Online Master’s in Engineering Management

What is an online master’s in engineering management?

An online master’s in engineering management (MS) is a graduate degree that bridges engineering and business. It prepares engineers to lead projects, manage teams, and make strategic decisions in technical environments.

At KU, the program focuses on applying engineering expertise in real-world organizational contexts—helping you strengthen leadership, improve processes, and guide complex projects from concept to execution.

Why choose KU for an online master’s in engineering management?

KU’s online master’s in engineering management is designed for engineers who want to move into leadership roles while staying grounded in technical work. The program focuses on how engineering teams operate in practice—combining project management, operations, and decision-making in real-world contexts.

You’ll build skills aligned with roles such as engineering manager, program manager, and technical lead, preparing you to take on greater responsibility across projects, teams, and systems.

As part of an AAU member and Carnegie R1 research university, KU’s School of Engineering brings research, industry perspective, and applied learning into the program. The fully online format allows you to continue working while making steady progress toward your degree.

Engineering management career outcomes

Graduates of KU’s online master’s in engineering management are prepared to move into leadership roles across engineering, manufacturing, technology, and operations. The degree combines technical expertise with management skills—positioning you to lead teams, manage projects, and improve organizational performance.

Salary and job outlook

Engineering management roles offer strong earning potential and steady demand across industries.

• Median salary: $93,600 per year
• Projected job growth: +7.8% through 2035
• Annual job openings: 31,000+ nationwide

These figures reflect the demand for professionals who can lead technical teams while managing projects, systems, and operations.

Roles you can pursue

Graduates move into leadership and management positions that combine engineering knowledge with organizational responsibility, including:

• Engineering manager
• Program manager
• Technical program manager
• Industrial production manager
• Director of engineering

These roles are common across industries where technical expertise and leadership intersect.

Skills you’ll develop

Engineering management roles require a combination of technical, analytical, and leadership skills.

You’ll build capabilities in areas such as data analysis, process improvement, project and program management, and team leadership—skills used to guide engineering work, improve performance, and support decision-making across organizations.

• Engineering Project Manager
• Technical Director
• Operations Manager
• Product Development Leader
• Quality Assurance Manager
• Systems Analyst or Consultant

Engineering management is a fast-growing field with strong earning potential and steady demand across industries. National data from Lightcast shows thousands of job openings each year and a projected growth rate of more than 9% through 2024. Professionals in this field earn a median salary well above the national average, reflecting the value of advanced skills at the intersection of engineering and leadership. With a master’s in engineering management, you’ll be prepared to step into high-impact roles that drive innovation, guide teams, and shape the future of technology.

Career data for KU graduates is available through KU's AIRE and may vary by prior experience and industry.

What are the admission requirements for the MS in Engineering Management?

Admission to the online Master of Science in Engineering Management requires the following:

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, mathematics, or a science-related field from an accredited institution
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• A current resumé or CV
• A statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all previous colleges/universities
• English proficiency proof (for international applicants)

GRE scores are not required for admission.

For complete application guidelines, please visit the KU Engineering Management admissions page.

What classes will I take in the engineering management program?

Students in the Master of Science in Engineering Management take a mix of core and elective courses designed to build both technical and leadership skills. Topics include financial management, systems engineering, quality control, and innovation strategy. Sample courses include:

• EMGT 802: Finance for Engineers
• EMGT 806: Systems Thinking and Engineering
• EMGT 821: Strategic Management
• EMGT 830: Case Studies in Engineering Management
• EMGT 835: Project Management

For a full list of courses and degree requirements, visit the KU Academic Catalog.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of KU’s online master’s in engineering management will be able to:

• Apply systems thinking and decision-making tools to complex problems
• Use financial and economic principles to evaluate projects and operations
• Lead cross-functional teams and manage organizational change
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Integrate engineering knowledge with strategic management practices

How much does the KU online engineering management degree cost?

KU offers competitive tuition for graduate students in the School of Professional Studies. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement may be available to qualified students.

For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid.

How flexible is online learning at KU?

KU’s online degree programs are designed with your busy schedule in mind and offer the flexibility to study wherever — and often whenever — is most convenient for you. Our online courses are taught by the same highly regarded faculty and expert instructors and consist of the same rigorous curriculum and instruction as our on-campus programs.