Cornell University

Effective engineering leadership requires a sophisticated blend of technical expertise and management acumen. Cornell University's Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Engineering Management program bridges this critical gap, transforming early-career engineers into confident leaders prepared to tackle complex challenges at the intersection of technology and business. Based in Ithaca, New York, and with distance learning options, this prestigious program equips STEM professionals with the multidisciplinary skills needed to lead projects, teams, and organizations in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape.1

Program Overview

Cornell's M.Eng. in Engineering Management offers exceptional flexibility to accommodate diverse professional needs:

• Format Options: Available both on-campus and through distance learning
• Structure: 32 credit hours, including coursework and project components
• On-Campus Duration: Two semesters of full-time study
• Distance Learning: Flexible part-time enrollment for working professionals
• Experience Requirement: Ideally suited for those with at least two years of professional experience

The program is specifically designed for individuals with STEM backgrounds seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities while maintaining their technical foundations. This balanced approach creates versatile professionals who can effectively bridge engineering and management domains.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

Cornell's curriculum offers remarkable customization through eight specialized tracks:

• Consulting: Developing advisory skills for engineering management challenges
• Analytics: Leveraging data for strategic decision-making
• Engineering Leadership: Building core management capabilities for technical teams
• Real Estate and Construction Management: Specializing in built environment projects
• Sustainability and Renewable Energy: Focusing on green technologies and management
• Entrepreneurship and Product Management: Developing innovation and commercialization skills
• Infrastructure in a Changing World: Addressing critical infrastructure challenges
• "Build your own" track: Creating personalized educational pathways

The core curriculum provides a strong foundation in essential management principles through courses in project management, data analytics, economics and finance, decision framing, and leadership development. This approach combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, ensuring graduates are prepared for real-world engineering management challenges.

Unique Features of the M.Eng. Program

Cornell's program offers distinctive advantages through its innovative distance learning model:

• Flexible Online Delivery: Primary coursework completed remotely
• On-Campus Intensives: Two mandatory in-person sessions enhancing the learning experience
• Hands-On Activities: Practical application of concepts during intensive sessions 
• Networking Opportunities: Building connections with peers and faculty
• Full Resource Access: Complete availability of Cornell's extensive academic and career resources

This hybrid approach provides the flexibility working professionals need while maintaining the immersive elements that distinguish a Cornell education. Distance learners benefit from the same comprehensive educational experience as on-campus students, including access to career services and special events.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Cornell's M.Eng. in Engineering Management program are well-positioned for leadership roles across various technology-focused industries. The program provides the versatile skill set needed for positions such as project manager, engineering manager, and consultant across diverse sectors.

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. Cornell's integration of technical expertise with management principles creates professionals uniquely qualified to capitalize on these opportunities.2

Admissions Process

Prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in engineering or related STEM field 
• Mathematical Preparation: Completed coursework in Calculus I, II, III, Differential Equations, and calculus-based statistics
• Professional Experience: Minimum of two years preferred (candidates with less may be considered)
• Application Materials:
• Online application
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal Statement
• Technical writing sample
• Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Resume
• English proficiency proof (for international applicants)
• GRE scores (optional)

Application deadlines are December 1st for Spring, March 20th for Summer, and June 1st for Fall enrollment, providing multiple entry points throughout the year.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Investment in the M.Eng. program is structured as follows:

• Tuition Rate: $2,280 per credit for the 2024-2025 academic year (distance learning) 
• Total Program Cost: Approximately $72,960 for the required 32 credits
• Additional Costs: May include fees and expenses related to on-campus intensives

Prospective students should consult Cornell's Office of the Bursar for the most current information on costs and potential financial assistance options.

Why Choose This M.Eng. Program

Cornell's M.Eng. in Engineering Management offers compelling advantages for professionals seeking to advance their careers:

• Prestigious Institution: Benefit from Cornell's renowned engineering excellence
• Flexible Format Options: Choose between on-campus or distance learning
• Specialized Tracks: Customize education to align with specific career goals
• Experiential Learning: Practical projects addressing real-world challenges
• Strong Network: Access to Cornell's extensive alumni connections
• Comprehensive Resources: Career services and educational support

The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures graduates develop both the technical depth and management breadth increasingly sought by technology-focused organizations.

Class Profile

While specific demographic details aren't provided in the available sources, the program attracts a diverse cohort of early to mid-career professionals from various engineering disciplines. The flexible learning options make the program accessible to both recent graduates and experienced engineers seeking to advance their careers.

Program Rankings and Recognition

Cornell University is consistently ranked among the world's top engineering institutions. In the 2025 rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Cornell is ranked #12 overall in Best Engineering Schools. The university's prestigious reputation and commitment to excellence in engineering education provide graduates with a valuable credential recognized globally.3

Additional Opportunities

While specific joint or dual degree offerings aren't mentioned in the available sources, the program's flexible elective structure enables students to tailor their education to specific career goals. By selecting appropriate specialization tracks and electives, students can create educational pathways that align with their professional aspirations, potentially incorporating courses from multiple disciplines across Cornell's diverse academic environment.

Get Started

Cornell University's prestigious Master of Engineering in Engineering Management transforms technical minds into strategic visionaries. Choose your path—immerse yourself in our vibrant Ithaca campus community or maintain your career momentum through our flexible distance learning option. Either way, you'll master the rare combination of technical depth and management breadth that employers demand.

Learn from Cornell's renowned faculty, who bring real-world leadership experience from industry giants and innovative startups alike. Customize your expertise through specialized tracks in operations, data analytics, or financial engineering. Apply classroom concepts to workplace challenges immediately, creating value for your organization while building your leadership credentials.

Cornell engineers don't just solve problems—they lead the teams that shape tomorrow's solutions. Join the elite network of Cornell alumni driving innovation across industries worldwide.

Take the next step in your professional journey by visiting Cornell's M.Eng. in Engineering Management Admissions Page.

Sources

1https://www.engmanagement.cornell.edu/em/programs/meng-engineering-management-mem-distance-learning

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

3https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/cornell-university-02118

Disclaimer: All information about this program was found on Cornell University's M.Eng. in Engineering Management 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 Engineering Management Program at +1 (607) 255-9297 or via email at engmanagement@cornell.edu.

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