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Best Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Saheed Aremu Olanrewaju - May 26, 2022


The best industrial engineering master’s degrees offer top-notch education for students seeking advanced degrees to kick start a lucrative career in engineering. Engineering is one of the leading players in the evolution of technology in the world today and Master’s Degrees in Engineering lead to several high-paying job opportunities in numerous industries.

While industrial engineering may be an in-demand career path, it can be quite challenging to study and qualify for a job. If you’re considering a career in the engineering field, continue reading for an overview of the best schools for industrial engineering master’s degrees as well as the highest-paying industrial engineering master’s degree jobs.

Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

Some of the best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering include Texas A&M University, Arizona State University, the University of Washington, Oregon State University, and Drexel University. Continue reading for a complete list of ten of the best schools.

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What Schools Offer the Best Industrial Engineering Master’s Degrees?

  • Texas A&M University
  • Arizona State University
  • Oregon State University
  • University of Washington
  • Drexel University

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering include a bachelor’s or undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university, a minimum GPA of 3.0, a resume or CV, and an application fee. Other Master’s in Industrial Engineering requirements include official transcripts from past universities, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

Some schools may require prospective students to have a background in engineering. All international and English as a second language-speaking (ESL) students must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam scores to provide proof of English proficiency.

Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Resume or CV
  • Official transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • TOEFL exam or equivalent for ESL and international students

How to Get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering

To get an industrial engineering master’s degree , students must fulfill all of the program’s graduation requirements. Many schools require students to complete a certain amount of credit hours in core courses and elective courses, as well as other requirements, such as a thesis or capstone design project.

How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

You’ll typically need 30 to 36 credits for a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. The curriculum includes foundational courses, core courses, and elective courses that teach students skills in design and manufacturing engineering. Students may also need to submit a capstone project or thesis to graduate.

Industrial Engineering Degree Requirements

  • Complete 30 to 36 credit hours, depending on the school
  • Complete a certain amount of credits for core courses and elective credits per the school’s curriculum
  • Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • Complete all financial obligations to the school
  • Master’s capstone design project or thesis, depending on the school

Best Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Arizona State University Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Higher Learning Commission
Colorado State University – Pueblo Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering Higher Learning Commission
Drexel University Master of Science in Systems Engineering Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Georgia Institute of Technology Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Lehigh University Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Oregon State University Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Purdue University Industrial Engineering Masters Degree Higher Learning Commission
Texas A&M University – College Station Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Michigan – Dearborn Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering Higher Learning Commission
University of Washington Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Best Schools for Industrial Engineering: Top Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Programs

The following includes detailed information on the best industrial engineering master’s degree schools, including information on tuition costs, graduation rates, application details and the criteria decision process, required credit hours, and learning formats available for each program to help you narrow your school search.

1

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public university located in Tempe, Arizona. The school was founded in 1885 and is one of the largest public universities in the United States. ASU has an enrollment of over 70,000 students in its on-campus and online degree programs and has been ranked number one by U.S News & World Report as the most innovative university in the US.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

This interdisciplinary engineering program offers students the technical skills needed for their professional career goals. Concentration courses offered include Information Systems Engineering, Management Systems Engineering, and Economic Analysis. The program is offered in both on-campus and distance learning formats.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition and Fees: $1,000/credit (in-state); $1,603/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $70
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, personal statement

Applying to Arizona State University

  1. Start the online application on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional documents.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the fee.
  5. Complete the application process and await feedback from the admissions board.
2

Colorado State University - Pueblo

Pueblo, CO

Colorado State University (CSU) is a public university located in Pueblo, Colorado. It was established in 1933 and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to one. CSU has over 4,000 students enrolled in its 48 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering

CSU offers an on-campus master’s degree in engineering that enables students with both the technical skills needed to succeed as industrial engineers as well as the academic skills required to advance their studies to pursue a PhD. The program offers courses in subjects such as ergonomics, computer integrated manufacturing, reliability engineering, and a senior thesis.

Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $1,140/unit in state
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: N/A
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $35
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts

Applying to Colorado State University

  1. Start the online application on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the application fee.
  5. Await feedback from the admissions board.
3

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University is a private university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1891 and currently has over 24,000 students in more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Drexel is known for its professional co-op learning program that allows students to work in internship positions and earn college credit simultaneously.

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

The Master’s Degree in Systems Engineering has both in-person and online programs for full-time students. The curriculum offers classes in subjects such as systems lifecycle, manufacturing, reliability engineering, and regression analysis. Students will acquire skills in technical services, knowledge of computer analysis, and systems design.

