If you’re an aspiring industrial engineer, enrolling in the best industrial engineering bachelor’s degree is the first step to becoming one. Having an undergraduate degree gives you an edge in finding high-paying jobs in industries where industrial engineers are in-demand.
In this article, we’ve gathered everything you should know about the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Industrial Engineering programs and the schools offering them. You’ll also learn about industrial engineering bachelor’s degree jobs that you can pursue once you’ve graduated. Keep reading to find out which school and Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering works best for you.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
Some of the best schools to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering are Arizona State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Northeastern University. You can also explore Oregon State University and University of California, Berkeley for the best industrial engineering bachelor’s degree.
What Schools Offer the Best Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Northeastern University
- Oregon State University
- University of California, Berkeley
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering program are an application form, a high school diploma, and official transcripts. Some schools require a minimum GPA, SAT or ACT scores, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. International students from non-native English-speaking countries are also required to submit proof of English proficiency.
Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Application form
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Official transcripts
- Minimum GPA
- SAT or ACT scores
- Personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency for (non-native speakers)
How to Get an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree
You get an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Some of these include completing the needed credits and coursework and maintaining a minimum GPA. You also need to finish a capstone design project to graduate.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
You need a minimum of 120 credits to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. In general, at least 50 percent of those credits will come from required core courses. The remaining 40 percent will come from general education courses, and 10 percent will come from elective courses. These percentages vary based on the institution.
Industrial Engineering Degree Requirements
- At least 120 credits consisting of core, general education, and elective courses
- Minimum GPA
- Capstone project
Best Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Higher Learning Commission |
| East Carolina University | Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering Technology | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| University at Buffalo | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of California, Berkeley | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering & Operations Research | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology |
| University of Illinois Chicago | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Michigan | Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial & Operations Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Industrial Engineering: Top Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs
This section lists the top accredited schools where you can get the best industrial engineering bachelor’s degree. We also provide an overview of each program, admission requirements, and the application processes.
What Is an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
An industrial engineering bachelor’s degree is a four to five-year undergraduate education credential. It equips students with the technical skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in industrial engineering. Finishing this degree can also enable learners to continue their education with a master’s degree program in this field.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering is very important. If you want to work as an industrial engineer, you’ll need to pursue undergraduate studies in industrial engineering. Getting an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree will prepare you to work in various types of engineering fields.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Industrial Engineering?
There are two types of bachelor’s degrees you can get in industrial engineering, including a bachelor of science (BS) and a bachelor of engineering (BE). Academically, these two types of degrees have the same credit value but have different program approaches. A BS degree has an even balance of theory and practice. A BE degree is more focused on practical applications.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science Degree or a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Industrial Engineering?
It’s better to get a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. A BS degree will provide you with a more in-depth understanding of engineering concepts. The theoretical perspective can better prepare you for leadership roles in the job market. However, if you want to build practical experience in industrial engineering, a BE degree might be a better fit for you.
What Is the Difference Between an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree and an Industrial Engineering Certificate?
The main differences between a bachelor’s degree and a certificate in industrial engineering are their length, cost, and level of education. Certificates are given to students because of successful completion of foundational concepts or a specific topic within a broader field.
Certificates are quicker to earn than bachelor’s degrees. They’re also cheaper than undergraduate degrees. While certificate programs only give a foundational level of knowledge in industrial engineering, bachelor’s degree programs cover a broad scope of topics in great depth.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of a bachelor’s degree is $16,647 per year. This cost includes tuition and required fees. Tuition rates may vary, depending on whether you’re attending a public, private, non-profit, or for-profit institution. It also varies based on the state, program, and specific college or university.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree. However, in some cases, it can take more time to fulfill the credit requirements for an industrial engineering degree program. In general, students need at least 120 credits to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
It’s hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering because it’s a challenging major. You’ll have to pass advanced math, statistics, and technical courses. These courses will require you to dedicate long hours of study. However, if you’re committed to specializing in this field, your drive can make studying a little easier.
Why Should You Get an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree because it teaches you a wide range of skills. Not only will you acquire technical skills, you’ll also enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A bachelor’s degree prepares you for different career opportunities in the technology, electronics, and manufacturing industries.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Industrial Engineering?
Some courses you’ll need to take in a bachelor’s degree program in industrial engineering are linear algebra, engineering economy, and probability and statistics. You’ll also learn about programming for engineers and the manufacturing process. Below is an overview of these courses.
Linear Algebra
This course teaches students lines and planes, vector spaces, and linear equations. Industrial engineering students must learn linear algebra because of its foundational role in creating and innovating products. Students also learn how to effectively solve systems of linear equations and do statistical and numerical analyses.
Engineering Economy
With this course, industrial engineering students will learn concepts of engineering economics, such as cash-flow equivalence, cost analysis, and replacement analysis. They also get to know how to select pieces of equipment and materials that are best for the engineering projects they’ll handle.
Programming for Engineers
In this course, students will learn basic programming skills that they can use for engineering tech-enabled products. Some of the topics included here are algorithms, object oriented programming, numeric computation, and matrices and equation solutions.
