Online Master's in Systems Engineering

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

The fully online Master’s in Systems Engineering program examines the systems lifecycle providing you with the skillset to manage the planning, analysis, design, development, integration, testing, implementation, operations, and maintenance of complex systems. The program integrates industry software (such as IBM tools) into courses to ensure you’re equipped with the latest knowledge to effectively lead projects for years to come. Designed specifically for the working professional, the online MS in Systems Engineering program at Drexel combines the technical and computational rigor expected from employers with management courses that you can apply to a wide range of industries.

Master's in Systems Engineering Online Program Features

• Rigorous study in Systems Engineering fundamentals with options in computer and electrical engineering, engineering management, and other graduate disciplines
• Taught by experienced faculty who are also successful professionals in the systems engineering field
• Highly interactive online method designed to challenge and engage, while remaining convenient for working professionals
• Established online program with strong reputation among regional and national companies
• Taught by a dedicated faculty with significant systems engineering experience in both industry and academia
• Customizable curriculum allows you to take electives from any engineering discipline
• Collaborative opportunities that leverage many global industrial partnerships

Archived Webinar

• Online Open House: Engineering Management & Systems Engineering

What Our Students Say

"The most rewarding part of my experience at Drexel is the ability to recognize system failures and ways on how to resolve them. Being able to apply the knowledge you have gained from the classes in the real world is the best feeling ever." —Valeriya Orlova, current student

What is a Systems Engineering Degree?

A Systems Engineering degree focuses on the design, creation, and operation of systems. Most programs study a wide range of mathematical and scientific concepts to understand how a system operates, then explores ways to apply this knowledge to make the system more efficient or easier to use.

Per the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), systems engineering is a function with five phases:

• System studies or program planning
• Exploratory planning to define the problem and goals—this also includes systems synthesis, systems analysis, selecting the best system, and communicating the results
• Development planning which repeats phase 2 in more detail
• Studies during development which include developing parts of the system, integration, and testing
• Current engineering which takes place once the system is operational

What Does a Systems Engineer Do?

Systems engineers coordinate the creation, maintenance, and expansion of computer systems within an organization. They are often the main interface between managers, customers, suppliers, and specialty engineers in the systems development process.

One of the unique functions of a systems engineer is the ability to see the big picture. This helps to integrate all aspects of the engineering process. Key responsibilities of systems engineers include designing and developing solutions to issues such as:

• Complex Applications Problems
• System Administration Issues
• Network Concerns
• Systems Management and Integration
• System Performance
• Testing
• Scheduling and Cost

In Which Industries Does a Systems Engineer Work?

Due to the broad nature of the work, a systems engineer may pursue a career in many industries from software development and robotics, to aerospace, nanotechnology, or civil engineering. Many, in fact, will choose a specific niche:

Software Systems Engineer
Software systems engineers research, design, develop, and test operating systems software. They apply principles and methods from computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Their work can apply to medical, industrial, military, telecommunications, aerospace, business, and other areas with networks.
Average Annual Salary: $110,000

Solar Energy Systems Engineer
Solar energy systems engineers design energy efficient and solar projects for residential, commercial, or industrial clients. They need to understand local climates, solar technology, thermodynamics, and structural energy needs.
Average Annual Salary: $96,980

Logistics Systems Engineer
Logistics systems engineers design or analyze projects to optimize transportation, routing, shipping, and the distribution of finished goods. This can include cost of containers, network modeling, and managing the flow of information.
Average Annual Salary: $74,600

Aerospace Systems Engineer
Aerospace systems engineers design, construct, and test aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. They often conduct basic and applied research, helping evaluate the adaptability of specific materials and equipment. Also, they may recommend improvements to testing equipment.
Average Annual Salary: $115,220

Automotive Systems Engineers
Automotive systems engineers develop new or improved designs for vehicle parts, engines, transmissions, and other related systems. To do so, they need to understand computer-assisted design technology. They may also direct building, modifications, or testing of a vehicle or its components.
Average Annual Salary: $87,370

Related Programs

• MS in Engineering Management
• Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering

Drexel University offers a variety of Graduate Minors that can be added to any master's degree program.
State restrictions may apply to some programs.