Engineering has evolved to address increasingly complex, interconnected systems across industries. An online systems engineering master’s degree equips professionals to efficiently design, analyze, and manage these multifaceted systems. Tailored for working engineers, the program blends technical depth with leadership training, covering areas like systems architecture, risk analysis, integration, and lifecycle management. Courses are delivered in a flexible online format, allowing students to balance career responsibilities while advancing their education. Emphasis is placed on solving real-world problems using analytical tools and systems thinking approaches. Graduates are prepared for aerospace, defense, manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond roles. The degree enhances career potential by providing skills crucial to leading interdisciplinary teams and optimizing processes in complex organizational environments.

Choosing the best online systems engineering master’s program depends on professional ambitions, preferred learning format, and long-term career direction. Candidates should prioritize institutions with strong academic credentials, experienced faculty, and a record of graduate success. Recognition by respected accrediting bodies ensures program quality and industry relevance. Opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and engagement with active professionals can enhance the learning journey. Programs offering scheduling flexibility and strong student support services provide added convenience and accessibility. To support this decision-making process, the teams at OMC have identified top online systems engineering master’s degree programs using a proprietary methodology and present the following list:
To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website
<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-systems-engineering-masters-degree/">Online Systems Engineering
</a>
Code copied successfully!
| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Colorado State University 2545 Research Blvd. Fort Collins, CO 80526 | $11,159 | 67% |
| #2 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $62,840 | 95% |
| #3 Harvard University Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138 | $54,032 | 97% |
| #4 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287 | $12,376 | 68% |
| #5 University of Washington 1400 NE Campus Parkway, Seattle, Washington 98195 | $17,514 | 84% |
| #6 Cornell University 300 Day Hall, Ithaca, New York 14853 | $29,500 | 95% |
| #7 University of Utah 540 Arapeen Drive #210, SLC, UT 84108 | $7,353 | 64% |
| #8 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202 | $11,963 | 63% |
| #9 The University of Texas at El Paso 500 W. University Ave, El Paso, Texas 79968 | $5,865 | 46% |
| #10 Pennsylvania State University-World Campus 128 Outreach Innovation Building, 100 Innovation Blvd. University Park, PA 16803 | $24,406 | 34% |
| #11 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306 | $9,684 | 83% |
| #12 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1 Aerospace Blvd., Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 | $20,340 | 67% |
| #13 Purdue University Hovde Hall of Administration, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907 | $9,718 | 83% |
| #14 Georgia Institute of Technology 84 5th St NW, Atlanta GA 30308 | $14,064 | 92% |
| #15 George Washington University 170 Newport Center Drive, Suite 260, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | $35,100 | 85% |
| #16 Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 | $36,234 | 77% |
| #17 University of Maryland Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $9,432 | 30% |
| #18 University of California-Los Angeles 405 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, California 90095 | $12,264 | 93% |
| #19 Stevens Institute of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 | $41,380 | 90% |
| #20 Weber State University 3848 Harrison Blvd., Ogden, Utah 84408 | $8,089 | 43% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
An online systems engineering master’s degree program offers a graduate-level education on designing, managing, and improving large-scale systems. Delivered through digital platforms, it enables students to pursue advanced studies while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Most programs require 30 to 36 credits for completion, often structured to accommodate part-time or full-time enrollment. These degrees emphasize interdisciplinary approaches and real-world application, preparing students to lead in dynamic environments. While offered remotely, many programs maintain high academic standards and are taught by experienced faculty. Graduates gain credentials that support advancement into leadership roles within industries where efficiency and innovation are essential.
The curriculum for an online systems engineering master’s degree typically includes a balanced mix of core courses and electives. Core courses focus on foundational principles, analytical methods, and professional practices essential to systems engineering. Electives offer opportunities to explore advanced topics or align learning with specific career interests. Programs are structured to promote critical thinking, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Some curricula include a final capstone project or comprehensive exam. Delivered in a flexible online format, the curriculum supports academic rigor and real-world application for working professionals. However, some of the standard courses students can find across different curricula include:
Systems Modeling and Simulation
This course focuses on developing modeling and simulation skills to address complex systems and product analysis challenges. Emphasis is placed on problem formulation, model development, data interpretation, and evaluating alternative solutions. Students explore key simulation methods such as Monte Carlo and discrete event simulation to support informed decision-making and enhance system design and performance evaluation.
