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Integrated Manufacturing Systems Engineering Program
A group of four students from the IMSEI on-campus program sitting on the steps outside of a building next to an image of an IMSEI online program student working on her laptop.

Programs

NC State offers two Integrated Manufacturing Systems Engineering Programs: on-campus and online. Each provides an excellent experience.

Last Updated: 03/31/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

On-Campus? Online? Which is Better for Me?

NC State’s Master of Integrated Manufacturing Systems Engineering (MIMSE) Program offers two options: on-campus and online programs. But which one is right for you? Each option provides an excellent educational experience with many benefits. Therefore, before choosing a program, you should consider which method best suits your learning style and personality.

Choose One of the Programs that Best Fits your Lifestyle

A group of four students from the IMSE on-campus programs sitting on the steps outside of a building.

On-Campus Programs

A traditional classroom lets you meet face-to-face with your professor and classmates. Additionally, it places you in the heart of Raleigh, the RTP, and the incredible tech companies in the area.

There are several reasons why on-campus learning has remained the traditional classroom experience. First, it allows you to build community quickly. Second, you can get your questions answered immediately. Finally, it helps you keep a structured schedule.

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An IMSE online programs student working on her laptop.

Online Programs

With resources such as video conferencing, online forums, and constant communication, you have more ways to learn than ever before.

One of the most notable benefits of online education is having a flexible schedule. This allows you to balance working full-time with your studies. Additionally, it enables you to connect with classmates from all over the world.

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An industry partner working with an IMSE student at her internship. All students must complete internships and co-ops as part of their degree.

Internships and Co-ops

Internships and co-ops allow you to gain practical experience in solving engineering problems. Typically, you will spend the summer and the following semester, or about seven months, on your internship or co-op.

During this time, you will work on an engineering problem that the IMSE faculty approves as an acceptable project. Upon completion, after finishing your co-op or internship, you must write and defend a technical report about your experience.

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MIMSE Minor

You cannot get a minor in MIMSE because the program does not offer many courses. It only has a project preparation course (IMS 675) and a special studies course (IMS 680).

Internship and Co-Op Programs

A map of the United States shows where IMSEI students have completed their internships and co-ops as part of their degree programs.

An internship or co-op gives you real experience solving actual engineering problems in real-world settings. Typically, you spend the summer and fall semester—about seven months—working full time in the field. This time allows you to focus deeply on a project and grow your technical and teamwork skills.

During your internship, you work with an industry partner on an approved project. Before you begin, IMSE faculty must review and approve your project to make sure it meets academic standards. Because of this review, you stay on track with both learning and professional goals.

You can find opportunities at small companies or large global firms across the United States. No matter the location, you apply what you’ve learned in class to real challenges engineers face daily. This hands-on experience not only builds your resume but also prepares you for full-time work.

After your internship or co-op, you must write a technical report that explains what you did and learned. You then defend your report before your graduate committee in a final presentation. This important step proves your ability to work independently and apply your knowledge.

For more details, visit the Career Development Center website. It offers tips, deadlines and guidance on finding the right co-op or internship for you.

If you are an F-1 student, you must meet certain requirements before you begin work. To help with this, the Office of International Services explains the steps on the OIS Curricular Practical Training page. By following their process, you stay in good standing while gaining valuable U.S. work experience.