Probability and Statistics For Engineers
This course teaches students probability and statistics concepts that they can apply to analyze actual engineering problems. Students get to practice hypothesis testing and data analysis through this course. Other topics it covers are random variables, correlation and regression, sampling distributions, and estimation theory.
Manufacturing Process
In this course, industrial engineering students learn the fundamentals of manufacturing processes, such as bulk deformation, casting and molding, 3D printing, and metal cutting. They’ll also learn about the properties of different materials. They also get exposed to popular product designs and manufacturing methods.
Continuing Education Paths for Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
One continuing education path after getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering is applying for an industrial engineering master’s degree. You can also pursue certifications like the Certified Industrial Engineer (CIE) exam. Alternative education tracks include learning from industrial engineering courses and resources online.
Related Industrial Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The essential things to look for in the best social media marketing associate degree programs are the accreditation of the school or program and the employment outcomes for graduates. You’ll also need to consider the curricular content and availability of electives, the concentration options, and the school’s total graduation rate.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures universities provide quality education. In a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering, you should make sure the school or the program is accredited by reliable institutions, such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Apart from the program, the school must also have its own accreditation.
Employment Outcomes
Before applying for an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree, take the time to check the school’s employment outcomes. A high employment rate means that the institution makes sure that its graduates are well-prepared for employment across various sectors.
Curricular Content
Most bachelor’s degree programs’ curriculum consists of major, general education, and elective courses. Taking the time to check the curricular content of different programs will help you decide which program might be a better option for you. You must assess whether the coursework aligns with your career goals and academic expectations.
Concentration Options
Concentrations provide students with knowledge of a specific subject matter in industrial engineering. They give students the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge in a specialized area of study. An example of this is manufacturing engineering. Such programs give you the chance to fulfill your specific career goals within industrial engineering.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate measures the percentage of students who enrolled and graduated from a particular institution. This provides you with an insight into how many enrolled students finish their degrees within the school. A high graduation rate signifies a better chance of high-quality programs and support for students.
What Is the Most Affordable Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable industrial engineering bachelor’s degree is offered by East Carolina University at $305 per credit. This means that a 15-credit semester costs around $4,575. A full bachelor’s degree program costs approximately $36,600 at 120 credits.
Salary and Job Outlook for Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The salary and job outlook for graduates with an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree are promising. Most of the best industrial engineering bachelor’s degree jobs have a positive job growth projection until 2030. Their average annual salaries are also on the higher side, at $65,000 or more. Let’s have a closer look at these industrial engineering jobs below.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
It’s not hard to get a job with an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree. There’s a wide variety of jobs for industrial engineering bachelor’s degree holders. You can work as a cost estimator, safety engineer, or manager in a manufacturing plant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this engineering field is projected to grow 14 percent in the next decade.
What’s the Average Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for a professional with an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree is around $80,000 per year, according to PayScale. This annual salary varies depending on the specific area of engineering and the years of experience. For example, a quality assurance engineer can earn about $68,000 a year, while a quality manager earns around $90,000 a year.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
Some of the jobs you can do with an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree are industrial production manager, materials engineer, and quality engineer. Apart from being an industrial engineer, you can also be a management analyst and a cost estimator.
Industrial Engineering Degree Jobs
- Industrial Production Manager
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Materials Engineer
- Management Analyst
- Quality Engineer
Potential Careers With an Industrial Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?
On average, you can make between $65,000 and $103,000 per year with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering degree. This annual salary varies depending on the particular job title. Professionals with college degrees can land higher-level engineering positions, such as engineering managers, quality engineers, or even senior industrial designers.
Highest-Paying Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Industrial Production Manager | $103,150 |
| Materials Engineer | $98,300 |
| Industrial Engineer | $95,300 |
| Management Analyst | $93,000 |
| Cost Estimator | $65,170 |
Best Jobs for Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Grads
Below, we provide an overview of the job responsibilities of each of the best industrial engineering bachelor’s degree jobs. We also detail their average salary, outlook, and highest-paying states.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering is worth it. Industrial engineers are highly demanded and well-paid professionals. Moreover, pursuing an undergraduate education in this field prepares you for plenty of career opportunities. Because of the versatility of this profession, industrial engineers can work in both technical services and engineering management positions.
Additional Reading About Industrial Engineering
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Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
According to US News & World Report, the top three schools with the best Industrial engineering bachelor’s degree programs are Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California-Berkeley, and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. These three schools offer well-rounded, high-quality programs of study in industrial engineering.
Yes, you can get an industrial engineering bachelor’s degree online. However, because it mainly involves hands-on learning, it’s better to opt for an in-person or hybrid program. The College of Engineering at Lamar University offers a bachelor’s degree program with a hybrid format. It allows students two complete the last two years of their degree fully online.
The career path for an industrial engineering student is to be an industrial engineer in fields where they are most needed. These include manufacturing, electronics, and tech industries. However, they can also specialize in materials and production processes, or they can pursue a management path.
Yes, industrial engineering is a good career choice. Even though it’s a challenging career, it’s also a rewarding one. Industrial engineers have the skills required to perform different types of jobs in engineering, enabling them to help a lot of people with the products they produce. Also, this profession’s job outlook is expected to grow by 14 percent in the coming years.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