Project Management of Complex Systems
This course focuses on tools and strategies for leading effective engineering teams in dynamic business settings. This course emphasizes team formation using personality profiles, coordination through digital project management tools, and the role of real-time documentation in design processes. Students also explore techniques to refine project requirements, ensuring accurate problem definition and alignment with optimal solutions in complex systems environments.
Fundamentals of Systems Engineering
This course introduces key principles for designing effective, reliable, and maintainable systems. The course explores system operational effectiveness and the impact of design choices on performance, maintenance, and logistics. Students examine the cause-and-effect dynamics within systems and apply life cycle cost modeling as a strategic tool. Case studies provide practical insights into decision-making throughout the system development and support process.
System Architecture and Design
This course explores system architecting’s foundational principles and processes, emphasizing practical application and proven heuristics. Through case studies, students analyze effective architectures and lessons learned from real-world projects. The course highlights the importance of early architectural decisions and adaptation for COTS integration. It introduces an evaluation model that connects customer requirements with long-term operational and support cost implications.
Upon completing an online systems engineering master’s, students can expect to gain the following skills and learning outcomes:
Students pursuing an online systems engineering master’s degree can typically choose between two main degree types: the Master of Science (MS) in Systems Engineering and the Master of Engineering (MEng) in Systems Engineering. Both programs focus on complex systems design and management but differ in emphasis and academic orientation. While the MS often includes a research or thesis component, the MEng tends to be more practice-oriented and professionally focused. The choice depends on individual career goals, preferred learning styles, and whether the student plans to pursue doctoral studies or enter directly into advanced industry roles.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Systems Engineering is academically focused, emphasizing research, analytical methods, and theoretical foundations. Ideal for students interested in advanced study or pursuing doctoral programs, it often includes a thesis or research project. This degree prepares graduates for technical leadership roles in complex systems development, analysis, and innovation across various industries.
The Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering is a professionally oriented degree emphasizing practical application and system integration in real-world settings. It is designed for working engineers seeking career advancement without a research focus. Typically non-thesis, this degree prepares graduates for leadership roles in industry, focusing on managing, optimizing, and implementing complex engineering systems efficiently.
Specializations within an online systems engineering master’s degree allow students to focus on a specific area of interest, aligning their studies with personal goals and professional aspirations. These options enable learners to tailor their education to suit their intended career paths better, deepening expertise in targeted domains. By concentrating on a defined topic, students gain relevant, in-depth knowledge and practical skills that enhance their qualifications and support advancement in specialized sectors of the industry. Some of the specializations available for online systems engineering master’s degree students are:
| Area of Specialization | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Systems | This specialization focuses on integrating engineering principles with business operations. It emphasizes the design and management of efficient, technology-driven business processes. Students gain insight into organizational systems, strategic planning, and performance optimization, preparing them to lead complex projects and improve operational effectiveness within corporate and enterprise environments. |
| Systems Design and Optimization | This specialization emphasizes creating efficient, scalable solutions for complex systems. Students explore strategies to enhance system performance, reliability, and adaptability across various applications. This focus equips graduates with advanced problem-solving tools and techniques to streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies, and make data-driven decisions in high-stakes engineering and operational environments. |
| Environmental Systems Engineering | The Environmental Systems Engineering specialization focuses on designing and managing sustainable systems that address environmental challenges. Students learn to apply systems thinking to resource management, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable development. This specialization prepares graduates to contribute to ecological innovation, regulatory compliance, and environmentally responsible engineering practices across industries concerned with conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental resilience. |
| IT Systems Engineering | This specialization focuses on designing, integrating, and managing information technology infrastructures. Students develop expertise in aligning IT systems with organizational goals, ensuring scalability, security, and performance. This focus prepares graduates to lead complex IT projects, optimize digital systems, and support strategic technology initiatives across sectors reliant on robust, adaptive information systems. |
| Vehicle Systems Engineering | This specialization focuses on developing, integrating, and managing complex vehicle systems. Students explore engineering principles related to mobility, safety, and performance in transportation technologies. This specialization prepares graduates to lead projects in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries, where advanced systems coordination, innovation, and compliance with evolving standards are essential to successful vehicle design and operation. |
The length of an online systems engineering master’s degree program varies based on enrollment type. Full-time students typically complete the program in 18 to 24 months, while part-time learners may take up to three years, allowing for greater flexibility alongside work or personal commitments. Accelerated options are available at some institutions, enabling motivated students to finish in as little as 12 months. Program duration depends on course load, academic calendar, and individual pacing preferences.
