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Program: Online Master of Science in Engineering Management Description: “The online Master of Science in Engineering Management provides a specialized alternative to traditional business coursework, focusing specifically on technical management and organizational leadership in engineering projects. The program is relevant to those from a variety of backgrounds – whether you’re an experienced, trained engineer seeking a leadership role, or a business professional looking to gain industry-specific leadership skills,” said Dr. Shahram Sarkani, Director of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering Online Programs. Where it is: Washington, D.C. Format: Online Degree you get: Master of Science in Engineering Management Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, a physical science, mathematics, computer science, business administration, or information technology Size of the program: Approximately 150 students Number of credit hours: 36 (12 courses) Thesis: Capstone project (3 credit hours) How long it will take: About 3 years When to apply: Rolling admissions Start Time: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall Tuition and Fees: $30,000 Minimum admission requirements:
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Online Degree to Prepare Engineers to Transition into Leadership Roles
The George Washington University’s (GW) Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering has been offering degrees in Engineering Management since 1954 and continues to do so in a modern format. Because of GW’s long experience, students learn from a tried and tested format and curriculum.
The Online Master of Science in Engineering Management [M.S.(EM)] program is a testament to this statement. Students can effectively balance working full-time and returning to school, explains Dr. Shahram Sarkani, Director of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering Online Programs.
“With the online M.S.(EM), working professionals can earn their master’s degree from a top-tier university while remaining employed, no matter where they are in the world,” said Dr. Sarkani. “Students have the flexibility to access their course work at any time.”
He added, “This program is a great option for students who would like a thorough understanding of engineering management and technical management, including how to run technical organizations and scientific companies. The program prepares students to be leaders in the field, and is a good fit both for students currently in the field and those interested in joining.”
Master of Science in Engineering Management Has Broad Curriculum Focus
The online M.S.(EM) curriculum teaches students the critical topics and functions needed to run a technical business or organization. Some of these topics are:
• Organizational management and behavior
• Operations
• Project management
• Marketing
• Cost and quality control
• Engineering contract management
“Graduates of the online Master of Science in Engineering Management will be prepared to take the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam offered by the Project Management Institute to further establish their leadership credentials,” noted Sarkani.
Because the program offers no elective options, students do not customize their course selection; the topic for the capstone project is unique to the students.
The program was initially offered to company-sponsored cohorts, explains Dr. Sarkani. GW began receiving inquiries from employees living in other states and so in 2000 began offering the curriculum by distance learning (VTC) in a closed format for those companies.
Following the successful launch of the online format in 2009, the faculty decided to open enrollment to any qualified applicant nation-wide in 2014. Today, the Online M.S.(EM) program aims to educate students in leading-edge technical environments, reviewing organizational behavior, technical personnel issues, and the legal aspects of engineering.
“Students will use Blackboard to access course materials and submit assignments, as well as for discussion boards and instructor communication,” said Dr. Sarkani. “Assignments are determined by the instructor and will vary depending on the course. Students should expect exams, projects, term papers, and homework assignments.”The part-time program allows students to take one course per session for a total of 36 credit hours over three years. Students who find a bit of extra time on their hands can take more than one course each session to accelerate the process; however, the online program is challenging, so students will need to weigh their school work load with their other responsibilities.
“Students beginning school again after being out of school for some time can rest assured that they will be well taken care of at The George Washington University,” Dr. Sarkani added. “We offer an optional online tools practice session each semester, which can be particularly helpful for students who may not be familiar with taking courses online. Online students also have access to a wealth of GW resources, including the Center for Career Services, the Division of Information Technology, and the University libraries.”
Engineering Management Program Beneficial for those Already in the Field and those Looking to Join
Prospective students with experience in technical, business, information technology, or related fields are ideal, but the program is also geared toward students looking to join the field.
As a part-time program, the Online Master of Science in Engineering Management offers only one lecture a week. These meetings are recorded to allow asynchronous viewing. Alternatively, the student can watch the lecture live between the hours of 6:30pm and 9:30pm. Synchronous participation in two lectures in each course is mandatory.
Shahram Sarkani, Director of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering Online Programs.
Because the program is online, students must maintain strong self-discipline and self-motivation. Time management skill and comfort studying alone are required to make it through, Dr. Sarkani adds. The online format may allow for greater flexibility, but it does not mean the program itself is watered down from its on-campus counterpart; the online and on-campus courses are the same.
If you’re the type of engineer who wants to lead, this program is for you.
The George Washington University has sponsored promotion of their Online Master of Science in Engineering Management on ENGINEERING.com. All opinions are mine. – Kagan Pittman
Core Courses
- EMSE 6001 The Management of Technical Organizations (3 credits)
- EMSE 6020 Decision Making with Uncertainty (3 credits)
- EMSE 6099 Problems in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering [Capstone] (3 credits)
- EMSE 6410 Survey of Finance and Engineering Economics (3 credits)
- EMSE 6505 Knowledge Management I (3 credits)
- EMSE 6580 Information and Software Engineering
- EMSE 6801 Systems Engineering I (3 credits)
- EMSE 6820 Program and Project Management (3 credits)
Engineering Management Focus Courses
- EMSE 6005 Organizational Behavior for the Engineering Manager (3 credits)
- EMSE 6014 Management of Engineering Contracts (3 credits)
- EMSE 6035 Marketing of Technology (3 credits)
- EMSE 6825 Project Cost and Quality Management (3 credits)