Master’s Program in Engineering and Management
Each year, System Design & Management (SDM) enrolls an elite group of 50 to 55 high-potential, mid-career professionals who represent diverse academic and professional backgrounds. These individuals share two common goals: they want to be systems thinkers and they want to lead.
Successful SDM candidates also demonstrate:
- Strong leadership potential
- Systems thinking capability
- A propensity to excel in complex engineering and management situations
Candidate Qualifications
To qualify for the SDM master’s program, candidates must either:
- Hold a B.S. degree in engineering, science, or technology, and have five or more years of professional technical experience with increasing responsibility; or
- Hold an M.S. degree in engineering, science, or technology, and have three or more years of professional experience in a technical field, including some leadership experience
In addition, candidates should have experience contributing to a product or system development initiative and working with or leading groups.
Cohorts
A typical SDM cohort is comprised of fellows from around the world who bring with them a diversity of cultural backgrounds, knowledge, and experience that enhances MIT’s vibrant, rich learning environment. Fellows learn not only from classroom professors, but also from classmates through cohort-building endeavors and team assignments.
Many SDM fellows hold one or more advanced degrees and have held leadership roles in an organization. They come from a wide range of industries serving in positions such as product development manager, systems engineer, analyst—even vice president and CEO. Fellows range in age but most are at a transition point in their careers.
Graduate Certificate in Systems and Product Development
The Graduate Certificate in Systems and Product Development is designed for students that continue to work full-time and have support from their employer to fully participate in the MIT course requirements. Many companies have their own standards for candidates, but all candidates must meet MIT’s demanding admission requirements and be approved by SDM’s admissions committee in order to enroll.
To qualify for the SDM graduate certificate program, candidates must either:
- Hold a B.S. degree in engineering, science, or technology, and have five or more years of professional experience; or
- Hold an M.S. degree in engineering, science, or technology, and have three or more years of professional experience in a technical field, including some leadership experience
In addition, candidates should:
- Have experience contributing to a product or system development initiative; and
- Have had some responsibility as a group or team leader
Interviews
All factors in an applicant’s record—both educational and professional—are important. The SDM program considers not only an applicant’s qualifications but also the contribution that each individual can make to the program. All finalists for SDM master’s admissions will be required to attend an on-campus or video interview prior to receiving a final decision. These applicants will be contacted directly by the SDM Admissions Office.
Applicants are encouraged to visit the program office and/or to contact a current SDM student or alum in industry for more information. To make arrangements, please contact us.