System Modeling and Analysis (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credential

This program is embedded within the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering credential.

Build System Modeling and Analysis Skills

  • Understand different types of systems and models, model verification and validation processes, and sources of randomness in computer simulation.

  • Use system simulation modeling for multi-level systems analysis and systems optimization.

  • Apply model-based systems engineering practices to design and engineer complex systems.

  • Develop, document, and analyze the technical aspects of a system in any life-cycle phase (concept, design, implementation, operation, and maintenance).

Systems Engineering Online Courses

As a student in this online engineering certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • discrete-time simulation and models for system analysis and optimization
  • system dynamic models for system analysis and optimization
  • model-based system design, architecting, and engineering
  • SysML, systems modeling language
  • digital model development and management across system life cycle

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course examines the use of discrete-time approaches to build integrated models and their application to systems engineering. The students also gain hands-on experience on additional topics such as simulation-based optimization by using a commercial simulation software package.

  • 3
    credits

    This course addresses system dynamics modeling and simulation for the analysis of complex systems. Students are exposed to the techniques used to form models of supply-demand, mechanical, electrical, biological, and hybrid systems.

  • 3
    credits

    This course covers the fundamental concepts, techniques, and methods for creating and analyzing system architecture of complex systems.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering program.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Two business professionals reviewing work on a tablet in an office setting

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering roles, including systems test engineer, system analyst, business analyst, product design engineer, system engineer, and more.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Collaborate with your peers as you learn to identify, analyze, and manage complex systems and processes. This cohort-based online master's degree program encourages systems engineering students to build ties and gain perspectives from their peers in other disciplines.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career in systems engineering.

Set Your Own Pace

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

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Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program requires an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science. Students from other undergraduate majors with extensive work experience in the engineering field may be considered. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Systems engineering stackable credentials: 

    • Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Life-Cycle Systems Design
    • Graduate Certificate in System Quality & Risk Evaluation
    • Graduate Certificate in System Modeling and Analysis
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in System Modeling and Analysis program is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Mohamad Kassab

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Computer Science, University of Windsor
    • Degree
      B. Eng., Computer Engineering, Lebanese American University

    Dr. Mohamad Kassab is an assistant professor of software engineering. His research includes requirements engineering, software architecture, software quality, software measurements, and the Internet of Things. He has published extensively in software engineering books and journals. With more than 17 years of industrial experiences, he also worked in different industrial roles. Dr. Kassab teaches courses in requirements engineering, software testing, and software architecture and design.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.



Master of Social Work

Flexible Format

Complete most courses 100% online, with an in-person field education practicum.

Credits and costs

60 Credits$1,017 per credit

CSWE Accreditation

Program is currently in pre-candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education.

Gain Skills and Knowledge to Lead Change as a Professional Social Worker

  • Effectively engage, evaluate, and intervene on behalf of individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations.

  • Combine progressive clinical computer simulations and instructional techniques with applied field experiences in real-world settings.

  • Address growing societal needs related to children and families or mental health and substance use.

  • Study models and practice skills covering the lifespan, including trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family and group therapy, holistic therapy, and telehealth/digital practice.

  • Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, ethics, and values necessary for clinical social work practice.

Earn Your Master of Social Work Degree with Online Courses

The courses in this 60-credit online program examine social work across the lifespan and emphasize cultural competence in working effectively with diverse populations across varying geographic settings.

The curriculum is divided into two levels — generalist and advanced. The required generalist curriculum includes knowledge, values, processes, and skills essential for the practice of social work. It includes social work methods, human development theory, social policy, and research methods. This foundation of knowledge is built upon by the advanced curriculum found in both the Children and Families specialization and the Mental Health and Substance Use specialization.

You will also be required to complete 12 credits of field education practicum courses.

Required Courses (36 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course is designed to introduce social research methods in the context of social work practice.

  • 3
    credits

    This advanced research course builds on material covered in the foundation research course about the design, development, and execution of sound scientific practices.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will provide first-year MSW students with foundational concepts, knowledge, values, and skills in clinical social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will provide an in-depth exploration of the foundational concepts and knowledge of the ethics, values, techniques, skills, and roles in clinical social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities by generalist and clinical practitioners.

  • 3
    credits

    This course explores conceptual frameworks in human development throughout the lifespan.

  • 3
    credits

    This course surveys the history of social welfare policy, services, and the social work profession in the United States.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will provide students with foundational concepts, knowledge, values, and skills in clinical social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

  • 3
    credits

    This foundation practice course is the second in a two-course sequence designed to provide MSW students with foundational knowledge, values, and skills in social work practice with families, groups, organizations, and communities.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will explore the origins and development of selected social variables characterizing the diversity dimensions (including race, ethnicity, class, gender identity, gender expression, geography, and nationality) in contemporary U.S. society.

  • 3
    credits

    The Diagnosis and Assessment in Clinical Social Work Practice course addresses the etiology, nature, course, and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders across the life development cycle.

  • 3
    credits

    The Essential Skills for Clinical Social Work Practice course is an advanced graduate course intended for second-year MSW students to reflect, review, and consolidate their graduate studies into a coherent and structured plan of practice as social work professionals.

  • 3
    credits

    This course provides students with knowledge in clinical social work practice in the area of urban versus rural settings.

Children and Families Specialization Courses (12 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course will examine core theories, dynamics, functions, policies, and ethics associated with the management of private and public child welfare services — analyzed and examined with a particular focus on the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to successfully lead organizations providing such services in the environment of today and the future.

  • 3
    credits

    This course covers the major problems of at-risk children and youth, including cognitive, communication, behavioral and emotional problems, attachment disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities noted in the current DSM.

  • 3
    credits

    The course examines state and federal laws that govern the funding and operation of child welfare systems; the history of child welfare policies; and the legal, political, and social forces that influence the structure and function of child welfare systems in the United States.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will cover trauma theories and treatments, and conduct an in-depth critical examination of different populations affected by trauma, including child abuse survivors, war veterans, domestic violence survivors, victims of accidents or crimes, and communities and schools that are devastated by abuse, neglect, and addiction.

