Best Online Master's in Industrial Engineering 2025
Our list of the best online master's in industrial engineering programs only includes programs from institutionally accredited schools. It's ranked by which schools graduated the most students with industrial engineering master's degrees online.
Key Takeaways:
- Texas A&M University ranks #1, graduating 148 students from its online Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering.
- Columbia University boasts a 95% graduation rate.
- Georgia Institute of Technology has over 18,000 students who are enrolled remotely.
- The University of Missouri earns a 99% recommendation rate from surveyed alumni.
See our methodology page for more details about our list. After our ranking analysis, we spoke with engineer Mircea Dima, who shared insights on what make students successful in online industrial engineering programs.
Best Online Master's in Industrial Engineering 2025
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M University - College Station | 148 | $24,090 | N/A | 96% | |
| Columbia University in the City of New York | 146 | $38,760 | N/A | 93% | |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 112 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $19,140 | N/A | 95% | |
| Purdue University - Main Campus | 111 | $21,885 | N/A | 94% | |
| Clemson University | 79 | $11,928 | N/A | 96% | |
| North Carolina State University | 66 | $25,508 | N/A | 95% | |
| University of Michigan - Dearborn | 65 | $17,880 | N/A | 96% | |
| University of Central Florida | 39 | $17,275 | N/A | 94% | |
| The University of Tennessee - Knoxville | 36 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $11,424 | N/A | 88% | |
| University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign | 35 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $21,294 | N/A | 96% | |
| University of Southern California | 35 | $71,204 | N/A | 94% | |
| Northern Illinois University | 33 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $8,396 | N/A | 88% | |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | 33 | $17,145 | N/A | 89% | |
| Auburn University | 33 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $15,658 | N/A | 93% | |
| New Mexico State University | 31 | $14,502 | $99,578 | 88% |
A Closer Look At The Best Online Master’s in Industrial Engineering Programs
Across our list, master's programs in industrial engineering tend to graduate anywhere from 30 to nearly 150 students annually, with a median of about 65 graduates. We ranked based on this metric because larger cohorts often mean:
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Greater access to classmates from a wider range of industries and locations, making discussions more thought-provoking and varied
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There are much larger online networks to tap for mentorship, job leads, and collaboration.
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Sustained demand ensures program stability (i.e., stronger online infrastructure).
At the very top, Texas A&M (148 graduates) and Columbia (146 graduates) dwarf smaller programs, giving students access to alumni networks that stretch nationwide. But even at the lower end of the list, schools like New Mexico State (31 graduates) sustain healthy cohorts that still provide strong peer interaction virtually.
Popularity is only one dimension, however. We also weigh factors like retention, graduation rates, recommendation rates from our 75,000+ student surveys, and unique program features.
Industrial engineering sits at the crossroads of systems thinking as well as human-centered design. Graduates most often step into roles in operations, supply chain, analytics, healthcare systems, and advanced manufacturing. All of these industries are excited for leaders who can optimize complex processes.
The data we highlight are predictors of your experience: whether you’ll have peers to collaborate with, whether you’ll finish on time, whether employers will recognize your credential, and whether your investment will feel worthwhile. For anyone entering a field as dynamic and applied as industrial engineering, these signals tell you about whether you’ll finish, enjoy the process, and leave with engineering skills employers respect.
Outcomes That Stick: Graduation & Retention Rates
When you look at graduation and retention rates, some schools stand out for their ability to keep students engaged and moving steadily toward the finish line.
Private universities like Columbia and USC post extraordinary numbers — 95% or higher graduation and retention rates — which is no accident. Their smaller student-to-faculty ratios mean closer mentorship, while selective admissions ensure that cohorts arrive well-prepared. These factors mean that students rarely lose momentum.
Public flagships like Georgia Tech, Purdue, and UIUC show how scale and structure combine to keep students on track, with retention rates in the mid-90s and graduation rates climbing into the 80s and 90s.
Overall, our list of online schools that host industrial engineer programs online is a strong list of options, where students are likely to succeed. For industrial engineering students, these numbers are helpful to consider, in our opinion, because they signal not only academic support but also how well programs are designed to help learners persist through a demanding, quantitatively rigorous field.
Student Voice, Quantified
Graduation and retention rates show whether students finish, but recommendation rates reveal how they actually felt about the experience. We believe that perspective can be valuable for industrial engineering students. Since these degrees are often pursued by mid-career professionals balancing demanding jobs, the likelihood that past students would endorse their school says a lot about the day-to-day realities of online learning: Was the workload manageable? Were courses engaging and applicable? Did the program feel worth the effort?
