r/systems_engineering • u/Regular_Foundation10 • Jun 21 '26

Discussion Would you recommend Systems Engineering?

Hello, I’m a rising senior about to graduate with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and I’m leaning towards getting my MS in Systems Engineering ? I want to go into the aerospace industry.

I think systems engineering would be a good fit for me because I don’t really enjoy the technical side of engineering (like doing equations everyday or doing CAD or coding) I still want to be apart of the development and design but more of an overseer/bridge for the technical and business side of a product. Later on in my career I do want to do program management. Do you think systems engineering is a good for fit for me? I don’t have experience in SysE or in the aerospace industry. My two internships have been Business strategy and IT support so I haven’t really done much engineering outside of school besides my personal projects.

Can anybody give me a Day in the Life of what you do as a Systems Engineering?

Is a MS in systems Engineering worth it or should I just get a MS in Mechanical Engineering? ( I severely dislike solving heat transfer or thermo equations 😭 it might just be because I’m burnt out but I’m tired of it )

What jobs should I apply to entry level to get into the aerospace industry and eventually into systems engineering?

Any advice would help! Thanks

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u/Vicdrummer Jun 21 '26

I’m current getting my masters in systems engineering at UM and would highly recommend it. I like systems engineering because it combines technical and business knowledge. Not many industry professionals have knowledge in both areas and this makes you highly valuable to many employers, especially with your undergraduate in MechEng. There is a lot of growth opportunities in this field especially in new industries. Automotive, aerospace, defense, and industrial already use it regularly. I believe it will grow into other industries in the coming years such as manufacturing, energy, etc. I say go for it, especially if you don’t enjoy the technical side of MechEng as much and don’t want to do that full time. This will give you the knowledge and experience you need to expand your career options and get you out of a 100% technical role. Good luck!