Online Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

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#1 Ranked Online Master's in Industrial Engineering Programs U.S. News & World Report, 2025

Overview

Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report in 2025, the fully online Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (MSIE) empowers professionals to master advanced engineering concepts, analyze and optimize complex systems, and innovate their industries. This program combines prestige and accessibility, giving students exposure to what matters in industrial engineering right now through flexible online coursework with no thesis required. By working with expert faculty in Purdue University’s Edwardson School of Industrial Engineering, students develop technical and analytical skills tailored to their career goals, including operations research, supply chain management and data-driven decision-making.

Designed for professionals in engineering, manufacturing, logistics and beyond, this program equips graduates to lead diverse teams, improve operational efficiency and address real-world challenges with confidence. In the MSIE, students can customize their plan of study to fit their unique career goals and network with other accomplished engineering professionals. Graduates leave the program with a valuable credential from an institution with an engineering reputation known worldwide.

Curriculum

  • 21 credit hours of IE courses
  • 9 Credit hours graduate-level courses work from either industrial engineering or related area. Pre-approved areas listed below:
    • other engineering disciplines
    • mathematics, statistics, computer sciences, biology
    • psychology, sociology
    • economics, management

We offer coursework in:

  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Manufacturing Systems Engineering
  • Operational Research (Mathematical Programming; Simulation & Stochastic Processes)
  • Production Systems Engineering
student working in lab

Frequently Asked Questions

You would earn a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering.

You may take a maximum of two consecutive semesters off. If you take more than two semesters, you will need to reapply to the program.

Scholarships and funding are not available through Purdue as this program is a course-based, self-funded master's program. U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents are eligible for federal financial aid. The Purdue Division of Financial Aid can answer your questions. Veterans can visit the Dorothy Stratton Veteran and Miltary Success Center to learn more about wrap-around support services for Purdue students who are veterans, members of the military, or benefit-using family members.

The courses will be offered asynchronously. We upload recordings of live lectures for you to view on your time. You will follow along weekly to complete your assignments, projects, and/or exams. Exams may require a proctor (virtual or in-person depending on the faculty).

You need to register for at least one credit to be considered an active student. If you do not enroll for more than two consecutive semesters, you will lose your student status and must reapply.

We suggest that you try to get at least one academic reference. If that is not possible, recommendations from employers will be accepted.

The program requires 30 credits. You may complete the program as a full time or part time student. A full-time student takes at least 8 semester credit hours every term and may be able to complete this program within 12 to 18 months. A part time student takes less than 8 semester credit hours every term (on average 3-6). As a part-time student, you may complete the program within 2 to 4 years. The average time to complete the program is 3 years.

No, all courses are not available every term. You can see our course availability on the Courses List page. Use the gold bar to filter your view.