Kettering University

Kettering University's online Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program is designed to equip engineers with the leadership and management skills necessary to excel in technical and managerial roles. The program emphasizes a ""Learn Today-Use Tomorrow"" philosophy, enabling students to immediately apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations in their current workplaces. This approach is ideal for professionals aiming to bridge the gap between engineering and management, enhancing their ability to lead cross-disciplinary teams and drive organizational success.

Program Overview

Kettering University's online Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program has the following format:

• Format: Fully online
• Credits: 40 credit hours, including seven core courses and a choice of one three-course graduate certificate.
• Duration: As little as 18 months
• Cost: $784 per credit hour for the 2024-25 academic year1

Specializations and Academic Pathways

The core curriculum focuses on developing competencies in leadership, communication, change management, lean thinking, human resources, and ethics. The curriculum includes your choice of one of six graduate certificates, and you can add as few as 4 courses to add a second degree to your credentials, including an MBA, MS Operations Management or MS Lean Manufacturing degree. This structure provides a pathway to acquire industry-specific skills and knowledge, enhancing their professional versatility.

Career Outcomes

While specific employment statistics were not provided by Kettering University, the program's curriculum is designed to enhance career advancement opportunities by equipping students with both technical and managerial expertise. They shared that overall, Architectural and Engineering Manager jobs are expected to increase by 14,700 jobs per year from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Engineering Managers with at least 5 years of experience can earn a median pay of $152,340 annually. 

Admissions Process

Applicants to the MSEM program are required to submit the following materials:

• Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree from an approved, ABET-accredited engineering (not technology) or computing program, or a Kettering University degree other than management or business.

• GPA: Undergraduate degree with 3.0 on a 4.0 grading system, or the international equivalent (85 overall grade point average on a 100-grade-point scale.)  A 2.5-2.99 GPA will be considered on a provisional basis.

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

• Required Materials: Resume, statement of purpose, three professional letters of recommendation (one must be from a supervisor, official transcripts from a regionally accredited U.S. university or an international equivalent

• Application Deadlines: Applications are offered on a rolling basis, with no specific deadline.

The application process is straightforward and can be completed online in approximately 15 minutes, with no application fee. Requirements for international applicants can be found on the university’s website.

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

Tuition for the MSEM program is $784 per credit hour, totaling $31,360 for the 40-credit program. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. While Kettering University does not directly offer scholarships for graduate students, a limited list of private scholarships is maintained. Additionally, military benefits are coordinated through the Registrar's Office, with some students potentially eligible for full tuition coverage under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Online Experience

The online learning environment at Kettering University is designed for flexibility and interactivity, accommodating the schedules of busy professionals. Courses are delivered through an easy-to-use online platform, with durations of six, eight, or eleven weeks. This structure allows students to progress efficiently through the program. Additionally, the program offers opportunities to earn dual degrees; by completing as few as four additional courses, students can obtain a second master's degree in areas such as MBA, MS Operations Management, or MS Lean Manufacturing.

Why Choose This MEM Program?

Kettering University's MSEM program stands out due to its customizable curriculum, allowing students to align their education with specific career objectives through various graduate certificates. The program's flexible, 100% online format is designed for working professionals, enabling them to balance their studies with other commitments. The ""Learn Today-Use Tomorrow"" approach ensures that students can immediately apply what they learn to real-world challenges, enhancing both their learning experience and professional impact.

Program Rankings and Recognition

Kettering University didn’t share any specific rankings for this program on their page, but university wide rankings include:

• #3 Best Value Colleges in Michigan by Niche - 20252
• #7 Best Regional University in the Midwest U.S. News & World Report- 2023-20243
• #12 Best Colleges for Veterans U.S. News & World Report- 2022-20234
• One of the Best 390 Colleges in the United States  Princeton Review - 20255
• Silver-Status University - Veteran-Friendly Schools (VFS) program - Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency - 2024 6

Next Steps

With multiple start dates throughout the year and a streamlined application process, Kettering University's online Master of Science in Engineering Management program offers flexible options for working professionals. Apply now or request more information to learn how this program can help you achieve your professional goals.

Sources:

1. https://online.kettering.edu/programs/masters/engineering-management-masters-online 
2. https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-value-colleges/s/michigan/
3. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-midwest?schoolName=Kettering+University
4. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-midwest/veterans
5. https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings?rankings=best-387-colleges&page=7
6. https://michiganvets.force.com/veteranfriendlyschools/s/dashboard 

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on Kettering University’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 855-418-0201.