Program Overview

Overview of the Online Master of Science in Systems Engineering

The Online Master of Science in Systems Engineering at Purdue University is designed to empower professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and execute transdisciplinary processes in systems engineering. This program is part of the Interdisciplinary Engineering (IDE) master's program and offers learners the opportunity to study and gain skills in the tools, methods, and processes of designing, analyzing, controlling, and improving complex engineered systems.

Program Details

Degree Requirements

• The degree requires 30 credit hours in total.
• A maximum of 6 credit hours can be taken in specific non-engineering courses such as math and/or statistics.
• The degree awarded is either the Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) or the Master of Science (MS), depending on the undergraduate degree; the major is Systems Engineering.

Curriculum

• MSE/MS Degree Requirements: 30 Credits
  • Systems Core Courses: 12 Credit Hours
    • Systems Analysis and Design: 3 Credit Hours
    • Specialty Engineering: 3 Credit Hours
    • Engineering Economics and Decisions: 3 Credit Hours
    • Program and Project Management: 3 Credit Hours
  • Elective Courses (i.e., Other Engineering, Math, Statistics, etc.): 6 Credit Hours

Admissions Requirements

Criteria for Admissions

• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Math Background: One semester each of Calculus I, Calculus II, and at least one of: Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Probability, or Statistics
• Engineering Background: Preferred undergraduate degree in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or Technology.

Application Requirements

• Transcripts from all universities attended
• 3 recommenders
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• A professional resume
• Math prerequisite checklist, if applicable

Application Deadlines

• For Fall Start: August 1
• For Spring Start: December 1
• For Summer Start: May 1

Tuition

• Resident of Indiana: $1,139 per credit
• Nonresident of Indiana: $1,459 per credit

Financial Aid

• Domestic students and permanent residents may qualify for US federal financial aid.
• Military, veterans, and military-connected students may also qualify for specific types of financial aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree will I earn with this program?

• The degree earned will be a Master of Science (MS) or Master of Science in Engineering (MSE), depending on the undergraduate degree; the major is Systems Engineering.

What will my diploma look like?

• Diplomas include the degree name – either Master of Science or Master of Science in Engineering.
• Transcripts include the program and major name—e.g., Interdisciplinary Engineering with a major in Systems Engineering.

How can I have transfer credit reviewed and applied towards my program?

• Transfer credits will be officially reviewed for transferability after admission with academic and faculty advisors.
• Up to 12 transfer credits can be utilized for Interdisciplinary Engineering (IDE) programs.

Is there a minimum course registration required each semester?

• You need to register for at least one credit to be considered an active student.
• If you do not enroll for more than two consecutive semesters, you will lose your student status and must reapply.

Are all courses available every term?

• No, all courses are not available every term.

How long does it take to finish the program?

• The program requires 30 credits.
• A full-time student takes at least 8 credit hours every term and may be able to complete this program within 12 to 18 months.
• A part-time student takes less than 8 credit hours every term (on average 3-6) and may complete the program within 2 to 4 years.

Can I take time off during my program?

• You may take a maximum of two consecutive semesters off.
• If you take more than two semesters, you will need to reapply to the program.

Are letters of recommendation from employers acceptable?

• We suggest that you try to get at least one academic reference.
• If that is not possible, recommendations from employers will be accepted.

How are the online courses structured?

• The courses will be offered asynchronously.
• You will follow along weekly to complete your assignments, projects, and/or exams.

Are scholarships or funding offered for students?

• Scholarships and funding are not available through Purdue as this program is a course-based, self-funded master's program.

Is there prerequisite coursework required for this program?

• Please visit the admission criteria page for information.

Are there career services or resources after graduation?

• Yes, students will have access through the Purdue Center for Career Opportunities.

What kind of academic and professional development support does Purdue University offer for online students?

• Students enrolled in the online Master of Science in Systems Engineering receive robust support from a dedicated team of student engagement professionals.

Is there a minimum grade point average required to complete the Degree?

• A graduate student is expected to maintain a graduation index representing a B average (3.0/4.0 GPA) or better.
• A student's 30 credits of graduate coursework must be cumulatively calculated at a 3.0 or higher in order to receive the Degree.