Engineering management and industrial engineering: similarities and differences

Abstract

Engineering Management is a broad and diverse field of engineering, thereby making it difficult to define exactly what the degree encompasses. At the same time, the somewhat related degree of Industrial Engineering is better understood. Some universities offer a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Management with an emphasis in Industrial Engineering, while others offer a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering with an emphasis in Engineering Management. In today's world of competitive academia, many wonder if these degree fields are similar enough to be used interchangeably or if there is a distinct difference separating the two degrees, making it mandatory that they stay clearly separate. To be able to offer insight into these concerns, a study of academic departments will be conducted to determine how both fields are defined and what real similarities and differences exist. As part of this study, curricula from departments in both fields will also be compared to better understand the similarities and differences in these degree programs in regard to course requirements. The results of this study will be provide insight into differentiating characteristics of the engineering management degree as an aid to successfully marketing it to prospective students. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2007.