If you’re a current engineer seeking higher pay and a leadership role, a master’s in industrial engineering is a strategic next step. These programs cultivate analytical, managerial, and technical skills to streamline operations, optimize processes, and lead teams efficiently. Graduates often qualify for higher-paying roles, with the top 10% of industrial engineers earning upwards of $142,220 and engineering managers making a median salary of $165,370. You’ll be well-prepared for positions in supply chain management, quality assurance, and project management, where you can guide organizational strategies and improvements.
Full-time students typically complete degree requirements in 18 months to two years, while part-time students may require three to four years. The average tuition was $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year, making this a worthwhile investment for a rewarding career trajectory.
How to Choose a Master’s in Industrial Engineering Program
Choose your area of study
While industrial engineering is already specialized, many programs offer further concentrations to help you customize your skillset and boost your competitiveness in the job market.
For instance, specializing in supply chain management teaches students to streamline logistics and optimize global operations, which is crucial for industries dealing with complex distribution networks. A concentration in quality control and assurance is ideal for implementing continuous improvement methods and ensuring high product standards. Meanwhile, focusing on data analytics prepares students to analyze large data sets, produce insights, and improve decision-making using predictive modeling.
Specializations vary by institution, so it’s essential to explore program options to find one that best matches your career goals.
Research schools and programs
After choosing our specialization, you can research schools and programs aligned with your interests. Here are a few questions you can use to guide your research:
- Does the program offer specific courses related to your intended specialization?
- Are faculty members experts in your chosen field, and do they conduct relevant research or have industry connections?
- Are there opportunities for hands-on projects, internships, or collaborations with industry partners?
To find this information, explore program websites, attend virtual or in-person information sessions, and reach out to admissions offices and current students for firsthand insights.
Prepare for tests and applications
Once you have a shortlist of schools for your graduate degree, it’s time to prepare for tests and applications. Start by securing your transcripts — you’ll want to do this early to avoid delays and ensure all academic records are accurate. Then, request letters of recommendation, allowing your potential recommenders plenty of time to write thoughtful responses.
Give yourself ample time to write a personal statement articulating your goals, interests, and why each program is a good fit. You may also want to enroll in a test prep program to boost GRE scores, as many institutions give these scores significant weight during admissions.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Take a moment to revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on what matters most to you — whether it’s faculty you’re excited to learn from, courses that align with your specialization, or industry connections to help build your future career. Equally important is reassessing the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, to ensure your chosen program is financially feasible.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your graduate degree without incurring debt may seem impossible, but there are many financial aid resources to help. Start by prioritizing scholarships and grants, as these don’t require repayment and can significantly reduce your tuition expenses. Next, explore assistantships, where students receive a stipend and tuition waiver in exchange for research or teaching work. If you’re currently employed and your job aligns with your career goals, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement programs, which can cover some costs.
For financial gaps, consider federal loans. With relatively low interest rates and flexible repayment options, they’re largely considered a better option than private loans.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Industrial Engineering Programs
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How we rank schools
This list covers graduate programs in industrial engineering that teach advanced engineering concepts and prepare students for leadership roles across multiple industries. Degrees offered include Master of Industrial Engineering, Master of Science in industrial engineering, and Master of Science in industrial and systems engineering. Students can choose from on-campus, online, and hybrid learning formats.
Accreditation is given to industrial engineering graduate programs that adequately prepare students for the global workforce. All of the schools on this list are approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Many of these options also have programmatic accreditation through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Industrial Engineering Program?
A master’s in industrial engineering allows students to delve into topics like operations research, supply chain management, quality control, and data analytics — honing their ability to streamline processes and improve productivity. The most innovative curriculums explore innovative methods like Six Sigma and lean manufacturing while also mastering simulation and modeling software crucial for decision-making in various industries.
These programs cultivate analytical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills, ensuring you’re well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges upon graduation. Many programs include a capstone course, a culminating project where you’ll apply your knowledge to solve practical problems in collaboration with industry partners.
The estimated completion time for these degrees varies, but full-time students often finish within 18 months to two years.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in industrial engineering program
- Operations Research: Frequently a core requirement, this course introduces optimization techniques like linear programming, integer programming, and dynamic programming. Students learn to develop mathematical models to improve decision-making and resource allocation across various industrial settings.
- Supply Chain Management: Focusing on the flow of goods from production to customer delivery, this course teaches students how to optimize supply chain networks. Topics may include inventory management, logistics, and procurement strategies. Participants develop skills to boost efficiency and minimize costs throughout the supply chain by analyzing case studies and using software tools.
- Quality Control and Assurance: In this course, students learn the principles of statistical quality control and improvement methods like Six Sigma. They analyze process variability and use control charts to monitor production quality. This course provides essential skills for ensuring consistent product standards and implementing continuous improvement practices in manufacturing environments.
- Advanced Data Analytics for Industrial Systems: Often deemed an elective, this course teaches students to use statistical and machine learning techniques for predictive modeling. They use software tools to analyze industrial data, uncover trends, and make data-driven recommendations to optimize production processes.
Master’s in Industrial Engineering Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in industrial engineering degree program?
Most graduate programs in industrial engineering offer a relatively straightforward application process, with many programs sharing similar criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree, often in engineering or a related field
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- GRE scores, if required
Speaking to an admissions counselor before applying is crucial for understanding specific prerequisites and deadlines, ensuring you present a strong application.
How much does a master's in industrial engineering degree cost?
The cost of these degrees varies by institution, but for the 2020-2021 academic year, the average tuition was $19,749. However, this number fluctuates depending on whether you’re attending a public or private university and qualify for in-state or out-of-state residency.
Beyond tuition, you should consider additional expenses like commuting costs, housing, textbooks, course materials, and living costs. These expenses can add up over time and significantly add to the overall cost of your education.
How long does it take to earn a master's in industrial engineering degree?
A master’s in industrial engineering takes most full-time students 18 months to two years to complete, while part-time students may see completion timelines closer to three or four years.
It’s important to note that program length largely depends on the number of credits required — ranging from 30 to 45. Be sure to assess credit requirements beforehand to more accurately predict your specific completion timeline, depending on the number of courses you can take each semester.