Industrial engineers combine their engineering expertise with a knowledge of cost and time efficiency in order to improve how things are made or done. Essentially, they seek to reduce wasted time, materials, energy, and money. With one of the cheapest online master’s industrial engineering degrees below, you can become an expert in this discipline and take advantage of countless opportunities.
Industrial engineers may work to streamline an operating system, improve assembly-line safety, or speed the delivery of goods. They have strong salaries and, with an increased need for efficiency, should also see high demand in the future.
With this database, you’ll find 37 industrial engineering degrees from 35 accredited colleges and universities. With so many options, these degrees come in a range of prices.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost (In-state): ~$27,300
Least Expensive In-State: North Carolina A&T State University ~$7,570
Least Expensive Out-of-state: New Mexico State University ~$13,767
With the right online degree from an accredited institution, you can become an expert in industrial engineering with the flexibility as well as convenience of remote learning. Read on in order to learn more about the cheapest online industrial engineering degree programs.
19 Cheapest Online Master’s Industrial Engineering Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | North Carolina A & T State University | (NC) | $7,570.00 $26,380.00 $7,570.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
2 | University of Central Florida | (FL) | $9,820.00 $34,552.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Texas A & M University-Kingsville | (TX) | $12,762.00 $26,408.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | New Mexico State University | (NM) | $13,767.00 $7,935.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
5 | Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $14,670.00 $15,900.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | University of Florida | (FL) | $16,451.00 $38,918.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 | Northern Illinois University | (IL) | $16,650.00 | All Students |
8 | Mississippi State University | (MS) | $16,860.00 | All Students |
9 | Louisiana Tech University | (LA) | $17,100.00 | All Students |
10 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | (NC) | $19,099.00 $52,389.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | University of Missouri-Columbia | (MO) | $19,500.00 | All Students |
12 | Wright State University | (OH) | $20,400.00 $34,350.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | University of Houston | (TX) | $22,350.00 | All Students |
14 | Texas Tech University | (TX) | $23,587.00 $36,187.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
15 | University of Louisville | (KY) | $23,730.00 $7,500.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
16 | Iowa State University | (IA) | $24,612.00 | All Students |
17 | Kansas State University | (KS) | $24,775.00 | All Students |
18 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | (TN) | $26,080.00 $28,480.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | (LA) | $27,000.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Oregon State University | (OR) | $27,855.00 | All Students | |
University of Oklahoma | (OK) | $29,550.00 | All Students | |
Texas A & M University | (TX) | $30,204.00 $46,449.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $30,510.00 | All Students | |
Clemson University | (SC) | $30,832.00 | All Students | |
Auburn University | (AL) | $31,357.00 | All Students | |
University of Michigan - Dearborn | (MI) | $34,070.00 $56,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Purdue University | (IN) | $34,170.00 $43,770.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
New Jersey Institute of Technology | (NJ) | $34,290.00 | All Students | |
University of Arizona | (AZ) | $34,470.00 | All Students | |
Georgia Institute of Technology | (GA) | $36,210.00 | All Students | |
Western New England University | (MA) | $39,750.00 | All Students | |
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | (IL) | $40,932.00 | All Students | |
Lawrence Technological University | (MI) | $43,950.00 | All Students | |
Illinois Institute of Technology | (IL) | $52,860.00 | All Students | |
University of Southern California | (CA) | $68,368.00 | All Students |
Methodology for These Rankings
These rankings of online industrial engineering programs are based on our fall 2023 review of degrees. In order to calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and also specific to the individual program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, and financial aid, as well as numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online industrial engineering degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online industrial engineering degree. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: In order to qualify for a ranking, the online master’s in industrial engineering must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Should I Get a Master’s in Industrial Engineering Online?
People enroll in these affordable master’s industrial engineering online programs for many reasons. Here are three of the top reasons why you might enroll in these programs:
- Advance your career: An industrial engineer only needs a bachelor’s degree. However, a master’s degree can boost your career into some of the top management, research, and academic positions.
- Earn a top-tier salary: The top 10% of all industrial engineers earn over $134,990 a year. With a master’s degree, you are more likely to be near this high earning level.
- Work in academia or research: To work in scientific research or education, you need a master’s degree or even a doctorate.
