Graduate Program Overview

The University of New Mexico offers a number of options leading to master's degree in manufacturing disciplines. Under a program started in 1987 with the help of Rio Grande Technology Foundation, students may earn Master of Science degrees in ME or EE with a strong manufacturing concentration. Under a new program approved in 1991, a student may earn the degree of Master of Engineering in manufacturing engineering, a degree that is aimed at engineering practice and one that covers a wider range of manufacturing topics than the MS program.

The Manufacturing Engineering program is specifically geared to the professional who wishes to be prepared for a career in manufacturing immediately upon graduation. This program has a "practice" emphasis rather than the traditional engineering science emphasis of an MS degree. The two degree programs share many of the same courses, both are aimed at the same academic level, and they have approximately the same entrance requirements.

In all programs, it is recognized that manufacturing is highly interdisciplinary. Hence the core of the study is designed to help students master basic manufacturing essentials in all its breadth. Topics include personnel and modern management in manufacturing, current manufacturing methods and approaches, techniques and importance of quality, manufacturing economics, and the essential unity of the enterprise as illustrated by approaches such as concurrent engineering.

The programs generally require three semesters to complete. The MEME/MBA degree may take two or more years to complete. A 3-month internship in a manufacturing company is required for those students not currently employed in manufacturing. Industrial fellowships are often available for the student needing financial help, in addition to the paid internship.