Cost & earnings at University of Massachusetts Amherst What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Industrial Engineering graduates earn a median $68,047 Across 141 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst prepares students to design, analyse and improve complex systems that integrate people, materials, information and technology. It suits students strong in mathematics and problem solving who want to work in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, consulting or systems design.
The BSc in Industrial Engineering combines foundations in mathematics, physical sciences and core engineering with specialised study of systems analysis, optimisation and human-centred design. Early years focus on calculus, linear algebra, physics and introductory engineering principles. Core industrial engineering modules typically cover probability and statistics for engineers, engineering economy, operations research (linear programming and optimisation), engineering statistics and quality control, production and manufacturing systems, facilities planning, human factors and ergonomics, simulation modelling, supply chain and logistics, and systems engineering principles.
The programme emphasises applied work: laboratory classes, computing and data-analysis courses (including programming and simulation tools), and a team-based senior capstone design project that addresses real industrial or service-sector problems. Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as manufacturing technology, lean systems, healthcare systems engineering, reliability and maintenance engineering, or data analytics for operations. Opportunities exist to undertake research projects with faculty or to supplement study with internships, co‑op placements or industry-sponsored projects.
Applicants are expected to have a strong background in mathematics and science. Successful candidates typically present high achievement in secondary-level calculus and physics; prior exposure to chemistry or computer science is advantageous. Admissions consider the overall academic record, strength of quantitative coursework, letters of recommendation and personal statement demonstrating interest in engineering and problem solving.
International applicants must meet the university's standard requirements for secondary credentials and English language proficiency if applicable. Transfer applicants from community colleges or other universities should demonstrate completion of equivalent first-year calculus, physics and introductory engineering or science courses; course-by-course evaluation is used to determine transfer credit and progression.
Graduates with a degree in Industrial Engineering move into roles that focus on improving processes, systems and organisational performance. Common career paths include process or manufacturing engineer, quality engineer, supply chain and logistics analyst, operations manager, facilities planner, systems engineer, reliability/maintenance engineer and industrial data analyst. Industrial engineers work across many sectors, including automotive and aerospace, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, healthcare delivery, consumer goods, energy and utilities, consulting and information technology.
The programme’s combination of analytical, computational and practical design experience also provides a foundation for graduate study in engineering, operations research, systems engineering, business analytics or management. Many students gain practical experience through internships or co‑op placements, which support transitions into industry roles after graduation.
UMass Amherst offers Industrial Engineering within a research-active college of engineering with access to modern labs, computing resources and faculty who collaborate with industry. The university supports hands-on learning through laboratory coursework, team design projects and connections to regional employers, helping students secure internships and practical experience. Students benefit from multidisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business and computer science, and from campus-wide resources such as career services and research centres that foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The campus location in Massachusetts provides proximity to a dense network of manufacturing, healthcare and technology firms, offering a range of employment and internship opportunities for students and graduates.
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