The schools hosting online industrial engineering degrees on our list include some of the strongest performers nationwide. Texas A&M, Clemson, and UIUC all post recommendation rates of 96%, suggesting that students not only completed their programs but also saw value in the skills, structure, and outcomes they gained.
What’s most striking is that every school on this list earns exceptionally high marks from students. Even the lowest performers hover in the upper 80s, which is still a strong endorsement.
For industrial engineering students, this means that no matter which program they choose, they are likely entering an environment where alumni overwhelmingly felt the education was worth their time and effort.
Online Industrial Program Designs From Our List
When reviewing these industrial engineering programs, we noticed how differently schools shape the same degree. Some lean into breadth and versatility, while others focus on specialization and structure — yet certain themes emerge across the board.
Several programs emphasize building well-rounded engineers who can navigate multiple domains. Texas A&M, for instance, requires students to take courses across manufacturing, data science, and human factors, ensuring no one graduates with blind spots in core IE competencies. NC State follows a similar model by asking students to sample courses from several ISE groups, an approach that reinforces adaptability (a hallmark of industrial engineers who are often tasked with bridging operations, people, and data).
At the same time, other schools push students toward depth in targeted areas that connect directly to industry demand. UIUC’s advanced analytics concentration and required independent study give graduates a research-driven edge in data-centric roles, while UCF’s two tracks in simulation mark it as a destination for engineers pursuing careers in training systems and modeling. UT Knoxville also stands out with a rare focus on automotive manufacturing, a clear nod to its regional industry connections.
For prospective industrial engineers, there are multiple routes to the same outcome.
An Expert Perspective: Industrial Engineering Appeals to Natural Problem-Solvers
Software Engineer
What makes a successful online master’s in industrial engineering?
"Those students who take pleasure in solving complex problems and have excellent analytical mind are most suitable to become good industrial engineers. There must be some basis in mathematics, statistics, and strong desire to optimize systems. Motivation and organization are essential, particularly within an online environment, in which the students must remain efficient and disciplined."
What do you think of MBA vs. master’s in industrial engineering for mid-career professionals?
"In the case of an MBA vs. an industrial engineering master, this is a career consideration that the profession will have to look at in the long term.
MBA also gives a wider business perspective and this is the reason why it is the best career choice to consider when one is considering leadership role.
Conversely, an industrial engineering master degree is more limited and concentrates on processes optimization, system thinking, and operational efficiencies, which are best suited to those seeking to sharpen their technical tools and grow in either an engineering or manufacturing career path."
What are some portable competencies that are employer-essential in industrial engineering?
"Problem solving, systems thinking and project leadership are highly appreciated by employers. Industrial engineers can find ways to reduce inefficiencies or streamline processes, and take charge of projects that would bring about radical changes in operations through these skills. It is necessary to understand the interaction of different systems and optimize them to keep industries competitive in a rapidly developing environment."
FAQs About Online Master's in Industrial Engineering
What Is An Online Industrial Engineering Master's Degree?
An online master's in industrial engineering is designed to equip you with advanced skills in system optimization, logistics, and process improvement. You'll gain expertise in data analytics, project management, and operations research, with options to specialize in areas like Supply Chain Management or Quality Engineering.
Students with an analytical mind and a knack for understanding systems may want to consider pursuing an online master’s degree in industrial engineering. Broadly speaking, this complex field combines elements of various engineering degrees, including business, technology, mathematics, and science, to solve the issues that arise when humans work within technical systems. More specifically, industrial engineering focuses on optimizing the systems of technology, materials, facilities, and people used in nearly every major type of organization to produce the goods and services we need.
Students must earn a bachelor's in industrial engineering before pursuing an online industrial engineering master's degree. This foundation provides them with the knowledge to understand graduate-level engineering principles and applications. Accreditation is important to consider when enrolling in any online industrial engineering degree program. The accreditation process involves a thorough, independent evaluation of all aspects of an undergraduate or graduate degree program. For industrial engineering programs, students should look for accreditation from .
Students who choose an accredited school can feel confident that they will receive a quality education and that their degree will be recognized by other academic institutions and potential employers. Although accreditation from ABET isn't required for an industrial engineer, enrolling in an unaccredited program can negatively impact both academic prospects and future employment opportunities. In addition, in order to apply for student loans or to transfer credits to another institution, students must attend an accredited school.
Can You Get an Industrial Engineering Master's Degree Online?
