Clarkson University

Today's engineering organizations need leaders who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and business management. Clarkson University's Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program addresses this need by transforming technical professionals into effective leaders who can drive innovation and operational excellence. Developed in collaboration with industry giants such as United Technologies, GlobalFoundries, Turner Construction, and Urban Engineers, this program delivers practical, industry-relevant training for high-caliber technical employees seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities while maintaining their engineering foundations.

Program Overview

Clarkson's MSEM program offers an accelerated yet comprehensive educational experience:

• Structure: 30 credit hours (21 core credits + 9 elective credits)
• Duration: Completable in 24 months or less
• Format: Primarily online with limited on-site weekend residencies
• Location: Weekend sessions at the Capital Region Campus in Schenectady, NY 
• Scheduling: Both full-time and part-time options available

This carefully designed hybrid approach provides maximum flexibility for working professionals while fostering meaningful connections among classmates and faculty. The curriculum addresses critical areas, including analytics, construction management, cost management, operations, project management, quality management, and sustainability—creating well-rounded engineering leaders prepared for today's complex business environments.1

Specializations and Academic Pathways

The MSEM curriculum offers a balanced combination of core requirements and personalized electives:

Core Courses (21 credits):

• Financial Analysis & Cost Management
• Decision Analysis & Risk Management
• Operations Strategy & International Competitiveness
• Strategic Project Management
• Leadership & Management in Engineering Organizations
• Negotiations & Relationship Management
• Capstone Project

Concentration Areas (9 credits):

• Data Analytics
• Construction Engineering Management
• Artificial Intelligence
• Manufacturing Operations

The program culminates in a capstone project where students apply their knowledge to address real-world challenges relevant to their organizations or industries. This applied approach ensures graduates can immediately implement their learning in workplace settings, creating tangible value for their employers.

Unique Features of the MSEM Program

Clarkson's MSEM program offers distinctive advantages for aspiring engineering leaders:

• Hybrid Learning Model: Combination of asynchronous online coursework, synchronous virtual sessions, and limited on-site residencies
• Collaborative Environment: Active participation and peer interaction despite the primarily online format
• Weekend Residencies: Face-to-face components enhancing the learning community experience
• Industry-Informed Curriculum: Content shaped by partnerships with leading technology organizations

This balanced approach provides the flexibility working professionals need while maintaining the interpersonal connections and practical applications that distinguish a Clarkson education. The program's design ensures students can advance their education without significant career disruption.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Clarkson's MSEM program achieve remarkable success in the job market. The Class of 2023 reported starting salaries reaching up to $130,000, demonstrating the significant return on investment this program provides.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering management remains a highly rewarding career path with a median annual wage of $165,780 in 2023, with approximately 15,000 job openings projected annually through 2033. Clarkson's industry-focused curriculum positions graduates to capitalize on these opportunities, particularly in sectors requiring both technical expertise and management acumen.2

Admissions Process

The application process is straightforward and accessible:

• Application Components:
• Online application (no application fee)
• Personal statement (250-500 words)
• Resume or CV
• Two or three letters of recommendation
• All post-secondary transcripts
• GRE/GMAT scores (not required for all programs)
• International Requirements:
• Proof of English proficiency: TOEFL (80+), IELTS (6.5+), PTE (56+), or Duolingo English Test (115+)

The program's accessible admissions process reflects Clarkson's commitment to removing barriers for qualified candidates seeking to advance their education and careers.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Clarkson is committed to making graduate education affordable:

• Tuition Rate: $995 per credit for Capital Region-based engineering programs (2024-2025)
• Total Program Cost: Approximately $29,850 for the 30-credit program
• Automatic Consideration: All applicants are evaluated for merit-based scholarships during admission
• Financial Support: Various options, including assistantships, scholarships, and loans

This transparent and competitive pricing structure, combined with accessible financial aid opportunities, ensures that qualified candidates can pursue their educational goals without excessive financial burden.

Why Choose This MSEM Program

Clarkson's MSEM program offers compelling advantages for professionals seeking to advance their careers:

• Industry-Informed Curriculum: Developed with input from leading engineering organizations
• Flexible Format: Primarily online with minimal on-site requirements
• Practical Application: Capstone projects addressing real workplace challenges 
• Competitive Tuition: Affordable investment with strong salary outcomes
• Personalized Education: Small class sizes and individualized attention

As graduate David Vito Imbrogno Jr. '17 attests: "When choosing a graduate program, I wanted to make sure I wasn't just a number in another big school. Clarkson considers their students as family. Each of us got the attention we needed to prosper. The staff truly cares about their students' futures. They worked hard to help us succeed."

Class Profile

While specific demographic details aren't provided in the available sources, the program attracts experienced technical professionals from diverse engineering backgrounds. The flexible hybrid format makes the program accessible to both recent graduates and established engineers seeking to advance their careers across various industries.

Program Recognition

Clarkson University is recognized for its rigorous professional preparation, strong alumni network, and dynamic, real-world learning environment. The university's collaborative community and strong industry partnerships provide students with valuable connections and practical experiences that enhance their educational outcomes.3

Additional Opportunities

While specific joint or dual degree offerings aren't mentioned in the available sources, the program's elective structure enables students to tailor their education to specific career goals. The focus on areas like Data Analytics, Construction Engineering Management, Artificial Intelligence, and Manufacturing Operations allows students to develop specialized expertise aligned with their professional aspirations.

Call to Action

Engineer today, lead tomorrow with Clarkson University's Master of Science in Engineering Management. Designed by industry innovators for ambitious technical professionals, this program blends cutting-edge engineering knowledge with essential leadership skills. Study entirely online while applying new concepts immediately in your workplace. Clarkson graduates consistently secure promotions and salary increases within months of completion—your investment in a faster, smarter path to technical leadership.

Take the next step by exploring the program details or beginning your application at the Clarkson MSEM program website.

Sources

1https://study.clarkson.edu/msem/

2https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/architectural-and-engineering-managers.htm

3https://www.clarkson.edu/about/clarkson-glance/accolades

Disclaimer: All information about this program was found on Clarkson University's MSEM program website and related university pages in 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 contacting the Graduate Admissions Office at +1 (518) 631-9910 or via email at gradadmission@clarkson.edu.