Drexel University

Drexel University's online Master of Science in Engineering Management (MEM) program is designed to equip engineers with the leadership and management skills necessary to advance in technical organizations. Established in 1959 as the first graduate engineering management program in the U.S., it combines technical expertise with business acumen, preparing professionals to tackle complex industry challenges. This program is ideal for engineers aiming to ascend into managerial roles while maintaining their technical roots.

Program Overview

Drexel’s curriculum emphasizes a blend of engineering and business principles, fostering skills in project management, design thinking, and business oversight.

• Format: 100% online 
• Credits: 45 credits
• Duration: Students can pursue the degree on a full-time or part-time basis, allowing them to balance their studies with professional commitments. The program's duration varies based on individual course loads, providing adaptability to diverse schedules. 
• Cost:  $1,590 per credit hour for the 2024-25 academic year

Specializations and Academic Pathways

Drexel's MEM program features a customizable curriculum, enabling students to select electives across various engineering disciplines to align with their career goals. Core courses focus on essential areas such as project management, systems engineering, and financial management. The electives can be used to specialize in an area of interest such as systems engineering, project management, healthcare informatics, business analytics, entrepreneurship, marketing and many other options. 

The integration of engineering and management is achieved through practical assignments and projects that mirror real-world scenarios, enhancing experiential learning. Additionally, as a graduate of Drexel’s Engineering Management master’s program, you will also earn a Certified Associate in Engineering Management (CAEM) Certificate from the American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM) without the need to take the certification exam.

Career Outcomes

While specific post-graduation employment statistics are not provided in the available sources, the MEM program is designed to prepare engineers for leadership roles in various industries. Graduates are equipped to take on expanded responsibilities in project management, design thinking, and business oversight, positioning them for advancement in their respective fields. Additionally, Drexel Engineering graduates have gone on to work in consulting roles in the Philadelphia area and beyond, while others hold prominent positions in business, technology firms and engineering services.

Admissions Process

Applicants to the MSELM program are required to meet the following requirements: 

• Eligibility: A four-year bachelor of science degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution in the United States or an equivalent international institution. Bachelor's degrees in math or the physical sciences may also be considered for admission.

• GPA: Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0. If any other graduate work has been completed, the average GPA must be at least 3.0.

• GRE/GMAT: GRE scores are not required.

• Required Materials: Complete graduate school application, official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended, two letters of recommendation, professional or academic (at least one professional), resume, a personal statement explaining why you wish to earn the degree and why you are prepared to succeed.

• Application Deadlines: Students can apply for admission to the program in any term.  However, students attending full time cannot apply for admission in the summer term. This summer term restriction does not apply to part time / online students, who can apply for admission in any term. 

At least three years of relevant professional work experience are recommended but not required. Interested students should complete the Drexel University Online admission application for admission into this online program.

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

At $1,342 per credit for 45 credits, plus fees of $280 per quarter for full-time and $140 per quarter for part time students, the program costs full time students a total of $61,790. Part time students' costs will vary depending on how long they take to complete the program. An additional $300 deposit is required to confirm enrollment. Students may also apply for the College of Engineering Dean's Award or other scholarships to lower their total cost.

Online Experience

The online learning environment at Drexel is designed to be highly interactive and engaging, facilitating meaningful collaboration between students and faculty. Courses are structured to challenge participants while accommodating the needs of working professionals. The program offers dual degree options and related certificates, allowing students to earn two College of Engineering master's degrees with fewer credits than pursuing them separately would require. Additionally, since Drexel is a Certified Graduate Program by the American Society of Engineering Management (ASEM), graduates automatically qualify for the Certified Associate in Engineering Management (CAEM) without the need for an exam.

Why Choose This MEM Program?

Drexel's MEM program stands out due to its long-standing history and recognition in the field of engineering management. The program's flexibility allows students to customize their learning experience to align with their career objectives. The opportunity to earn dual degrees efficiently, and the automatic qualification for the CAEM certification further enhance the program's appeal. The online format ensures that professionals can advance their education without interrupting their careers.

Program Rankings and Recognition

Drexel's online master’s program in engineering management is ranked #11 by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, the publication ranked them #33 in  Best Online Master's in Engineering Programs for Veterans.1 This accolade reflects the program's commitment to excellence in engineering management education.

Additional Opportunities

The MEM program offers dual degree options, enabling students to earn two College of Engineering master's degrees with fewer credits than pursuing them separately. Specific combinations of degrees are not detailed in the available sources, but this feature allows for an interdisciplinary approach to engineering education.

Next Steps

Prospective students eager to elevate their engineering careers are encouraged to apply to Drexel University's MEM program. The online application process is straightforward, and detailed information is available on Drexel's website. Take the next step toward becoming a leader in engineering management by exploring the program and submitting your application today.

Sources

1. https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/drexel-university-212054  

Additional Sources

• https://online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/engineering-degrees/ms-egmt/index.aspx
• https://www.online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/engineering-degrees/ms-egmt/index.aspx#curriculum
• https://www.online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/engineering-degrees/ms-egmt/index.aspx#apply
• https://www.online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/engineering-degrees/ms-egmt/index.aspx#tuition
• https://www.online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/engineering-degrees/ms-egmt/index.aspx#admissionscriteria
• https://ask.drexel.edu/
• https://catalog.drexel.edu/

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on Drexel University’s 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 emailing director Cameron Abrams at cfabrams@drexel.edu, or calling (215)-895-2231

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