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For many scientists, engineers, and technologists, a technical professional can eventually lead to leadership or managerial roles. However, a scientific background won’t completely train and prepare students to lead organizations or teams.
Also known as engineering management, an online Master of Business Engineering program will bridge the gap between business and engineering or technology.
Overview
Often thought of as a degree that combines two topics, business and engineering, the online Master of Business Engineering degree will help guide you in your next step to leadership and management. Concentrations are available, and this versatile degree will serve you well in your future endeavors!
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The Benefits of a Master of Business Engineering Program
There are several benefits to earning an online Master’s in Business Engineering program. Here are some of them:
- Strengthen management/leadership skills.
- Helps you learn solid fundamental knowledge in specific areas, including Organizational Behavior, Human Relations, Strategic Planning, Financial Management, and Project Management.
- Learn about the different aspects of engineering and business.
- Be able to specialize in an area of interest in business or engineering.
- Learn how to apply data principles to leadership.
METHODOLOGY
We put together the Best Online Master of Business Engineering Graduate Schools that showcase these outstanding program features:
- 100% online or hybrid instruction for convenient attendance and learning,
- A curriculum that blends the principles of business and engineering to address organizational issues,
- Taught in a state-of-the-art learning platform,
- Strong student support services, particularly academic advising,
- Financial options for eligible students,
- Accreditation from academic associations to demonstrate high educational standards.
Best Online Master of Business Engineering Graduate Schools
Purdue University
West Lafayette, Indiana
Online MSE-MBA In Interdisciplinary Engineering
| Tuition | $1,139 per credit (in-state) $1,459 per credit (out-of-state) |
| Credit Hours | 60 |
| Program Length | 24 months |
Purdue University’s Online MSE/MS + MBA dual degree program, partnered with Kelley School of Business, consists of three segments: MBA courses, bridge courses, and engineering/technical courses. To apply, students must have an undergraduate degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Online Master of Engineering: Engineering Management
| Tuition | $675 per credit hour |
| Credit Hours | 46 |
| Program Length | 2.5 years |
Wisconsin’s online MEng in Engineering Management is an excellent alternative to a traditional MBA for engineers. Online students can pursue an optional summer residency. The multi-day sessions will include coursework from students’ summer semester courses and eventually lead to their fall courses with expert speakers and in-person group collaborations.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Online MBA/MS In Industrial Engineering
| Tuition | $1,020 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 56 |
| Program Length | 3 years |
ASU’s online MBA/MS in Industrial Engineering has 18 classes, with 7.5 weeks per class. This dual degree option provides students with the option to earn a degree quickly and at more affordable tuition in a graduate Business Engineering program instead of pursuing two separate degrees.
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
Online Master’s In Engineering Management
| Tuition | $50,000 total tuition |
| Credit Hours | 30 |
| Program Length | Varies |
UT-Austin’s Master’s In Engineering Management students are required to follow a standard course sequence. This includes product development, engineering economics, marketing, negotiations, and management.
Students can enroll in the Fast Track option, allowing them to attend two weekends per month. They can access online graduate student resources like writing appointments and academic coaching.
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX
Online Master of Science In Engineering Management
| Tuition | $799.38 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 30 |
| Program Length | Varies |
Texas A&M’s online MS in Engineering Management program is one of the rare programs of its kind in Texas. It offers eight specializations: Business, Analytics, Supply Chain and Logistics Engineering, Systems Development/Project Management, Systems Engineering, Manufacturing Systems Management, Control, Engineering Risk/Decision Analysis, and Human Systems Engineering.
The University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Online Master of Science in Engineering Management
| Tuition | $1,149 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 30-33 |
| Program Length | 2 years |
UAZ’s online MS in Engineering Management, designed for scientists and engineers, is a highly customizable program. Students can choose between the 30-credit Master’s Report Option and the 33-credit Coursework Option.
Although GRE is not typically required for admission, those who submit and have high scores will be qualified for funding opportunities
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Online Master of Science in Engineering Management
| Tuition | $303.88 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 30 |
| Program Length | 1 – 2 years |
UArk’s online MS in Engineering Management only accepts applicants with an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in Engineering. The program doesn’t require a thesis; however, students must pass a comprehensive examination when they’ve already completed 80% of the coursework.