Mental Health and Substance Use Specialization Courses (12 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course provides students with knowledge of assessment based on the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association; psychotropic medications; and social worker roles when interacting with people with mental health issues and interdisciplinary teams.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will provide students with foundational concepts, knowledge, values, and skills in clinical social work practice with mental health and substance abuse.

  • 3
    credits

    This course focuses on contemporary policy issues related to mental health and substance use, including social determinants of mental health, treatment and access to care, rights and privacy, systems transformation, and disparities in care.

  • 3
    credits

    The course explores the multi-systemic impact of trauma and substance use on the functioning of individuals, families, and communities.

    • Prerequisite

      MSW 885

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Advance Your Career

Penn State’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program can help you gain social work competencies, knowledge, and skills and prepare you to enter a diverse employment market centered on helping individuals, families, communities, and organizations. Master’s-level social workers often enjoy increased career flexibility and opportunities.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Field Education Practicum Experience

Field education and classroom instruction hold equal importance in social work education. The field education practicum is where you will have the opportunity to apply the concepts, skills, and techniques learned in the classroom in actual clinical practice.

As a student in the MSW program, you will be required to complete a minimum of 900 hours of field practicum. Full-time master’s students will complete their 900 hours across four semesters — 225 hours per semester at approximately 15 hours per week. Part-time students can complete their field education experience in either 1-credit or 2-credit increments per semester, spending 5–10 hours per week, depending on their credit load.

There are two types of field practicum included in the program, a foundational field practicum that allows the student to gain general experience and an advanced practicum that allows them to focus on their chosen specialization.

The field education practicum will occur in a social service agency, hospital, school, or other appropriate facility in your local region. You’ll work closely with Penn State’s MSW field education director to identify an appropriate field placement that will align with your educational and professional goals while meeting the program’s standards.

Your final semester in the program will culminate with your last field education practicum credits. During this capstone experience, you will incorporate your course work and put the knowledge you have gained into practice. You will either (1) create and implement a project at your final fieldwork placement, or (2) critically analyze an issue in your field experience and develop a solution.

This capstone project will also give you the opportunity to contribute to the knowledge base of the profession and to develop and enhance your professional presentation skills through the design and delivery of an oral presentation and the writing of an executive summary describing the project.

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Accreditation

The Penn State World Campus MSW program is currently in pre-candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA).

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals.

Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall).

Penn State’s online Master of Social Work program can be completed in a full- or part-time plan of study. The time to completion as a full-time student is two years, taking five courses each semester for four semesters (fall and spring only). For part-time students, you will work closely with your academic adviser to setup an appropriate plan of study.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Professional Licensure / Certification

As a social worker, you will be eligible for licensing at multiple levels. The social work license in most states is called either a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).

Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification for employment. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map for more information.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program requires an undergraduate degree with a broad liberal arts foundation from an accredited college or university.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a minimum average of a B (3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale) in all undergraduate work.

    Advanced Standing

    Starting in fall 2025, students who have received a social work degree (BSW) within the past five years and have a minimum 3.25 GPA from a Council for Social Work Education–accredited undergraduate program are eligible for advanced standing. Students who are granted advanced standing during the admissions process can receive credit for the required generalist courses offered during Year 1 of full-time study. The number of advanced credits granted depends on the comparability of the student’s undergraduate courses to the Penn State World Campus MSW program’s courses and on the grades earned in those undergraduate courses (i.e., must be a B grade or higher).

    In addition, students entering with advanced standing can receive 6 field education credits. The 6 credits of field education are granted based on the number of hours of field experience completed at the undergraduate level, provided that the undergraduate social work practicum totals a minimum of 400 hours and the student achieved at least a B grade.

    Consistent with the Council for Social Work Education’s Educational Policies and Accreditation Standards, the Penn State World Campus MSW program does not grant course credit, transfer credit, or exemptions for prior life, volunteer, or employment experience.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended,regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE test scores are not required for admission to this program.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering the names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of the three references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to the recommenders requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform the recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Students applying for Advanced Standing must include their field supervisor as one of their references.

    Program Specific Materials

    Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

    Goal Statement — In 8,000 characters or less (not including spaces), outline your personal career goals and reasons for wanting to enroll in the program. We seek students passionate about helping their communities and striving for economic and social justice. Applicants must exhibit potential and professional capabilities essential for effective functioning in the graduate school environment. Applicants must also have personal qualifications essential for effective social work practice, including sensitivity and responsiveness in relationships, concern for the needs of others, adaptability, good judgement, critical thinking, creativity, integrity, and skill in oral and written communications.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this degree program. 

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about Penn State World Campus or how to apply, contact:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

For specific inquiries about the Master of Social Work program, contact:

Rukmalie Jayakody
Program Director
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

This program is offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Health and Human Development. Courses are collaboratively developed and taught by faculty with combined social work experience in clinical treatment, child welfare, mental health, substance use, trauma, policy, and research.

Faculty

  • James H. Andrews

    • Degree
      MSW, Social Work (Clinical and Administrative), Rhode Island College
    • Degree
      B.A., Psychology, Rhode Island College
    • Degree
      B.S., General Management, Rhode Island College

    James H. Andrews is an associate professor of social work and is the field education director of the Penn State World Campus MSW program. He is a licensed clinical and certified forensic social worker who has been in practice for nearly 40 years as a clinical social worker, therapist, administrator, risk manager, expert witness, consultant, trainer, and educator. He is very active in his professional association, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). He provides forensic social work and consultation services through his private practice. He is currently a doctoral candidate at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. His areas of research are threat assessment and violence prediction.

