College of Engineering
Industrial Engineering (Ph.D.)
College of Engineering
Industrial Engineering (Ph.D.)
Lead Systems Innovation. Earn Your Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Engineering at New Mexico State University is a research-intensive doctoral program designed for professionals ready to lead in optimization, analytics, systems design, and decision science. This program prepares scholars to tackle complex problems at the intersection of humans, technology, and organizations by advancing methodologies in operations research, data analytics, systems engineering, quality and reliability, supply chain optimization, and human factors. Graduates build deep expertise in modeling, data-driven decision making, and system integration — skills that are essential for innovation across industries and sectors.
Students work closely with faculty mentors to conduct original research, contribute to published knowledge, and develop solutions that improve performance, efficiency, safety, and resilience in complex engineered systems. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical impact, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry, government, and consulting.
Admission Deadlines
March 1 (fall), October 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 36
- Total dissertation credits: 24
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at NMSU are prepared for high-impact careers where advanced analytical, systems, and leadership expertise is critical. Alumni often serve as university professors and academic researchers, lead data science and analytics teams in industry, direct operations research groups, design resilient supply chains, consult on performance optimization, and drive strategic decision-making for complex systems in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, defense, and public systems.
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Engineering? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at NMSU?
Choosing the Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at New Mexico State University means entering a doctoral program that blends rigorous research training with real-world relevance:-
Research Excellence & Interdisciplinary Scope: The curriculum and research agenda emphasize foundational and advanced methodologies in optimization, systems modeling, analytics, human-technology integration, and operations research — providing the versatility needed to approach diverse, large-scale systems challenges.
-
Faculty Mentorship & Collaboration: Students are advised and supported by faculty who are active researchers and industry collaborators, enabling engagement in cutting-edge research, publication, and professional development.
-
Applied and Impactful Focus: Ph.D. candidates address high-value problems that matter to industry, government, and society — such as supply chain resilience, healthcare operations optimization, human-centered systems design, and data-driven strategic decision frameworks.
-
Preparation for Leadership & Innovation: Graduates gain the analytical, research, and communication skills needed to lead research programs, influence organizational strategy, and innovate in both academia and professional environments.
-
Flexible and Supportive Environment: The program supports students with diverse backgrounds and offers personalized guidance, ensuring depth of expertise and a pathway toward recognized leadership in research, systems analysis, and applied engineering arenas.
Carnegie R1 Institution
The R1 designation represents the highest level of research excellence placing NMSU among the top 5% of universities nationwide.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
The program of study leading to the Ph.D. degree must include a minimum of 36 graduate course credits, plus 24 dissertation research credits (9 credits at the IE 600 level and 15 credits of IE 700). Among the 36 graduate course credits, 18 credits must be from IE 500-level courses relevant to your research. Typical areas include statistics, electrical engineering, mathematics, or mechanical engineering. You may not transfer credits from your master’s degree to meet this requirement. Additional requirements include Pass Qualifying Exam, 33 Graduate Electives, Pass Comprehensive Exam, Complete and Defend Doctoral Dissertation.
Take classes like:
- I E 535 - Discrete Optimization
- I E 537 - Large Scale Systems Engineering
- I E 567 - Design and Implementation of Discrete-Event Simulation
- I E 571 - Advanced Quality Control
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.5 is required for admission.
Academic Background: A Master’s degree in a related field is preferred, though not always mandatory for initial entry.
Application: The application includes transcripts, three letter of recommendation, statement of purpose and resume.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.