Florida International University (FIU)

Florida International University's (FIU) Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program is designed to equip engineers with the essential management skills required to lead in today's technology-driven industries. By integrating advanced engineering practices with core business principles, the program prepares professionals to effectively manage projects, operations, and teams. This program is ideal for engineers aiming to transition into leadership roles or enhance their managerial competencies within technical environments.

Program Overview

The MSEM program at FIU is designed for professionals ready to expand their influence in the workplace. The multidisciplinary program equips graduates to bridge the gap between technical innovation and organizational strategy.

• Format: 100% online, allowing for full- or part-time study
• Credits: 30 credit hours of coursework
• Duration: One year full-time, two years part-time
• Cost: $833 per credit hour

For working engineers seeking leadership roles, FIU offers a program focused on practical management and technical expertise for immediate workplace impact.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

FIU's online MSEM program is structured to advance the careers of its students through a curriculum that strategically blends engineering, technology, and business disciplines. The program's cohort model provides a cohesive and guided pathway to graduation.

To complete the program, students are required to take these ten courses:

• ESI 5602 – Engineering Data Representation and Modeling
• ESI 6455 – Adv. Eng. Project Management
• EIN 5359 – Industrial Financial Decisions
• EIN 5123 – Industrial/Technological Marketing for Engineering
• LAW 5072 – Business Law
• EGN 6939 – Special Topics: Technical Leadership for Engineers
• ESI 5010C – Forecasting and Demand Management
• EIN 6133 – Enterprise Engineering
• EIN 5226C – Total Quality management for Engineers
• ESI 6316 – Applications of OR in Manufacturing

Career Outcomes

An MSEM from FIU, building upon your undergraduate degree, prepares you for diverse opportunities spanning Operations Manager to IT Manager, including roles in Supply Chain and Project/Program Management, as well as Data Scientist and Design Engineer. These positions across various sectors like logistics, construction, software, and manufacturing generally feature salary expectations between $95,000 and $208,000.

Admissions Process

• Eligibility:  A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 'B' average in upper-level coursework, or a graduate degree from an accredited institution. Applicants below the minimum GPA may be considered for conditional admission by submitting three recommendation letters, a detailed resume (including education, experience, skills, and projects), and a statement of objectives specifying their intended engineering track.
• GRE: Not required
• Required Materials: Online application, and transcripts. Optional materials are a resume and letters of recommendation. 
• Application Deadlines: At least 60 days before the start date 
• 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 $833 per credit hour. 

Details regarding specific scholarships are not provided on the FIU website. However, prospective students are encouraged to investigate potential eligibility for federal loans, grants, and scholarships, along with exploring the additional funding resources offered by the University Graduate School and the FIU Office of Scholarships.

Online Experience

The FIU MSEM program is delivered entirely online, utilizing a mix of instructional modes, including asynchronous and synchronous formats. This structure allows students to manage their studies flexibly while engaging with faculty and peers.

Faculty

The FIU MSEM program is led by a distinguished faculty, including Interim Program Director Dr. Oscar A. Saenz, Professor of Practice, alongside experts like Dr. Shabnam Rezapour, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Shih-Ming Lee, Professor of Practice. These faculty members bring a blend of academic knowledge and industry experience to the program, ensuring a curriculum that combines theoretical concepts with practical applications. This approach prepares students to address real-world challenges, equipping them with the skills necessary for effective leadership in engineering management.

Program Highlights

The FIU MSEM program is designed to equip graduates with the crucial skills to effectively manage and lead diverse technical and non-technical teams in today's industries.  

With a curriculum emphasizing immediate real-world application across sectors, the program delivers state-of-the-art coursework in areas like Total Quality Management (TQM), engineering project management, and business strategies, taught by experienced faculty. This comprehensive instruction provides students with broad industry insights and prepares them for a wide range of leadership roles.

Why Choose This MSEM Program?

FIU's MSEM program stands out due to its flexible online format, allowing professionals to advance their education without disrupting their careers. The curriculum's integration of engineering and management principles ensures that graduates are well-equipped to tackle complex challenges in technical leadership roles. Additionally, FIU's commitment to affordability and diverse financial aid options makes it an attractive choice for aspiring engineering managers.

Class Profile

While specific demographic data is not disclosed, the program is designed for engineers aiming to advance into managerial positions, blending courses from Engineering, Business Administration, and Law. This interdisciplinary approach suggests a diverse cohort with varied engineering backgrounds and professional experiences.

Program Rankings and Recognition

The FIU MSEM program has received consistent national recognition for its quality and online delivery. U.S. News & World Report ranks it among the top online graduate engineering programs at #43.1 

Next Steps

Ready to elevate your engineering career into leadership? Explore FIU's MSEM program here and take the next step toward your professional aspirations. 

Sources

1https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/florida-international-university-133951 

Additional Sources

• https://fiuonline.fiu.edu/programs/online-graduate-degrees/master-of-science-in-engineering-management-general-track.php
• https://fiuonline.fiu.edu/programs/online-graduate-degrees/master-of-science-in-engineering-management-general-track.php
• https://admissions.fiu.edu/how-to-apply/graduate-applicant/applications/index.html
• https://admissions.fiu.edu/cost-and-aid/index.html
• https://admissions.fiu.edu/how-to-apply/graduate-applicant/admission-requirements/index.html
• https://fiuonline.fiu.edu/current-students/success-coaches/faqs.php
• https://catalog.fiu.edu/
• https://fiu.academicworks.com/
• https://fiuonline.fiu.edu/_assets/docs/published-rankings-2022.pdf 

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on Florida International University's Master of Science in Engineering Management 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 university directly at 855-685-0297.