University of San Diego

The Master of Science in Engineering Management and Leadership (MS-EML) program at the University of San Diego (USD) equips engineers with essential management and leadership skills to excel in technology-driven organizations. Engineering professionals aiming to advance their careers will benefit from this tailored program that bridges the gap between engineering and executive management—ideal for those seeking to lead technical teams, manage complex projects, and drive innovation within their industries.

Program Overview

The MS-EML program at USD offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates engineering principles with business acumen. 

• Format: 100% online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
• Total Units: 30 units of coursework
• Duration: Students typically complete the program in 20 months, engaging in one 7-week course at a time. 
• Cost per Credit: $925 per Unit

This program is an ideal fit for engineers interested in project management, systems thinking, financial analysis, and organizational behavior. Candidates who flourish in USD’s program “have a command of technical or engineering skills along with prior management and leadership experience.”

Specializations and Academic Pathways

The MS-EML at the University of San Diego is designed to be completed in 20 months (five semesters). Each course is seven weeks long, and the program ends with a three-unit capstone project completed with other students for a client company. Students enrolled in the program can expect to learn the following:  

• Technology and Engineering Leadership
• Emerging Technology Trends
• Competing Strategically 
• Building Resilient Technology Businesses
• Technology and Engineering Management
• Value Chain of Engineering Organizations
• Sustainability, Ethics, and Compliance
• Decision Analysis

The MS-EML curriculum breaks down into these ten three-hour units:

• EML 501 — Introduction to Technology and Engineering Management 
• EML 502 — Introduction to Technology and Engineering Leadership
• EML 520 — Emerging Technology Trends and Startups
• EML 525 — Tomorrow’s Platforms, Products, and Services
• EML 530 — Competing Strategically
• EML 535 — Building Resilient Technology Businesses
• EML 540 — Value Chain of Engineering Organizations
• EML 545 — Sustainability, Ethics, and Compliance
• EML 590 — Decision Analysis
• EML 595 — Capstone Project Experience 

The program does not offer formal specializations; however, its core curriculum is designed to provide a broad understanding of engineering management and leadership. 

Career Outcomes

The program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in various sectors, including technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. The program qualifies students to fill any of the following roles:

• C-level executives 
• Engineering research managers
• Global engineering managers
• Engineering directors
• Engineering design managers
• Process engineering managers
• Vice president of engineering
• IT project manager
• Quality manager
• Operations manager
• Technical consultant
• Director of business development
• Research and development
• VP of product development
• Director of production integration

For detailed career outcomes, prospective students are encouraged to contact USD's admissions office directly.

Admissions Process

• Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree (BS or BA) from an accredited institution in STEAM or business fields is required. Applicants who can show industry experience and “articulate their philosophy of engineering management and leadership” are given preference. 
• GRE: Waived for applicants with a minimum 2.75 GPA from an ABET-accredited program. Students with a GPA under 2.75 are required to take the GRE or GMAT and “provide relevant explanations in the accompanying statement of purpose.”
• Required Materials: Online application, official transcripts, resume or CV, and two letters of recommendation
• Application Deadlines: 
• Spring - December 2
• Summer - April 4
• Fall - August 1 

The exact dates may change. Check the website for more detailed information.

*The school also offers priority deadlines to help increase your chances of admission before the seats are filled.  

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

Tuition for the MS-EML program is $925 per unit, totaling $27,750 for the 30-unit program. USD offers various financial aid options, including:

• Tuition support for veterans
• Payment in full or interest-free monthly payments
• Federal financial aid

While specific scholarships for the MS-EML program are not listed, students are encouraged to explore additional funding opportunities and consult the financial aid office for personalized assistance.

Why Choose This MS-EML Program

The University of San Diego's MS-EML boasts many outstanding features, from its flexible online format to its industry-focused curriculum. 

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to:

• Lead complex technology organizations with multi-tiered organizational structures. 
• Develop an organizational framework and culture that promotes innovation. 
• Create a strategic vision, corporate mission, and goals for a technology-based corporation with company strengths and risk management in mind. 
• Understand the elements of competitive advantage and how to overcome obstacles to using it. 
• Lead others through natural ability combined with a specific model of influence. 
• Use the Social System Concepts to manage productivity, handle personal issues, and create a high-performing team.

The regionally and nationally accredited university gives students access to a supportive learning environment that fosters collaboration and networking, including a student support team of advisors. Students also benefit from the knowledge and expertise of faculty members who have run businesses, developed products and services, launched startups, and held various roles within tech industries. 

Additional Features

The school offers other opportunities for students to find their unique place within the institution, through features like the Copley Libary, Career Develoopment Center, The Information Technology Services (ITS), Torero Hub (non-academic resources), and a Student Success Team. 

Next Steps

If you're ready to elevate your engineering career and develop the leadership skills necessary to thrive in today's technology-driven industries, consider applying to the University of San Diego's MS-EML program. For more information on application procedures and to begin your journey, visit their application page.

Sources

• https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/masters-engineering-management-leadership/
• https://catalogs.sandiego.edu/graduate/

Disclaimer

All information about this program was found on the University of San Diego 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 (619) 260-4580.