Rice University

Rice University's Online Master of Engineering Management & Leadership (MEML) is a graduate degree designed for ambitious engineers ready to become leaders. Delivered by the George R. Brown School of Engineering, this program combines technical rigor with leadership development, equipping professionals to take on senior roles in engineering, product development, operations, and innovation strategy.

Program Overview

Rice's MEML program offers a blend of engineering fundamentals, business strategy, and leadership science. Delivered fully online, it's ideal for engineers who want to sharpen their decision-making skills, lead technical teams, and shape the future of their organizations—without pausing their careers.

• Format: 100% online, part-time
• Credits: 30 credit hours
• Duration: 20 months
• Cost: $1,667 per credit hour
• Estimated Tuition: $50,010

With synchronous and asynchronous learning, students benefit from live interactions and flexible scheduling designed around working professionals.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

While Rice's MEML does not include formal concentrations, its coursework integrates engineering management theory with applied leadership practices. Students can personalize their learning path through specializations aligned with their industry focus.

Core Curriculum Includes:

• Engineering Management & Leadership Theory and Application
• Engineering Project Management
• Engineering Product Management in Industry 4.0
• Ethical-Technical Leadership
• Engineering Economics for Leaders
• Applied Statistics and Data Science for Engineering Leaders

Specializations Available:

• Computer Science
• Data Science

Students complete a Capstone Project in their final term, addressing a leadership or management challenge in a technical organization.

Explore detailed course information here.

Career Outcomes

Rice's MEML program prepares graduates to lead across a variety of engineering-intensive industries. Whether aiming for upper management or pivoting into new domains, students graduate with the technical fluency and business insight to take on elevated roles such as:

• Director of Engineering
• Program Manager
• Technical Product Owner
• VP of Operations
• Engineering Strategy Consultant

Graduates commonly pursue leadership positions in technology, energy, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Admissions Process

Ready to apply? Start by visiting Rice's official MEML application portal.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field
• Minimum of 3.0 GPA recommended
• Interest in technical leadership

Application Materials:

• Online application form
• Résumé
• Statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• TOEFL/IELTS for international applicants
• $85 application fee

GRE: Not required for applicants with 3.0+ GPA

Further guidance is available on the admissions page and FAQ section.

Tuition and Financial Support

Rice's tuition reflects its reputation as a top-tier private institution, but students may pursue a range of financial options:

• Tuition Rate: $1,667 per credit hour
• Total Estimated Cost: $50,010

Financial support options may include:

• Federal aid for eligible U.S. students
• Private education loans
• Employer tuition assistance
• Military and veteran benefits

Online Experience

The online MEML is delivered through a dynamic learning platform that includes:

• Live weekly class sessions
• Asynchronous video lectures and assignments
• Virtual office hours and networking events
• Group projects and peer collaboration

Students also gain access to Rice's full academic resources, including libraries, tech support, and career development services.

Learn more about Rice's approach to online learning in the course catalog.

Faculty

Courses are taught by Rice's distinguished engineering faculty, many of whom are industry veterans and researchers in areas like systems engineering, data science, and organizational behavior. Faculty bring not only academic excellence but also real-world insight into managing innovation and complex engineering organizations.

Program Highlights

• Designed specifically for engineers pursuing leadership roles
• Taught by Rice faculty with academic and industry expertise
• Live, interactive online classes with flexible asynchronous content
• No GRE required for applicants with 3.0+ GPA
• Capstone project focused on a real-world management challenge
• Access to Rice's extensive alumni and professional network
• ASEM Certified program with direct path to CAEM® certification
• Graduates eligible to sit for PMP® certification exam

Lead with Confidence in a Complex World

Engineers who want to lead must master more than just the technical side—they need business savvy, communication skills, and strategic insight. Rice University's MEML is designed for that transformation. Whether you're managing a team, a budget, or a billion-dollar idea, this degree gives you the tools to thrive.

Start Your Leadership Journey Today

Don't wait to grow into the engineering leader you're meant to be. Apply to Rice's MEML program and join a community of high-achieving professionals shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Explore the program further on the official MEML website.

Sources:

• https://engineering.rice.edu/academics/graduate-programs/online-meml
• https://engineering.rice.edu/academics/graduate-programs/online-meml/curriculum
• https://engineering.rice.edu/academics/graduate-programs/online-meml/apply-now
• https://epmp.rice.edu/tuition-aid
• https://engineering.rice.edu/academics/graduate-programs/online-meml/admissions
• https://engineering.rice.edu/academics/graduate-programs/online-meml#faqs
•  https://courses.rice.edu/courses/!SWKSCAT.cat?p_action=CATALIST&p_acyr_code=2025

Disclaimer

All information about this program was found on Rice University's website, May 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 713-348-0000.