Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master of Science in Systems Engineering Degree

The Institute for Systems Research at the University of Maryland is an internationally recognized leader in systems research, emphasizing advanced strategies for high-level synthesis and analysis of complex, multidisciplinary engineering systems using model-based systems engineering techniques. The Master of Science in Systems Engineering (MSSE) program is designed to provide students with broad and general hands-on training in systems engineering principles and model-based systems engineering concepts.

Program Overview

The MSSE program is a 30-credit program that draws on the engineering, computer science, and management experience of University of Maryland faculty. The program makes optimum use of the university's advanced facilities, including commercial and open-source software tools for model-based systems engineering (MBSE). Students specialize in one or more areas, including robotics, cybersecurity, computer and software, control, manufacturing, transportation or process systems, communications and networking, signal processing, or operations research.

Degree Components

The MSSE degree consists of:

• A three-course sequence in systems engineering fundamentals, requirements, design, and trade-offs; verification and validation; and hands-on projects (9 credits)
• Two additional courses that address a systems engineering specialization area or management topic (6 credits)
• Three elective specialization courses based on a technical area of interest (9 credits)
• Research and thesis, advised by ISR faculty (6 credits)

Thesis

A total of 30 credit hours is required: 24 hours of coursework and six hours for the thesis project. The thesis should describe scholarly research that advances the state-of-the-art in system design, modeling, analysis, management, optimization, or related topics. The thesis research will be supervised by an academic advisor who has an ISR joint appointment or is a regular (tenure-track) faculty with expertise related to systems engineering.

Specialization Areas and Elective Courses

Standard MSSE specialization areas and approved courses include:

• Communication and Networking Systems
• Reliable Systems
• Computer and Software Systems
• Robotics
• Control Systems
• Signal Processing Systems
• Manufacturing Systems
• Cybersecurity
• Operations Research
• Transportation systems

Applying to the MSSE Program

Admission is competitive, and the program looks for strong evidence of motivation and achievement and/or significant professional experience in engineering and/or the sciences. Applicants must meet the general admission requirements of the University of Maryland Graduate School, including graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with a B average (or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale).

Application Deadlines

• International applicants must submit application and all supporting materials by February 1 for the fall semester.
• U.S. citizens must submit application and all supporting materials by March 15 for the fall semester.
• The program accepts applications for the spring semester on a case-by-case basis, with all applications and supporting materials due by September 30.

Application Process

Applicants must submit all application materials electronically, including:

• Graduate application
• Transcripts (unofficial)
• Statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Non-refundable application fee

Information for International Applicants

The University of Maryland is dedicated to maintaining a vibrant international graduate student community. International applicants are encouraged to explore the services offered by the Office of International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) and contact them with related questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will I receive my degree from the Institute for Systems Research? Degrees are awarded by the University of Maryland's A. James Clark School of Engineering through the Institute for Systems Research.
• Is distance learning available? Distance learning may be available for some ENSE core courses and electives on a case-by-case basis.
• What is the difference between the MSSE (ENSE) and the Professional Master of Engineering program with systems engineering option? The MSSE program provides broad and general hands-on training in systems engineering principles and model-based systems engineering concepts, while the Professional Master of Engineering program is designed to assist engineers in the development of their professional careers and provide them with the technical expertise needed in business, government, and industrial environments.