Q: How many credits are required for the systems engineering program?
A: The program curriculum consists of 36 credits. You may also schedule a consultation with a program representative for more information.
Q: Do I need an engineering or technology undergraduate degree?
A: The program is accessible to engineering professionals who wish to pursue advanced studies and is designed to address industry challenges like increasing mission complexity, increasing development cost, late discovery of design problems, and failure to recognize and deal with risk. You should come from an engineering or technology background.
Q: Can I choose a specific concentration?
A: While we do not offer concentrations, we offer multiple graduate certificates. Also, there is a concurrent degree option where students can earn a second master’s while using courses to satisfy both programs’ requirements. Additionally, elective offerings allow you to customize your experience in the program.
Q: Does the program offer any experiential learning opportunities?
A: Our courses employ experiential learning techniques to bridge the gap between theory and practice. For example, in various courses students practice model-based systems engineering by building SysML model for system architecture analysis; build simulation models to analyze discrete-system and continuous system problems; apply design thinking methodology to redesign products; and apply knowledge from the program for architecting, analysis, and design of complex engineering systems. Students can also participate in the Student Startup Project organized by the Great Valley LaunchBox to apply their program knowledge to a real-world startup experience.
Q: Do you allow students to transfer credits into the program?
A: A maximum of 10 graduate credits earned at another accredited institution may be applied. Courses must have been completed, with a grade of B or better, within five years prior to the date of enrollment. Up to 15 credits from Penn State nondegree and graduate certificate courses can be applied to a degree program—more information can be found here. Transfer credit approval is granted by the student's academic adviser and division head after an admission offer has been accepted.
Q: How are classes delivered?
A: Classes are offered in a seven-week format and are both hybrid and fully online. Each course is designated as either online or hybrid. In-person classes are held once a week in three-hour evening sessions with additional work—including class discussion forums, teamwork, and various online learning activities—being offered online either synchronously or asynchronously, offering a convenient format for career professionals seeking to enroll on a part-time basis. Our students find this allows them to participate in a program that suits their lifestyle while also offering in-person opportunities to better collaborate, network with peers, interact with professors, and take advantage of our campus resources.
Q: How long will it take me to graduate?
A: You can expect to complete your degree in two to three years, studying part-time.
Q: Are career services available?
A: Yes. We have a Career Services office that provides one-on-one career advancement support, internship guidance, access to career fairs and other career events with local and national companies, as well as an array of other services. An additional perk of being part of the Penn State family is access to career services for life.
Q: Is the GMAT or GRE required?
A: The GMAT/GRE is not required for admission, but scores will be considered if submitted.
Q: Where can I find information on scholarships and funding options?
A: There are a variety of scholarships available to half-time and full-time students who meet certain criteria. More information can be found here.
Q: Are there program metrics?
A: The Graduate School provides metrics on admission data, GMAT/GRE scores, enrollment, student demographics, time to degree, and degree conferral; more information can be found here.