  • Rukmalie Jayakody

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Joint Program in Social Work and Sociology, University of Michigan
    • Degree
      MSW, University of Michigan
    • Degree
      M.A., Sociology, University of Michigan
    • Degree
      B.A., Sociology, Boston College

    Rukmalie Jayakody is an associate teaching professor of sociology. Professor Jayakody’s research and teaching interests focus on families as well as poverty and inequality. Her work has examined the role of mental health and substance use in welfare receipt, the impacts of poverty on child development, the strengths of African American families, and family structure changes in the United States. She has also examined inequality based on ethnicity in Vietnam and the impacts that economic changes have on families. Jayakody’s teaching interests mirror her research focus. She has taught undergraduate classes on social and economic impacts on families and graduate classes on family and social policy and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

  • Janet Melnick

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Human Development (Social Work Specialization), Marywood University
    • Degree
      MSW, Marywood College
    • Degree
      B.S., Human Services, University of Scranton

    Dr. Janet Melnick is a teaching professor of human development and family studies and the program and field coordinator for the HDFS program at Penn State Scranton. Dr. Melnick was the assistant coordinator of the social work field program at Marywood University prior to moving to Penn State. Prior to working on her doctorate, she was in clinical practice and administration in local agencies that specialize in work with the elderly and did consulting work for Robert Wood Johnson.

  • Annjane Ross

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Administration and Leadership Studies, Indiana University of Pennsylvania 
    • Degree
      MSW, Marywood University
    • Degree
      B.S., Psychology, University of Maryland

    Annjane Ross is a registered play therapist, licensed clinical social worker, and supervisor. Her vast clinical training in working with families and children across different life stages and her experience as a medical social worker in rural communities have given her valuable insights into families' challenges. Additionally, her 20 years of experience teaching social work in higher education demonstrates her dedication to educating and training future social workers to effectively support children and families in need. Her research interest focuses on family trauma.

  • Joseph A. Twumasi-Ankrah

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Sociology Administration and Leadership Studies, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
    • Degree
      MSW, City University of New York, Lehman College
    • Degree
      B.A., English, State University of New York at Oswego
    • Degree
      Licensure, New York State Licensed Master Social Worker

    Joseph A. Twumasi-Ankrah, Ph.D., LMSW, is a licensed master social worker with years of experience addressing the mental health needs of urban and rural at-risk populations who deal with trauma, depression, and anxiety. Previously, Joseph was the social work site director for a New York City social work nonprofit organization based in low-performing public schools that provided mental health services to students dealing with various mental, behavioral, and emotional health challenges. With a teaching/research interest centering around diversity, mental health, substance use, child welfare, social justice, and school social work, Joseph strongly believes in providing the appropriate support services for the overall growth of each individual within society.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.



Graduate Certificate in Technical Management

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credentials

This program is embedded within the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering credential. 

Gain Skills to Succeed in Technical Management Positions

  • Manage the budgets and schedules of large-scale projects and programs.

  • Work effectively and collaboratively across and within interdisciplinary teams.

  • Construct project plans for the development of complex engineering products and processes.

  • Demonstrate a holistic understanding of complex systems and identification of emergent properties, feedback mechanisms, and their effects.

  • Oversee and coordinate projects and testing activities on an enterprise level.

Technical Management Courses

As a student in this online engineering certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • project management
  • leadership styles
  • negotiation
  • systems thinking
  • team management
  • problem-solving styles and strategies

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    The theory and practice of systems thinking. General systems theory; system dynamics; emergent properties; structure; feedback and leverage.

  • 3
    credits

    Study of project management as it relates to engineering and high-technology projects and personnel. Techniques and methodologies to eliminate, mitigate, and manage the risks that threaten project success are covered.

  • 3
    credits

    Foundations of individual problem solving including creativity, cognitive style and level, problem solving processes and techniques, the paradox of structure.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering program. 

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering and management roles, including program manager, project manager, lead engineer, testing manager, and more.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Collaborate with your peers as you learn to identify, analyze, and manage complex systems and processes. This cohort-based online master's degree program encourages systems engineering students to build ties and gain perspectives from their peers in other disciplines.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their careers in systems engineering.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in mathematics, typically found in an undergraduate program in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics, or computer science, with at least two semesters of calculus. Students with other undergraduate majors with a strong background in mathematics may apply. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs. 

    Systems engineering stackable credentials: 

    • Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Life-Cycle Systems Design
    • Graduate Certificate in System Quality & Risk Evaluation
    • Graduate Certificate in System Modeling and Analysis
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Technical Management is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Mohamad Kassab

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Computer Science, University of Windsor
    • Degree
      B. Eng., Computer Engineering, Lebanese American University

    Dr. Mohamad Kassab is an assistant professor of software engineering. His research includes requirements engineering, software architecture, software quality, software measurements, and the Internet of Things. He has published extensively in software engineering books and journals. With more than 17 years of industrial experiences, he also worked in different industrial roles. Dr. Kassab teaches courses in requirements engineering, software testing, and software architecture and design.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.



Quality Management Across Product Lifecycle (Graduate Certificate)

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Stackable Credentials

This program is embedded within the Master of Engineering Management credential.

Gain Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Skills

  • Lead continuous improvement of processes, services, and products.

  • Leverage statistical data and optimization tools for quality assurance and improved decision-making.

  • Design and implement testing strategies and protocols to increase productivity.

  • Oversee implementation of efficient manufacturing and business processes.

Engineering Management Courses

As a student in this online engineering management certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • Lean Six Sigma
  • product test analysis techniques
  • product and system design optimization
  • performance optimization
  • linear programming

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Theory and practice of linear programming applications, including determination of optimum mix of products, levels of staffing, blending, network analysis, and multi-period planning.

    • Prerequisite

      SYSEN 520 or instructor's permission

  • 3
    credits

    Applications of sophisticated statistical tools for the continuous improvement of products and processes in the manufacturing and service industries.

  • 3
    credits

    Descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, power, estimation, confidence intervals, regression, one- and 2-way ANOVA, Chi-square tests, diagnostics.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering Management if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering Management program. 

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Two engineers review blueprints and working at a computer

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering management roles, including quality assurance engineer/manager, test engineer/manager, and project manager.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering Management. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s): 

Build your technical leadership skills in this cohort-based online master's degree program that encourages collaborative learning and peer teamwork as you explore engineering management with world-class Penn State faculty.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering Management

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career as an engineering manager.

