Admissions

Choosing Systems Engineering and Operations Research isn’t taking the easy path; it’s taking the road less traveled.

You’ll work with people, machines, materials, information, and energy, and learn to design and manage systems using scientific methods to make decisions. If you think that sounds like fun, you’re in the right place.

As an undergraduate, you’ll get a head start if you have a strong background in higher mathematics and computer science. If you don’t, we can provide you with the foundation courses you need to declare a Systems and industrial Engineering major.

Admission to our graduate programs is competitive, and we maintain high standards. If you get an advanced degree from Mason’s Systems Engineering and Operations Research department, you’ll know you’ve accomplished something significant.

International students must have acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and a satisfactory score on the TOEFL examination for non-native English speakers.

If you have a BS from a non-U.S. university, you must take the GRE to enter one of our masters programs.

Non-degree Graduate Studies

You can take up to 12 credit hours (no more; this is a strict rule) in non-degree graduate study that can be transferred to a degree or certificate program. Approval for non-degree status does not guarantee admission for a degree program later.

Pilot in the air with earth and sky in background

"I hope to find a job that will allow me to lead a team effectively and create great things, and I see Systems Engineering as a pathway. Majoring in Systems Engineering also allows me to get closer to a minor in Aviation, where I also hope to gain the ability to become an aircraft controller, or pilot."

— Andy Tapia, SEOR student