University of Michigan, Dearborn

The University of Michigan-Dearborn's Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program is designed to equip engineers with essential management skills, bridging the gap between engineering and business disciplines. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for professionals aiming to advance into leadership roles within technical environments, providing them with the tools to effectively manage projects, operations, and teams. By integrating engineering principles with business strategies, the MSEM program prepares graduates to navigate complex organizational challenges and drive innovation.

Program Overview

The MSEM program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines core engineering courses with business management education.

• Format: Students can pursue the program on a full-time or part-time basis, accommodating working professionals. The program may be completed entirely on campus, entirely online, or through a combination of on-campus and online courses.
• Credits: 35 credit hours.
• Duration: Specific program length varies based on individual course loads. Students can progress at a pace that suits their personal and professional commitments. 
• Cost: In-state $954.00 per credit hour, non-resident $1,721.00 on campus/hybrid or $1,192.00 if fully online per credit hour for the 2024-25 academic year1

The program is tailored for engineers seeking to enhance their managerial competencies and for managers aiming to deepen their understanding of technical processes.

Specializations and Academic Pathways

The MSEM curriculum encompasses a blend of required core courses and elective options, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests. 

Core academic disciplines includes:

• Operations research
• Quality control 
• Project management
• Systems engineering. 

Elective courses offer opportunities to delve into areas such as:

• Supply chain management
• Information systems
• Human factors engineering

While the program emphasizes theoretical foundations, it also incorporates practical applications through case studies and project-based learning, enabling students to address real-world engineering management challenges.

Career Outcomes

Specific post-graduation employment statistics, such as average starting salaries or employment rates within set timeframes, are not detailed in the available sources. However, graduates of the MSEM program are well-positioned for roles that require both technical expertise and managerial acumen. Typical positions may include project manager, operations manager, engineering supervisor, or systems analyst, across industries such as manufacturing, automotive, technology, and healthcare.

Admissions Process

Applicants to the program are required to meet the following requirements:

• Eligibility: Admission to the program requires a BS degree in engineering, OR a degree in math, computer science, or a physical science earned from an accredited program with an average of B or better coupled with extensive experience in engineering. Students who do not meet BS degree requirements of the program should speak to the program advisor regarding the additional requirements to be met.

• GPA: Admitted applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale. Those with lower GPAs may be admitted on a provisional basis

• GRE/GMAT: The University of Michigan-Dearborn has adopted a test-optional policy for GRE/GMAT scores across its graduate programs.

• Required Materials: Two professional letters of recommendation.

• Application Deadlines: This program operates on a rolling admission basis.

Detailed information on the application process, including necessary documentation and submission guidelines, can be found on the university's admissions page.

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

The University of Michigan-Dearborn offers various financial support options for graduate students. Non-resident graduate students enrolled in in-person programs may be eligible for the Graduate Dearborn Scholarship. Additionally, the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) provides opportunities such as Graduate Student Research Assistantships (GSRA) and Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) positions, primarily for Ph.D. students, with occasional availability for master's students. Students are also encouraged to explore external grants and fellowships to supplement their funding.

Online Experience

The MSEM program at UM-Dearborn is delivered through a hybrid model, combining online and in-person learning experiences. This approach provides flexibility for students balancing professional responsibilities with academic pursuits. Faculty members are accessible to support online coursework, ensuring that distance learners receive guidance comparable to on-campus students. 

While specific details about leadership seminars, industry events, or internships are not explicitly mentioned in the provided sources, the program's integration of engineering and business coursework fosters a collaborative learning environment, preparing students for leadership roles in technical fields.

Why Choose This MEM Program?

The MSEM program at UM-Dearborn stands out due to its interdisciplinary approach, blending engineering and business education to prepare students for leadership roles in technical sectors. 

The flexible hybrid learning model caters to both full-time students and working professionals, allowing for a balanced integration of academic and professional development. 

The program's strong emphasis on practical application, combined with access to experienced faculty, equips graduates with the skills necessary to excel in dynamic and complex environments.

Next Steps

A Masters of Science in Engineering Management at the University of Michigan-Dearborn can enhance your career prospects by helping you acquire a unique blend of technical and managerial skills tailored for today's competitive landscape. To learn more about the program and begin your application process, visit the admissions page.

Sources

1. https://umdearborn.edu/admissions-aid/graduate-admissions/graduate-tuition-calculator 

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s 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 (248) 370-2100.