The Systems Master of Science program at Cornell University provides a structured academic environment for students who want to understand how complex systems are analyzed, optimized, and managed across engineering and technological domains. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking, quantitative modeling, and system wide evaluation, enabling learners to explore how large scale technical and organizational systems operate under dynamic conditions. With a strong focus on systems analysis, students examine methods used to improve reliability, efficiency, and performance in areas such as logistics, operations, infrastructure, and engineered environments. This integration of analytical coursework and practical study forms a foundation that supports advanced capability in systems engineering and applied research.
Over the course of this two year program, students engage with faculty who specialize in optimization, decision science, simulation, and data driven system evaluation. The academic experience helps students strengthen their technical abilities in complex systems, computational modeling, and structured decision frameworks, while also gaining exposure to interdisciplinary applications across industry and research settings. Through project based learning, analytical coursework, and methodological exploration, students gain insight into how engineering principles, data, and system behavior intersect to guide effective system level solutions. This combination of theory and application prepares learners for impactful roles where system wide understanding is essential.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Systems
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- 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 Complex Systems
• Data Analytics for Systems Evaluation
• Elective in Engineering or Applied Mathematics
Semester 2
• Optimization Theory and Applications
• Systems Architecture and Design
• Decision Models for Engineering Systems
• Elective in Operations or Industrial Systems
Semester 3
• Stochastic Systems and Uncertainty Analysis
• Advanced Simulation Techniques
• Research Seminar in Systems Engineering
• Elective in Computational or Engineering Methods
Semester 4
• Master’s Thesis Research
• Systems Integration and Performance Assessment
• Professional Development for Systems Engineers
• Elective in Advanced Systems Applications
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue strong career paths in sectors where system level coordination, analytical evaluation, and operational planning are essential, often joining technology consulting firms, industrial engineering departments, infrastructure and logistics organizations, and research and development units. With advanced training in system modeling, optimization, and data driven analysis, they contribute to improving organizational performance, designing efficient processes, supporting large scale engineering projects, and evaluating system behavior under changing conditions. Their multidisciplinary background equips them to work in diverse environments that require technical depth, analytical reasoning, and strategic problem solving across high level system operations.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want a deeper understanding of system behavior and engineering decision making, providing opportunities to develop advanced systems modeling skills and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s academic expertise. Through interdisciplinary coursework, applied research, and exposure to modern computational tools, learners gain the ability to design, evaluate, and optimize complex systems with clarity and precision. The program’s combination of theory, practical application, and research orientation makes it a powerful pathway for students aiming to build meaningful careers in system oriented engineering fields where efficiency, innovation, and structured problem solving are central to long term success.
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