There are many options for online students to pursue an industrial engineering master's degree from the comfort of their homes. Most traditional universities have online schools that use the same instructors and program materials that campus students use. All this makes online degrees just as respected as those earned in person.
How Long Does It Take To Get an Industrial Engineering Master's Online?
An online master's industrial engineering program typically takes two years to complete for full-time students. Part-time students may take anywhere from three to five years to graduate. The same goes for all types of engineering degrees at the graduate level.
If you know what area of engineering you want to focus on, explore our pages of the best aerospace engineering master's degrees and electrical engineering master's degrees.
What Specializations Are Available In A Master’s In Industrial Engineering Program?
Specializations feature prominently in industrial engineering master's degrees because of the broad nature of the field. By narrowing their coursework, students can choose which sector they want to work in and what problems they want to solve. For example, ergonomics is a popular concentration because of the importance of workplace safety and comfort. Ergonomics engineers design and optimize systems and equipment that protect employees' health while increasing productivity. Another common specialization is operations research, which focuses on solving industrial problems using mathematics, including modeling and statistical analysis. Some programs refrain from formal concentrations and offer various electives in supply chain management, operations, and systems engineering.
What Classes Do You Take In A Master’s In Industrial Engineering Program?
Industrial engineering courses emphasize practical experience by teaching students real-world applications and technical skills. They study everything from operations research to information and management systems, each designed to immerse students in systems improvement practices.
Below are some common courses in an industrial engineering master's degree:
- Reliability Engineering: This course explores various forms of reliability practices in industrial operations and manufacturing. It covers topics such as time to failure, standby systems, and reliability tests. Students learn to test and assess complex systems to determine how well they will function without failing.
- Production Science: Students explore manufacturing methods in a production science course. They'll develop analytical models, analyze facility operations, and learn how cycle time affects inventory and the movement of products. They'll also engage in production models, allowing them to complete their data analysis.
- Engineering Economy: Engineering economy courses look at various values related to engineering projects, including time and money. Students are taught analysis concepts and techniques used to evaluate risk, analyze investments, and determine what conditions might affect the outcomes of projects. Predicting economic outcomes is a fundamental skill used by professionals.
- Information Systems Engineering: Information systems are a vital component of industrial engineering. For this course, students engage in the study of information technology applications and their uses in micro and macro industrial engineering processes, such as inventory control and operations research. They'll also study data modeling, user interface development, and process mapping.
What Jobs Can I Get With a Graduate Degree in Industrial Engineering?
An industrial engineering master's program online prepares graduates to continue their work in the field and gain leadership positions or pursue special certificates in order to shift their career trajectory. The latter includes certifications to become a quality engineer, manufacturing engineer, or production technician.
In these programs, students learn design foundations that can be applied to civil engineering and mechanical engineering, allowing them to work in operations, logistics, safety, quality, and consultancy in various industries.
Below are some industrial engineering jobs for graduates with a master's:
are the most common job for master's graduates. Job titles include facilities, operations, or quality engineers. They are responsible for designing and implementing industrial processes involving humans and machines. They primarily work in manufacturing facilities that create products such as computers, transportation vehicles, machinery, and building materials.
create operations systems with a focus on limiting their environmental impact. With physical and social sciences training, these professionals understand how industrial processes affect society and utilize natural resources. Their work implements sustainability components in systems designed to also be profitable.
The role of a is to create solutions to operational problems by analyzing cost, efficiency, and data. Their work includes analyzing logistics processes, developing strategic business operations, and investigating supply chain issues. They may work in a factory for a manufacturing company or act as a consultant for various international corporations.
work in similar facilities as industrial engineers, but focus on designing and implementing quality assurance policies. Managerial responsibilities include hiring staff, assessing product development, maintaining process efficiency, and inspecting final products. They may work in laboratories, food processing, material production, or other types of industrial facilities.
How Much Money Can I Make With an Industrial Engineering Degree at the Master's Level?
Aspiring industrial engineers can pursue an online industrial engineering degree that offers a broad exploration of industry principles, processes, and technologies. Some programs feature systems engineering components, while others focus on manufacturing to narrow the coursework to more specific facets of industrial engineering.
Overall, industrial engineers earn a median salary of ; however, this largely depends on the sector you work. Based on BLS data, here are the main categories for industrial engineers:
- Professional, scientific, and technical services: $106,420
- Computer and electronic product manufacturing: $103,850
- Transportation equipment manufacturing: $101,750
- Machinery manufacturing: $98,020
- Fabricated metal product manufacturing: $87,040
The highest 10% of earners under the main category of industrial engineers earned more than $157,140.
