condensing traditional coursework into a shorter timeframe. Students benefit from quicker completion, reduced costs, and flexibility, making it ideal for those eager to enter the workforce promptly or enhance their skills swiftly. The intensive format fosters a dynamic learning environment, ensuring a comprehensive education in less time. Here are examples of colleges that offer accelerated master’s in systems engineering online programs:

• The University of Virginia¹
• University of Maryland, Baltimore County²

The admission requirements for the online systems engineering master’s program will be consistent across many institutes. However, it is crucial to check with the institute to understand the specific admission requirements for the chosen study area and submit them before the due date. Common requirements that institutes typically ask for include:

• Graduate and undergraduate courses’ official transcripts 
• Transcripts from undergraduate degrees
• GRE scores / GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose

Every program is flexible, and so is the online master’s in systems engineering. Although many universities require GRE scores to be submitted, some universities offer online master’s systems engineering with no GRE requirement. Here are a few examples:

• Penn State World Campus ³
• University of Central Florida⁴

Accreditation is a crucial quality assurance process for educational institutions, ensuring they meet established standards. It gives students confidence in the institution’s credibility, academic excellence, and adherence to recognized benchmarks. Accredited programs enhance students’ employability, as employers often prefer graduates from accredited institutions, recognizing the rigor and relevance of their education. 

Most universities have their systems engineering programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology⁵ or ABET or other similar organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education ⁶.

Universities also gain regional accreditation by one of the following bodies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ⁷
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ⁸
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ⁹
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ¹⁰
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ¹¹
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)¹²

Many face challenges securing employment after obtaining a Master’s degree. However, this won’t be an issue for System Engineers, as everything is covered—from the skills demanded by the market to abundant career opportunities. Considering current engineering salary trends, pursuing a master’s degree and becoming a systems engineering graduate represents a significant and strategic career move. According to PayScale, systems engineering graduates are the highest-paid individuals compared to other disciplines. Here are some of the job types, responsibilities, and median annual salary of a systems engineer:

Certification is validating and accepting that an individual is knowledgeable, experienced, and skilled, and their services will be value-added for an organization. Certification programs are conducted by various institutes, helping individuals add more value to their academics and professional careers. Similarly, Licensing is an authentication of skills and usage in individual development and offering or through an organization. Below are some of the systems engineering certifications that will help in the course of skill enhancement:

• INCOSE- Certified Systems Engineering Professional ²³: INCOSE, known for its Associate, Certified, and Expert Systems Engineering certifications, confirms one’s competency across factors such as demonstrated knowledge, education, and experience in the systems engineering discipline. This multi-level professional certification program is recognized for its comprehensive evaluation.
• National Council of Examiners of Engineering (NCEES) ²⁴: The NCEES offers advanced licensure for engineers and surveyors. Systems engineers can apply for a systems engineering license or any other engineering discipline by completing the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam. Eligibility for the exam requires four years of post-college work experience. Successful completion of the examination grants licensure as an Engineer.

Engineering communities are large and expanding globally due to the increasing number of individuals pursuing Engineering. When entering a new arena like an online systems engineering master’s, one would always look for a known face or someone with a common interest in the subjects. Associations, communities, and other platforms facilitate this connection. Engineering associations are numerous within the U.S. and across the globe. Here are a few:

• The American Society for Engineering Education ²⁵ : ASEE provides abundant resources to connect and help people across the engineering education community. Its assistance is in fellowships, annual conferences, information on advances in engineering education, and more.
• Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers ²⁶: The Industrial and Systems Engineers Association is about congregating engineers and encouraging them to improve complex organizations across the globe and industries.
• Society of Women Engineers ²⁷: A non-profit organization that supports the education and advancement of women engineers. This association recognizes the significant achievements made by women in this profession.
• Order of the Engineer ²⁸: Specifically for graduate engineers, this organization is uniquely focused on instilling pride and responsibility in the engineering community. Members subscribe to a code of ethics and indicate their membership by wearing a unique ring on the pinkie finger of their working hand.