University of Wisconsin, Madison

Master of Science in Engineering Management

At a Glance

Master of Science in Engineering Management

About the program

The Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) from UW–Madison blends engineering rigor with leadership, analytics, and systems expertise. Delivered fully online via eight-week modules through the College of Engineering, this program is designed for experienced professionals aiming for technical leadership without pausing their careers.

Program Overview

This 30-credit, coursework-only program requires ten courses (no thesis) and offers flexible pacing for completion in 1–2 years.

  • Format: 100% online via 8-week modules
  • Credits: 30 credit hours
  • Structure: 10 courses: 8 core + 2 electives
  • Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
  • Start Terms: Fall 2025, Spring, or Summer

Curriculum Details

UW–Madison’s MSEM curriculum focuses on strategic technical leadership and decision-making:

Core Courses Include:

  • Engineering & Systems Management
  • Quality Management
  • Project Management
  • Operations & Supply Chain Management
  • Analytics for Decision Making
  • Advanced Engineering Economic Analysis
  • Strategic Engineering Management
  • New Product & Service Development

Practitioners choose two electives—such as Six Sigma, machine learning, or team leadership—guided by advisor recommendations.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition rates:

  • Total (30 credits): ~$39,000-40,300

Detailed breakdowns are available on UW’s Graduate Tuition & Fees page.

Admissions Process

Applications are submitted via UW–Madison’s graduate portal. Requirements include: 

  • Bachelor’s in engineering or related field
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Transcripts, résumé, statement of purpose, and recommender letters
  • International students require TOEFL/IELTS
  • GRE not required but may be requested

Career Outcomes

Graduates across industries such as aerospace, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and government—fill roles such as:

  • Engineering or Technical Program Manager
  • Operations & Supply Chain Director
  • Quality/Process Engineer
  • Systems Development Leader

Program Highlights

UW–Madison’s MSE M delivers a top-tier engineering leadership education through a fully online, applied curriculum. Its eight-week modular format enables students to balance work and study seamlessly. The structured yet flexible program mixes foundational courses—like analytics, systems, and product development—with two customizable electives for specialized skill development. While no thesis is required, students engage in a capstone-level application across core domains. Designed for professionals, the program includes cohort-based learning, strong faculty mentorship, and robust university support services—all rooted in a research-intensive, AACSB-accredited environment.

Rankings & Recognition

U.S. News & World Report (2025) ranks UW–Madison’sonline engineering graduate program #17 nationally and the College of Engineering #27 (tie).1,2

These accolades reflect both program and institutional strength, reinforcing the value of UW–Madison’s engineering management degree.

Take the Next Step

If you're aiming to lead within technical organizations and drive transformative projects, UW–Madison’s online MSEM offers a powerful blend of leadership skills, technical depth, and institutional prestige. Learn more on theprogram page and begin your applicationhere.

Sources:

1https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-wisconsin-madison-240444

2https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/university-of-wisconsin-madison-240444/overall-rankings

Additional Sources:

  • https://guide.wisc.edu/graduate/engineering-college-wide/engineering-management-ms/#text
  • https://online.wisconsin.edu/degrees-programs/uw-madison-engineering-management-ms/
  • https://gradapply.wisc.edu/apply/
  • https://online.wisc.edu/tuition-fees/
  • https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/
  • https://online.wisc.edu/frequently-asked-questions/
  • https://guide.wisc.edu/
  • https://guide.wisc.edu/graduate/engineering-college-wide/engineering-management-ms/#admissionstext

Disclaimer
All information about this program was found on University of Wisconsin-Madison’s website, June 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. 

Curriculum

  • Starts Per Year: 3

  • Total Number of Credits: 30

  • Months to Complete: 24 to 36

  • Term Type: Semester

  • Delivery Modality: Online

  • On Campus Requirements: None

  • Concentrations:

  • Concentration Notes:

  • Capstone: None

Tuition

  • Cost per Credit Out of State or Online: $500

  • Total Out of State or Online Tuition: $15,000

  • Cost per Credit In State:

  • Total In State Tuition:

Admissions

  • Prerequisite Notes: A B.S. degree in engineering from an ABET-approved program. Interested applicants with B.S. degrees in related fields should contact the graduate programs coordinator for more specific admission information.

  • Admission Requirements: 3.0 in last 60 hours of undegrad courses, Letters of Recommendation, Work Experience

  • Admission Requirements Notes: Two years of post-baccalaureate work experience in engineering (co-op or intern experience counts toward requirement)

  • Application Fee:

  • Type of GMAT/GRE Waiver:

  • Minimum GMAT/GRE Score:

  • Minimum GPA:

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