Industrial Engineering Concentration in Engineering
An industrial engineering concentration focuses on optimizing systems, processes, and operations. It typically builds on the engineering program core and adds courses in operations research, quality management, human factors, and supply chain systems.
Quick Answers
What is an industrial engineering concentration in engineering?
An industrial engineering concentration is a focused set of courses within an engineering program that emphasizes process optimization, operations research, and quality management.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework includes operations research, quality control, human factors engineering, supply chain management, and production systems.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Engineering Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Process optimization, operations research, and quality management
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s and master’s level
- Career alignment: Industrial Engineer – $101,140 median (BLS, May 2024)
- Job growth: 11.0% projected growth, 2024-2034 (BLS, May 2024)
- Employment: 350,230 industrial engineers employed nationally (BLS, May 2024)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Engineering Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Operations Research | Linear programming, optimization models, and decision analysis |
| Quality Control | Statistical process control, Six Sigma, and quality systems |
| Human Factors Engineering | Ergonomics, workplace design, and human-system interaction |
| Supply Chain Management | Logistics, inventory control, and distribution systems |
| Production Systems | Manufacturing planning, scheduling, and lean methods |
| Industrial Systems Lab | Process simulation, data analysis, and system modeling |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How engineering concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (BLS, May 2024) | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | Thermal systems, mechanics, design | Mechanical Engineer | $102,320 | 9.1% |
| Electrical Engineering | Circuits, power systems, electronics | Electrical Engineer | $111,910 | 7.2% |
| Civil Engineering | Structures, transportation, water | Civil Engineer | $99,590 | 5.0% |
| Computer Engineering | Hardware, embedded systems, digital | Computer Hardware Engineer | $155,020 | 7.3% |
| Industrial Engineering | Optimization, operations, quality | Industrial Engineer | $101,140 | 11.0% |
| Chemical Engineering | Processes, materials, reactions | Chemical Engineer | $121,860 | 2.6% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.