An accelerated online systems engineering master’s degree allows students to complete their studies in as little as 12 months. Designed for motivated learners, these programs offer a rigorous, fast-paced curriculum that covers essential concepts in a condensed timeframe. This format helps students graduate sooner and transition quickly into advanced roles in the workforce. While demanding, the accelerated path appeals to those seeking efficient career advancement without compromising academic quality or professional development opportunities. ECPI University[1] is an example of a university that offers an accelerated online systems engineering master’s degree program.
Gaining entry to an online master’s in systems engineering program typically involves a thorough selection process focused on identifying candidates poised for success in the discipline. Programs assess various indicators demonstrating intellectual capability and a strong commitment to the field. This evaluative process also explores how applicants’ backgrounds and goals align with the program’s emphasis on innovation and complex problem-solving. The result is a student body equipped to thrive in advanced systems engineering study. Some of the common admission requirements for the online systems engineering master’s degree programs are mentioned below:
The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test often used to assess readiness for graduate-level study. However, many online systems engineering master’s programs waive this requirement to attract a broader and more diverse applicant pool. By removing standardized testing barriers, universities encourage applications from experienced professionals and those with strong academic or industry backgrounds. This approach reflects a shift toward evaluating candidates holistically, emphasizing real-world experience, prior education, and motivation over test performance. Here are a few Universities that have no GRE requirement for the online systems engineering master’s degree programs:
Accreditation is a critical indicator of academic quality for online systems engineering master’s degree programs. Regional accreditation ensures that the institution meets established standards for higher education, which supports credit transfer and access to financial aid. While there is currently no programmatic accreditation specific to systems engineering at the master’s level, choosing a regionally accredited university confirms the program’s legitimacy. Accreditation also signals to employers that the degree meets rigorous academic and professional expectations.
Some regional bodies provide accreditation to institutions and programs. Here are the six mentioned below:
To understand more about accreditation, read the Guide to College Accreditation.
Free online courses can supplement the learning experience for online systems engineering master’s degree students by offering additional insights into key topics and emerging trends. These courses support independent learning, helping students reinforce core concepts, explore advanced areas, and stay informed on industry developments. While these resources are beneficial for skill enhancement and academic enrichment, it is important to note that they may not be accredited or count toward degree requirements, serving instead as informal educational tools. Here are a few free online courses for the online systems engineering master’s degree program students to explore:
| Course | Fundamentals of Product Development and Systems Engineering[4] |
| Provided by | Alison |
| Description | This course examines product life cycles, development strategies, and system hierarchies. It emphasizes value creation, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication. Students gain insights into requirements elicitation and boundary definition, enhancing their understanding of how structured systems engineering contributes to successful product outcomes across various industries. |
| Course | Introduction to Engineering System Design & Processes[5] |
| Provided by | Alison |
| Description | This course explores foundational principles of system design, emphasizing the structure and behavior of complex systems. Students learn about key system components, including hardware, software, and firmware, and supporting elements like techniques, services, and facilities. This course provides essential knowledge for understanding and designing integrated engineering systems across diverse applications. |
| Course | Advanced Diploma in Principles of Engineering System Design[6] |
| Provided by | Alison |
| Description | This course helps learners develop critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability in a dynamic engineering landscape. Covering diverse disciplines, it encourages exploration across multiple system design facets. Ideal for those interested in designing, building, or innovating, this course offers foundational insights to navigate and contribute meaningfully to complex engineering environments. |
With the growing cost of graduate education, many prospective students hesitate to pursue an online systems engineering master’s degree. Financial concerns, especially future debt, often outweigh the perceived benefits of earning an advanced credential. While the degree offers strong potential for career growth, financial uncertainty remains a key challenge. Tackling this issue requires a clear understanding of total expenses and creating a realistic plan for managing educational costs effectively. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships provide valuable financial support for graduate students, helping reduce tuition costs without the burden of repayment. They may be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, background, or specific fields of interest. Applying for multiple scholarships can significantly lessen overall education expenses and make advanced study more attainable.
