Last Updated: 04/03/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date
NC State ISE researchers use advanced mathematical tools and methods to make new discoveries. As a result, these innovations improve efficiency and profitability across many industries. In addition, the department builds strong partnerships with industry, government and other universities.
Moreover, the program continues to grow and demonstrate multidisciplinary excellence at a high level. Graduate students succeed in both industry and academia. As a result, they become innovators, educators and leaders, including recipients of major global recognition.
In addition, NC State offers several research focus areas that support diverse interests.
Advanced Manufacturing
Come explore advanced manufacturing with NC State’s Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) program. You will join a team tackling real manufacturing problems using big data, robotics, automation and cutting-edge technology.
At NC State, you will learn to improve how things are made in industries like automotive, aerospace and high-tech products. In addition, you will use tools such as 3-D printing and nanomanufacturing.
Our work focuses on lean, adaptable operations that boost productivity in real factories. Moreover, our faculty and students apply modern processes to make manufacturing smarter and more efficient.
Health Systems Engineering
Whether you face a natural disaster, flu season or a routine visit, NC State industrial engineers work to improve healthcare quality and effectiveness. In addition, the Health Systems Engineering Program focuses on the full patient care cycle. This includes screening, vaccination, preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, medications, monitoring and checkups.
Moreover, students and faculty lead research that drives innovation in key areas.
First, you can explore clinical operations to improve healthcare delivery.
In addition, you can study individual treatment options to improve outcomes.
Also, you can examine supply chain optimization to strengthen healthcare systems.
Human Factors and Ergonomics
Join us as you help solve the next generation of physical and cognitive performance challenges. In this program, you design complex systems that include human-computer interfaces. In addition, students and faculty use virtual and augmented reality to develop new training methods.
Moreover, research in this area improves human safety through movement measurement and deep learning. You can also explore brain-computer interfaces for neurorehabilitation and support for human cognition.
In this program, you develop skills and knowledge in several key areas.
First, you study cognitive and neuro-computational models of human performance. In addition, you learn about automation and human-machine integration. Moreover, you explore human-computer interaction and human-robot interaction. Also, you examine occupational safety and risk management. Finally, you study occupational biomechanics and human activity recognition.
Supply Chain and Logistics
Join us as you work to improve the complex socioeconomic systems that support a growing global economy. In this area, you explore the principles that guide supply chain systems. As a result, you learn how to produce goods in ways that are both affordable and sustainable.
Moreover, students and faculty use a strong set of tools to analyze and improve these systems.
First, you can use modeling to represent supply chain processes.
In addition, you can perform performance analysis to evaluate system efficiency. Moreover, you can identify bottlenecks that limit productivity. Also, you can design lean buffers to improve flow and reduce waste. Furthermore, you can study product quality to ensure consistent outcomes. In addition, you can analyze customer demand to improve satisfaction. Finally, you can use simulation to test and refine system performance.
System Analytics and Optimization
Become a next-generation engineer who can interpret and apply analytics used by leading companies. In today’s business world, big data creates a strong competitive advantage. As a result, engineers with these skills are in high demand.
In this area, you learn key principles that support data driven decision making. First, you study model formulation to represent complex systems. In addition, you explore system dynamics to understand how systems change over time. Moreover, you learn solution methods to solve analytical problems. Also, you practice fact based analysis to support decisions. Finally, you develop skills in optimal decision making to improve outcomes.
The Importance of College Research
At NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering, research plays a central role in your academic experience. Through research, you apply classroom knowledge to real world challenges that impact industry and society. As a result, you gain a deeper understanding of engineering principles and how they solve complex problems.
In addition, research opportunities allow you to work alongside faculty, graduate students and industry partners. Through this collaboration, you develop skills in analysis, problem solving and communication. Moreover, you gain hands on experience with advanced tools and methods used in the field.
Furthermore, research helps you explore areas of interest within industrial and systems engineering. As you engage in projects, you can identify career paths that match your goals. Therefore, you can make more informed decisions about your future in industry or graduate study.
Research also strengthens your academic and professional profile. For example, you may present findings, contribute to publications or build relationships with mentors. As a result, you stand out to employers and graduate programs.
Ultimately, research at NC State ISE prepares you to become an innovative problem solver who can make a meaningful impact.