Master of Science in Systems Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition: $1,342/credit
  • Required Credits: 45 credits
  • Program Length: 1 year plus 1 quarter
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Master of Science in Systems Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $65
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, a 500-word essay, two letters of recommendation

Applying to Drexel University

  1. Start the online application on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional application materials.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the fee.
  5. Complete the application process before the application deadline and await feedback  from the admissions board.
4

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA

Georgia Institute of Technology was founded in 1885 in Atlanta, Georgia. It is a public research and technology institute with over 100 master's degree and doctoral programs. Georgia Institute of Technology ranks as the best school for industrial engineering in the US, according to a report from the U.S News and World Report in 2022.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

This program is 30 credit hours and is focused on advanced degree coursework in research, statistics, and modeling in engineering management. It offers core courses in subjects like manufacturing systems, supply chain systems, and regression analysis, and includes other procedure training courses in simulation and optimization.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition and Fees: $691/credit (in-state); 1,579/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: N/A
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 91%

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation

Applying to the Georgia Institute of Technology

  1. Apply on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional materials.
  4. Submit your application form.
  5. Await feedback from the admissions board after the application deadline.
5

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA

In 1865, Judge Asa Packer made a donation that led to the founding of Lehigh University in the city of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Lehigh University is well known for its business and engineering colleges, in which it offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs to students on-campus and online.

Master of Science Industrial and Systems Engineering

This program will teach students about succeeding in areas such as finance, healthcare, transportation, and supply chain management and offers a training emphasis on machine learning and data analytics. It is designed to accommodate graduates and working professionals from the fields of engineering, business, applied sciences, or mathematics.

Master of Science Industrial and Systems Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition and Fees: $1,500/credit
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 1 to 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 88%

Master of Science Industrial and Systems Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.75 to 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, competence in mathematics and programming

Applying to Lehigh University

  1. Visit the program’s website.
  2. Click on apply, then graduate application.
  3. Create an account.
  4. Complete the online application.
  5. Submit the required materials before the deadline.
  6. Await feedback from the admissions board.
6

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University is a public university in Corvallis, Oregon. It was established in 1868 and now offers over 200 degree programs to more than 34,000 students. Oregon State is nationally recognized as one of the top schools on the West Coast and is the largest university in Oregon.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

The MSIE program at Oregon State requires students to complete a project and a thesis to graduate. Students will gain technical skills and professional experience in industrial or manufacturing engineering and will take core classes in subjects such as information systems engineering, industrial optimization, and human factors engineering.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition: $557/credit (in-state); $1,105/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 45 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, personal statement, letter of reference

Applying to Oregon State University

  1. Start the online application on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional materials.
  4. Submit your application form.
  5. Complete the application process and await feedback from the admissions board.
7

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University is a public university in West Lafayette, Indianapolis. It was founded in 1869. Purdue offers over 160 graduate programs to more than 12,000 graduate students on its main campus in West Lafayette. Purdue has been ranked number 49 on the U.S. World & News Report of the best national universities.

Industrial Engineering Master's Degree

This master's engineering program offers a master’s degree with a thesis or a degree without a thesis option. The thesis option requires 21 credits of coursework and nine credits of thesis work, while the other option maximizes the entire 30 credit hours in course work. The program teaches future engineers how to design, analyze, and develop human-integrated systems.

Industrial Engineering Masters Degree Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition and Fees: $347.85/credit hour (in-state); $948.30/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person, hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%

Industrial Engineering Masters Degree Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.2 to 3.5 minimum
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $60
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation

Applying to Purdue University

  1. Apply on the school’s website.
  2. Create an account.
  3. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  4. Provide your personal information and additional materials.
  5. Submit your application form.
  6. Await feedback from the admissions board.
8

Texas A&M University - College Station

College Station, TX

Texas A&M University is a public university established in 1876 and located in College Station, Texas. Texas A&M is a large university with an enrollment of more than 72,000 students attending its flagship College Station campus. The university also enjoys a high graduation rate of about 83 percent , according to the National Center for Education Statistics .

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

Texas A&M’s Master of Science in Industrial Engineering teaches industrial and civil engineering students about operations research, data science, human factors, inventory control, and manufacturing at affordable tuition rates. The program also offers a thesis opportunity to students in their final year of study.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition (and Fees): $1,639/credit (in-state); $3,172/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 1.5 years
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $65
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, resume, three letters of recommendation

Applying to Texas A&M University

  1. Apply on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the application fee.
  5. Await feedback from the admissions board.
9

University of Michigan

Dearborn, MI

The University of Michigan in Dearborn was founded in 1959 after Ford Motor Co. donated money and land to the state in hopes that it would educate highly-trained engineers and workers that could be employed by the company. Today the university offers over 50 graduate programs to more than 1,800 graduate students.

Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering

This 30-credit hour program is designed to hone students’ skills in designing, installing, and improving complex integrated systems. It offers specialization in areas including ergonomics, program management, and systems design. This flexible program can be pursued online, on campus, part-time, and full-time.

Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $825/credit (in-state); $1,465/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 55%

Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $60
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, computer science, or applied mathematics
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, resume, statement of purpose

Applying to the University of Michigan

  1. Apply on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional required documents.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the fee.
  5. Await feedback from the admissions board.
10

University of Washington

Seattle, WA

The University of Washington is a public research institution located in Seattle, Washington. It was founded in 1861 and is considered one of the oldest universities on the West Coast. The University of Washington offers several degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to over 44,000 students.

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

This 41 credit hour-program offers two degree completion paths: a coursework-only path and a thesis path, both of which are offered full-time and on campus. The program’s curriculum consists of key courses that train students in optimization, analytical methods, virtual interface technology, engineering management, and quality control.

  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition and Fees: $20,175/year (in-state); $35,064/year (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 41 credits
  • Program Length: 1 to 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 82%

Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GRE
  • Application Fee: $85 or $75 for graduate non-matriculated applications
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, mathematics, or science
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, resume

Applying to University of Washington

  1. Start the online application on the school’s website.
  2. Select the degree program you’re applying for.
  3. Provide your personal information and additional application materials.
  4. Submit your application form and pay the fee.
  5. Await feedback from the admissions board.

What Is an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

An industrial engineering master’s degree is a degree program that provides students with advanced learning in industrial engineering concepts. Master’s Degrees in Industrial Engineering usually take about two years to complete and allow industrial engineering students to further their education and strengthen their engineering qualifications after obtaining a bachelor’s degree .

Industrial engineering deals with the application of scientific techniques to provide integrated systems for production processes. Industrial engineering programs offer graduate students additional training and hands-on experience in the field to help them kickstart their careers.

How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

A Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering is very important because it offers you the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications for a lucrative career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average annual salary of an industrial engineer is $95,300 .

Another reason why an industrial engineering master’s degree is important is that these programs offer students a wide variety of career opportunities in areas like project management, industrial engineering, and industrial design.

What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Industrial Engineering?

You can get the following types of master’s degrees for industrial engineering:

  • Master of Science
  • Master of Engineering

The best type of master’s degree for industrial engineering will depend on your long-term career goals. If you want to go into research, you may find a Master of Science is the better choice. If you want a program that focuses on technical skills and coursework, a Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering is the best choice.

Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering?

It is better to get a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering than a Master of Engineering because the former offers a combination of project work and extensive research in the field, while the latter focuses more on coursework.

Many schools do not allow students to choose between the two programs of study. Whichever degree you pursue, you would still get an excellent education. Both graduate programs offer several job opportunities in industrial engineering to degree recipients.

What Is the Difference Between an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree and an Industrial Engineering Certificate?

The difference between an industrial engineering master’s degree and an industrial engineering certificate is that an industrial engineering degree is an advanced educational qualification, while an industrial engineering certificate is a certification that shows competency in a certain skill or area of the field.

Master’s degrees usually take one to two years to complete and are more expensive, while graduate certificates are usually less expensive and take less than a year to complete. Master’s degrees teach interdisciplinary academic knowledge, while graduate certificates focus more on practical skills. The answer to what is better, a master’s degree or certificate in industrial engineering, will depend on your career goals.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

A Master’s in Industrial Engineering costs an average of $19,314 , according to data by the National Center for Education Statistics. For private institutions, it estimates the total cost of $25,929.

It is important to note that the cost of getting a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering may vary depending on the school. Private universities are usually more expensive than public universities, and residents will typically spend less on tuition rates than non-residents of a state.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

It takes one to two years on average to get an industrial engineering master’s degree for a full-time student and requires about 30 to 36 credit hours for graduation. Your Master’s in Industrial Engineering length will depend on the school’s academic calendar.

Another factor that affects the specific duration of time for an industrial engineering master’s degree is the program format. For example, it would take a student about two years to complete a master’s degree on a full-time schedule, while it may take over two years for a part-time student to complete the same degree.