Industrial Engineering Master’s Programs: The Cost
A master’s degree may not be free, but with scholarships and grants, as well as our list of the cheapest online master’s industrial engineering programs, you can find a school that fits your needs. The programs in this database range from roughly $7,500 to over $68,000, so research is key.
The cheapest online master’s industrial engineering program comes from North Carolina A&T State University. The school’s Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering has an estimated cost of $7,570 for in-state students. However, students who don’t reside in North Carolina have an estimated cost of $26,380, which is still slightly less than the average.
For students from any location, the most affordable option is the Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from New Mexico State University. Both in- and out-of-state students pay $13,767 for this degree.
The least affordable master’s industrial engineering online in this database is the Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering from the University of Southern California, a prestigious private school in Los Angeles. This program has an estimated cost of $68,368. It’s nearly $14,000 more than the second-most expensive degree, which comes from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Industrial Engineering?
There are 20 programs priced below the average of $27,300, including five programs that are below $15,000 for in-state students. However, if you want the cheapest online master’s industrial engineering program, these are your three best options:
#1. North Carolina A&T State University
Degree: Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering
Cost: $7,570 (In-state, North Carolina)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
This program at North Carolina A&T State University builds your expertise in systems engineering, teamwork, and industrial engagement. Courses in this cheapest online master’s industrial engineering degree run through a variety of important subjects, including project management, supply chain efficiency, and data analytics.
This school is an established leader in education. The school, which has a rich history, now offers over 20 online certificates and degree programs. All courses include resources that can be utilized in order to enhance learning and student performance. Also, qualified faculty with real-world experience in industrial engineering teach all courses within the major.
#2. University of Central Florida
Degree: Master of Science in Industrial Engineering
Cost: $9,820 (In-state, Florida)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers a variety of tracks for the MS in industrial engineering. Students in this program can focus on subjects like training systems, human systems engineering, operations research, and simulation modeling. There are also thesis and non-these options, allowing students to mold the degree to their interests, skills, and career goals.
UCF makes earning a master’s degree online affordable as well as convenient. It offers numerous online programs, including a handful of MS degrees. Faculty have designed their degrees for working professionals, parents, and people who want to shift careers. With flexible degree options, this school makes learning possible no matter your current lifestyle.
#3. Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Degree: Master of Science in Industrial Engineering
Cost: $12,762 (In-state, Texas)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Students in this online industrial engineering master’s program are exposed to a range of topics, including the math and physical sciences behind industrial engineering. Graduates know how to make systems of industrial production more efficient while assessing, analyzing, and enhancing operations.
The program includes course-only (no thesis) as well as thesis options. In the thesis option, you will select a thesis advisor who provides guidance as you complete the extensive research paper. There is also a project option, which includes conducting a detailed research project and also creating a formal report.
Degree Program Types
Before enrolling in an online masters industrial engineering program, you need to understand the different types of degrees, as well as the specialization options.
Degree Type: Master of Science vs Master of Engineering
There are two basic degree types in this database of industrial engineering programs. The most common is a master of science (MS). In this database they have names like “Master of Science in Industrial Engineering” or something similar.
While you can use an MS degree for professional advancement in the private sector, this is the best option if you want to advance into a research or academic position. Coursework changes depending on the program, but they generally teach broad science topics as well as research methods that apply to industrial engineering.
A master of engineering, on the other hand, is more focused on the direct skills needed in order to work as an industrial engineer, especially in leadership and executive positions. For example, you may learn about labor issues and business efficiencies that impact industrial engineering.
Specializations: Engineering, Management, Human Factors, and More
While there appears to be less variance within these degrees compared to other fields of study, there are still a few specializations that can impact your learning. Some of these degrees focus more on management in industrial engineering, while others focus on systems or operations. Knowing the specializations and choosing the right one for your future is important.
Specializations and concentrations within industrial engineering include:
- Engineering
- Management
- Human Factors
- Systems
- Operations
Accreditation for these Programs
Accreditation is part of the academic quality-control process. It starts with accrediting bodies that are authorities in education. These groups, which come in many forms, review colleges and universities. Those schools that meet specific standards receive accreditation. Students attending unaccredited schools often lose access to government financial aid. Degrees from unaccredited schools often also do not have the same respect from employers and licensing bodies.
