Top Schools Offering a Master’s in Systems Engineering Online

This class focuses on the key concepts, processes, and activities that systems engineers perform in their jobs. Students learn about modern systems engineering principles and development methodologies. After covering the fundamentals of designing and engineering large and complex projects, they go in-depth on architectural analysis and design, functional design alternatives, and architectural attributes of software tools. Often, these classes include hands-on opportunities to gain experience in the field.

Students should expect instruction in project management skills to be a cornerstone in any system engineering master’s online program. In this class, students learn the ins and outs of the life cycle processes for choosing and managing large-scale projects. They also learn the skills to plan, implement, and oversee projects to ensure successful completion. Usually, these courses cover topics such as project phases, breakdown of work structure, teamwork, human resource management, technological and economic feasibility, configuration management, budget control, and resource allocation.

This course covers the essential aspects of systems engineering. Students learn about the objectives, responsibilities, and activities that are crucial to the demonstration, validation, engineering, and manufacturing phases of system development programs. Students gain hands-on experience with various procedures and tools professionals use to carry out their jobs. Professors cover topics such as the correlation between system specifications and design, management plans for systems engineering, risk management strategies, system development models, integrating customer input, and design best practices.

Cybersecurity programs teach students the skills they need to keep data secure. Students learn how to manage and protect computer systems, networks, and programs and how to secure data from attacks and breaches. They also ensure that no one gains unauthorized access or steals information. In this specialization, you’ll learn cutting-edge methods for keeping digital information safe and sound. The University of San Diego offers an online master’s in cybersecurity engineering.

A project management degree teaches students everything they need to know to confidently manage engineering projects and lead initiatives. Courses cover accounting, operations, risk and quality management, and strategic planning. After graduating with this specialization, students are ready to apply for jobs as cost systems or engineering analysts, processing engineers, or project managers. Liberty University has an master’s in engineering with a focus on project management, and Oregon State offers project management as an online micro credential.

A software degree equips students with the knowledge and skills they’ll need to design, implement, and manage software systems in various industries. Students learn to apply systems engineering principles to complex software development projects. Coursework focuses on software architecture, design, coding methodologies, and system integration techniques. Johns Hopkins University offers an online master’s in systems engineering with a specialization in software.

Architectural and engineering managers are senior-level team members. They’re responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing various types of projects and activities in their respective industries. As part of the planning process, they might review project designs, consult with clients or stakeholders, make budgets, or present proposals. Once a project is in motion, they oversee the implementation and progress.

Architectural and Engineering Managers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Aerospace engineering professionals design, manufacture, and test aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. They might also lead research efforts to develop new technology or evaluate existing equipment and processes and offer insights for improving them. Systems engineering graduates qualify for jobs managing these projects, from setting project budgets and parameters to overseeing implementation. Aerospace engineers typically work with major aerospace manufacturing companies or for government agencies.

Aerospace Engineers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Computer systems analysts excel at problem-solving. They break down the steps involved in a project, identify challenges, and suggest and implement effective solutions. This is an ideal career for systems engineers who have a particular interest in software or technology because it will help them blend their skills with technology know-how. Computer systems analysts often work directly with computer systems to improve function and troubleshoot problems related to production, inventory, and cost.

Computer Systems Analysts: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Automotive engineers primarily work to improve the performance of cars. They may work on large-scale aspects of the production process, such as manufacturing, or focus on a particular area of research and development. For example, one automotive engineer might work to improve a car’s suspension, while another might work on ideal aerodynamics for the body. Automotive engineers also explore possible new fuels.

Automotive Engineers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Mechanical engineering is a broad field, covering technologies and machines ranging from generators to medical devices to air conditioning systems. As such, students can expect to work in various industries. They research, design, develop, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, such as tools, engines, and machines. They also evaluate all kinds of issues to see how these machines could help solve problems. Systems engineering graduates might also oversee the manufacturing process or research projects.

Mechanical Engineers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Admission requirements vary by school, so it’s always important to check directly with a school to verify what you’ll need to apply. Many schools require a bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited program. If you have a degree from another field, be prepared to take prerequisite courses in addition to the following requirements:

• Proof of an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Proof of completed coursework in advanced math, science, and engineering design.
• Official transcripts from previous schools.
• GRE scores.
• Statement of purpose.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Current resume.
• Completed application and required fees.

That all depends on the program you choose and the school you attend. Most programs take anywhere from 18 months to three years to complete. A full-time workload means you’ll graduate in less time, while part-time coursework means you’ll spend more time in school. Additionally, if you choose to pursue a specialization, you may need to take more classes and earn more credits than a student earning a general system engineering master’s.

Yes, earning your master’s in systems engineering online has many advantages. Earning a degree online is generally less expensive than attending on-campus programs. You’ll have the opportunity to attend schools from anywhere in the country, rather than being limited to schools that are in your area. Plus, earning your degree online gives you a head start at working with remote teams, much like many systems engineering professionals.

It depends on where you’d like to work. For example, someone who wants to become a systems engineer in the areas of cybersecurity or software may need to know coding languages to effectively manage projects. However, if you work in other industries, you won’t need to know computer programming. Systems engineers typically focus on solving problems and managing solutions that require technological know-how, but coding isn’t a must.

That all depends on the program you’re interested in, so you’ll want to check directly with the school you’re considering. There are plenty of computer science programs for students who graduated with a bachelor’s in another discipline. However, if you’re one of these students, you might need to take some additional courses in math, science, or engineering before taking master’s-level courses in systems engineering.