Systems Engineering (Distance Learning)
The Systems Engineering (Distance Learning) Master of Engineering program at Cornell University provides a flexible, technology empowered academic environment for professionals who want to strengthen their systems thinking, analytical design ability, and engineering leadership while continuing their careers. The curriculum integrates modeling, optimization, systems architecture, and project management, enabling learners to examine how complex engineering systems behave and how they can be designed for reliability, performance, and long term sustainability. With a strong emphasis on systems design, students gain the tools needed to analyze interconnected components, manage uncertainty, and apply engineering principles to diverse domains including energy, manufacturing, transportation, and digital infrastructure. The distance learning format ensures accessibility without compromising academic rigor, supporting learners across global locations.
Throughout this one year program, students learn from faculty experienced in systems optimization, risk engineering, lifecycle analysis, and large scale system evaluation. The online structure includes interactive coursework, virtual collaboration, case based learning, and applied projects that strengthen students’ capabilities in systems analysis, modeling, and decision making. Learners work on real world engineering challenges that demand integration of technical, managerial, and strategic perspectives. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with practical competencies that can be directly applied to professional environments, enabling them to design, assess, and improve complex systems across a range of engineering driven industries.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Systems Engineering (Distance Learning)
- Degree Type: Master of Engineering
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, Online
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Industrial & Systems Engineering
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Systems Engineering
• Modeling and Simulation of Engineering Systems
• Systems Optimization and Decision Methods
• Elective in Risk Engineering, Data Analytics, or Project Management
Semester 2
• Systems Architecture and Integration
• Engineering Management and Lifecycle Analysis
• Applied Systems Engineering Project
• Elective in Complex Systems, Operations, or Reliability Engineering
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program advance into roles that require high level systems thinking and engineering coordination, frequently joining systems engineering teams, technology integration groups, operations engineering units, and innovation and development departments within sectors such as aerospace, energy, transportation, and advanced manufacturing. Their training in modeling, optimization, and system level evaluation enables them to improve engineering processes, enhance system reliability, guide technical decision making, and lead interdisciplinary projects. With strong analytical and managerial preparation, graduates contribute to system development, operational planning, and strategic engineering initiatives across both private industry and governmental organizations.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a flexible yet rigorous engineering education, offering opportunities to build advanced systems expertise and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished engineering faculty. Its online structure maintains academic depth while providing the adaptability needed for working engineers, allowing learners to apply new skills in real time to their professional roles. Through project based study, collaborative coursework, and exposure to modern systems tools, students gain the ability to understand complex engineering challenges and design integrated solutions that drive organizational performance and technological progress.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
