The University of St. Thomas

Master of Manufacturing Systems Engineering (MMSE)

Purpose



To develop individuals with the technical depth and leadership breadth for engineering management positions.

As manufacturing becomes increasingly knowledge-based, companies demand more of their professionals. Engineers need to be specialized experts with broad systems and business understanding. The Master of Manufacturing Systems Engineering (MMSE) program offers practicing engineers an opportunity to prepare for manufacturing systems leadership positions through advanced study of technical and management subjects. Students gain cutting-edge knowledge in manufacturing systems engineering with broad options to integrate technical skills with industry strategy.

How does the MMSE program work?

  • Three-credit evening courses -- Fall and spring courses meet one evening per week Monday through Thursday from 5:30 to 8:30 or 6 to 9 p.m. Summer courses may meet one or two evenings per week.
  • Varied locations -- Classes are held at our St. Paul and Minneapolis campuses, and occasionally in the Owatonna, Anoka, Chaska and Mall of America locations.
  • Semester schedule -- St. Thomas follows a semester schedule. We offer classes in the fall, spring, and summer.
  • Self-paced -- You can pursue your MMSE degree at a pace that fits your professional, financial and personal needs. Most students complete the program in three or more years, taking one or two classes per semester.
  • Begin when you're ready -- Enter our program at the start of any semester.
  • Tuition -- Tuition is paid on a per-class basis. See Registration Materials link our Home Page or call 651-962-5756 for current rates.
  • Registration -- Registration is a user-friendly, streamlined process.   It can be done by phone, in person or on the web.
  • Advising -- Students are assigned a faculty advisor upon entering the program.

Why?
  • ABET Accreditation
The M.M.S.E. degree program is one of three graduate manufacturing systems engineering programs nationally accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) - a testament to our academic rigor and program quality. (ABET phone number: 410-347-7700)
  • Broad, systems perspective
Students repeatedly tell us this program's emphasis on broad, systems thinking makes them better decision makers and leaders. By examining manufacturing as an integrated process of complex technologies, human relationships, distribution networks and financial systems, you will learn how to better contribute to your organization's most important goals
  • An opportunity to specialize
You'll work with an advisor to select electives that make sense for your career goals. You may wish to study in areas such as quality, medical devices, software, product development, engineering management and technology management
  • Applications oriented, industry-based curriculum
Our program is industry-based and applied. We expect you'll bring your work experiences to class and apply what you learn on the job. We want you to use your assignments and research projects to address real workplace issues.
  • Instructors with extensive industrial experience
Our full time and adjunct faculty members bring both academic credentials and industry experience to the classroom. These executives, managers and engineers share a passion for teaching and improving the industrial welfare of our nation. They emphasize hands-on learning, promote interaction among students and encourage the free exchange of ideas.
  • Flexibility and convenience
Our program serves working professionals with already busy lives. You can set your own pace of study and start any time of the year. Classes are taught in the evenings at various sites throughout the metropolitan area, and some are delivered via distance learning technologies.

What will you gain from the MMSE program?
  • An ABET accredited Master of Manufacturing Systems Engineering degree
  • Sharpened engineering skills and broadened business knowledge
  • Developed network of individuals (other students, faculty, and speakers) in your field
  • Preparation to assume intellectually challenging leadership roles in world-class organizations
"I'm learning a new approach to leadership, how to evaluate and improve systems, to be a critical thinker at work."

    -Jon DCamp, student
    Senior Production Engineer, Honeywell, Inc.

Who should apply to the MMSE program?
Degreed engineers from EAC of ABET-accredited programs with technically oriented career objectives. Engineers seeking systems-oriented technical leadership positions in systems design, project / program management, research and development or operations.

Entrance Requirements
  • Bachelor's engineering degree from EAC of ABET-accredited programs with GPA of 2.7 or higher.
  • Two years experience in an industrial organization.
  • Aptitude requirement (one required):
    • GRE or GMAT acceptable scores
    • Professional certifications: CMfgE, FE, PE, CPIM, EIT
    • Five years industrial experience as evidenced by your resume
    • ndergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (4.0 scale).

How do I apply?
Call us at any time of the year to begin the process. Our phone numbers are 651-962-5750 or 800-328-6819 Ext. 2-5750.  We'll provide you with additional information and help you understand the program requirements. We'll invite you to visit a class, see our facilities and meet us in person.

Your completed application file will include:
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Satisfactory completion of aptitude requirement.
  • Personal goal statement
  • Resume outlining educational background, work experience and profession affiliations.
  • Completed application form.
  • $30 non-refundable, one-time application fee.

We will work with you to assess your readiness to begin the MMSE program.
  • If you're not ready to pursue a degree, you can take one or two courses for professional development or work on a certificate in a specific area.
  • If you're ready to start a degree program and have not completed all application file requirements, you can take courses immediately through Graduate Special Enrollment (limited to six credits or two classes).