Set Your Own Pace

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in engineering, mathematics, physics, or science so that participants are able to demonstrate the skills required for the management of complex engineering projects, products, and services within a typical engineering organization.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — Official GRE test scores will be considered if submitted but are not required. GRE scores can be submitted using Penn State's code — 2660.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    References (2) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering the names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of the 2 references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to the recommenders requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform the recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Program Specific Materials

    Résumé — Upload a one- to two-page résumé highlighting your full-time employment and/or military experience to the online application.

    Statement of Intent (one page) — Outline personal career goals and reasons for wanting to enroll in the program. This statement should be specific and include information about short- and long-term goals and how enrolling in the program may help achieve them. The statement of intent also offers applicants the opportunity to demonstrate writing and communication skills, specify examples of leadership, and provide pertinent information that will assist the committee in selecting candidates who can benefit from and contribute to the engineering management program.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Quality Management Across Product Lifecycle is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Robin G. Qiu

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Penn State
    • Degree
      Ph.D., (Minor), Computer Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Numerical Control, Beijing Institute of Technology, China
    • Degree
      B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

    Dr. Robin G. Qiu is a professor of information science at Penn State. He teaches courses on data analytics, information science, software engineering, and cyber security. Dr. Qiu's research includes smart service systems, IoT, big data, data/business analytics, information systems and integration, supply chain and industrial systems, and analytics. He served as the editor-in-chief of INFORMS Service Science. He is an associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics and IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, and has more than 160 publications.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.



Life-Cycle Systems Design (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credentials

This program is embedded within the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering credential.

Gain Life-Cycle Systems Design Skills

  • Elicit requirements for systems design and model, validate, and test your findings.

  • Effectively communicate project requirements with various project stakeholders.

  • Engineer solutions to complex problems using contemporary methods, processes, and tools.

  • Leverage creative design thinking to generate ideas that can propel project development forward.

Systems Engineering Courses

As a student in this online engineering certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • model-based system design
  • SysML, systems modeling language
  • systems architecture
  • product and process development
  • development methodologies
  • human-centered design thinking
  • requirements elicitation, analysis, modeling
  • systems specification 
  • configuration management 

Required Courses (9 Credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Theory and applications of requirements elicitation, analysis, modeling, validation, testing, and writing for hardware and software systems.

  • 3
    credits

    This course focuses on the creative design process which leads to the development of new products, processes, and systems (i.e. invention).

  • 3
    credits

    This course covers the fundamental concepts, techniques, and methods for creating and analyzing system architecture of complex systems.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering program.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering roles, including systems architect, software developer, requirements engineer, integration engineer, and more.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s): 

Collaborate with your peers as you learn to identify, analyze, and manage complex systems and processes. This cohort-based online master's degree program encourages systems engineering students to build ties and gain perspectives from their peers in other disciplines.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career in systems engineering.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in mathematics, typically found in an undergraduate program in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics, or computer science, with at least two semesters of calculus. Students with other undergraduate majors with a strong background in mathematics may apply. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Systems engineering stackable credentials: 

    • Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Life-Cycle Systems Design
    • Graduate Certificate in System Quality & Risk Evaluation 
    • Graduate Certificate in System Modeling and Analysis 
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Life-Cycle Systems Design is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Mohamad Kassab

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Computer Science, University of Windsor
    • Degree
      B. Eng., Computer Engineering, Lebanese American University

    Dr. Mohamad Kassab is an assistant professor of software engineering. His research includes requirements engineering, software architecture, software quality, software measurements, and the Internet of Things. He has published extensively in software engineering books and journals. With more than 17 years of industrial experiences, he also worked in different industrial roles. Dr. Kassab teaches courses in requirements engineering, software testing, and software architecture and design.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Christopher Schulte

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Art Education, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.A., Art Education, University of Northern Iowa
    • Degree
      B.A., Art Education, University of Northern Iowa

    Dr. Christopher Schulte is an assistant professor and undergraduate coordinator of art education in the School of Visual Arts at Penn State. He is also an Innovator in Residence with the College of Arts and Architecture's Center for Pedagogy in Arts and Design. Prior to joining the art education faculty at Penn State, Dr. Schulte held faculty appointments at the University of Northern Iowa and the University of Georgia, where he served as co-chair and graduate coordinator, as well as affiliate faculty with UGA's Interdisciplinary Qualitative Studies program. His research has appeared in handbooks and other edited volumes, as well as national and international journals in art education, early childhood studies, and qualitative studies. 



System Quality & Risk Evaluation (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credentials

This program is embedded within the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering credential.

Build System Quality and Risk Evaluation Skills

  • Design, analyze, and evaluate complex systems using verification, validation, and testing tools.

  • Demonstrate a deep understanding of testing strategy, testing frameworks, and test plans.

  • Explore and document problems within a system, and identify and evaluate alternative solutions to those problems.

  • Analyze risks and understand their potential impacts on projects, products, and processes.

Systems Engineering Courses

As a student in this online engineering certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • verification, validation, test planning
  • testing methods
  • reliability analysis
  • analysis of alternatives
  • continuous integration
  • decision models
  • risk analysis

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Fundamentals of systems engineering with focus on System methodology, design, and management; includes life cycle analysis, human factors, maintainability, serviceability/reliability.

  • 3
    credits

    The theory and practice of verification, validation and testing of engineering systems.

  • 3
    credits

    Examines the analysis of decisions under uncertainty within the context of engineering and technology. Evaluation methods; problem identification, modeling, and resolution; consequences/outcomes of the action taken; and risk analysis and quantification are covered to improve the decision-making process of individuals and groups in technical organizations.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering program. 

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering roles, including systems integration engineer, testing manager, system analyst, risk analyst, and more.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees. 

