Engineering managers coordinate and direct a team of engineers. Their responsibilities may include planning the development of new products, hiring and supervising staff, managing budgets, checking the technical accuracy of the team's work, and collaborating with other departments or organizations. Engineering managers may work in an engineering firm, or be responsible for managing a team of engineers within a larger company or organization, such as the government or the army.
To become an engineering manager, employers typically require a bachelor's degree in an engineering field and sometimes a master's degree in a business or management related degree, such as a master's in engineering management. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), engineering managers earned a median annual income of $149,530 in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions About Engineering Management
What do engineering managers do?
Engineering managers utilize their knowledge of engineering to supervise a variety of activities. They may direct or coordinate operations related to production, quality assurance, or maintenance.
What do you study in engineering management?
Engineering management master's programs are designed to help students with an engineering background develop business-related skills, such as planning, project management, and negotiation strategies.
Is engineering management in demand?
According to the BLS, engineering management positions are projected to grow by 3% between 2019 and 2029, which is an average rate of growth.
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Why Get a Degree in Engineering Management?
Earning a master's degree in engineering management can help professionals with an engineering background qualify for high-level executive positions. These programs prepare students for leadership roles and provide them foundational knowledge and skills in business analytics, negotiation strategies, and decision-making. Graduates may be eligible for a raise or promotion after supplementing their knowledge in engineering with business acumen.
Engineering professionals have the option to pursue a master's in engineering management online. An online format allows students the flexibility to complete assignments at their own pace. Students may also maintain their current positions as engineers while they pursue an advanced degree in engineering management.
How Much Does an Engineering Management Degree Cost?
A master's in engineering management degree's cost varies depending on the institution and program, a student's residency status, specific course requirements, and other factors. Tuition can cost anywhere between $400-$1,200 per credit hour. Students who qualify for in-state or resident tuition generally pay less, while out-of-state students pay more.
However, pursuing a degree in engineering management online may offset some of these costs. Many online programs offer a standard, often more affordable, tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. In addition, taking online courses helps ameliorate the cost of living near campus. Online learners can also save time since they do not need to commute to class.
Some online engineering management programs offer an accelerated program where students may complete their degree more quickly. This, in turn, may allow students to save on tuition because they do not need to pay for as many credit hours as other programs.
Additional Online Student Fees for Engineering Management
Online engineering management master's programs may require additional fees. These fees may cover technology costs, tech support, books and supplies, access to library databases, and the cost of any in-residence portions of the program. For instance, some programs may require students to complete a week of intensive courses on campus during the summer or to attend an orientation in-person before online courses begin.
Students should consider potential costs after graduating as well. Graduates may choose to obtain a Certified Manager (CM) certification or advanced engineering certification. These certifications require a fee to take the examination.
How Much Do Engineering Management Majors Make?
Graduates with a master's in engineering management are eligible for positions as engineering managers, operations managers, systems analysts, process improvement consultants, and management analysts. According to the BLS, engineering managers earned a median annual salary of $149,530 in 2020. Similarly, management analysts earn a median annual salary of $87,660, and employment opportunities in the field are projected to grow 11% from 2019-2029.
Engineering professionals also have the opportunity to increase their salaries or earn promotions based on their certification level. While engineering licensure is not required for all engineering management positions, certification can lead to increased employment opportunities and higher earning potential. Holding a degree and certification can assure potential employers of candidates' competency.
Courses in Engineering Management
An online master's degree in engineering management aims to help students synthesize their previous engineering knowledge with business management skills. Courses focus on topics including economics of engineering systems, engineering management control systems, service and operations management, and engineering management planning. Most engineering management master's programs emphasize professional preparation and therefore do not require a thesis.
In some programs, students may choose a concentration or specialization, such as analytics, supply chain, or systems development. Listed below are a few courses students may encounter in an engineering management program. Not all the courses listed are available in every program; they provide a representative sample of an engineering management curriculum.
