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: Does it matter if I don’t have 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: I am worried about flexibility. 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: I’ve been out of school for 15 years. Will I feel out of place taking classes after all that time?
A: The average age of our students is 32. You will find most of our students share the same concern and worry how they will be able to juggle graduate school with an already busy life. Our systems engineering program is designed for today’s professional—to fit the needs of busy working adults who are balancing career and life.
Each semester, prospective students can take advantage of our “test drive” program, which offers the opportunity to sit in on a class. To arrange a test drive” email [email protected] and a program representative will reach out to discuss options with you.
Q: How long will it take me to graduate?
A: You can expect to complete your degree in two to three years.
Q: Are career services provided?
A: Yes. We have a Career Management 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 free career services for life!
Q: Is there an application fee? What are the application deadlines?
A: Yes, there is a $65 application fee. Schedule a meeting with a program representative to discuss eligibility for an application fee waiver. We recommend applying no later than July 15 for a fall (end of August) program start, or December 6 for a spring (January) start. See the admission requirements page for more information.
Q: Is the GMAT or GRE ever waived?
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.