Students can still earn similar salaries through an affordable industrial engineering master's degree while keeping their student debt lower than it would otherwise be.
What Are The Admission Requirements For An Online Master’s In Industrial Engineering Program?
Online master’s degree programs in industrial engineering are generally open to students with bachelor's degrees in industrial engineering or other STEM fields. Although students who have earned bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines may be accepted into an IE master’s program, they may be required to complete prerequisite courses, such as calculus, probability and statistics, and computer programming, before starting on the core courses of the industrial engineering program. That said, it's best for undergraduate students to pick a college that already offers courses to prepare them for the next leg of their academic journey.
When applying to college for an online master’s in industrial engineering program, students are typically asked to submit letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a personal essay, and a current resume in addition to the application form and fee.
What Certifications Can Help a Career in Industrial Engineers?
Certifications allow industrial engineering master's graduates to add technical proficiency to their professional arsenals. One of the most popular is the , a comprehensive methodology developed to increase organizational efficiency for engineers. This certificate is beneficial to professionals hoping to earn leadership positions. There are also certifications for specific areas, such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer () and Certified Product Manager ().
Remember that all 50 states require private industrial engineers to obtain a license before offering work to the public. Regarding employers, some require a license, others don't.
What Do Industrial Engineers Do?
Industrial engineers find ways to maximize efficiency in production processes. They study the systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and other resources to make a product or provide a service, and they look for ways to eliminate any wastefulness or inefficiencies. With so many variables involved, industrial engineers must possess a fairly broad base of knowledge in diverse subjects such as production processes, computer systems, and math and statistics. To be successful, they must also have strong communication skills, the ability to work well with others, and an analytical mind with a propensity for problem-solving.
Is an Industrial Engineering Master's Degree Worth It?
Benefits
- Industrial engineers make good money. Professionals earn the median annual salaries of other occupations in the country.
- Engineering has a robust system of support organizations and societies. The Institute of Industrial Systems Engineers () offers community support, professional training, and annual conferences.
- Industrial engineering practices have a profound impact on the environment. Experts cite this profession as having a primary role in fighting climate change by developing more efficient transportation systems, utilizing recycled materials, and decreasing manufacturing waste.
Drawbacks
- The pressure of industrial engineering may affect mental health. Although their work can have a positive impact, professionals may face stress from mounting pressure to improve systems.
- There is an ongoing persistence of systemic and unconscious bias within the profession. Even though engineering values objectivity, many hiring and evaluation processes are still influenced by subjective perceptions of what a “qualified” candidate looks like. This can make people of color face additional barriers to entry, advancement, or recognition, regardless of their actual skills. For example, the (NSPE) explains that Black and Latino applicants receive significantly fewer callbacks than white applicants with the same qualifications.
- Complex mathematics studies are a core component of an industrial engineering degree. Many programs require students to have a background in engineering calculus, with master's courses including statistical analysis and mathematical modeling.
All in all, industrial engineering master's degrees are worth it for students who wish to gain a broad education in industry systems, technologies, and operations. Coursework is often complex and intensive, but professionals earn higher-than-average salaries, and their work is crucial to a functioning supply chain.
Student Reviews of Online Industrial Engineering Programs
My professional and academic background has prepared me to pursue an advanced degree at NYU for Industrial Engineering. It was due to my education in Biology alongside with past and present experiences in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology that has allowed me to explore, analyze and confirm my capabilities in an innovative atmosphere and the impact I can have on all departments. I believe in my heart attending a program at NYU gave me a more defined educational background of pursuing... Read More
Review Date: 12/4/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
A graduate education from NYU is seen as prestigious and elite. My experience thus far has been very rewarding and I am only at the beginning of my educational career. Being able to complete my entire degree online is a huge plus, especially as a working professional. The flexibility of the course offerings is great, too. Although the tuition is higher than other institutions and not much financial aide is rewarded, the value of the degree I believe with be worth it in the end.
Review Date: 6/1/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Top notch professors. Ease of distance learning for a Masters degree is exceptional.
Review Date: 5/31/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: The flexibility of offering an online MSIE and MSIE-MBA dual degree program. Cons: Having to come to campus one weekend a month for a cheaper MBA experience.