Grants are a form of financial aid that does not require repayment, offering essential support for graduate students. Typically awarded based on financial need or specific eligibility criteria, they can cover tuition, fees, and other educational costs. Securing grants helps reduce reliance on loans and lowers the overall financial burden.
Graduate assistantships offer financial support in exchange for part-time work within the university, such as teaching, research, or administrative duties. These roles often include tuition waivers and stipends, reducing overall education costs. Assistantships also provide valuable professional experience and mentorship opportunities, enhancing academic and career development.
Student loans provide funding to cover graduate education costs, including tuition, books, and living expenses. Unlike scholarships or grants, loans must be repaid with interest. Federal loans often offer lower rates and flexible repayment options, while private loans may vary. Careful planning is essential to manage debt responsibly after graduation.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to accessing federal financial aid for graduate studies. Submitting the FAFSA determines eligibility for loans, grants, and work-study programs. Completing it early ensures consideration for the most funding options and helps students plan effectively for education expenses.
Many universities and institutions offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing an online systems engineering master’s degree. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or tailored to specific backgrounds or career goals. Award amounts and eligibility requirements vary, but they can significantly reduce educational expenses. Students are encouraged to research and apply early, as competition and strict deadlines may be high. Scholarships provide valuable financial support and help make advanced education more affordable and accessible to qualified candidates.
Some of these scholarships include:
| Scholarship | Tau Beta Pi Graduate Fellowships[7] |
| Description | Tau Beta Pi offers fellowships to support members pursuing graduate studies that advance the engineering profession. Awarded based on scholarship, leadership, and service, recipients may enroll in any field contributing to engineering. Applications are open to initiated members. |
| Award/Amount | $10,000 in three instalments |
| Application Deadline | February annually |
| Scholarship | George B. Hightower, P.E. Fellowship[8] |
| Description | The George B. Hightower, P.E. Fellowship, awarded by the NSPE Education Foundation, supports U.S. engineering students in ABET-accredited programs. Applicants must be NSPE members and are evaluated on academics, experience, recommendations, and a personal essay. This merit-based scholarship reflects commitment to engineering excellence, with awards dependent on annual funding availability. |
| Award/Amount | $3000 |
| Application Deadline | April annually |
Graduates of online systems engineering master’s degree programs often enter a competitive job market with strong earning potential. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, and location, but advanced degrees generally lead to higher compensation compared to undergraduate credentials. Professionals with this qualification are valued for their ability to manage complex systems and drive efficiency. Career growth opportunities are also enhanced, as employers seek individuals with advanced training and a deep understanding of systems thinking. Some of the domains where a graduate of an online systems engineering master’s degree can find employment include:
| Occupation | Network and Computer Systems Administrators[9] |
| Median Annual Salary | $95,360 |
| Job Growth (up to 2032) | -3% (decline) |
| Job Description | Network and computer systems administrators install, configure, and maintain LANs, WANs, servers, and operating systems. They manage system performance, security, updates, and user access. Administrators troubleshoot issues, optimize networks, and support users. Network administrators focus on infrastructure like routers and cables, while systems administrators handle servers and software. They often advise on hardware and software purchases and ensure reliable system operations. |
| Occupation | Computer Systems Analysts[10] |
| Median Annual Salary | $1,03,800 |
| Job Growth (up to 2032) | 11% (much faster than average) |
| Job Description | Computer systems analysts evaluate and improve an organization’s computer systems for greater efficiency. They research technologies, analyze costs, design system upgrades, and oversee implementation. Analysts collaborate with IT teams to meet business needs, prepare diagrams for programmers, and perform programming tasks. Specializations vary by industry, and some analysts also manage projects from planning through execution and testing. |
| Occupation | Computer and Information Systems Managers[11] |
| Median Annual Salary | $1,69,510 |
| Job Growth (up to 2032) | 17% ( much faster than average) |
| Job Description | Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct IT activities to meet organizational goals. They oversee hardware and software installation, manage IT staff, ensure cybersecurity, assess technology needs, and evaluate project costs. These managers collaborate with executives, stay current on tech trends, and may hold titles like CIO, CTO, or MIS director, depending on their role and organization size. |
| Occupation | Operations Research Analysts[12] |
| Median Annual Salary | $83,640 |
| Job Growth (up to 2032) | 23% (much faster than average) |
| Job Description | Operations research analysts use mathematics, data analysis, and logic to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions. They identify issues, gather data, build models, and test solutions. Analysts work across industries, supporting logistics, scheduling, pricing, and resource allocation. They present findings through reports and help decision-makers evaluate options based on cost-benefit analysis. |
Certifications are not mandatory for graduates of an online systems engineering master’s degree, but they can significantly enhance professional credibility and career advancement. Earning certifications demonstrates specialized expertise, supports continued learning, and may provide a competitive edge in job markets or promotions. Many employers value certified professionals for their validated systems design, analysis, and integration skills. While optional, certifications can reinforce academic training and open doors to advanced technical or leadership roles.
