Lead Systems. Drive Innovation. Shape the Future: A look at NDSU's IMSE Program

Where Big Picture Thinking Takes the Lead

Choosing an engineering path isn’t always clear-cut. Mechanical, electrical, civil — each plays an important role. But what if you’re the one who wants to see how they all connect?

IMSE is the big-picture discipline, tailor-made for organizers, optimizers and visionaries. It’s the field that constantly asks, "How can we make this better?" This question applies to everything.

If you're the kind of thinker who sees patterns, asks questions and wants to lead change, IMSE is where far-out ideas turn into groundbreaking solutions.

Industrial and manufacturing systems engineering is about designing, improving and managing complex systems. IMSE professionals streamline how people, machines and information work together — making processes more efficient, productive and people-focused.

To grasp the big-picture concept, consider the creation of a new electric car.

  • A mechanical engineer might design the chassis or the suspension system.
  • An electrical engineer might focus on the battery technology or the onboard computer.
  • An ISME professional designs the entire factory that builds the car and makes sure it all runs smoothly from supply chain to customer delivery.

This is the science of efficiency and the art of making things work better for everyone.

An IMSE degree broadens your horizon and allows you to make meaningful change.

IMSE isn’t just about factory floors and hard hats — it’s about managing entire operations. At NDSU, our IMSE grads are hired fast, with a 96% full-time employment rate, because their skills apply to nearly every industry.

Here’s what that looks like:

  • Entertainment: Designing theme park flow and ride queues to create seamless guest experiences.
  • Healthcare: Improving patient wait times, operating room schedules and hospital logistics.
  • Finance: Optimizing trading systems and financial workflows.
  • E-commerce & Logistics: Powering global giants like Amazon and FedEx with smarter systems.
  • Airlines: Managing flight schedules, baggage systems and maintenance operations.
  • Tech & Startups: Scaling systems for fast-growing innovation companies.

NDSU graduates step confidently into roles like project manager, operations director and beyond.

If you see the big picture and want to improve it, IMSE might be your path forward.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you enjoy organizing chaos and making things run smoothly?
  • Do you naturally connect the dots while others focus on just one piece?
  • Do you like having a plan but can pivot when things change?

These are the instincts of a systems thinker and the foundation of great leadership. IMSE at NDSU helps turn those instincts into in-demand skills that power innovation, efficiency and real-world impact.

Meet the IMSE Team

Behind every innovative solution and real-world project in IMSE is a faculty team that makes it possible. Our faculty bring deep industry experience, cutting-edge research and a true commitment to student success.

Whether they’re advancing breakthroughs in bioprinting, improving hospital systems or helping companies streamline production, our faculty connect big ideas with hands-on learning. Because of their dedication to hands-on learning, you’ll be able to work alongside faculty in their labs to gain valuable research experience.

Curious about who you’ll learn from? Meet the experts driving IMSE forward.

At the Frontiers of New Knowledge

NDSU’s IMSE program sits at the center of a thriving innovation ecosystem. As an R1 research university, NDSU gives students the opportunity to learn in a place where new knowledge is created every day. You’ll have access to seven specialized labs and the cutting-edge Richard Offerdahl ’65 Engineering Complex, opening in fall 2026.

Industry integration is at the heart of the IMSE experience. Through our 100% industry-supported Senior Capstone, you’ll work with real companies to solve real problems before graduation.

Choosing IMSE at NDSU means stepping into a community where research, innovation and industry partnerships create unparalleled opportunities for success.

See How IMSE Can Move Your Horizon Forward

With real-world experience, expert faculty and endless career paths — the IMSE program is where your future takes shape.

Explore the industrial engineering and management degree program Explore the manufacturing engineering degree program Reach out to the department

Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering

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