California State University (Northridge)

The Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) equips engineers and technical professionals with the leadership, decision-making, and analytical skills required to manage complex engineering systems and teams. Delivered fully online, the program is designed for working professionals and emphasizes practical applications in engineering leadership. With its cohort model and flexible format, CSUN fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

Program Overview

The MSEM program at CSUN blends engineering principles with management concepts, covering decision-making, financial analysis, leadership, and innovation. It includes real-world applications to prepare graduates for leadership roles in engineering-driven industries. 

• Format: 100% online, with courses delivered in a cohort model for enhanced collaboration
• Credits: 33 semester units
• Duration: The program spans two years
• Cost per credit: $899 per semester unit 

Specializations and Academic Pathways

CSUN’s MSEM program offers two distinct pathways designed to meet the evolving demands of engineering leadership. The General Engineering Management track focuses on project management, leadership, and innovation within technical organizations, while the Data Analytics track prepares students to utilize data-driven tools and programming to solve complex engineering challenges.

All specializations begin with five core courses, then diverge for specialization-specific coursework, and finally converge for shared studies in Quality Management and Supply-Chain Systems.

The program begins with these five core courses:

• MSE 600 – Decision Tools for Engineering Managers 
• MSE 604 – Engineering Economy and Financial Analysis 
• MSE 608B – Leadership of Engineering Professionals and High-Tech Firms 
• MSE 606 – Production and Operations Management for Engineers
• MSE 602 – Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Engineering Professionals

After completing the five core courses, you can specialize in either a general degree or data analytics.

General Degree Option

The general degree option provides students with the expertise needed to master project management in technical firms.

• Core Courses:
• MSE 402 – Engineering Project Management
• GBUS 593 – Management/Marketing Seminar
• MSE 540 – Sustainability for Engineers

Data Analytics Option

The data analytics degree provides advanced data and programming skills, crucial for leading data-dependent teams in manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain.

• Core Courses
• MSE 562 – Introduction to Data Analytics for Engineering Managers
• MSE 564 – Knowledge Discovery from Databases and Data Visualization for Engineering Managers
• COMP 502 – Programming for Data Science and Analytics

The programs then reunite to cover Quality Management and Supply-Chain Systems, providing crucial knowledge in these core components for modern engineering managers. 

• Core Courses
• MSE 617 – Engineering Quality Management and Analytics
• MSE 515 – Engineering Supply-Chain Systems and Analytics
• MSE 697MGT – Engineering Management Directed Comprehensive Studies

Career Outcomes

This program equips graduates for leadership in dynamic sectors like aerospace, manufacturing, and technology. You'll develop the skills to lead technical teams, leverage data analysis for engineering solutions, and manage operations with an entrepreneurial edge. While specific employment data or salary averages are not provided, the program is designed to meet the increasing industry demand for skilled engineering leaders.

Admissions Process

• Eligibility: A bachelor's degree is required, with preference given to a Bachelor of Science in engineering or a related technical field from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants with other bachelor's degrees may be considered on a case-by-case basis, and if admitted, should anticipate additional preparatory coursework in engineering economics and writing. A minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA is required. An English language proficiency exam is required for applicants whose degrees are from institutions outside the U.S. where English is not the primary language of instruction.
• GRE: Not required
• Required Materials: Online application and official transcripts
• Graduation: GPA of 3.0 (cumulative) on a 4.0 scale on graduate credit courses to receive a MSEM degree 

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

The tuition cost for the MSEM program is $899 per unit.

While specific scholarships or funding options are not listed, students are encouraged to explore employer tuition reimbursement, federal aid, or contact the university's financial aid office for additional resources.

Online Experience

Online courses are delivered by streaming video. 

Faculty

The MSEM program is taught by faculty with extensive industry and academic backgrounds, bringing real-world experience and theoretical expertise to the classroom. Their diverse expertise spans quality management, leadership, data analytics, and supply chain systems, ensuring students gain practical and relevant knowledge for success in engineering management.

Program Highlights

This two-year online MSEM program blends flexible learning with collaborative opportunities. Students gain robust technical and management skills, including advanced data analytics. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in diverse industries, as evidenced by employers like Netflix, Boeing, and Disney.1 With a focus on practical application, graduates develop the skills needed for roles in manufacturing and big tech.

Why Choose This MSEM Program

This program offers flexibility and practical application through its online format, cohort model, and applied curriculum, catering to professionals balancing work and study. The cohort structure fosters a collaborative environment, enhancing networking and peer learning. Students can further tailor their experience with specialized tracks in General Engineering Management and Data Analytics, allowing for focused career preparation. The program culminates in a capstone project, enabling students to apply their learning to real-world problems.

Class Profile

While detailed class demographics are not available, this MSEM program attracts professionals from a wide range of engineering backgrounds. Students typically come from industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, technology, and supply chain, bringing diverse perspectives to the learning environment.

Program Rankings and Recognition

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) has received notable recognition for its engineering programs. As of February 2024, CSUN's engineering management program was ranked among the top 31 universities for Engineering Management in California, based on research performance metrics.2

Next Steps

For professionals aiming to advance their careers in engineering leadership, the CSUN MSEM program offers a flexible, practical, and collaborative pathway to success. Explore the program further and apply at CSUN MSEM Program.

Sources

1 https://tsengcollege.csun.edu/programs/engineering-management

2 https://edurank.org/engineering/management/california/#google_vignette

Disclaimer

All information about this program was found on California State University Northridge Website, January 2025. Information is subject to change, so we advise that you confirm all program details, costs, and financial aid information with the university’s admissions office before applying. You can reach the university directly at 818-273-6870.