Despite the decline of the manufacturing industry and the global challenges to the high-tech sector in the United States, the Bureau of Labor Statistics continues to project an increasing demand and growth for engineering managers. Although an undergraduate engineering education provides a strong technical background, it often excludes the training necessary to assume managerial responsibilities.
Beginning this fall, Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies in Malvern will offer a master of engineering management (MEM) degree. The new 33-credit program will prepare students to solve management and technology problems — leading technical personnel, fostering effective teams and managing engineering projects in a 21st century environment.
"The Penn State School of Graduate Professional Studies continues to provide academic programs that address the demands of our corporate neighbors," says James Nemes, engineering division head. "We are proud to offer a program that will meet the growing needs of engineers looking to obtain leadership positions in their respective industries, while maintaining a close connection to their technical domains."
The program includes six core courses (18 credits), culminating with a capstone course (three credits). Core courses focus on engineering management science, engineering economics, problem solving, decision sciences and project management. The curriculum also requires the completion of four electives (12 credits) from a prescribed list.
Applicants with a four-year undergraduate degree in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science or a related discipline will be considered. Admission is based on undergraduate academic records, work experience and a letter of recommendation. GMAT or GRE test scores are not required but will be considered if submitted.
Applications for the fall semester are currently being accepted. Prospective students can visit www.sgps.psu.edu/engineering or contact a program representative at (610) 648-3243 or gvengin@psu.edu.
Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies is located in the Great Valley Corporate Center off Routes 202 and 29 in Malvern.