Here are a few certifications that online systems engineering master’s degree students can explore:
Systems Engineering Certification[13]
The Systems Engineering Professional (SEP) certification, offered by INCOSE, validates expertise through three levels: ASEP, CSEP, and ESEP. It confirms demonstrated knowledge and experience in systems engineering. Unlike a certificate or government-issued license, SEP certification is a professional endorsement by a recognized organization, highlighting competency and career progression within the systems engineering field.
CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional[14]
The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is a globally recognized certification for cybersecurity leadership. It validates expertise in designing and managing security programs across eight key domains. Earning CISSP enhances career prospects, supports higher earning potential, and grants ISC2 membership with access to professional resources, tools, and a global community of cybersecurity professionals and leaders.
Graduates of an online systems engineering master’s degree can keep their knowledge current by joining professional associations. These memberships offer access to industry publications, webinars, and continuing education resources. Participating in events, forums, and conferences allows graduates to connect with peers and professionals, exchange insights, and stay informed about emerging trends. Such engagement promotes career development, fosters collaboration, and ensures ongoing relevance in the rapidly evolving field of systems engineering. Here are a few resources that online systems engineering master’s degree students can explore:
| Title/Resource | INCOSE (International Council on Systems Engineering) |
| Description | The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) is a global, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing systems engineering. It connects professionals through education, networking, and career opportunities. INCOSE promotes the development and application of systems principles across disciplines and produces leading work products to support the profession, fostering a collaborative and innovative community of systems engineers worldwide. |
| Title/Resource | IISE (Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers) |
| Description | The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) is a professional society dedicated to advancing industrial and systems engineering. It supports professionals through networking, education, certification, and industry-specific resources. IISE promotes excellence in efficiency, productivity, and quality across various industries, serving as a global leader in driving innovation and operational improvement through engineering and data-driven practices. |
| Title/Resource | ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) |
| Description | The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is the world’s largest computing society, uniting educators, researchers, and professionals globally. It fosters innovation through lifelong learning, professional development, and networking. With over 100,000 members, ACM promotes high standards, technical excellence, and global collaboration. Its regional councils advance computing’s educational, technical, and societal impact across diverse international communities. |
| Title/Resource | SAE International (Society of Automotive Engineers) |
| Description | SAE International is a global association of over 128,000 mobility professionals in the aerospace, automotive, and commercial vehicle industries. It advances safe, clean, and accessible mobility through lifelong learning, standards development, and cross-industry collaboration. SAE supports education via the SAE Foundation and informs the community through leading publications, technical resources, and over 450 annual professional development events worldwide. |
| Title/Resource | Computing Research Association (CRA) |
| Description | The Computing Research Association (CRA) represents over 250 organizations in academia, industry, and government, advancing computing research and policy. Founded in 1972, CRA promotes collaboration, diversity, and societal impact in computing. It informs policymakers, mentors future researchers, and supports research investment. CRA plays a vital role in shaping a vibrant, equitable, forward-looking computing research community. |
An online systems engineering master’s degree is a graduate program that teaches professionals how to design, manage, and optimize complex systems across industries. Delivered remotely, it combines engineering principles, project management, and systems thinking, enabling students to balance work and study while gaining advanced technical and leadership skills in a flexible format.
Alison- Fundamentals of Product Development and Systems Engineering
Alison- Introduction to Engineering System Design & Processes
Alison- Advanced Diploma in Principles of Engineering System Design
Tau Beta Pi Graduate Fellowships
George B. Hightower, P.E. Fellowship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Computer Systems Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Computer and Information Systems Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Operations Research Analysts