University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a fully online Master of Science in Engineering (MSOL) with a Certificate of Specialization in Engineering Management. This program is designed to equip engineers with advanced leadership and management skills, preparing them to take on high-impact roles in technical and business environments. The degree combines management skills with advanced engineering technical knowledge and includes courses in business, law, cybersecurity, communications and more

Program Overview

The program combines technical engineering expertise with business acumen, focusing on critical topics like financial management, systems engineering, project management, and leadership.

• Format: 100% online with asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility 
• Duration: Typically completed in just over two years, with a maximum timeframe of three academic years (nine quarters)
• Credit Hours: 36 units, consisting of nine four-unit courses
• Cost per Credit: $1,100
• Capstone Requirement: Students complete a written comprehensive exam tied to their coursework.

Program Features 

• Asynchronous Learning: Coursework is available on demand, allowing students to access lectures at their convenience. 
• No On-Campus Requirement: Students can complete the program entirely online but are welcome to attend optional events like orientation or graduation. 
• Industry-Informed Curriculum: The program is guided by an industrial advisory board, ensuring alignment with industry trends and needs. 
• U.S. News & World Report 2025 Rankings: No. 1 Top Public Schools, No. 1 Online Graduate Engineering Program, No. 3 Online Engineering Program for Veterans

Specializations and Academic Pathways

The program awards a Certificate of Specialization in Engineering Management, emphasizing the knowledge and skills needed to manage complex projects and teams effectively. Courses are designed to tackle practical challenges faced by engineering managers, providing students with skills they can immediately apply in their careers.

Core Courses:

• ENGR 201 – Systems Engineering: Focuses on system requirements, product development cycles, and risk management
• ENGR 200 – Program Management Principles for Engineers: Explores project planning, organizational structures, and performance tracking
• ENGR 210 – Operations and Supply Chain Management: Covers strategic and operational issues in managing enterprises
• ENGR 211 – Financial Management for Engineers: Provides practical insights into accounting and finance concepts

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the program are prepared for leadership roles in industries such as manufacturing, IT, healthcare, and finance. Typical positions include:

• Engineering manager
• Project manager
• Product manager
• Software development manager

Students benefit from connections with UCLA faculty and peers, as well as an advisory board comprising industry leaders.

Admissions Process

Eligibility Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, mathematics, or physics from an accredited institution.
• A GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last two years of undergraduate coursework.
• GRE scores (waived for competitive applicants).
• TOEFL/IELTS for international students. 

Application Materials:

• Completed application
• Application fee: $135 (domestic) or $155 (international)
• Official transcripts
• Résumé
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose and personal statement (each up to 500 words)

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for fall and spring start dates.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

Tuition and Fees:

• Cost per Unit: $1,100
• Total Program Tuition: $39,600
• Books and Supplies (estimated): $2,163 

Financial Aid:

• Students can apply for federal aid through FAFSA. Veterans and military members may access education benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Next Steps

Take the next step in your career with UCLA’s MSOL Engineering Management program. With a flexible online format, top-tier faculty, and industry-aligned curriculum, this program prepares you to lead in technical and business environments. Learn more and apply today!

Sources:

1https://www.msol.ucla.edu/engineering-management/ 

Disclaimer

All information about this program was found on UCLA Samueli Master of Science in Engineering Online’s 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 msengrol-em@seas.ucla.edu or (424) 443-7385.