How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

It can be quite hard to get a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. This is because it requires you to have advanced knowledge of mathematics, statistical analysis, physical science, and engineering. While getting an industrial engineering master’s degree is hard, it is very possible to learn and obtain a degree with the resources provided by top schools.

Why Should You Get an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

You should get an industrial engineering master’s degree because it offers a fast-growing engineering career opportunity in a wide variety of industries, such as manufacturing, data analysis, logistics, business, supply chain, and automobile industries. The degree helps graduate students acquire a range of skills such as operations research, design, and manufacturing engineering.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Industrial Engineering?

The courses you’ll need to take in a master’s degree program in industrial engineering vary from school to school. Below is a list of typical Master’s in Industrial Engineering courses that students will complete during the program.

Data Science

This course entails the scientific methods involved in collecting, cleaning, and processing data to derive useful insight and offer business solutions. Students learn the different scientific processes involved in gathering structured and unstructured data.

Manufacturing Engineering

This course refers to the provision of integrated systems for the manufacturing of products or processes of construction projects. Students will learn how to produce quality yet cost-effective and time-efficient processes of manufacturing.

Production Systems

Production systems in engineering is a branch that focuses on the application of analytic models, artificial intelligence and machine learning, or advanced technology to the manufacturing industry. Industrial engineering students will learn about job production, batch production, continuous production, and mass production in this course.

Design Engineering

Design is a branch of study in engineering that trains students on the different techniques of design and prototyping involved in manufacturing. Students will learn how to use computer software to develop product designs.

Operations Research

Operations research or operations analysis refers to the use of models and analytical designs to solve complex business and production problems. Students will learn the fundamentals of statistics, modeling, and optimization to ensure cost-efficiency.

Continuing Education Paths for Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates

The best continuing education path to take with an industrial engineering master’s degree after you graduate is to pursue a doctoral degree and PhD in Engineering. A doctoral degree signifies that these candidates are the most highly-qualified professionals in the field, and they would have the additional option of teaching in universities and conducting academic research.

Graduates that would prefer not to go back to school can choose to enroll in an engineering certificate program, which would allow them to showcase their skills in specific factors in engineering.

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What to Look For in the Best Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Programs

The key things to look for in the best industrial engineering master’s degree programs are numerous. Below is a list of some of the most crucial factors to consider before choosing a school for your industrial engineering master’s program.

Reputation of School

One of the main things you should consider in a school before applying is its reputation. The reputation includes recognitions, annual awards and rankings, financial grants, the caliber of alumni, and important research activities.

Student Services

Another important thing to look out for is whether the school offers support for the needs of students. It is important to attend a school that has strong decision support systems and other student services to help out in times of need.

Accreditation

The accreditation status of the school you are applying to is very important because it ensures that the school of engineering has met national or international educational standards of quality. Many engineering companies and employers may doubt the quality of your degree if it is from an institution that is not accredited, thereby reducing your chances of getting a good job.

Barriers to Admission

This is a very important factor because it can bar your admission to a school. Research the admission requirements of your preferred school carefully to find out if you qualify for the program. For example, many schools require applicants to have an undergraduate degree in engineering, science, or a related field for an industrial engineering master’s degree.

Learning Format

Some schools may offer programs strictly online, on campus, or a hybrid mix of both. Depending on your preference, available resources, or location, you should apply to a program that offers a  learning format that best suits you.

What Is the Most Affordable Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

The most affordable industrial engineering master’s degree is offered by Purdue University. The cost per credit for Indiana residents is $347.85 per credit, making the total cost of the degree $10,435.50 for 30 credits. This is the most affordable program of all of the schools mentioned in this guide, but keep in mind that the cost will vary and doesn’t include other miscellaneous fees.

Salary and Job Outlook for Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates

Two manufacturing engineers wearing hard hats and reviewing facilities management plans in a factory.  
A Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering equips graduates with the technical and analytical skills needed to excel as engineers in the field.

After graduating with an industrial engineering master’s degree, you will enter a lucrative field with exciting job prospects. You can begin your career by searching for job openings by top companies hiring industrial engineers . Continue reading for an overview of some of the best industrial engineering master’s degree jobs and their average annual salaries.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

It is not very hard to get a job with an industrial engineering master’s degree. According to BLS, there are about 292,000 jobs in industrial engineering that are available to industrial engineering graduates. A master’s graduate program equips students with the relevant skills needed to prepare them for their career goals after graduation.

