Q: How many credits are required for the engineering management program?
A: The program curriculum consists of 33 credits. Schedule a meeting with a program representative for more information.
Q: Is the program STEM designated?
A: This is a technically focused, analytical degree designed specifically to address the challenges found at the intersection of management and engineering. This program is STEM designated, allowing 36 months total of Optional Practical Training (OPT) compared to 12 months for non-STEM degrees.
Q: Do I need an engineering or technology undergraduate degree?
A: Typically, this program is designed for individuals in middle management engineering roles. Due to the program building upon skills already learned during bachelor’s degree programs, we ask that you come from an engineering or technology background and have a minimum of one year of professional work experience.
Q: Can I choose a specific concentration?
A: While we do not offer concentrations, we offer multiple graduate certificates — many of which can be stacked into a master’s degree. 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 engineering management 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. Our faculty collaborate with local companies to bring real world problems to course projects. For example, in Engineering Management Strategy, students apply strategic analysis, risk analysis, and business process optimization to real world technical organizations. In Creativity and Problem Solving I, students get an opportunity to learn about their own problem-solving styles, and in Technical Project Management, students generate a portfolio to reflect on their negotiation skills and conflict management strategies.
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 In addition, there are opportunities to do research in the Insights Lab, Do iT Lab, and Smart Systems Research Group.
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: Flexible, seven-week courses let you balance your busy schedule while still reaping the benefits of once-per-week face-to-face classes, like networking, developing interpersonal skills, and coordinating and developing on-site projects.
Q: How long will it take me to graduate?
A: You can expect to complete your degree in as little as two years if attending part-time or 12-18 months if attending full-time.
Q: Are career services available?
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 access to career services for life.
Q: Is there an application fee? What are the application deadlines?
A: Yes, there is a $65 application fee. 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. International application deadlines may differ; for more information visit the international applicant page.
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.
