A comparison of systems engineering programs in the United States

Given the length of time systems engineering has been taught in the U.S. it is now appropriate to examine the types of programs being offered and to c ompare and contrast these programs. This paper provides this comparison wit h a view toward the future of systems engineering education in the U.S. In particular, we first examine the U.S. undergraduate and graduate programs i n systems engineering in order to understand what is taught and how it is t aught. Using cluster analysis we identify four distinct types of systems en gineering undergraduate programs, and an informal analysis examines the dir ections in the systems engineering graduate programs. Next we look at issue s in systems engineering education, which have shaped the development of th e curricula over the last thirty years. These include the definition of sys tems engineering, associated professional societies, similar degree types, the role of an undergraduate systems engineering degree, and the role of in formation technology in systems engineering, We conclude the paper with opp ortunities for systems engineering education within the U.S. with regard to curricula directions and job opportunities.