Many schools also offer internship opportunities that provide students with hands-on experience in roles that can often lead to job opportunities after graduation.

What’s the Average Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Salary?

The average salary for a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering degree holder is $82,000 per year, according to PayScale. Factors like location, work history, and job title will all affect your salary.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree?

The jobs you can do with an industrial engineering master’s degree include process improvement engineer, project manager, industrial engineer, industrial designer, safety engineer, and logistics engineer roles. Below are some of the best industrial engineering jobs available to graduates.

Industrial Engineering Degree Jobs

  • Process Improvement Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Industrial Engineer
  • Industrial Designer
  • Logistics Engineer

Potential Careers With an Industrial Engineering Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering?

You can make between $70,000 and 150,000 per year with an industrial engineering master’s degree. However, this average starting salary range can differ depending on the company and industry you work in and your years of experience.  The following is a list of a few of the highest-paying industrial engineering master’s degree jobs you can get after graduation.

Highest-Paying Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs Average Salary
Architectural and Engineering Managers $152,350
Health and Safety Engineers $99,040
Project Managers $98,890
Industrial Engineers $95,300
Logisticians $77,030

Best Jobs for Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree Grads

The best jobs for industrial engineering master’s degree grads spread over a wide range of industries and common career paths that require engineering expertise. Below are some of the best career opportunities available for graduates.

1

Architectural and Engineering Manager

Average Salary: $152,350

Architectural and engineering managers oversee the construction or development plans of a product or building. They direct and manage production, equipment, or operational problems that occur in manufacturing or construction sites, and lead teams of engineers to ensure all manufacturing processes are functioning efficiently.

2

Health and Safety Engineer

Average Salary: $99,040

These professionals work to ensure that all employees are safe from harm caused by  malfunctioning equipment, procedures, and products in a manufacturing facility. These engineers inspect equipment and chemicals regularly, recommend improvements, investigate work-related accidents, and develop ways to prevent them from happening in the future.

3

Project Manager

Average Salary: $98,890

Project or construction managers are professionals that oversee or supervise the execution of construction projects. They work with relevant stakeholders such as architects to prepare budgets and ensure the cost-effectiveness of the projects.

4

Industrial Engineer

Average Salary: $95,300

Industrial engineers are professionals that develop strategies to ensure the efficiency of the production of projects, goods, or services. Manufacturing engineers review information on workers, tools, materials, quality control, production schedules, and other processes involved in manufacturing to create or improve comprehensive systems that create a product or service.

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Logistician

Average Salary: $77,030

A logistician works in supply-chain management to develop and design the best procedures to improve a company or organization's logistics operations, involving the procedures of warehousing of materials, procurement, production, transportation, and storage of products.

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Is a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering Worth It?

Yes, a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering is worth it. This academic qualification offers you the opportunity for fast-growing employment in a wide variety of industries as well as competitive salaries.

Learning to become an industrial engineer can be difficult because of the technical requirements of the field. You can, however, simplify the process by studying in the best schools or using the best online courses and resources . If you want to gain advanced and specialized skills for your chosen career path, you’ll find getting a Master’s in Industrial Engineering worth it.

Additional Reading About Industrial Engineering

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/industrial-engineering/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/jobs-for-industrial-engineering-majors/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/industrial-engineer-interview-questions-and-answers/

Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree FAQ

Which school is best for a master’s in industrial engineering?

The best school for a master’s in industrial engineering is the Georgia Institute of Technology in Georgia, according to the U.S. News and World Report from its list of the best industrial engineering degree programs . However, the best school for you will depend on your situation and goals.

Which master’s engineering degree is best?

Some of the best master’s engineering degrees include industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, and nuclear engineering. These engineering fields are rapidly growing and are developing exciting technological improvements.

Are industrial engineers real engineers?

Yes, industrial engineers are real engineers, just like chemical and mechanical engineers. They are responsible for providing integrated systems for construction projects, budgets, and workers to optimize efficiency in the manufacturing process.

Should I get an MBA or MS in Industrial Engineering?

You should get an MS in Industrial Engineering if you are interested in advancing your career and being in charge of making decisions concerning industrial processes, or an MBA if you are interested in handling the executive aspect of industrial engineering. The career path you choose depends on your goal and job interest.

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.

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Saheed Aremu Olanrewaju

About the author: Saheed is an expert tech writer who holds a Diploma in Organizational Leadership and certificates in Java and product management. Saheed also has multiple writing awards and is a member of various tech organizations. Saheed is currently completing his Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying from the University of Lagos.

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