Systems Engineering
WPI: Revolutionizing Systems Engineering for the Modern World
Human-designed systems today run the gamut from elemental subsystems, such as simple switching relays, to complex systems of systems like nuclear-powered submarines and space stations. But how can we ensure that systems fulfill their intended purpose, work reliably, and are both safe and economical?
Systems engineering is a holistic approach to the conceptualization, design, construction, and maintenance of successful systems. It is highly procedural, focusing on customer needs and required functionality along with system validation. Systems Engineering topics typically address both engineering and management aspects and include Project Management; Risk Management; Requirements Engineering, System Architecture and Design; Systems Integration, Validation, and Verification; System Optimization; Business Practices; and Systems Thinking.
Demand for Systems Engineers is high. The field is competitive and pays well with typical Systems Engineer salaries ranging from $90K to over $150K with experience. Sample employers of WPI Systems Engineering graduates are Boeing, RTX (Raytheon), General Dynamics, Draper, BAE, and Mass General.
WPI’s Graduate Programs in Systems Engineering
Through a combination of courses in Engineering, Science, and Management, WPI’s rigorous graduate programs prepare professionals for challenging careers in Systems Engineering. Our approach stresses a hands-on, practical, applied, project-based curriculum taught by instructors who have actually practiced real-world Systems Engineering for decades.
WPI’s Systems Engineering programs are offered 100% online, affording working professionals access to this education wherever they live, and the flexibility to expand their knowledge base and skills while working full-time.
Other Graduate Programs
Master's in System Engineering
| Area of Study | Certificate | Master | PhD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systems Engineering | certificate | master | phd |
| Systems Engineering Leadership | master |
Why WPI Systems Engineering is right for you
Systems Engineering: Digital Badge Programs
Discover the power of systems engineering with our online and on-demand digital badge courses.
Are you ready to delve into the fascinating world of Systems Engineering? Our digital badge courses offer an immersive learning experience designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in this dynamic field.
Begin your journey with 'Systems Engineering Awareness', where you'll explore the foundational principles, methodologies, and best practices that form the backbone of Systems Engineering. Gain a comprehensive understanding of system integration, requirements analysis, and project management, setting the stage for your success in real-world engineering endeavors.
Ready to take your expertise to the next level? Dive deeper into the intricacies of system design and optimization with our advanced course, 'Systems Engineering Architecture'. Explore cutting-edge techniques, tools, and frameworks used in architecting complex systems, and emerge as a visionary leader capable of tackling the challenges of tomorrow's technological landscape.
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Catalyst Blog
WPI's Graduate & Professional Studies motivation is to inspire an interest in lifelong learning and career development. Catalyst offers practical tips, professional development tools, and discussions of hot topics in STEM with insights direct from WPI’s labs, researchers, and industry experts.
Our Faculty
Our students work closely with WPI’s renowned Systems Engineering faculty: real-world experts who enrich the curriculum with decades of professional experience in all aspects of the field. Many continue to be active members of industry as employees and consultants in a variety of leading companies, including Verizon, MITRE Corporation, Stryker, and the United States Air Force.
- Don Gelosh, PhD
- Director of Systems Engineering
- WPI Graduate & Professional Studies
- Scott Doremus
- Senior Lecturer, WPI
- Mike Bonin, Senior Engineer
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
Systems Engineering and Leadership Institute
At WPI, we believe all engineers should have some knowledge of systems engineering and leadership methods to be properly prepared for 21st century realities. The strategic goal of the institute is to advance systems engineering education, research, and leadership through partnerships with professionals from government, industry, and academic communities.
WPI & INCOSE
WPI's partnership with the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) helps our students achieve professional recognition as a systems engineer. INCOSE is a not-for-profit membership organization with chapters supporting and promoting systems engineering worldwide. WPI’s Director for Systems Engineering Programs, Don Gelosh, PhD, currently serves as the INCOSE Services Director, a position that oversees the value streams of Certification, Events, and Professional Development. In addition, INCOSE approved WPI’s updated SYS 501. Concepts of Systems Engineering for Academic Equivalency. This will allow any student who receives a final score of 85% or better to waive the Knowledge Exam for INCOSE’s SE Professional certification program, both at the Associate (ASEP) and Certified (CSEP) levels.
Experiential PhD: Working Full-Time While Pursuing Your PhD Degree
WPI supports individuals working full-time in industry to pursue PhD degrees either part-time or full-time on topics related to their employment. Want to learn more about this opportunity and how to obtain this industry-based PhD degree, visit the WPI Experiential PhD program page.
Publications
- Our complimentary web series “Engineering Education: The Systems Approach” takes you through a journey of how systems thinking and systems engineering can be combined to generate innovation—in any industry.
- Learn about "The Emergence of Humanity's Self-Awareness" from Systems Engineering faculty member Jamie Monat, PhD, in his latest whitepaper and video in which he examines the idea of self-awareness—a quality that separates humanity from even the most complex animals. Access the whitepaper and video here.
