Man and woman are looking at a tablet in a lab

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Systems Engineering

A systems engineering degree has never been more in demand. Systems engineers tackle technical problems and pinpoint ways to keep their operations running smoothly by applying principles of science, mathematics and management. 

They’re invaluable to employers in a wide range of industries, including logistics, retail, healthcare, automotive, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy and more. 

All successful systems – from medical software to international supply chains – require cohesion. With a systems engineering degree from Bowling Green State University, YOU are the bridge connecting all the elements. You are the ring leader.

Systems engineers coordinate the people, processes and parts necessary to deliver a product or service. They zoom out for big-picture perspectives in order to:

  • Cut inefficiencies
  • Minimize productivity challenges
  • Improve safety
  • Promote eco-friendliness
  • Keep costs in check

They ensure businesses flourish. Businesses ensure they’re well-compensated for their efforts.

97% of BGSU students with engineering degrees can expect to land a job in their field within a year of graduation. 

Why study systems engineering at BGSU in Ohio?

  • Immersive education. The cooperative education (co-op) program at BGSU is one of only a dozen accredited co-op programs in the country. We have 3,000+ co-op employer connections. You will gain real-world experience that’s graded, credited and paid.
  • Hybrid and online education. Year-round open enrollment and hybrid classes are an option for the first two years of a BGSU systems engineering undergraduate degree. Junior and senior SYE courses are almost exclusively virtual – ideal for working students.
  • 1:1 career coaching. The Michael and Sara Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections sets you up for success and helps you land a job after graduation. 
  • Interdisciplinary instruction. Get a leg up on leadership with a foundational understanding of related disciplines, such as business and communications.
  • Study abroad option. Gain invaluable international perspective on systems design and boost your resume. BGSU offers SYE majors a study abroad experience in Panama.

Systems engineering job growth is projected to climb 21% between 2021 and 2031.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Systems engineering labs for next-level learning

Tech should be taught hands-on. That’s why BGSU has 13 state-of-the-art laboratories, and 80% of engineering courses include lab components. 

Systems engineering majors make frequent use of the RIXAN Robotics Lab, a 3,300-square-foot center with equipment including:

  • Mitsubishi Scara Robots
  • CT scanner
  • Polyjet printer
  • Automation conveyor system
  • Motion capture system
  • PLC systems and more

The AI and VR Lab is a new 1,500-square-foot space with more than a dozen virtual reality sets, XR/VR goggles and AI deep learning and data science work station. 

Each lab is fully equipped with cutting-edge equipment that gives you many opportunities for relevant experiential training, collaboration and research.

SYE students also have access to 22,000 square feet of support spaces – a Hazmat room, innovation center, conference rooms, maker space, tech store, project rooms and more.

Career - what can you do with a systems engineering degree?

Vast career possibilities exist with a Bachelor of Science in systems engineering – from streamlining air traffic control systems to internet traffic algorithms. 

Systems engineers are in demand at large corporations like Honda, Disney, Coca-Cola, Fed-Ex, American Airlines and Nike. They’re also sought-after consultants at consulting firms like Arthur D. Little and Deloitte. Government agencies and smaller companies in the retail, manufacturing and service industries also consider their systems engineers integral to their teams. 

A few examples of SYE careers: 

  • Biosystems engineers. Uncover solutions to technical problems that involve biological components, such as protecting ecosystems, ensuring food safety and maximizing bioenergy resources. 
  • Supply chain engineers. Analyze and improve the logistical strategy of a supply chain in order to maximize efficiency and cost effectiveness. 
  • Product development engineers. Help companies find better/faster/cheaper ways to create, design, produce and deliver their products.
  • Software systems engineers. Develop software products that help firms maximize workflow and product quality. 

BGSU SYE graduates can expect to lead collaborative teams on a promising career trajectory of successive advancement. Some also pursue graduate-level degrees, such as our online logistics systems engineering master’s degree program.

$64,000+ average starting salary for entry-level engineers in the U.S.

Source: The Fed

Career paths

  • Systems engineer
  • Process engineer
  • Logistics manager
  • Industrial engineer or industrial specialist 
  • Production manager
  • Supply chain analyst or supply chain manager
  • Facilities engineer
  • Engineering operations manager

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View Average Salaries

Curriculum

A systems engineering degree at BGSU provides the skills needed to identify, formulate and manage complex engineering systems and the people running them.

Systems engineering majors must successfully complete 122 credit hours, which include advanced classes in statistics, calculus, physics, computer technology and chemistry. The curriculum also incorporates business and management classes to ensure graduates are ready for leadership roles.

Coursework in the major includes classes such as:

  • Engineering economics
  • Material handling systems
  • Computer-aided design
  • Logistics distribution systems
  • Foundations of lean and synchronous quality planning

Students also are required to complete at least one paid co-op experience and a three-hour senior capstone project. 

Required courses

Optimization Software Technology Process System Business concept. Business, Technology, Internet and network concept.

Sample courses

  • Systems Simulation and Modeling
  • Workplace Design
  • Production and Material Handling
  • Facility Design and Plant Layout
  • Logistics Transportation Systems

Updated: 01/31/2024 11:46AM