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:
-
Have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, economics, or a related field.
-
Complete courses in multivariate calculus, differential equations, matrix algebra, applied probability and statistics, and a computer language.
-
Earn a GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate, or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses.
-
Have two letters of recommendation from former professors or supervisors.
If you want to enter the program but are missing a requirement, you might be accepted provisionally, pending a plan to fulfill all requirements. We offer such courses as SYST 500, an intensive review of undergraduate engineering mathematics, to help you meet requirements.
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. If you don't have a degree in one of those fields, you might also qualify if you have strong work experience in data or analytics.
To be admitted here, you must:
-
Have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
-
Earn a minimum GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate, or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses.
-
Have two letters of recommendation submitted by former professors or supervisors.
-
A resume.
-
A statement of career goals and aspirations.
-
A self-assessment of past background.
PhD in Systems Engineering and Operations Research
To be admitted, you must have:
-
An MS from an accredited institution of higher education in systems engineering, operations research or related areas in engineering mathematics and computer science
-
A minimum graduate GPA of 3.50
-
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:
-
An application for admission.
-
Undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
-
GRE test results.
-
Three letters of reference.
-
A resume.
-
A statement of career goals and aspirations.
-
A self-assessment of past background.
If international credentials are not in English, you must provide translations. In some cases, applicants will be required to have documents evaluated by an external agency.