Review Date: 7/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am doing Masters in Industrial Technology from fresno state and this is my final semester. I will be graduating in May 2015. These 1 and a half year in fresno is one of the best times i have had. The support and help from professor was commendable and the faculty was encouraging which made me complete my masters in just 18 months. There is lot of diversity on campus which makes this place a happening place to complete your studies. Yes there are few drawbacks and that is ok because the university... Read More
Review Date: 2/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Industrial management here at UT-Tyler is one the best program . While completing master degree it will prepare student for 4 certification it is really awesome.Supply chain, lean six-sigma, project management , robotics material handling certificates will help student find job after graduation.
Review Date: 11/5/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Louisiana Tech is provides not only a great education, but a great home away from home. I originally wanted to go to school closer to home, but after visiting Louisiana Tech I fell in love. At this school, you are not just a number. I found it amazing that all of my professors knew me by name and cared about me personally. Louisiana Tech also has one of the most hands on engineering curriculums in the state, which made learning very applicable in the real world.
Review Date: 10/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Its extremely hard working one part time job and a seasonal job just to live while I go to school. Between the stress of work and the work load of my class I don't know if I will be able to graduate. The only thing that is keeping me going is my families support and support from my fraternity(Theta Tau). I have no social life, because I can't take the stress, time or luxury of it. On the bright side I get to meet C.E.Os of different companies and I am held at high standers that the employers will... Read More
Review Date: 8/16/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The graduate program in Industrial Engineering at ASU is very reputed throughout the US. The primary reasons for that are the breadth of majors offered within the course. The course structure is very diverse and gives students ample opportunities to pursue careers in fields related to statistics, operations research, data science and manufacturing industries. Experienced professors like Dr. Montgomery make learning a fun activity. Apart from my course, ASU is renowned for its courses in STEM majors... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hello Friends, I usually don't complain about any education institute but University of Houston - Main Campus is an exceptional. I joined graduate program after reviewing the course catalog on the University's site I.e. for Fall of 2015. Trust me I literally joined a average University above my other good admits. The problem started from first semester itself. The professors for two out of three courses couldn't speak English properly live alone teaching, I did complain to the graduate advising office... Read More
Review Date: 7/6/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Hello Friends, I usually don't complain about any education institute but University of Houston - Main Campus is an exceptional. I joined graduate program after reviewing the course catalog on the University's site I.e. for Fall of 2015. Trust me I literally joined an average University above my other good admits. The problem started from first semester itself. The professors for two out of three courses couldn't speak English properly leave alone teaching, I did complain to the graduate advising... Read More
Review Date: 7/6/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I cannot say much about my current school because this is my first semester in there as a graduate student at the UCF (University of Central Florida). However, based on what I heard, UCF is a great school. I have three siblings who went there as undergrad. Since I heard a lot of positive things about UCF, I would recommend anyone to attend school there.
Review Date: 8/21/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The IE department is small compared to the other engineering departments. While this means there are limited courses offered, it is nice to have a very close group of faculty and students.
Review Date: 8/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Both the pros and cons of the industrial design program at SCAD hinge upon self-determination. More often than not, projects a group-based, and roles within those groups are self-organized. Thus, cooperative professionalism and existing strengths are nurtured, but certain development can be avoided if one isn't self-motivated to address those skill gaps. Similarly, we often decide the topics of our projects, which I personally love, but I understand can be challenging for those who prefer more concrete... Read More
Review Date: 7/8/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
One of the few programs in California that support the burgeoning field of user design through human factors/ergonomics.
Review Date: 5/12/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The graduate program I am in enrolled in is designed for working professionals. It allows the students to continue to work full time jobs and earn their master's degree as a full time student status. Most work is done at home, but time is spent on campus studying with other students and learning from the professors.
Review Date: 4/17/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
One of the best colleges for industrial engineering
Review Date: 9/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My graduate program is very close to actual industry related activities and involves practical applications on theories learnt in class in the real world. On the down side , less financial aid is available to international students making it difficult to manage the college expenses.
Review Date: 9/21/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
University of Miami has a dynamic campus environment which helped me to be more open to different cultures and lifestyles. Engineering Student Body is also diverse, especially graduate students are from all over the world and I believe that this is really important to have different perspectives.The college of engineering definitely supports our research projects in the best possible way. One of the most important feature is the faculty. They are so helpful. As a research assistant, I go to work... Read More
Review Date: 11/28/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The ISE B.S. program is broad and encompassing of all of the various areas that a graduate can pursue. It allows the opportunity to specialize for students who know where they want to work as well. Great professors, and pretty great learning facilities.
Review Date: 12/30/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes