The University of Utah’s Department of Mechanical Engineering is proud to announce that its Master of Science in Systems Engineering (MSSE) program has been officially recognized by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) as equivalent to the INCOSE Knowledge Exam. This prestigious acknowledgment means that the core courses within the program are closely aligned with the learning outcomes of the INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook. As a result, students who successfully complete these courses are eligible for a waiver of the Knowledge Exam required for a Systems Engineering Professional (SEP) Certification offered by INCOSE.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone for the University of Utah and offers unparalleled professional opportunities to its students. INCOSE SEP Certifications are highly valued in the job market, signaling to employers that candidates possess a deep and comprehensive understanding of Systems Engineering principles, terminology, technical processes, and beyond. This partnership streamlines the certification process for students, giving them a competitive edge as they enter the workforce.

“We are thrilled to have our programs recognized by INCOSE,” said Dr. Pedro Huebner, Director of Systems Engineering Programs at the University of Utah. “This agreement not only affirms the quality and rigor of our curriculum but also provides our students with unmatched professional opportunities. INCOSE SEP certifications are highly respected in the industry, and this waiver can be a game-changer for our graduates as they advance in their careers.”

The MSSE degree program, which began accepting applications this Fall, has already shown promising growth. Core courses in the already-established Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering have enjoyed healthy enrollment increases over the years, with more than 70 students currently taking courses recognized as equivalent. The program is supported by the SIME (Systems, Industrial, and Management Engineering) core faculty, including notable educators such as Dr. Todd Easton, Dr. Yongzhi Qu, Dr. Cristian Clavijo, and Dr. Mark Maier. Additionally, the program complements other successful offerings, such as the Master of Engineering Management, reflecting the university’s commitment to developing a robust and dynamic curriculum that meets the needs of industry professionals.

This agreement underscores the University of Utah’s commitment to providing top-tier educational experiences that align with industry standards and needs. The Department of Mechanical Engineering will continue to strive for excellence in its educational offerings, ensuring that its graduates are well-equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the future. As an academic member of INCOSE’s Corporate Advisory Board (CAB), the U is committed to being at the forefront of how the disciple of Systems Engineering is shaped in the years ahead.

For more information, visit https://systems.utah.edu or email SystemsEngineering@utah.edu. The Director of Systems Engineering Programs, Dr. Pedro Huebner, can be reached directly at pedro.huebner@utah.edu.

About INCOSE

INCOSE is the flagship professional society and a global leader in the advancement of Systems Engineering and is dedicated to the development of systems that meet the needs of society. The organization boasts over 21,000 members worldwide and is recognized for its authoritative publications, including the Systems Engineering Handbook, which is regarded internationally as the gold standard in the discipline. More information on the SEP Certifications can be found at https://www.incose.org/certification.