Published:Jun 8, 2025

Master’s in Engineering Management: Massachusetts Programs Ranked

Key Takeaways

  • Innovation Hub Advantage: Massachusetts ranks as the nation's top STEM-friendly location, with Boston's thriving tech ecosystem offering exceptional opportunities for engineering management professionals.

  • Strong ROI Despite High Costs: While Massachusetts has a high cost of living index (145.9), it offers the nation's highest average annual salary ($80,329), with engineering managers earning approximately $170,000 annually.

  • Program Flexibility: Leading institutions like Northeastern, UMass Lowell, Tufts, and UMass Amherst offer diverse program formats (online, on-campus, hybrid) catering to both early-career professionals and experienced engineers.

  • Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Massachusetts engineering management programs uniquely blend technical expertise with business acumen, preparing graduates for leadership roles across the state's diverse industries including biotech, defense, software, and manufacturing.

Massachusetts is an ideal location for engineers seeking graduate-level management education and engineering leadership roles. The state's tech ecosystem is both deep and diverse—biotech, defense, software, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and more are thriving industries in Massachusetts. Demand remains strong for engineering professionals who combine technical expertise with strategic management skills. Cities like Boston and Cambridge offer more than just job openings; they're anchored by some of the world's top universities, including Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

However, all that opportunity comes with a high price tag. Massachusetts has a cost of living index of 145.9, well above the national average. Housing, in particular, can be steep—more than double the national average.¹ The flip side is that Massachusetts also offers the highest average annual salary in the country: $80,329, according to recent data.² Engineering firms like AECOM, VHB, and Weston & Sampson each employ hundreds of professionals in Massachusetts.³ Many engineers find that their high salary effectively offsets the cost of living.

Boston is a true STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) hub. It's ranked by WalletHub as the "STEM friendliest city" in the nation. The metro area is second in the nation for STEM professionals, thanks to a strong focus on research, education, and innovation. More than 8% of the region's GDP goes to research and development. It's also second in the country for invention patents per capita. More than 11% of all jobs in the Boston area are in STEM fields.⁴

If you're looking for a place to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and take on an engineering management position, Massachusetts offers exceptional opportunities.

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What Is a Master of Engineering Management Degree?

A Master of Engineering Management (MEM) degree equips engineers to lead entire projects, teams, and organizations. This interdisciplinary credential blends engineering depth with business breadth. When enrolling in an MEM online degree program, you'll study project management, systems engineering, operations strategy, and organizational behavior. The skills developed through an engineering management program—including resource management, team leadership, and aligning technical solutions with business goals—prepare graduates for high-impact roles requiring more than technical expertise alone.

Note: While MEM (Master of Engineering Management) and MSEM (Master of Science in Engineering Management) are often used interchangeably and share many similarities, they can differ slightly depending on the university. MSEM degrees sometimes place greater emphasis on the scientific or quantitative aspects of management. In practice, both degrees bridge engineering and management disciplines, and employers generally view them similarly. The key differences typically relate to the program's structure, focus, and coursework rather than the degree title itself.

An alternative worth considering is a graduate certificate program. An engineering management graduate certificate from a Massachusetts university typically consists of three to five targeted courses. These certificates can usually be completed in less than a year, making them ideal for professionals with engineering bachelor's degrees who want to quickly gain specialized skills. Options include certificates in construction management, engineering project management, engineering data analytics, and various other specialized areas.

However, a master's in engineering management offers a more comprehensive curriculum than a graduate certificate. Whether pursuing a Master of Science in Engineering Management or a Master of Engineering Management, either degree is ideal for those aiming to combine engineering expertise with executive decision-making capabilities.

Massachusetts Job Outlook for Engineering Managers

Engineering leadership roles in Massachusetts present robust opportunities. As of 2025, engineering managers in the state earn an average annual salary of approximately $170,069, with top earners making over $200,000.⁵

Engineering managers are in demand across sectors ranging from biotechnology to computer science, defense, and software development, reflecting the state's diverse industrial landscape. Employment of architectural and engineering managers is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.⁶ In Massachusetts, this growth is strengthened by continued investments in research, technology, and infrastructure. With Massachusetts' strong emphasis on STEM education and a steady influx of talent from local top-tier universities, the state remains an excellent location for engineering management careers.

