University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo’s Master of Engineering (ME) in Engineering Management program is a nationally ranked, fully online graduate degree designed for professionals aiming to accelerate their careers and step into leadership roles within engineering and technology organizations. Combining rigorous technical coursework with management-focused curriculum, the program prepares students to solve real-world challenges at the intersection of engineering, operations, and strategic decision-making.

Offered through UB’s highly regarded Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, this flexible, career-oriented program empowers both engineers and professionals from related STEM fields to lead projects, manage teams, and drive innovation across diverse industries.

Program Overview

The ME in Engineering Management at the University at Buffalo is a 30-credit, fully online program tailored for working professionals. Students may choose to enroll full-time or part-time, depending on their schedule and availability. Those studying full-time can complete the degree in as little as one year, while part-time students can customize their pace to accommodate personal and professional responsibilities.

One of the program’s standout features is its flexible learning structure: courses are delivered online with the choice to attend synchronous (live) sessions or participate asynchronously, allowing students across time zones and professional settings to access coursework on their own terms. Students can start in any semester—fall, spring, summer, or winter—making the program accessible year-round.

Curriculum and Learning Structure

The UB Engineering Management curriculum is structured around a blend of core engineering management principles, strategic decision-making tools, and real-world application. Students complete nine courses and a capstone project, totaling 30 credits.

Core Courses (18 Credits)

The foundational coursework ensures students develop a strong grasp of essential engineering management concepts:

• EAS 521 – Principles of Engineering Management I
• EAS 522 – Principles of Engineering Management II
• EAS 580 – Technical Communication for Engineers
• EAS 590 – Case Studies in Engineering Management
• IE 505 – Production Planning and Control
• IE 508 – Quality Assurance: Management Tools that Ensure Success
  

These courses address topics such as process improvement, technical communication, and production systems, while also incorporating real-life case studies to explore the practical challenges of engineering management.

Electives (12 Credits)

Students personalize their academic experience by selecting from a diverse set of electives, including:

• IE 509 – Six Sigma Quality
• IE 512 – Decision Analysis
• IE 564 – Lean Enterprise
• IE 500 – Project Management
• IE 551 – Simulation and Stochastic Models
• IE 541 – Human Factors in Safety
• EAS 500 – Business Intelligence and Analytics
  IE 581 – E-Business and Supply Chain Management

This elective structure allows students to concentrate in areas such as analytics, lean systems, supply chain management, or sustainability—depending on their professional goals.

Capstone Project

The Engineering Management Capstone Project is a signature element of the UB ME-EM program. Unlike a traditional thesis, this capstone is focused on practical implementation and impact. Students lead hands-on projects—often in collaboration with their current employer or an industry partner—targeting measurable improvements in key performance indicators such as:

• Quality
• Time-to-market
• Cost control
• Flexibility
• Customer satisfaction

Guided by faculty mentors, students engage in one-on-one project coaching to ensure that the capstone is strategically aligned with real business challenges.

Unique Features of the Program

The University at Buffalo’s ME-EM program offers a number of distinctive advantages that set it apart:

• 100% Online & Interactive: Courses are designed to be flexible and engaging, providing interactive experiences through discussion, live instruction, and applied learning.
• Faculty with Real-World Expertise: UB’s award-winning faculty bring consulting experience and professional certifications to the classroom. Many are part of UB’s nationally ranked Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering.
• Start Anytime: Unlike many traditional programs, students can start the UB ME-EM in any semester.
• Affordable Tuition: At $471 per credit hour for NY State residents, the program offers high value for a nationally ranked degree.
• Career-Driven Design: Coursework is tailored to apply directly to the workplace, offering immediate value and career relevance.
• No GRE Required: The application process is streamlined and accessible to experienced professionals.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the University at Buffalo’s ME in Engineering Management program are equipped with the skills to transition into or accelerate within leadership roles in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, technology, construction, and more.

