ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle M.S. systems engineering students in a state-of-the-art classroom.

Graduate programs

Master’s in systems engineering

Solve complex systems challenges for a modern world.

Program format

Commitment

Full-time or part-time

Duration

Two years (full time);
Three years (part time)

Overview

Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary field of engineering that focuses on designing, integrating and managing complex systems over their life cycles. New and more complex technologies are challenging approaches to the practice of engineering and technology management and changing the needs of the modern workplace.

ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle’s M.S. in systems engineering provides a structured way of analyzing and solving complex problems across the product development or acquisition lifecycle. This, coupled with systems thinking and leadership skills, provides students with both technical and leadership skills needed to serve the current and increasing demands of industry.

At ÎÞÂëרÇø, students can gain industry-recognized skills and a faster route to a globally respected certification. Lyle’s M.S. in systems engineering is recognized by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) through its . This means graduates who excel in designated courses can bypass the INCOSE knowledge exam – a key step toward becoming a Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP). 

Thinking Grad School? Think ÎÞÂëרÇø.

Envisioning a brighter future? Think grad school at ÎÞÂëרÇø, where you join a lifelong family network and see immediate returns on your educational investment. Take your new big step at ÎÞÂëרÇø.

Student success

Program career success statement: 

Our graduates consistently secure positions at leading companies and organizations in private and public sectors. ÎÞÂëרÇø systems engineering master’s students become technology and engineering leaders by designing and managing complex systems in evolving industries.

This program prepares you to excel in the following areas and professions:

  • Aerospace and defense
  • Transportation
  • Information technology
  • Cyber security
  • Telecommunications
  • Energy infrastructure
  • Logistics and supply chain management
  • Industrial automation

$95,000

Median starting salary for Lyle graduate students (2023–24)

Career Outcomes Dashboard

9:1

Graduate student-to-faculty ratio

Top 25%

ÎÞÂëרÇø ranked among the Best National Universities U.S. News & World Report (2025)

U.S. News & World Report (2025)

Student stories

A photo of ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle alum Garrett Madison

From football to engineering

ÎÞÂëרÇø linebacker Garrett Madison says mentorship from Lyle School of Engineering guided his path to doctoral researcher.

Requirements

  1. Application
  2. Application fee
  3. Official transcripts
  4. English language proficiency documentation (if applicable)

All applications are holistically reviewed.

View all requirements

Ready to apply?

Get started here.

Tuition & financial aid

Tuition and costs

Explore the cost breakdown of tuition for graduate programs.

Financial aid

Find information on scholarships and financial support available at ÎÞÂëרÇø.

Curriculum & learning

Featured courses

OREM 7301

Systems Engineering Process

Examines the discipline, theory, economics and methodology of systems engineering. Emphasizes the economic benefits of investment in systems engineering and the risks of failure to adhere to sound principles.

OREM 7321

Systems Engineering Planning and Management

Students learn to prepare for and successfully complete key program technical reviews and audits by identifying essential material content and providing the design basis.

OREM 7311

Systems Engineering Design

An introduction to system design of complex hardware and software systems. Centers on the development of real-world examples.

Outside of the classroom

  • Centers and Institutes

    Grow as an engineer with collectives that promote leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.

  • Maria Murad with friends in Jordan

    Internships

    Get practical experience to develop industry skills, build a professional network and gain valuable insights. Internships can open doors to future opportunities and contribute to long-term career success.

  • Clubs and organizations

    Explore interests, develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers

  • ÎÞÂëרÇø students working with plants at Bontham Family Farms

    Community engagement

    Apply your classroom knowledge to real-world issues while making a positive impact.

Research

Participate in graduate research opportunities and tackle real-world challenges in engineering, technology, telecommunications, manufacturing and the environment. 

Lyle students and faculty perform research that has global implications, taking advantage of state-of-the-art facilities and funding from government agencies, foundations and private companies.

Faculty

Our distinguished faculty are industry leaders and subject matter experts, bringing real-world experience and industry insights to the classroom. ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle maintains small class sizes, allowing students to develop meaningful mentorships with their professors.

Facilities

ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle students have access to state-of-the-art facilities where they can conduct research, meet with industry leaders, and gain skills on new and established technologies.

ÎÞÂëרÇø engineering researchers work in a state-of-the-art lab in Caruth Hall.

Caruth Hall

Caruth Hall houses laboratory space for team research projects, academic departments and the Caruth Institute for Engineering Education – a national center of excellence focused on research and development of STEM education programs.

Learn more

ÎÞÂëרÇø Lyle Engineering students build prototypes in the Deason Innovation Gym, aka The DIG

Deason Innovation Gym

The Deason Innovation Gym (the DIG) provides the tools and space to work on immersion design projects to accelerate learning, innovation and leadership. Get trained on 3D printers, power tools, metal shop machines and more.

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Frequently asked questions