Systems Engineering Economics
This course teaches students to consider engineering problems from a systems perspective, covering topics such as model building, linear programming, critical path management, network flow problems, life cycle analysis, resource leveling, and decisions theory. Upon completing the course, students should be able to develop and use engineering economics and systems analysis tools to solve engineering problems.Engineering Project Management
This course provides students with an understanding of the challenges engineering managers face and various strategies for managing them. Students will gain the knowledge and skills to oversee the life cycle of a project, learn to apply the principles of project management to the engineering field, and apply methods for overcoming management difficulties.Legal Issues in Engineering Management
This course introduces students to the legal considerations they might have to make as engineering managers. Students will learn about warranty law, deceptive trade practices law, product liability, and class action concepts. After completing the course, students should have an understanding of legal issues in the field and how to evaluate risk related to the cost and impact of litigation.
Certifications and Licensure for Engineering Management
Certifications and licensure indicate a level of proficiency that meets state or nationwide standards. Some professions require individuals to be licensed in their state of residence in order to practice. While this is not the case for engineers, obtaining certification and licensure may be required for specific positions. For example, in the construction industry, professional engineering licensure is required for management positions and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is necessary for entry-level roles.
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) license is the first step individuals must take in order to become licensed as a professional engineer. To obtain FE licensure, individuals must pass the FE exam, which is a 5.5 hour, 110 question long multiple choice test. Those who pass the FE exam are considered Engineers-in-Training.
To be eligible to take the PE exam, individuals must pass the FE exam and then work for four years in the industry. After passing the PE exam, the individual becomes a licensed professional engineer. This means they possess the legal right to stamp and seal engineering documents.
A structural engineering license recognizes structural engineers separately from professional engineers. The licensing requirement for structural engineers varies by state. Some states require a structural engineering license to practice structural engineering while others do not. The structural engineering PE exam is a 16-hour test to evaluate minimal competencies in the field.
How to Become an Engineering Manager
To become an engineering manager, individuals must hold a bachelor's degree in an engineering field, such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or petroleum engineering. After receiving their bachelor's, learners need to obtain business management skills to qualify for leadership roles. This is often accomplished through earning a master's degree in engineering management or technology management.
Engineering management programs typically focus on topics such as financial management, quality control, and industrial and human resources management relevant in the engineering field. Some individuals may qualify for engineering management positions through experience and working their way up through a company. Obtaining a master's degree allows engineers to gain business qualifications and experience more quickly.
Online Master's Programs in Engineering Management Overview
#1 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
The University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Orlando, the University of Central Florida educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Learners can pursue graduate degrees remotely or on campus. Students at the institution can pursue a virtual master of science in engineering management.
The master's program requires in-depth coursework, and enrollees benefit from academic and career advising. Learners can pursue the online engineering management program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
At the accredited institution, graduate students qualify for federal aid programs and other forms of financial aid. Of the student body, 35% take out loans, which require repayment, to fund their degree. Learners can also pay for school using various forms of financial aid, which 92% of the institution's degree-seekers obtain.
The University of Central Florida Facts:
Total Programs: 195
Number of Online Programs: 47
Number of Online Students: 41,097
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
California State University, Northridge
- Northridge, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Northridge delivers a respected online master's program in engineering management. The public institution educates 21,755 distance learners, along with on-campus degree-seekers in California. Busy students often benefit from online programs' scheduling flexibility and th ability to complete academic requirements around their schedule.
The master of science in engineering management features a rigorous curriculum that fosters specialized and transferable skills, which degree-seekers refine while fulfilling major requirements. Faculty mentors assist graduate students as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop industry-specific knowledge during flexible coursework. Graduates often benefit from increased engineering management career opportunities after earning their master's degree. Current and former students work closely with career services to transition from the program into the workforce.
Graduate-level learners can access support services including career advising, online tutoring, and financial aid counseling. The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
Louisiana Tech University
- Ruston, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana Tech University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Ruston, Louisiana. Learners across the country can pursue the school's eight online master's programs without relocating.
Online degree-seekers can enroll in the master of science in engineering and technology management from the institution. Graduates can transition to an engineering management career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. Students in the school's master's programs can access faculty mentorship, career counseling, and experiential learning programs.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
Louisiana Tech University at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 33%
Total Master's Programs: 31
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Among Arkansas State University's academic offerings is a respected engineering management master's program. In addition to on-campus students, 7,939 degree-seekers enroll in the public institution's online programs. Learners balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of virtual programs' flexible scheduling options.