Common job titles include:

• Engineering Project Manager
• Industrial Management Engineer
• Senior Lead Analyst
• Construction Management Engineer
• Cost Systems Analyst
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering managers rank among the highest-paid professionals in the U.S., and individuals holding both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering management often enjoy significantly higher salaries and job satisfaction compared to peers with technical degrees alone.1

Admissions Process

The UB ME-EM program is open to applicants with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physical sciences, or a related STEM field. Applicants with non-engineering degrees are welcome and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Requirements include:

• Online application form
• $100 application fee
• Resume or CV
• Statement of purpose
• Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants (if applicable)

No GRE is required. Applicants are encouraged to have some practical engineering experience—through jobs, internships, or academic projects—though this is not mandatory.

Financial Aid and Tuition

The Master of Engineering (ME) in Engineering Management program at the University at Buffalo offers competitive tuition rates and various financial aid options for students.

Tuition

• The tuition for the Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program is $471.00 per credit hour for New York State residents. For non-residents, tuition rates may vary. The program requires a total of 30 credit hours to complete, bringing the overall cost of tuition to approximately $14,130 for in-state students and higher for out-of-state students.
• For more detailed and up-to-date information about tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, visit the officialUniversity at Buffalo Graduate Tuition and Fees page.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The University at Buffalo offers various financial aid options to assist students in funding their graduate education, including federal loans, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance. Although specific graduate assistantships for the online Engineering Management program may not be available, students are encouraged to explore additional funding sources, such as:

• Federal Loans: Available through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
• Scholarships: The university offers merit-based scholarships and other financial aid opportunities. For more details on available scholarships and eligibility requirements, please refer to the Funding Your Graduate Degree at UB page.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Some students may be eligible for tuition assistance through their current employers, depending on company policies.

Prospective students should complete the FAFSA to maximize their eligibility for federal loans and financial aid.

For more detailed information about tuition rates, fees, or financial aid options, prospective students should visit the University at Buffalo’s officialTuition and Fees page and Graduate Funding Opportunities page.

Why Choose UB for Engineering Management?

There are several compelling reasons to choose the University at Buffalo’s Engineering Management program:

• National Recognition from U.S. News & Worlds Report:
• #9 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Programs2
• #21 Best Online Master’s for Veterans3
  
• Fully Online Flexibility: Designed for busy professionals with options for full-time or part-time study.
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Content is developed in collaboration with engineering leaders, ensuring relevance to today’s professional landscape.
• Career Acceleration: Graduates gain advanced strategic and leadership skills that position them for upward mobility and cross-functional leadership.
• Strong Professional Network: Students build connections with peers, faculty, and industry experts who bring practical experience to the classroom.

Class Profile

Specific demographic or academic background data on recent UB ME-EM students is not publicly available. However, the program is designed to accommodate a broad range of professionals—from recent engineering graduates to experienced managers across various technical industries.

Additional Opportunities

While UB’s ME-EM program does not currently offer formal joint degree options, its elective flexibility and interdisciplinary focus provide students with the ability to customize their education to align with business, data analytics, or operations management. Students seeking additional credentials may pursue separate certifications or follow up with a second graduate degree.

What’s Next?

Are you ready to take your engineering career to the next level?

The University at Buffalo’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program provides the perfect opportunity to merge technical skills with strategic leadership—entirely online, and on your schedule.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or a mid-career professional, this nationally ranked program offers the flexibility, affordability, and real-world relevance you need to thrive. Apply now and/or request more information. 

Sources

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/architectural-and-engineering-managers.htm
2. https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/engineering/rankings
3. https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/engineering/veteran-rankings

Additional Sources

• https://engineering.buffalo.edu/home/academics/beyond/online/engineering-management.html
• https://catalogs.buffalo.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=2&poid=448&returnto=68
• https://ubseasconnect.buffalo.edu/apply/
• https://www.buffalo.edu/studentaccounts/tuition-and-fees/tuition-for-online-academic-programs/winter-tuition-and-fees-for-online-academic-programs.html
• https://engineering.buffalo.edu/industrial-systems/masters-programs/me-engineering-management.html#admissions
• https://catalogs.buffalo.edu/index.php?catoid=12
• https://carolinau.edu/financial-services/frequently-asked-questions

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on University of Buffalo’s Master in Engineering program’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 716-645-2000.