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Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (MSIE)

The Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (MSIE) prepares you for success as a researcher working for consulting firms, industry or the government.

Last Updated: 02/25/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

The Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (MSIE) degree gives you focused study in a specific area. In addition, you must complete a research thesis as part of the program. Because the degree emphasizes research, you build strong analytical and investigative skills. As a result, you prepare for careers in consulting, industry or government research.

Since this program centers on research, it can also prepare you for our Ph.D. program. Therefore, you can strengthen your qualifications for doctoral study. In addition, you will receive priority consideration for assistantship awards. This support can help you gain experience while advancing your academic goals.

General Requirements

To earn the MSIE degree:

  • You must complete at least 31 credit hours. Specifically, complete at least 24 hours of coursework and 3 to 6 hours of thesis research in ISE 695.
  • Your Plan of Graduate Work must include one 700- or 800-level ISE course. However, do not count thesis credits toward this requirement.
  • You must take ISE 601 as part of your degree coursework.
  • You must form a research advisory committee with at least three members who hold Graduate Faculty Status.
    • At least two members must be ISE faculty.
    • At least one member must come from outside the ISE Department.
    • An ISE faculty member will serve as your committee chair.
    • You may choose a co-chair from outside ISE.
    • With the Director of Graduate Programs’ approval, you may add members from outside the university.
    • Your committee may set standards above these minimum requirements.
  • Your credit hour requirements do not include undergraduate prerequisites.
  • A minor is optional; you may pursue one if it fits your goals.
    • Contact the minor department for course requirements.
    • Official minors will appear on your transcript.
    • For examples, review the List of Hypothetical Minors.

Breadth Requirement (12 hours)

To meet this requirement:

  • Choose one course from three of these Breadth Requirement Course Listing (9 credit hours):
    • Economic Analytics and Decision Making
    • Human Factors and Ergonomics
    • Manufacturing Systems
    • Supply Chain
    • Systems Analytics and Optimization
  • Select one course from Group F (Computer Science, Mathematics or Statistics) in the Breadth Requirement Course Listing.
  • ISE PRO TIP: If you have an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering, discuss these breadth requirements with the Director of Graduate Programs.

What are the Graduate School Admission Requirements?

Statistics

Statistics courses are not required for the MSIE degree. However, many ISE faculty expect you to complete advanced coursework in statistics. Therefore, you should plan your coursework carefully.

In addition, many graduate courses require entry level statistics knowledge. For example, you may need preparation similar to ST 507 ST 511 ST 513 and ST 515. Because of this expectation, you should review course prerequisites early.

If you pursue a minor in statistics, you may take courses such as ST 516, ST 708, ST 711, ST 730 and ST 731. To learn more, review the Guidelines for Minors in Statistics. By exploring these guidelines, you can choose courses that strengthen your academic preparation and research skills.

Your Thesis

  • Review NC State’s Thesis and Dissertation Guide for general requirements.
  • Don’t wait to complete all coursework before starting your thesis research.
  • Begin planning your thesis research in your first semester in residence. You may start research early in your program, using “directed study” courses (ISE 637 and ISE 639) as an alternative to formal coursework.
    • These courses allow you to conduct preliminary (pilot) research with faculty supervision.
  • A written proposal approved by your advisory committee is recommended but not required before beginning final thesis research.
  • There will be an oral examination of your thesis.
    • If you don’t pass, you have one opportunity to retake the oral exam.
  • Use the required Graduate School format; Microsoft WORD and Latex Templates are available.
  • As a department custom, provide your committee with a copy of your thesis at least two weeks before the oral exam.

Scheduling your Final Oral Examination and Thesis Review

The Graduate Services Coordinator will request approval to schedule your master’s oral examination from the Graduate School when:

  • You have completed all coursework, or
  • You are in your final semester of completing coursework.

In addition:

Your Final Oral Examination and Thesis Review

Follow the ETD – Thesis and Dissertation Guide for electronic thesis submission. First, review the guide carefully so you understand each step. Then, download and complete the MSIE Degree Checklist. By using this checklist, you can track your progress toward graduation.

During your final semester of coursework, contact your Graduate Services Coordinator. Ask the coordinator to notify the Graduate School that you are eligible to graduate. However, you must complete this step at least four weeks before the last day of classes. Therefore, plan ahead and mark this deadline on your calendar.

To receive your diploma at graduation, apply through MyPack Portal. By submitting your application on time and following the required steps, you can ensure a smooth, successful graduation.

I Want to Download the MSIE Degree Checklist

Got Questions? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator |  ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu  |  919.515.6410.