Invest in Yourself with an Advanced Degree
You're ready to reach the top of your field. We're ready to help you do that.
Earning an advanced degrees in Systems Engineering and Operations Research isn't easy; it's challenging, enriching, and worthwhile. Our programs will provide you with the knowledge, research opportunities, and connections you'll need to build a successful career.
Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's (BAM):
BAM allows Mason Engineering undergraduate students to pursue a master’s degree through an accelerated program, and begin taking graduate courses as early as their junior year. The department offers an MS in systems engineering and an MS in operations research. Additionally, an MS in data analytics engineering with a concentration in predictive analytics and financial engineering is offered. To apply visit the left menu at Accelerated Master's Admissions | College of Engineering and Computing (gmu.edu)
Fast-track Admission to graduate programs:
If you are a high-achieving Mason Engineering alum who has shown exemplary work in an undergraduate degree such as systems engineering or any other discipline, consider our Fast-Track graduate admission process. To apply visit the left menu at Fast-Track Graduate Admissions | College of Engineering and Computing (gmu.edu).
Regular graduate admissions:
For the programs described below, apply by visiting the Mason general admissions page.
MS in Systems Engineering, MS in Operations Research
You must have a working background in engineering mathematics and computer systems. To be admitted here, you must:
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Have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, economics, or a related field.
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Have completed courses in calculus, matrix algebra, applied probability and statistics, and familiarity with a computer language. Domestic applicants with missing courses may be required to take a foundation course in Engineering Mathematics.
- Provide evidence of satisfactory educational achievement in at least one of the following forms: a GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses.
- Have achieved a satisfactory score on the TOEFL examination for non-native English speakers.
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As part of the application, provide a resume and a personal statement that includes a self-assessment of your background and articulation of career goals and aspirations.
MS in Data Analytics Engineering
No specific undergraduate degree is required, but it's best to have a background in engineering, business, computer science, statistics, mathematics, or information technology, with demonstrated foundational competence in calculus, statistics, and computer programming. Applicants without that formal academic preparation but with clear evidence of strong and extensive work experience in data or analytics may also be considered on a case by case basis. DAEN 500 Data Analytics Fundamentals may be required for domestic students without a basic foundation in Data Analytics.
To be admitted to the program, you must:
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Have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
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Earn a minimum GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate, or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses.
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Have two letters of recommendation submitted by former professors or supervisors.
- As part of the application, provide a resume and a personal statement that includes a self-assessment of your background and articulation of career goals and aspirations.
PhD in Systems Engineering and Operations Research
To be admitted to the program, you must have:
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An MS from an accredited institution of higher education in systems engineering, operations research or related areas in engineering, mathematics, and computer science
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A minimum graduate GPA of 3.50
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A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00
You should also have a strong background in engineering mathematics, which includes three semesters of calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and probability, as well as a sound working knowledge in computing.
To apply, you must submit:
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An application for admission.
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Undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
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Three letters of reference.
- A resume and a personal statement that includes a self-assessment of your background and articulation of career goals and aspirations.
Translations of international credentials must be provided if they are not in English; in some cases, applicants will be required to have documents evaluated by an external agency. A satisfactory score on the TOEFL examination is required for non-native English speakers. GRE test results are recommended but not required. All of an applicant's background is examined before an admission decision is made.