The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Kentucky provides an intellectually challenging environment in which to pursue advanced studies and engage in research. In addition to programs of study leading to M.S. and Ph.D. Degrees in Mechanical Engineering, the Mechanical Engineering Department also offers a master’s degree program in Manufacturing Systems Engineering. Students in this program are able to earn their degree entirely online or by taking a combination of courses offered online and in the face-to-face mode.
Graduate degree programs in the field of manufacturing systems engineering are important for enhancing manufacturing productivity and quality in the U.S. The Master of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering is designed to equip the student for opportunities in modern manufacturing processes and systems. Some of the possible areas of concentration for research and study are: Manufacturing Processes and Equipment, Design for Manufacturing, Plastic and Polymer Processing, Electronics Design and Manufacturing, Computer-aided Design and Manufacturing, Manufacturing Systems Planning and Control, Automated Assembly, and Lean Manufacturing.
The Plan A provides for study and research leading to the degree of Master of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering. The thesis plan requires twenty-four credit hours of course work and a thesis. All students will be required to complete four specified core courses [MFS 606, MFS 605, MFS 505, MFS 613 (MFS 611, if enrolled prior to Spring 2016)]. The electives for each student will be developed in conjunction with an advisor to insure that the program provides breadth and depth of content for the student, and meets his or her specific needs and interests. Appropriate electives are drawn from areas of Engineering, Computer Science, Business and Economics, or Mathematics. Two electives are designated as Manufacturing Specialization electives.
The Plan B (non-thesis option) is reserved for students who have significant engineering research or development experience in a manufacturing environment, for which completion of a thesis would be less beneficial than the additional course work involved in Plan B. The Plan B requires thirty (30) credit hours of course work and the satisfactory completion of a final examination. All students will be required to 2 complete four specified core courses [MFS 606, MFS 605, MFS 505, MFS 613 (MFS 611, if enrolled prior to Spring 2016)], as well as MFS 784 Research Project in Manufacturing Systems Engineering, nine credit hours of Manufacturing Specialization electives, and nine credit hours of other appropriate electives. Approval of the student’s advisor and of the Director of Graduate Studies is necessary for a student to pursue Plan B.
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
Materials engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create a wide range of products.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$104,100
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
22,300
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
1,100
new jobs (average)
Materials engineers generally work in offices where they have access to computers and design equipment. Others work in factories or research and development laboratories. Materials engineers typically work full time and may work overtime hours when necessary.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Out of State Student page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state.