By Tasbiha Fatima Hasan 

Writer/Reporter 

Metropolitan State University is expanding its STEM offerings with the introduction of a new Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering through the College of Sciences, beginning Summer/Fall 2026.  

The launch reflects a growing demand for interdisciplinary professionals who can combine engineering, systems thinking, analytics, operations, sustainability, and problem-solving skills across industries. According to Metro State’s program description, industrial engineers focus on improving efficiency, productivity, quality, and complex systems through engineering and analytical methods.  

For Minnesota, often recognized as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” this program could create new pathways connected not only to manufacturing and logistics, but also to sustainability, water systems, environmental operations, transportation networks, healthcare systems, public infrastructure, and data-driven decision-making. 

The new major also appears to represent a broader academic transition within the university. Metro State announced that the Industrial & Applied Mathematics BS program would no longer accept new admissions after December 2025, while encouraging interested students to explore the new Industrial Engineering BS beginning in fall 2026.  

One notable aspect of the Industrial Engineering program is its emphasis on applied experience. The curriculum includes engineering design experiences and even provides students with the option to replace part of the design sequence with an engineering internship opportunity.  

The emergence of industrial engineering at Metro State may also reshape how students think about STEM careers. Traditionally, many students separate fields like business, engineering, environmental science, data analytics, information systems, and operations management. However, industrial engineering naturally overlaps with all of them. The field increasingly relies on analytics, optimization, systems modeling, project coordination, communication, and operational efficiency skills which are becoming important across nearly every industry. 

At the same time, the expansion of technical and engineering-related programs may also increase competition in the job market. Students entering STEM fields may need more than coursework alone to stand out. Applied projects, internships, collaboration, communication skills, analytics portfolios, GIS experience, research, leadership, and interdisciplinary thinking may become increasingly valuable alongside technical knowledge. 

For current Metro State students, especially those in programs like Environmental Science, Data Science, MIS, Supply Chain, Mathematics, or Computer Science, the new Industrial Engineering major may create opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration and skill development. 

As industries continue evolving through AI, automation, sustainability goals, smart infrastructure, and data-driven operations, programs like Industrial Engineering signal how universities are adapting to prepare students for increasingly interconnected careers. 

The introduction of the Industrial Engineering BS may ultimately represent more than just a new degree program; it may reflect a broader shift toward systems thinking, applied analytics, and interdisciplinary problem-solving in Minnesota’s future workforce.