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s): 

Collaborate with your peers as you learn to identify, analyze, and manage complex systems and processes. This cohort-based online master's degree program encourages systems engineering students to build ties and gain perspectives from their peers in other disciplines.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career in systems engineering.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in mathematics, typically found in an undergraduate program in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics, or computer science, with at least two semesters of calculus. Students with other undergraduate majors with a strong background in mathematics may apply. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Systems engineering stackable credentials: 

    • Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Life-Cycle Systems Design
    • Graduate Certificate in System Quality & Risk Evaluation 
    • Graduate Certificate in System Modeling and Analysis 
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in System Quality and Risk Evaluation is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Mohamad Kassab

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, Concordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Computer Science, University of Windsor
    • Degree
      B. Eng., Computer Engineering, Lebanese American University

    Dr. Mohamad Kassab is an assistant professor of software engineering. His research includes requirements engineering, software architecture, software quality, software measurements, and the Internet of Things. He has published extensively in software engineering books and journals. With more than 17 years of industrial experiences, he also worked in different industrial roles. Dr. Kassab teaches courses in requirements engineering, software testing, and software architecture and design.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.



Quantitative Decision-Making for Engineering Managers (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credentials

The program is embedded within the Master of Engineering Management credential.

Gain Engineering Management and Analytics Skills

  • Master operations management though forecasting, simulation, inventory management, and critical path analysis.

  • Evaluate financial risk and impact within the context of technical project management.

  • Leverage data-driven analytic insights to manage successful product, service, and process development.

  • Oversee and maintain large-scale operational activities.

Engineering Management Courses

As a student in this online engineering management certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • product, service, and process development
  • strategic planning and management
  • technical and data-driven decision-making
  • risk analysis
  • decision models
  • technology assessment
  • engineering economics analysis
  • financial resource management

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Mathematical models involving optimization, simulation and forecasting to provide quantitative solutions to engineering management problems; scheduling, distribution, inventory control.

  • 3
    credits

    Economic feasibility of projects, systems and products. Project budgets, estimation, return on investment, supply and demand, and earned value management.

  • 3
    credits

    Examines the analysis of decisions under uncertainty within the context of engineering and technology. Evaluation methods; problem identification, modeling, and resolution; consequences/outcomes of the action taken; and risk analysis and quantification are covered to improve the decision-making process of individuals and groups in technical organizations.

The courses required for this 9-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering Management if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering Management program.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in a variety of engineering management roles, including product manager, operations manager, production manager, supply chain analyst, and procurement manager.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering Management. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.  

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s): 

Build your technical leadership skills in this cohort-based online master's degree program that encourages collaborative learning and peer teamwork as you explore engineering management with world-class Penn State faculty.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering Management

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career as an engineering manager.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in engineering, mathematics, physics, or science so that participants are able to demonstrate the skills required for the management of complex engineering projects, products, and services within a typical engineering organization.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Engineering management stackable credentials:

    • Master of Engineering Management 
    • Graduate Certificate in Quality Management Across Product Lifecycle
    • Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Decision Making for Engineering Managers
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management and Leadership Essentials

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

This program is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Robin G. Qiu

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Penn State
    • Degree
      Ph.D., (Minor), Computer Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Numerical Control, Beijing Institute of Technology, China
    • Degree
      B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

    Dr. Robin G. Qiu is a professor of information science at Penn State. He teaches courses on data analytics, information science, software engineering, and cyber security. Dr. Qiu's research includes smart service systems, IoT, big data, data/business analytics, information systems and integration, supply chain and industrial systems, and analytics. He served as the editor-in-chief of INFORMS Service Science. He is an associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics and IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, and has more than 160 publications.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.




Graduate Certificate in Technical Management and Leadership Essentials

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

12 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credentials

The program is embedded within the Master of Engineering Management credential.

Gain Technology Management and Leadership Skills

  • Organize and execute complex technical project plans from start to finish.

  • Manage technical teams on cross-functional projects and initiatives.

  • Understand and apply emerging technologies to effectively manage business processes.

  • Manage ethical and legal issues while serving in a leadership role.

Engineering Management Courses

As a student in this online engineering management certificate program, your course work will help you gain a deep understanding of:

  • engineering project management
  • process, quality, and risk management
  • leadership principles and soft skills
  • organizational management and behavior
  • effective team leadership
  • negotiation and influence
  • problem-solving styles
  • strategic management
  • ethics and legal issues
  • business contracts

Required Courses

  • 3
    credits

    Individual and group behavior in organizations; motivation, performance and rewards, job satisfaction, decision processes, conflict resolution; job and organizational design.

  • 3
    credits

    Study interrelationships of twentieth century technological change and human values with emphasis on social and ethical aspects of technological progress.

  • 3
    credits

    Study of project management as it relates to engineering and high-technology projects and personnel. Techniques and methodologies to eliminate, mitigate, and manage the risks that threaten project success are covered.

  • 3
    credits

    Foundations of individual problem solving including creativity, cognitive style and level, problem solving processes and techniques, the paradox of structure.

The courses required for this 12-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Engineering Management if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Engineering Management program. 

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this online graduate certificate program and the support of Penn State career resources to succeed in engineering leadership roles in a wide variety of industries.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Engineering Management. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees. 

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Build your technical leadership skills in this cohort-based online master's degree program that encourages collaborative learning and peer teamwork as you explore engineering management with world-class Penn State faculty.

Learn more about the Master of Engineering Management

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science who wish to advance their career as an engineering manager.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in engineering, mathematics, physics, or science so that participants are able to demonstrate the skills required for the management of complex engineering projects, products, and services within a typical engineering organization.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — Official GRE test scores will be considered if submitted but are not required. GRE scores can be submitted using Penn State's code — 2660.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    References (2) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering the names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of the 2 references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to the recommenders requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Program Specific Materials 

    Résumé — Upload a one- to two-page résumé highlighting your full-time employment and/or military experience to the online application.