Tuition, Scholarships, and Affordability

Engineering master's degrees in Massachusetts offer varied options at different price points. Higher education tuition costs range from approximately $20,000 to $60,000. For example, Merrimack College offers an online MS in Engineering Management with tuition under $18,000, making it one of the more affordable options in the state.⁷ For those with larger budgets, the MSEM program at Tufts University provides a comprehensive engineering curriculum with tuition of approximately $53,970. Tufts Gordon Institute is the graduate engineering leadership center within Tufts University's School of Engineering, offering degrees that integrate technology, innovation, and business to prepare engineers for leadership roles.⁸

To reduce costs, prospective students should explore scholarship opportunities through resources like Scholarships.com. Professional engineering organizations such as the American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM) offer scholarships specifically for engineering students.⁹ The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program is a state-funded initiative supporting students pursuing degrees in high-need fields, including engineering. Eligible students can receive up to $17,500 per year.¹⁰ Researching and applying for such opportunities can significantly improve the affordability of MSEM education in Massachusetts.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Engineering Management Programs

On-Campus and Online Programs Accessible in Massachusetts

Northeastern University

Northeastern University

Today's complex engineering challenges require leaders who can integrate technical expertise with business strategy. Northeastern University's Master of Science in Engineering Management program bridges this critical gap, preparing professionals to excel at the intersection of engineering, technology, and business.

Based in Boston, a hub of innovation and technology, this interdisciplinary program equips engineers with the strategic vision and management capabilities needed to lead technical teams, oversee complex projects, and drive organizational success in increasingly competitive technology-driven industries.

Program Overview

Northeastern's MSEM program offers exceptional flexibility to accommodate diverse professional needs:

  • Format: Choose between on-campus classes in Boston or a fully online experience

  • Schedule: Full-time and part-time options available with fall and spring entry points

  • Duration: Typically completed in 1.5 to 2 years, depending on pace

  • Focus: Balanced curriculum combining engineering expertise with management acumen

The program is specifically designed for professionals seeking to transition from technical roles to leadership positions while maintaining and leveraging their engineering foundations. By integrating coursework from both the College of Engineering and business disciplines, graduates develop the versatile skillset needed to navigate complex technical environments with strategic insight.¹¹

Tufts University (online, on-campus, and hybrid)

Tufts University (online, on-campus, and hybrid)

Excellence in engineering leadership requires more than technical expertise—it demands strategic vision, business acumen, and exceptional people skills. Tufts University's Master of Science in Engineering Management program has been transforming technical professionals into innovative leaders for over three decades. With a modern curriculum designed to address today's complex challenges, this program empowers engineers to drive meaningful change across industries while building on their technical foundations to develop comprehensive management capabilities.

Program Overview

Tufts' MSEM program offers exceptional flexibility and personalized learning for today's busy professionals:

  • Format: Multiple modalities, including 100% online, hybrid, and on-campus options

  • Duration: Typically completed in 24 months, with flexibility to extend as needed

  • Structure: Accelerated half-semester core courses with two milestone projects

  • Focus: Developing competencies in strategic thinking, leadership, and data-driven decision-making

Students benefit from individualized leadership coaching throughout their academic journey and can engage in optional live remote sessions and on-campus immersive experiences to enhance their learning experience. This versatile approach ensures that professionals can advance their education without disrupting their careers.¹²

University of Massachusetts Amherst (online, on-campus, and hybrid)

University of Massachusetts Amherst (online, on-campus, and hybrid)

Engineering leadership today requires a seamless blend of technical expertise and business acumen. The University of Massachusetts Amherst's Master of Science in Engineering Management program bridges this critical gap by integrating advanced engineering practices with core management principles. Located in the vibrant academic community of Amherst, Massachusetts, this versatile program provides engineers with the strategic skills needed to effectively lead teams, optimize operations, and drive innovation across technology-focused industries. Designed for both recent graduates and experienced professionals, the program creates a direct pathway to leadership roles while building on students' technical foundations.

Program Overview

UMass Amherst's MSEM program offers exceptional flexibility to accommodate diverse professional needs:

  • Format: Available entirely online, on-campus, or as a hybrid combination

  • Schedule: Full-time and part-time options to suit various career stages

  • Duration: Completable in as little as one year full-time or up to four years part-time

  • Focus: Balanced curriculum integrating engineering expertise with management principles

This versatile structure ensures that students can advance their education without compromising professional commitments. Whether pursuing the degree to transition into management or enhance existing leadership capabilities, the program's adaptable format provides a practical pathway to career advancement in technical environments.¹³

Online Programs Accessible in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts, Lowell

University of Massachusetts, Lowell

In today's complex engineering landscape, technical expertise alone is no longer sufficient for leadership roles. The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a top-100 Master of Science in Engineering Management program that bridges the critical gap between engineering and business disciplines. Based in Lowell, Massachusetts, this innovative program equips professionals with the perfect blend of technical knowledge and management acumen needed to excel in leadership positions across diverse sectors, including design, manufacturing, infrastructure, and supply chain management. With its flexible online delivery, the program serves both emerging and established professionals seeking to expand their cross-functional capabilities.

