Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America’s Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program prepares engineers with the management and strategic skills necessary to excel in leadership positions across industries. Located in Washington, D.C., the university offers online, face-to-face, and hybrid programming to match your schedule. Engineering managers play a critical role in bridging technical expertise with leadership, ensuring the success of engineering projects and teams, and this program blends advanced engineering principles with business acumen to develop well-rounded leaders in the field.

Program Overview

The M.S. in Engineering Management program at The Catholic University of America is structured to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals. With flexible course delivery options—including online, face-to-face, and hybrid formats—students can tailor their education to fit their schedules.

• Format: Online, in-person, and hybrid options available.
• Credits: 30 credit hours
• Duration: Typically completed in two years for full-time students
• Cost: $1,350 per credit hour (2024-25 academic year)

The program is particularly suited for engineers looking to transition into management roles in technology development, government agencies, and corporate enterprises. It provides the necessary skills to oversee projects, optimize operations, and lead technical teams effectively.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

To align with students' career aspirations, The Catholic University of America offers three specialized tracks within the Engineering Management program. Students can select from the track that best matches their career aspirations:

• Engineering Management and Organization: Focuses on leadership within engineering firms, emphasizing organizational behavior and management strategies.
• Project and Systems Engineering Management: Ideal for those interested in project management, systems integration, and lifecycle planning.
• Technology Management: Geared toward professionals overseeing technological advancements and innovation strategies within an organization.

Each track has core courses that give the foundation for engineering management, as well as electives designed to allow students to focus their degree on their personal career plan.

Core Courses (Required for all tracks):

• Organizational Theory and Behavior
• Planning and Control of Organizations
• Decision Analysis or Engineering Risk Management

In addition to these courses, each specialization includes additional coursework tailored to the field, allowing students to gain expertise in their chosen area while developing foundational management competencies.

Career Outcomes

While specific post-graduation employment statistics are not detailed, the program’s strong focus on practical management skills and industry relevance ensures graduates are competitive in the job market.

Graduates of the M.S. in Engineering Management program are well-equipped to pursue leadership roles across various sectors, including:

• Technology and engineering firms
• Government agencies and defense organizations
• Consulting and project management roles

Admissions Process

• Eligibility: A bachelor's degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or a related field from an accredited institution.

• GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

  GRE/GMAT: GRE/GMAT scores are not explicitly required.

  Required Materials: Submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and completed graduate application and nonrefundable fee.

• Application Deadlines:
  • Fall: July 1 (International), July 15 (Domestic) 
  • Spring: November 1 (International), November 15 (Domestic)
  • Summer: April 1 (International and Domestic)

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

At $1,350 per credit hour, the complete program costs a total of $40,500. The university grants a 40% tuition acknowledgment for nuclear-trained officers, and many student’s employers either contribute to or pay for their tuition. While specific scholarships and assistantships are not listed, students are encouraged to contact the admissions office for potential funding opportunities.

Online Experience

With in person, online, and hybrid options available, students at The Catholic University of America’s MSEM programs can opt for the style of education that best suits their schedules and learning styles. This adaptable series of offerings means that students can find the course type that works best for them, learning whenever and wherever is most convenient without missing out on the advantages of in-person instruction if that’s their preferred learning style.

Program Highlights

The Catholic University of America’s M.S. in Engineering Management program stands out due to its flexible course delivery, expert faculty, and career-focused curriculum.The program’s tailored tracks and military-friendly benefits further enhance its appeal. Lastly, its location in Washington, D.C., provides unique networking opportunities, particularly for those interested in government and technology sectors. 

Why Choose This MEM Program

The Catholic University of America’s Engineering Management program offers several distinctive advantages:

• Flexible Learning Environment: Students can choose from online, in-person, or hybrid learning formats.
• Expert Faculty: Courses are taught by industry professionals, including a high proportion of faculty with distinguished military backgrounds.
• Military-Friendly Benefits: The program provides a 40% tuition discount for nuclear-trained officers and allows the transfer of up to 9 credit hours from the Defense Acquisition University.
• Strategic Location: Situated in Washington, D.C., students have access to a robust professional network, federal agencies, and major engineering firms.

Program Rankings and Recognition

While specific rankings are not mentioned on the website, The Catholic University of America’s Engineering Management was ranked 180-199 in Best Engineering Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Notably, three of the fourteen faculty members are retired admirals, showcasing the program’s commitment to excellence and leadership.1

Next Steps

Offering a unique focus on military and government leadership, as well as multiple learning formats to meet a variety of student needs, The Catholic University of America’s MSEM program is ideal for professionals aspiring to advance their careers in both the public and private sectors. For more information on the application process and to submit your application, visit the Graduate Admissions page.

Sources

1. https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/the-catholic-university-of-america-02039

Additional Sources

• https://engineering.catholic.edu/academics/graduate/engineering-management/index.html
• https://www.catholic.edu/academic-programs/engineering/engineering-management-ms
• https://www.catholic.edu/apply
• https://www.catholic.edu/admission-aid/tuition-fees#graduate-costs
• https://engineering.catholic.edu/academics/graduate/engineering-management/requirements/index.html
• https://graduate-studies.catholic.edu/faq/index.html
• https://www.catholic.edu/academic-programs/find-your-program
• https://engineering.catholic.edu/admission/graduate-doctorate/index.html

Disclaimer

All information about this program was found on The Catholic University of America’s MSEM program website March 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 program directly by calling 202-319-5000.