    Statement of Intent (one page) — Outline personal career goals and reasons for wanting to enroll in the program. This statement should be specific and include information about short- and long-term goals and how enrolling in the program may help achieve them. The statement of intent also offers applicants the opportunity to demonstrate writing and communication skills, specify examples of leadership, and provide pertinent information that will assist the committee in selecting candidates who can benefit from and contribute to the engineering management program.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Engineering management stackable credentials: 

    • Master of Engineering Management 
    • Graduate Certificate in Quality Management Across Product Lifecycle
    • Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Decision Making for Engineering Managers
    • Graduate Certificate in Technical Management and Leadership Essentials

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Technical Management and Leadership Essentials is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies, and the Penn State Harrisburg School of Science, Engineering, and Technology, and School of Business Administration.

Faculty

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Nil Ergin

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Systems Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Engineering Management, Missouri University of Science and Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University

    Dr. Nil Ergin, associate professor of systems engineering, researches system of systems engineering, complex adaptive systems, model-based systems engineering, and multi-agent systems. Dr. Ergin is also affiliated with the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), a DoD–funded University Affiliated Research Center, where she works on collaborative research efforts among multiple universities. She is a member of IEEE and INCOSE.

  • Kathryn Jablokow

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University

    Dr. Kathryn Jablokow is a professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering. She is an experienced researcher, with special expertise in design cognition, engineering creativity, and high-performance design teams. She is also an award-winning educator who has developed multiple engineering courses related to problem solving, creativity, and invention, including a massive open online course that has attracted more than 250,000 learners since 2013. She investigates the human side of engineering and the effects that individual cognitive differences have on the processes and products of design.

  • Ashkan Negahban

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      M.E., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Tehran

    Dr. Ashkan Negahban is an associate professor of engineering management. Prior to joining Penn State, he was an instructor at Auburn University, where he taught courses in simulation, probability theory, and statistics. His research interests include the application of different types of simulation (discrete event, agent-based, and Monte Carlo) in design and operation of complex systems. He has developed several e-learning modules that have received worldwide publicity and are used by faculty from leading institutions around the world.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Robin G. Qiu

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Penn State
    • Degree
      Ph.D., (Minor), Computer Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Numerical Control, Beijing Institute of Technology, China
    • Degree
      B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

    Dr. Robin G. Qiu is a professor of information science at Penn State. He teaches courses on data analytics, information science, software engineering, and cyber security. Dr. Qiu's research includes smart service systems, IoT, big data, data/business analytics, information systems and integration, supply chain and industrial systems, and analytics. He served as the editor-in-chief of INFORMS Service Science. He is an associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics and IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, and has more than 160 publications.

  • Kailasam Satyamurthy

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Engineering Mechanics, Clemson University
    • Degree
      M.S., Civil Engineering, Clemson University
    • Degree
      MBA, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Madras

    Dr. Kailasam Satyamurthy, assistant professor of engineering, teaches decision and risk analysis, finance and economics for engineers, statistics, optimization, and continuous improvement courses. He held managerial positions at Vanguard and at GenCorp and conducted extensive research in the finite element modeling of nonlinear mechanical and thermal systems. He has vast experience in Six Sigma quality and continuous improvement, and has trained numerous professionals in manufacturing, transactional, and health care industries.

  • Doug Schumer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Electrical Systems and Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    • Degree
      M.S., Measurement and Control, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Degree
      B.S., Physics, Carnegie Mellon University

    Dr. Doug Schumer is assistant professor of engineering design and faculty director of the REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship. Following 20 years in industry leading medical device R&D, Dr. Schumer held the position of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's professor of practice in biomedical engineering and served as Georgia Tech's first director of design innovation and education. He is a member of the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society.



Project Quality Management (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Application deadline

Apply by April 15 to start May 7

Credits and costs

9 Credits$1,017 per credit

Stackable Credential

This program is embedded within the Master of Software Engineering credential. 

Gain Skills to Prepare for a Career in Software Project Management

  • Plan and implement software development using project management methods and tools.

  • Work with system stakeholders to generate a statement of requirements.

  • Model, validate, and test system requirements.

  • Test software using the principles, practices, and procedures of quality assurance.

Software Project Quality Management Online Courses

As a graduate of this software engineering certificate program, you can demonstrate competency in the following foundational areas of software testing and quality assurance: 

  • project planning and management
  • requirements engineering
  • testing strategy and tools
  • testing frameworks
  • automated testing
  • continuous integration and deployment

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course provides a rigorous formal framework and practical information on the testing of software throughout its life cycle.

  • 3
    credits

    Theory and applications of requirements elicitation, analysis, modeling, validation, testing, and writing for hardware and software systems.

  • 3
    credits

    Analysis and construction of project plans for the development of complex software products; how to manage change and cost control.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

Hiring manager reviewing a resume or CV with a job candidate

You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

* required1/3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Software Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Learn cutting-edge approaches to creating, maintaining, and improving software systems. This cohort-based online master's program mimics the remote-workplace environment often found in the global marketplace.

Learn more about the Master of Software Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or information sciences prepare to succeed in roles including requirements engineer, test architect or engineer, and software project manager.

Set Your Own Pace

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Summer Deadline

    Apply by April 15 to start May 7
  • Fall Deadline

    Apply by July 15 to start August 26
  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by November 15 to start January 13

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    The program requires an undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or information science. Students from other undergraduate majors with extensive work experience in the software engineering field may be considered. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended,regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver 

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Software engineering stackable credentials:

    • Master of Software Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in AI Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics and Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Project Quality Management
    • Graduate Certificate in Software Architecture and Design

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Project Quality Management is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Adrian S. Barb

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Missouri
    • Degree
      MBA, Finance and Management Information Systems, University of Missouri
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Bucharest

    Dr. Adrian S. Barb, associate professor of information science, teaches databases, data mining, and big data courses. He has worked as a database programmer analyst as well as a web developer at University of Missouri. His research interests include data mining, knowledge discovery in databases, knowledge representation and exchange in content-based retrieval systems, semantic modeling and retrieval, conceptual change, ontology integration, and expert-in-the-loop knowledge generation and exchange.