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK
Online Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Management
| Tuition | $489 per credit (in-state) $530 per credit (out-of-state) |
| Credit Hours | 32 |
| Program Length | 18 months |
OSU’s MS in Engineering and Technology Management program has among the longest maximum allowable time for completion of 7 years. It’s also one of the most affordable, and CEAT has granted $3.2M in scholarships for the academic year 2020-2021 alone. Approximately 50% of all CEAT students complete their degrees with zero student loan debt.
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ
Online Master of Engineering Management
| Tuition | $931.29 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 30 |
| Program Length | 24 months |
Rowan University’s online MEM program, offered through Global Learning & Partnerships, is a part-time program with an accelerated learning option. However, it’s a non-thesis program and is not suitable for students who plan to pursue a doctorate. Students can choose one of two MEM tracks, namely Project Management or Construction Management.
The George Washington University
Washington, DC
Online Master of Science in Engineering Management
| Tuition | $1,150 per credit |
| Credit Hours | 36 |
| Program Length | 2 years |
GWU’s online Master of Science in Engineering Management offers students to pursue one concentration area. They can concentrate on:
- Knowledge & Information Management
- Environmental & Energy Management
- Engineering & Technology Management
- Economics
- Finance & Cost Management
- Crisis, Emergency & Risk Management
Career Options in Business Engineering
Online Master of Business Engineering graduates can find numerous career opportunities in various settings, including government, scientific research, mining, architecture, and manufacturing.
Although they may encounter strong competition within the industries, applicants with advanced technical knowledge and credentials can easily find their ideal work.
| Job Title | Duties |
| Aerospace Engineer | * Designs and builds different technical equipment, products, and components for aircraft and other related equipment. * Conducts research, tests, prototypes, and develops their designs, ensuring that all products follow budget and safety guidelines. |
| Biomedical Engineer | * Innovates and improvises technologies, medical equipment, and healthcare outcomes through manufacturing and product designs. * Performs own research and collaborates with healthcare professionals to evaluate specific areas of need and improvisation. |
| Civil Engineer | * Supervises the design and construction of private and public infrastructures and other establishments. * Works on construction developments and projects, including improving transportation networks within states and creating weight-bearing infrastructures. |
| Electrical Engineer | * Handles electrical components and products, developing new and upgraded products for manufacturing. * Follows internal operations processes, addresses consumer requests and concerns, and works exclusively with production. |
| Engineering Manager | * Supervises operations and projects in engineering organizations and departments. * Administers project management activities, including research and development, training, logistics, and budgeting. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Business Engineer?
Business Engineers combine technical and commercial roles, collaborating with teams to develop solutions. They understand macro-level business operations and micro-level organizational functions. They guide organizations through decision-making, risk reduction, and data evaluation.
Some of the key components that are associated with Business Engineering and require an in-depth understanding of numerous areas and disciplines include:
- Business Administration
- Business Model
- Business Practices
- Innovation
- Law and Economics
- Management Science
- Organizational Structure
- Technologies and Information Processes
What are the standard admission requirements of an online Master of Business Engineering program?
While specific admission requirements vary, the most common requirements include the following:
- Regionally accredited baccalaureate degree in an engineering or science-related field
- Relevant professional experience
- GRE/GMAT scores and a minimum GPA requirement
- Updated resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
Some online schools also require applicants to accomplish specific prerequisites before being admitted to the actual program.
What can I expect from an online Master of Business Engineering program?
There are three major types of MBE programs:
- Master of Engineering Management offers engineering-specific project management or leadership training
- Master of Science focused on advanced professional development training for engineers.
- MBA with an Engineering Management combines business management studies.
Specific coursework will depend on degree type. However, some of the most common courses include:
- One to two years of study
- Lab work
- Internship
- Practical training
Distance learners in some programs can also choose their preferred specialization, preparing them for careers in specific fields within the engineering industries.
How much does a professional with an online Master of Business Engineering degree make?
As of May 2022, PayScale reports an average annual wage of $64,375 for Business Engineers, with a potential salary range of $35,000 to $84,000, including bonuses.
Graduates who are more inclined to work as Architectural and Engineering Managers can earn a median pay of $159,920 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The career outlook for these professionals is 2%, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Key Takeaways
- If you are a working professional in the business and engineering field who is interested in career advancement, perhaps earning an online Master’s degree in Business Engineering will benefit you.
- Most graduates can look forward to a leadership or management position.
- An online Master of Business Engineering degree can be very versatile and can be used in almost any type of industry.
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