Program Overview

UMass Lowell's MSEM program offers a comprehensive educational experience designed for working professionals:

  • Structure: 31 credit hours with flexible online delivery

  • Duration: Completable in as little as 18 months

  • Format: Fully online to accommodate professional commitments

  • Cross-disciplinary Approach: Collaborative effort among the Francis College of Engineering, Manning School of Business, and Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences

This multidisciplinary program provides students with a holistic understanding of engineering management principles, creating a direct pathway to leadership roles while accommodating the demanding schedules of working professionals.¹⁴

Western New England University

Western New England University

Offering a blend of online and in-person instruction options, Western New England University's Master of Science in Engineering Management program is designed to equip professionals with a unique blend of engineering expertise and business acumen, preparing them to lead and innovate in today's dynamic industries. This interdisciplinary program integrates engineering and business courses, focusing on effective resource utilization—including personnel, equipment, capital, materials, information, and energy. Students will acquire strategies to enhance productivity, foster flexibility, and prioritize customer satisfaction, all while applying engineering principles to design and manage efficient systems.

Program Overview

The MSEM program offers flexibility to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, with the option to complete the degree entirely online or through evening in-class sessions. This adaptable structure allows students to earn their degree in as little as one year.

  • Format: Online, in-person, and hybrid options available

  • Credits: 30 credit hours

  • Duration: Students complete the program on their own schedule

  • Cost: $1,325 per credit hour (2024-25 academic year)

The curriculum is tailored for professionals aiming to advance their careers by integrating technical engineering knowledge with essential business and management skills.¹⁵

Choosing the Right MEM Program Format in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a range of program formats for master's in engineering management degrees. Whether you're a working professional looking for maximum flexibility or someone who values in-person collaboration, there's a program tailored to your needs.

Online master degrees provide excellent options for those balancing work and other commitments. Programs like the one at UMass Lowell are fully online, allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule while earning a respected credential.

If you prefer flexibility but still want some on-campus interaction, hybrid programs offer an ideal middle ground. UMass Amherst offers a program combining online learning with in-person sessions—perfect for occasional face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers. For a more traditional experience, on-campus programs like the one at Tufts University provide structured classes, direct access to professors, and in-person networking opportunities. Many students find that physical presence in a learning environment significantly enhances their focus and engagement.

When evaluating options, consider your schedule, learning preferences, and long-term goals. The right format will not only support your success during the program but also maximize the value of your educational experience.

How to Choose the Right Program

Finding the ideal master's in engineering management program requires looking beyond institutional rankings to identify the best fit for your specific goals, experience, and learning style. Consider these key factors:

Admissions Requirements Start by exploring graduate programs aligned with your academic background and professional experience. Some programs target early-career professionals, while others expect several years of engineering or technical leadership experience.

Curriculum Examine course offerings carefully. Are you interested in product management, operations, project management, technology management, construction management, or systems engineering? The right program will offer electives or concentrations matching your specific interests.

Faculty Faculty profiles reveal valuable insights. Do potential professors have relevant industry experience in your areas of interest? Learning from instructors with actual engineering leadership experience can significantly enhance your education.

Ultimately, the right MEM degree program should advance your specific career objectives. The closer the program aligns with your long-term vision, the more relevant your education will be to your professional development.

Is Massachusetts the Right Fit for You?

For those serious about engineering leadership careers, Massachusetts offers compelling advantages. The state combines a thriving technology sector, outstanding universities, and a job market that values professionals who can lead with both technical insight and strategic vision.

Whether seeking the convenience of an online degree or the immersive experience of on-campus learning, you'll find flexible options matching your learning preferences. Combined with the diverse industries hiring engineering managers in this STEM-friendly region, Massachusetts provides an exceptional foundation for career advancement.

If you're seeking an environment where your technical skills and leadership potential can truly flourish, Massachusetts represents an outstanding launchpad for your engineering management career.

Sources:

  1. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/most-expensive-states-to-live-in

  2. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/cost-of-living-by-state

  3. https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/subscriber-only/2024/02/15/largest-engineering-firms-in-mass.html

  4. https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-metro-areas-for-stem-professionals/9200

  5. https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/engineering-senior-supervisor-salary

  6. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/architectural-and-engineering-managers

  7. https://www.merrimack.edu/academics/engineering-and-computational-sciences/graduate/engineering-management/

  8. https://gordon.tufts.edu/admissions/tuition-fees

  9. https://www.asem.org/ASEM-Scholarships

  10. https://www.mass.edu/osfa/programs/highdemand.asp

  11. https://graduate.northeastern.edu/programs/ms-engineering-management/master-of-science-in-engineering-management-online/

  12. https://gordon.tufts.edu/masters-degrees/ms-engineering-management/curriculum

  13. https://www.umass.edu/engineering/academics/master-science-engineering-management

  14. https://gps.uml.edu/degrees/grad/online-masters-engineering-management.cfm

  15. https://wne.edu/academics/graduate/engineering-management.cfm