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Everton Tavares Guimaraes

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software Engineering, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro
    • Degree
      M. S., Computing and Systems, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
    • Degree
      B.S., Information Technology, Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology

    Everton Tavares Guimaraes is an assistant professor specializing in software engineering. He teaches algorithms, programming, software development, architecture, and mobile computing. For a decade, he has partnered with companies domestically and internationally. His research focuses on empirical software engineering, software quality (e.g., maintenance and evolution), technical debt, AI techniques, and mobile software engineering.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Robin G. Qiu

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Penn State
    • Degree
      Ph.D., (Minor), Computer Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Numerical Control, Beijing Institute of Technology, China
    • Degree
      B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

    Dr. Robin G. Qiu is a professor of information science at Penn State. He teaches courses on data analytics, information science, software engineering, and cyber security. Dr. Qiu's research includes smart service systems, IoT, big data, data/business analytics, information systems and integration, supply chain and industrial systems, and analytics. He served as the editor-in-chief of INFORMS Service Science. He is an associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics and IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, and has more than 160 publications.

  • Dusan Ramljak

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, CST, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.Sc. and B.Sc., Electrical Engineering - Systems Control, University of Belgrade, Serbia

    Dr. Dusan Ramljak, assistant teaching professor of information science, teaches courses on information science, data science, storage systems, and emerging technologies. He has been applying data science on storage systems in NSF IUCRC projects with HPE, Dell, Huawei, and other companies and has more than 20 years of system administration experience facilitating business and research in the U.S., Portugal, and Serbia. His research interests include solving challenging storage systems, provenance, and caching problems, and developing and integrating distributed and parallel data mining and statistical learning technology for an efficient knowledge discovery at large sequence and temporal databases.

  • Sally Sue Richmond

    • Degree
      M.S., Information Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.A., Art, Penn State

    Sally Sue Richmond is an instructor in information science. She worked as an IT professional for more than 20 years prior to teaching. Her research interests include human-computer interaction, engineering education, and teams.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Satish Srinivasan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Information Technology, University of Nebraska at Omaha
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering and Management, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur
    • Degree
      B.S., Information Technology, Bharathidasan University

    Dr. Satish Srinivasan is an associate professor of information science in the engineering division at Penn State Great Valley. He teaches courses related to database design, data mining, data collection and cleaning, design and implementation of predictive analytics system, network and web securities, and business process management. His research interests include social network analysis, data mining, machine learning, big data and predictive analytics, and bioinformatics.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.


Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by April 15 to start May 7. How to Apply 

Data Analytics and Engineering (Graduate Certificate)

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Credits and costs

12 Credits$1,017 per credit

Application deadline

Apply by July 15 to start August 26

Stackable Credential

This program is embedded within the Master of Software Engineering credential. 

Gain the Skills You Need to Prepare for a Data Analytics Career

  • Analyze large volumes of data to predict future trends and events.

  • Search data sets to discover patterns and find insights.

  • Architect, implement, and monitor data pipelines to create robust data solutions.

  • Program in Python and its toolkits.

Data Analytics and Engineering Online Courses

As a graduate of this software engineering certificate program, you can demonstrate competency in the following foundational areas of data analysis:

  • data modeling and design
  • data integration
  • data warehousing
  • data mining
  • machine learning
  • programming

Required Courses (12 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Practical benefits of data mining will be presented; data warehousing, data cubes, and underlying algorithms used by data mining software.

    • Prerequisite

      INSC 521, or approval of instructor or department

  • 3
    credits

    Examination of large-scale data storage technologies including NoSQL database systems for loosely-structured data, and warehouses for dimensional data.

  • 3
    credits

    This course will explore the development of analytics systems and the application of best practices and established software design principles using the Python programming language and its several toolkits.

  • 3
    credits

    Survey course on the key topics in predictive analytics. Students will learn methods associated with data analytics techniques and apply them to real examples using the R statistical system.

    • Prerequisite

      1 undergraduate course in probability or statistics.

    • Note

      Course available with permission.

The courses required for this 12-credit certificate can also be applied to a Master of Software Engineering if you apply and are accepted into the program. If you have been accepted into this certificate program, you will not be charged an additional fee to apply for the Master of Software Engineering program. 

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Start or Advance Your Career

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You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Learn more about this program

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Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to a Master's Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

This certificate can serve as a stand-alone credential and as a step on your journey toward a Master of Software Engineering. Stackable credentials recognize your new skills and knowledge while you work toward your master's degree — with no additional application fees.

Earning graduate certificates from Penn State World Campus is a great way to gain new skills and quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé.  

This graduate certificate’s courses satisfy requirements toward the following degree(s):

Learn cutting-edge approaches to creating, maintaining, and improving software systems. This cohort-based online master's program mimics the remote-workplace environment often found in the global marketplace.

Learn more about the Master of Software Engineering

Show Your Progress with a Digital Badge

Upon completion of this program, Penn State awards you a graduate certificate and a digital badge from Credly. This credential can be utilized to effectively share your newly acquired skills across social media platforms.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed to help students with an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or information sciences prepare for a career in data analytics and engineering, working with and analyzing large volumes of data, and creating frameworks and systems for analyzing data.

Set Your Own Pace

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Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

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Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

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Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

How to Apply to Penn State

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Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Fall Deadline

    Apply by July 15 to start August 26
  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by November 15 to start January 13
  • Summer Deadline

    Apply by March 15, 2025, to start May 19, 2025

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    Applicants with an undergraduate degree in a quantitative discipline such as science, engineering, or business will be given preferred consideration. Applicants from other disciplines will be considered based on prior course work, professional work experience, and/or standardized test scores.

    GPA — Postsecondary (undergraduate), junior/senior (last two years) GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale is required.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    Stackable Credentials Application Fee Waiver

    If you have been previously accepted to a program with associated stackable credentials, you will not be charged an additional application fee for any associated programs.

