The University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) offers a Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program designed to equip engineers and technical professionals with the leadership and management skills necessary to excel in today's complex engineering environments. This program blends engineering principles with business practices, preparing graduates to effectively manage projects, teams, and organizational resources.

Program Overview

UTRGV's MSEM program is tailored for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their employment. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of engineering and management concepts, focusing on areas such as project management, quality control, and decision-making processes.

• Format: On-campus and online options available
• Credits: 30 credit hours
• Duration: Typically 1.5–2 years
• Tuition Estimate: Approximately $27,696–$28,767 total cost
• Start Terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer

The program is ideal for engineers aiming to transition into managerial roles, offering the flexibility to accommodate various schedules and commitments.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

While the MSEM program does not offer formal specializations, students can tailor their coursework to align with specific career goals. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including engineering project management, systems engineering, and quality assurance.

Core Courses Typically Include:

• Engineering Project Management
• Quality Assurance and Control
• Engineering Economics
• Systems Engineering
• Decision Analysis
• Operations Research

Students can explore the full curriculum on theprogram's catalog page.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the MSEM program are well-prepared for leadership roles in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and technology. The program equips students with the skills to manage complex engineering projects, lead cross-functional teams, and make strategic business decisions.

Common career paths include:

• Engineering Manager
• Project Manager
• Operations Manager
• Quality Assurance Manager
• Systems Analyst

UTRGV's strong ties to regional industries provide valuable networking and employment opportunities for graduates.

Admissions Process

Prospective students should begin by reviewing theGraduate Admissions page.

Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (preferred)
• Official transcripts
• Statement of purpose
• Résumé
• Two letters of recommendation
• GRE scores (may be waived for qualified applicants)

International applicants must also provide TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

Tuition and Financial Aid

UTRGV is recognized for its affordability, offering competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students.

• Estimated Tuition: Approximately $27,696–$28,767 total cost
• Financial Aid: Available through scholarships, grants, and assistantships
• Additional Resources: Employer tuition reimbursement programs and veterans benefits
  
  

Detailed tuition information is available on theTuition and Fees page.

Online Experience

The MSEM program offers an online option designed for working professionals seeking flexibility. The online format provides access to course materials, lectures, and assignments through a user-friendly learning management system.

Online students benefit from:

• Asynchronous coursework allowing for flexible scheduling
• Access to faculty and academic advisors
• Virtual collaboration with peers
• Comprehensive support services, including technical assistance and library resources

More information on the online learning experience can be found on theOnline Learning FAQ page.

Faculty

The MSEM program is taught by experienced faculty from the Department of Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, known for their expertise in both academia and industry. Faculty members bring real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with practical insights into engineering management challenges and solutions.

Program Highlights

UTRGV's MSEM program stands out for its affordability, flexibility, and commitment to excellence. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals, offering both on-campus and online options to suit diverse learning preferences. With a curriculum that integrates engineering and management principles, students are equipped with the skills necessary to lead in various technical environments.

UTRGV is ranked #1 in the nation among public institutions for the lowest student debt and has a strong regional presence as a Hispanic-serving institution, with over 80% of its students being Hispanic.

Take the Next Step Toward Engineering Leadership

If you're ready to advance your career by combining technical expertise with strategic management skills, UTRGV's MSEM program offers the resources and flexibility to help you achieve your goals. Explore theprogram details andapplication process to begin your journey toward becoming a leader in engineering management.

Sources

• https://www.utrgv.edu/graduate/for-future-students/graduate-programs/program-requirements/engineering-management-mse/index.htm
• https://utrgv.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2024-2025/graduate-catalog/graduate-academic-programs-by-college/college-of-engineering-and-computer-science/department-of-manufacturing-and-industrial-engineering/engineering-management-ms/
• https://www.utrgv.edu/admissions/graduate/how-to-apply/index.htm
• https://www.utrgv.edu/ucentral/paying-for-college/tuition-fees/tuition-recent/index.htm
• https://utrgv.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2024-2025/graduate-catalog/graduate-academic-programs-by-college/college-of-engineering-and-computer-science/department-of-manufacturing-and-industrial-engineering/engineering-management-ms/
• https://utrgv.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2024-2025/graduate-catalog/programs-of-study/
• https://www.utrgv.edu/online/getting-enrolled/faq/index.htm

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on UTRGV’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 1-844-ATUTRGV.