The master of engineering management features a rigorous curriculum that fosters specialized and transferable skills, which participants refine while fulfilling major requirements. Faculty mentors help graduate students customize the program based on their professional goals. In designing the curriculum, the program prioritizes flexibility and industry-relevant knowledge. Graduates often benefit from increased engineering management career opportunities after earning their master's degree. Master's candidates can take advantage of the institution's career services to prepare to transition from their studies into the workforce.
Master's-level degree-seekers can access support services, such as career advising and financial aid counseling. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Learners pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships. The school prioritizes affordability and charges an average of $301 per credit for its programs.
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
Purdue University-Main Campus
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Purdue University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana. Online learners can pursue the school's distance education programs. The institution's online master of science in engineering in engineering management and leadership provides a flexible option for students interested in engineering management.
The master's program features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising. Learners can pursue the online engineering management program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree in engineering management.
At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. The school reports that 29% of enrollees take out loans. In addition, 65% of learners receive financial aid.
Purdue University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 382
Number of Online Programs: 35
Number of Online Students: 10,129
Per-Credit Cost: $682
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
The University of New Orleans
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of New Orleans educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in New Orleans, Louisiana. Distance learners can earn online master's degrees from the public institution. The flexible master of science in engineering management is ideal for students who want to earn an affordable engineering management degree.
Master's candidates take core engineering management classes to gain foundational knowledge in the field. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. Faculty members provide mentorship, and program participants can pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for careers. Graduates often qualify for raises and promotions after finishing the program. The institution's career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help students locate job placements.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners can apply for grants and fellowships, along with tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. To fund their graduate education, 95% of the school's students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in University of Houston-Clear Lake's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus in Houston, Texas. Learners can pursue graduate degrees remotely or on campus. The institution's online master of science in engineering management provides a flexible option for students interested in engineering management.
In addition to rigorous coursework, the master's program features access to faculty and career advising. Working professionals who enroll in the online engineering management program can complete academic requirements around their schedule. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Of the student body, 37% take out loans, which require repayment, to fund their degree. In addition, 64% of learners receive some form of financial aid to cover degree costs.
University of Houston-Clear Lake Numbers:
Total Programs: 84
Online Master's Programs: 45
Number of Online Students: 3,781
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
The University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The public institution's offerings include an online master of science in engineering management for distance learners throughout the country. Graduates often benefit from increased engineering management career opportunities after earning their master's degree.
Faculty advisors help graduate students customize their academic experience and explore issues facing professionals in the engineering management field. Enrollees in the master's program complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards. Coursework emphasizes analytical and leadership skills applicable to roles in the industry.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Graduate degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. Graduate students also qualify for federal student loan programs.
The University of Arkansas Numbers:
Total Online Programs: 39
Number of Online Students: 8,109
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,752
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $21,032
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
The University of Louisville
- Louisville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in the University of Louisville's graduate programs online or on campus in Louisville, Kentucky. The public institution delivers online programs, including master's-level options, that are ideal for busy learners. Professionals in the engineering management field can enroll in the flexible master of engineering in engineering management to advance professionally.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core coursework in engineering management. In addition to completing advanced engineering management courses, degree-seekers can customize the program through electives. In addition to classroom learning, program participants receive access to faculty mentorship and practical learning experiences. Graduates of the program often qualify for raises and promotions. The institution's career counselors help master's students identify career opportunities and develop professional plans.
Graduate degree-seekers at the school pay a tuition rate averaging $553 per credit for master's programs. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can receive federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can also help distance learners fund their master's studies. The school reports that 98% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Master’s In Engineering Management
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A top-ranked school located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University offers master's programs on its campus and online. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in an online master's in engineering management from the private institution. Professionals currently employed in the engineering management field often qualify for career advancement after graduation.
Graduate students work with faculty advisors while earning their master's degree and preparing for engineering management careers. Enrollees in the master of engineering management program complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training. Master's candidates develop analytical and leadership skills they can apply to positions in the industry.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers reduce the financial burden of obtaining a graduate-level education. The school charges online students affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 76
Number of Online Students: 12,506
Per-Credit Tuition: $4,064
Graduate Tuition In-State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $55,350
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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