Institutional accreditation is one of the primary requirements for inclusion in our database. (The other requirement is that the program be at least 80% online.) All of the master’s in industrial engineering online programs in this database come from accredited institutions.
There are many types of accreditation, including programmatic, granted by subject-specific organizations. For example, bachelor’s degrees (and some master’s degrees) in engineering may have accreditation from ABET. This is more important for a bachelor’s, as some licensing or certifications are only available to graduates of ABET-accredited bachelor programs.
As a prospective student, you only need to concern yourself with institutional accreditation. As long as the program comes from an accredited school, it will deliver a respected, high-quality education.
Typical Admission Requirements
The admissions process for an online master’s in industrial engineering is fairly clear-cut, although the rules can change depending on the school.
The main requirement is a bachelor’s degree, which must be in a field related to industrial engineering. Of course an industrial engineering bachelor’s applies, but degrees in basic engineering, mathematics, business, or supply chain efficiencies could also work. It helps to discuss enrollment requirements with your desired school.
If you choose to apply, you’ll need to submit a variety of documents. Graduate schools are more selective and require numerous documents that demonstrate your skills and knowledge. A statement of purpose, which describes your motivation for completing a master’s degree, will be required. Master’s programs will also require letters of recommendation, which must be written by professional or academic leaders who can attest to your skills.
Every school is different, so check with the admissions office for further details on the process.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements
Most positions in industrial engineering only require a bachelor’s degree. However, there are a handful of employers who prefer or require a master’s degree in industrial engineering. Regardless of employer requirements, with a master’s you are more likely to earn a higher salary and earn top leadership positions.
Some engineering fields require licensing, but this is less common for industrial engineers. A Professional Engineering (PE) license is useful for experienced industrial engineers who want to lead engineering teams, but it’s not a requirement for entry into the profession.
To further boost your career, certification through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers is a good option. These certifications, however, require eight years of combined education and experience; at least four years must be professional experience.
Some industrial engineers will become members of the Institute of Industrial & Systems Engineers. This group provides career-enhancing resources and also helps engineers stay connected with the professional community.
Industrial Engineers: Career Expectations
Industrial engineers, who specialize in the efficiency of production processes, work for a variety of industries and sectors. They are found in transportation, technical services, computer manufacturing, and machinery manufacturing, as well as scientific research. They can work in offices or at the facilities they are trying to improve, such as a manufacturing site.
Engineering as a whole is a lucrative career field. Many engineering professions have median salaries over $100,000, including aerospace ($126,880), chemical ($106,260), and nuclear engineers ($122,480).
Industrial engineers are near the top as well. The median salary for this profession, which only requires a bachelor’s degree, is $96,350. For perspective, the median salary for all occupations is around $46,000. The top 10% in this occupation earn over $134,990. With an affordable master’s industrial engineering online you are more likely to be at or near this higher level.
Industrial engineers can find work in all corners of the nation. Anywhere something is built, assembled, or produced, there is likely an industrial engineer working behind the scenes in order to improve efficiencies.
However, the state with the most industrial engineers is Michigan, which remains an important manufacturing and industrial area. Michigan not only has the most industrial engineers (over 26,000), it also has the highest concentration. In this state, there are 6.22 industrial engineers for every 1,000 jobs. Minnesota (5.49) and Wisconsin (4.14) round out the top three. The upper Midwest is a great place to find work as an industrial engineer.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Industrial Engineering Degree?
The process of choosing an online industrial engineering master’s degree can be overwhelming. But with preparation, research, and the best resources, you can make the right decision.
Firstly, only consider degrees from accredited institutions. Accreditation is vital, both for the quality of your education and the value of your degree. This database makes a useful resource, as all programs come from accredited colleges and universities.
Think about your budget and use our database in order to find the cheapest online master’s industrial engineering program that fits your financial needs. Cost will vary by student, but our database provides clear, reliable estimates on total program cost, both for in-state and out-of-state students.
Consider the type of degree you prefer. If you want to develop professional skills that apply directly to the industrial engineering profession, a master’s of engineering may be best. However, if you want to work in research or academia, a master’s of science could be the better option.
With these steps, you can find the right degree for your needs. If you need any help, the resources and information on GetEducated.com are waiting!