    Software engineering stackable credentials:

    • Master of Software Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in AI Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics and Engineering
    • Graduate Certificate in Project Quality Management
    • Graduate Certificate in Software Architecture and Design

    First, apply to the program you intend to start with. Then, if accepted, coordinate with your adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your application for associated programs.

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Contact Us

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

For general questions about the program:
Dr. Amanda Neill
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics and Engineering is offered in partnership with the Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies.

Faculty

  • Adrian S. Barb

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Missouri
    • Degree
      MBA, Finance and Management Information Systems, University of Missouri
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Bucharest

    Dr. Adrian S. Barb, associate professor of information science, teaches databases, data mining, and big data courses. He has worked as a database programmer analyst as well as a web developer at University of Missouri. His research interests include data mining, knowledge discovery in databases, knowledge representation and exchange in content-based retrieval systems, semantic modeling and retrieval, conceptual change, ontology integration, and expert-in-the-loop knowledge generation and exchange.

  • Mohamad Darayi

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Oklahoma
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University
    • Degree
      B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Tabriz

    Dr. Mohamad Darayi, assistant professor of systems engineering, focuses his principal research and key publications on infrastructure network resilience and simulation modeling applications in health care, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He teaches courses in system simulation, risk analysis, network modeling, and data analytics.

  • Joanna F. DeFranco

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Engineering, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.S., Electrical Engineering and Math, Penn State

    Dr. Joanna F. DeFranco is an assistant professor of software engineering. She has worked as an electronics engineer for the Navy and as a software engineer at Motorola. Her research interests include software engineering teams, effective teamwork, Internet of Things, and software-intensive critical systems.

  • Everton Tavares Guimaraes

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software Engineering, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro
    • Degree
      M. S., Computing and Systems, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
    • Degree
      B.S., Information Technology, Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology

    Everton Tavares Guimaraes is an assistant professor specializing in software engineering. He teaches algorithms, programming, software development, architecture, and mobile computing. For a decade, he has partnered with companies domestically and internationally. His research focuses on empirical software engineering, software quality (e.g., maintenance and evolution), technical debt, AI techniques, and mobile software engineering.

  • Phillip A. Laplante

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      M.B.A., University of Colorado
    • Degree
      M.Eng., Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
    • Degree
      B.S., Systems Planning and Management, Stevens Institute of Technology

    Dr. Phillip A. Laplante is a professor of software and systems engineering. He has an extensive list of publications and deep practical experience in requirements engineering, development, testing, and project management for a variety of complex systems, including safety critical and embedded ones. He is widely recognized for work in real-time systems, real-time imaging, and applications in the Internet of Things. He is also a pioneer in licensing of software engineers, having led the development and acceptance of the first licensure exam for software engineers in the United States.

  • Colin Neill

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Software and Systems Engineering, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      M.Sc., Communications Systems, University of Wales Swansea
    • Degree
      B.Eng., Electrical Engineering, University of Wales Swansea

    Dr. Colin Neill is a professor of software engineering and systems engineering. He teaches many courses in software and systems engineering and project management. He is the author of more than 80 articles on the development and evolution of complex software and systems and their management and governance. Dr. Neill is a senior member of the IEEE and a member of INCOSE, and he serves as associate editor-in-chief of Innovations in Systems and Software Engineering.

  • Robin G. Qiu

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Penn State
    • Degree
      Ph.D., (Minor), Computer Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Numerical Control, Beijing Institute of Technology, China
    • Degree
      B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

    Dr. Robin G. Qiu is a professor of information science at Penn State. He teaches courses on data analytics, information science, software engineering, and cyber security. Dr. Qiu's research includes smart service systems, IoT, big data, data/business analytics, information systems and integration, supply chain and industrial systems, and analytics. He served as the editor-in-chief of INFORMS Service Science. He is an associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics and IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, and has more than 160 publications.

  • Dusan Ramljak

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, CST, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.Sc. and B.Sc., Electrical Engineering - Systems Control, University of Belgrade, Serbia

    Dr. Dusan Ramljak, assistant teaching professor of information science, teaches courses on information science, data science, storage systems, and emerging technologies. He has been applying data science on storage systems in NSF IUCRC projects with HPE, Dell, Huawei, and other companies and has more than 20 years of system administration experience facilitating business and research in the U.S., Portugal, and Serbia. His research interests include solving challenging storage systems, provenance, and caching problems, and developing and integrating distributed and parallel data mining and statistical learning technology for an efficient knowledge discovery at large sequence and temporal databases.

  • Sally Sue Richmond

    • Degree
      M.S., Information Science, Penn State
    • Degree
      B.A., Art, Penn State

    Sally Sue Richmond is an instructor in information science. She worked as an IT professional for more than 20 years prior to teaching. Her research interests include human-computer interaction, engineering education, and teams.

  • Raghvinder S. Sangwan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Computer and Information Sciences, Temple University
    • Degree
      M.S., Computer Science, West Chester University
    • Degree
      B.S., Genetics and Plant Breeding, Haryana Agricultural University

    Dr. Raghvinder S. Sangwan is a professor of software engineering with expertise in the analysis, design, and development of large-scale, software-intensive systems and the use of AI engineering to design and develop intelligent systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. His research focuses on the improvement of these practices, and he has taught related courses to engineers and project managers at many prestigious academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. Dr. Sangwan actively consults for Siemens Corporate Technology in Princeton, New Jersey, and holds a visiting scientist appointment at the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is a distinguished contributor and senior member of IEEE and a senior member of ACM.

  • Satish Srinivasan

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Information Technology, University of Nebraska at Omaha
    • Degree
      M.S., Industrial Engineering and Management, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur
    • Degree
      B.S., Information Technology, Bharathidasan University

    Dr. Satish Srinivasan is an associate professor of information science in the engineering division at Penn State Great Valley. He teaches courses related to database design, data mining, data collection and cleaning, design and implementation of predictive analytics system, network and web securities, and business process management. His research interests include social network analysis, data mining, machine learning, big data and predictive analytics, and bioinformatics.

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.


Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by July 15 to start August 26. How to Apply 

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