Systems engineers are focused on the best ways to design and manage complex systems. A career in systems engineering draws from several related engineering subfields to develop, integrate, and evaluate the systems underlying large and complicated projects.
If you are interested in solving complex problems through a holistic and multidisciplinary approach, a Master’s in Systems Engineering degree program is an excellent opportunity to advance your career path.
This article will explain the benefits of a Master’s in Systems Engineering degree, particularly in the context of the current job market for graduates. We will also cover what you can expect from the Master's in Systems Engineering program at George Washington University (GW).
5 Benefits of Pursuing a Master’s in Systems Engineering
There are several advantages to obtaining a Master's in Systems Engineering degree. Chief among them is a higher earning potential. This is due to the new tools you will gain—and existing tools you will augment—through your studies.
- Powerful Problem-Solving Skills: Systems engineers are trained to approach complex problems from a holistic perspective. By breaking problems down into manageable components while still keeping the bigger picture in mind, you will become adept at identifying optimal solutions and process improvements.
- Interdisciplinary Knowledge: Applications of systems engineering are increasing in scope all the time. This degree program equips you with a broad range of technical and managerial skills, allowing you to collaborate effectively with experts from diverse academic backgrounds.
- Career Advancement: A Master's degree can significantly improve your career prospects. It potentially opens doors to leadership positions as well as specialized roles in various industries. The skills, experience, and connections you obtain through a Master's in Systems Engineering program will prove indispensable to your professional growth.
- Global Job Demand: The demand for skilled systems engineers is growing worldwide. They address some of the most critical issues facing businesses, governments, and other institutions. No matter where life takes you, either geographically or professionally, a stable job market with many promising career paths awaits Master's in Systems Engineering graduates.
- Greater Earning Potential: Graduates of Master's programs in systems engineering typically command higher salaries than those with only an undergraduate degree. They are more likely to be considered for senior positions that come with better pay, as well.
You can get the most out of these benefits by choosing a highly-ranked engineering program such as GW.
What to Look for in a Master's in Systems Engineering Program
There are many factors to weigh when deciding on the right graduate program. Below are some key features you should consider, all of which are offered by GW’s online Master's in Systems Engineering program.
- Faculty Expertise: A passionate faculty with real industry experience can provide you with invaluable guidance and mentorship.
- Cost Savings: Find a program that combines a high-quality education and competitive tuition rates, such as GW’s Online Master's in Systems Engineering degree.
- Fully Accredited Online Degree: Make sure the program offered makes no distinction between a degree earned online versus on-campus. There should be no mention of “online” on the diploma.
- Professional Partnerships: Some programs can help you build contacts with professional organizations and enhance your transition into the workforce.
- INCOSE Exam Exemption: GW’s online engineering programs partner with the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE). Students excelling in these courses can bypass the exam, as their coursework assessments are accepted as an equivalent alternative to INCOSE’s standardized test.
- On-Demand Resources: You can absorb the curriculum at your own pace when course materials and lectures are made available online for later review.
- Interactive Learning: Students tend to perform better when they can interact with professors and collaborate with classmates in real-time. Look for programs that have live lectures and avenues for peer engagement.
- Administrative Support: Choose a program with a centralized administrative office that streamlines all of your non-instructional needs without hindering or interfering with your educational goals.
- Reputation and Prestige: Prioritize programs that are highly ranked by reputable sources. U.S. News & World Report ranks the online engineering program at GW as #11 in the nation.
With schedule flexibility, knowledgeable faculty members, accessible resources, and cost-effective tuition, the online Master's in Systems Engineering program at GW promises a first-rate engineering education.
Job and Salary Ranges with a Master’s of Systems Engineering
Systems engineers can readily find employment in an array of industries in both the public and private sectors. These include, but certainly aren’t limited to: aerospace, IT, telecommunications, automotive, and healthcare.
Here are some of the most common job titles associated with a Master's in Systems Engineering:
- Systems Engineer: Responsible for designing, developing, and implementing complex systems. Anticipates and manages costs and constraints to a system; ensures all components are integrated. (Salary: $80,000–$120,000 annually)
- Systems Architect: Focuses on the high-level design of systems, such as defining the system’s components and structuring how they interact over long lifecycles. (Salary: $75,000–$140,000 annually)
- Project Manager: Oversees the entirety of a project from initiation to closure, and is responsible for the planning, organizing, and managing thereof. (Salary: $75,000–$130,000 annually)
- Technical Consultant: Provides expert advice and solutions to firms that require problem-solving, system implementation, and process optimization. (Salary: $90,000–$160,000 annually, but varies by experience and industry)
- Development Operations (DevOps) Engineer: A specialized role that bridges the gap between software development and IT operations. Involves automating tasks, improving software delivery processes, and ensuring the robustness of systems. (Salary: $70,000–$150,000 annually)
Given this variety of career options, oftentimes a graduate’s ability to apply systems thinking, and demonstrate their mastery of the principles of engineering and engineering management, are what create the most value in these diverse work environments. The salary ranges provided above represent base pay.
Salary Expectations for Master's in Systems Engineering Graduates
According to research by Payscale, the average base salary for a systems engineer in the United States is about $115,000 per year. Glassdoor reports an average base pay range of $90,000–$135,000 for Systems Engineer positions across the U.S., with an estimated $28,981 per year in additional pay in the form of bonuses or commissions. Compensation rises from there for senior positions. Salary ranges for systems engineers will vary somewhat depending on factors like experience, location, and industry.
With a Master's degree in Systems Engineering, you can earn a competitive salary while doing meaningful work—often in management and leadership roles. As you acquire relevant experience, your earning potential will continue to grow.
You can learn more about job placement and salaries with our report, “Life After GW: Graduate Student Career Outcomes.”
Next Steps: Apply for the Online Master’s of Systems Engineering Program at GW
In order to apply for the online Master of Science in Systems Engineering program at George Washington University, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical sciences, or a related field.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- For international applicants, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
Application Process:
- Applicants must submit:
- A resume or C.V.
- A statement of purpose (250 words or less).
- Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions.
- Two letters of recommendation (one professional).
- GRE scores (optional).
- No application fee is required.
For deadlines and more details, visit GW Master's in Systems Engineering admissions.
Conclusion
A Master's degree in Systems Engineering is a valuable investment in yourself. There are countless uses for systems engineering across myriad sectors of the economy. By developing strong technical and problem-solving skills, you will be better prepared to navigate a rapidly evolving economic landscape. The comprehensive approach and interdisciplinary nature of systems engineering means the future marketability of your skills and knowledge will apply to many different fields and industries.
Follow the link to visit our systems engineering main page if you would like to learn more about the Master of Systems Engineering program at George Washington University.