Career Paths with a Master of Engineering Degree: What You Can Do Next

Engineers are at the forefront of solving some of today's most pressing challenges—from advancing medical technologies to improving manufacturing efficiency to developing sustainable energy solutions. If you're an engineer seeking greater impact in your work or looking to move into leadership roles in which you can shape projects rather than simply contribute to them, a Master of Engineering degree can be the catalyst for that change.

With a practice-oriented curriculum that provides real-world experience, the online Master of Engineering program from Case Western Reserve University is key to unlocking leadership opportunities, diverse career paths and healthy salary growth. For those seeking an opportunity to lead or who are feeling stuck in a role with no material impact, this graduate degree can open the door to meaningful and engaging work.

Read on to discover what you can do with a Master of Engineering degree in today's job market.

Understanding the Master of Engineering Degree

Start by clarifying the differences between a Master of Engineering and a Master of Science (MS) in Engineering program. Typically, a Master of Engineering program is more practical, applying technology, skills and processes to real-world problems. An MS in Engineering program, on the other hand, is directed strongly toward research.

Both degree programs develop technical and mathematical skills and offer clear engineering career progression. Their scopes, however, overlap very little. The MS program prepares graduates to work in an academic capacity, with a strong emphasis on research and development. Master of Engineering career paths are industry-centered, including work in civil engineering, electronics, manufacturing and aviation technology.¹

Top Careers with a Master of Engineering

Engineering Manager

Engineering management is a highly compensated career field in systems and control engineering, with a median yearly salary of approximately $168,000.² Engineering managers oversee engineering offices, labs or production plants, and must be able to wear many hats.

They direct research and development, determine staffing and equipment needs and prepare and manage project budgets—all while maintaining detailed understanding of engineering and automation.² CWRU's Systems and Control Engineering concentration, in the online Master of Engineering program, addresses all of these areas, with expert faculty to guide you as you learn.

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers have the unique tasks of designing and testing spacecraft and launch vehicles, as well as in-atmosphere aircraft. CWRU's Mechanical Engineering concentration gives graduates a competitive edge in this highly selective field. The focus on real-world applications and practical skills sets them up with an understanding of the theory as well as the know-how to create these remarkable vehicles.

This specialized career field is compensated accordingly, at a median of $135,000 per year. Growth sits at 6%, which is twice the national average.³

Industrial Engineer

Industrial engineers work in manufacturing to improve efficiency and reduce waste across the production process in a variety of industries, including electronics, transportation and heavy machinery.⁴ The projected job growth for industrial engineers is sitting at 11%, while the median salary is a comfortable $101,000.⁵

CWRU's Mechanical Engineering and Systems and Control Engineering concentrations are relevant here, and their hands-on approach builds student proficiency with industrial processes such as robotic assembly lines, advanced mechanics and sustainable engineering practices.

Technical Project Manager

While you might not initially think of project management as one of the most obvious career paths to follow with a Master of Engineering degree, a large number of key industries—most notably construction and civil works, but also tech companies and manufacturing—need this specialty. Projected job growth is double the national average and is expected to increase further in the coming years. Median pay is approximately $101,000 annually.⁶

The project manager needs a broad understanding of engineering, of course, but also of business and management skills. This area of focus is one of four available in CWRU’s online Master of Engineering program, and students will graduate uniquely well-versed in big-picture thinking and strategic planning.

Bioengineer / Biomedical Engineer

The field of biomedical engineering refers to the application of engineering to healthcare, enabling advancements in medical equipment such as prosthetics and wearable health devices. Biomedical engineers and bioengineers typically work for tech companies or medical providers. Job growth is at a steady 5%, and the average salary for biomedical engineers is one of the highest for engineering master’s job opportunities, at about $107,000 annually.⁷ CWRU offers an online Master of Engineering degree, with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, which teaches fluency in tissue engineering, medical imaging, biomechanics and much more.

Preparing for Your Next Step After Earning a Master of Engineering

Once you have your Master of Engineering in hand, networking is the next critical step in your career advancement. While networking still happens at conferences and industry gatherings, you can now find many opportunities online.

Start by setting up a strong LinkedIn profile that highlights your abilities, interests and goals. Think of this profile as your business card: What do you want people's first impression of you to be? From there, seek out groups, both on and off of LinkedIn, that align with your expertise. Position yourself as an expert in this space and forge connections by answering industry questions and providing relevant information and news.

Consider joining professional organizations connected to your field. The National Society of Professional Engineers is a long-standing and respected general engineering organization. You can also join more specific entities, such as the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers or the Society of Women Engineers.⁸

Launch Your Career Advancement with a Practice-Focused Master's Degree

The CWRU online Master of Engineering program is designed to provide a strong foundation of engineering and leadership principles. As a student, you’ll choose a concentration in Mechanical Engineering, Systems and Control Engineering, Engineering Innovation, Management and Leadership, or Biomedical Engineering.

Case School of Engineering is ranked #52 among the best engineering schools nationwide,⁹ thanks to its practice-focused curricula and expert faculty, who are engaged in cutting-edge research. The university's focus on ensuring bright futures for its alumni is readily visible in its commitment to creating products, systems and solutions with real-world impact. Theory alone doesn't make for strong engineers; application of it does. Currently, CWRU is offering a tuition reduction of more than $28,000, making tuition for the online Master of Engineering just $39,000.

Explore CWRU's program concentrations and admission requirements to find the path that aligns with your career goals. Then schedule a call with an admissions outreach advisor who can help you determine which concentration is right for you.