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July 13, 2026

Want to earn nearly $100,000 within 5 years of graduating? Study engineering, Fed research says

Want to earn nearly $100,000 after graduation? Engineering degrees lead the highest-paying careers, according to Federal Reserve research.

June 08, 2026

Time. Talent. Treasure.

This is an excerpt from the original article by Kira Blankenship at NC State Alumni Association. NC State Alumni’s volunteer network is powered by hundreds of alumni who give their…

May 28, 2026

Remembering Hank Nuttle’s Kindness

Hank Nuttle is remembered for the kindness, mentorship and compassion that shaped generations of NC State ISE students.

Undergrad Programs and Degrees

Welcome to one of the strongest engineering communities you can join. You can explore the field of industrial and systems engineering, or ISE. In addition, you can discover why Raleigh, NC, is a great place to live and work.

You can also learn what campus life offers and how to tour the ISE Department. Furthermore, you will find answers to frequently asked questions. You will see how our department prepares you for a successful ISE career. Finally, you will learn how to apply to NC State.

Explore our Undergrad Programs

Grad Programs and Degrees

Welcome to one of the top 11 programs in the United States. Moreover, this ranking reflects the strength of our faculty, students and industry partners. As a result, you gain real value when you choose our department.

You can also discover why Raleigh, NC, is a great place to live and work. learn what campus life offers. Furthermore, you will find answers to frequently asked questions. You will see how our department prepares you for a successful ISE career. Then, you can meet our current Ph.D. students and explore their research. Finally, you will learn how to apply to NC State.

Explore our Grad Programs

Research and Facilities

NC State ISE researchers use advanced mathematical tools and methods to make discoveries. As a result, these innovations improve efficiency and profitability across many industries. In addition, the department builds strong partnerships with industry, government and other universities.

NC State offers several research focus areas that support diverse interests.

Advanced Manufacturing
Health Systems Engineering
Human Factors and Ergonomics
Supply Chain and Logistics
System Analytics and Optimization

Discover our Research Capacities

Alumni Impact

Our alumni have built successful careers and improved the way people live, work and play. As a result, they have strengthened both their professions and the department. Their achievements continue to inspire future generations of industrial and systems engineers.

The ISE Department partners with alumni to create meaningful opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can explore creative opportunities that benefit your organization, our students and the broader ISE community.

Connect and Engage with Students

Faculty and Staff

Meet the ISE faculty and staff at NC State who lead innovative research, support student success and shape the future of industrial and systems engineering.

In the ISE Program, faculty members ensure students never feel alone on their academic journey. They guide, support and encourage students toward success both inside and outside the classroom. In addition, they create a welcoming learning environment where students feel valued, respected and motivated to grow.

Meet our Faculty and Staff

Fitts-Woolard Hall

Opened in 2020, this state-of-the-art facility brings together students, faculty and industry partners in spaces designed for collaboration, innovation and hands-on learning. As a result, students gain access to modern classrooms, advanced research laboratories and flexible learning environments that prepare them to solve today’s most complex challenges.

Named after ISE alumni (Edward P. Fitts, Jr. (ISE ‘61), his wife, Debra, Edgar S. Woolard, Jr. (ISE ‘56), and his wife, Peggy), Fitts-Woolard Hall symbolizes the dedication of alumni and friends in advancing the Department’s mission.

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About our Department

The Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) at NC State is one of only a few named ISE departments in the United States. It ranks among the top 15 programs in the country according to U.S. News and World Report.

Living in Raleigh, NC, consistently ranks among the top five places to live and work in the country. Raleigh welcomes families and individuals, offering a well-educated workforce and a diverse, multicultural environment. As a result, this vibrant city provides a high quality of life and many opportunities for everyone. Consequently, many people find living in Raleigh the ideal way to settle down and thrive.

#6 Best Place to Live in the US (US News & World Report, 2024-2025)
#13 Top 25 America’s Best Cities Best Cities, 2024)
#11 Best Place to Live in the US for Young Professionals (U.S. News, 2023-2024)
Best Cities to Move to After College (USA Today, 2024)

I Want to see What ISE is About

Why Study Industrial Engineering?

Industrial engineering gives you the skills to improve the systems people use every day. You learn how to solve problems, increase efficiency and create better products and services. As a result, you help organizations save time, reduce costs and improve quality across nearly every industry.

Today’s professionals work at the intersection of engineering, technology and business. They use data, artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to solve complex challenges. At the same time, they improve manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, supply chains and energy systems. Because every organization depends on efficient processes, graduates remain in high demand.

The Future of the Profession

The future of industrial engineering has never been brighter. Over the next decade, employers will continue investing in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing. Consequently, engineers will lead efforts to design more efficient factories, strengthen global supply chains and improve healthcare systems.

The profession also plays a vital role in sustainability. Engineers develop processes that reduce waste, conserve resources and improve environmental performance. Furthermore, they help organizations make better decisions through data-driven solutions and digital technologies.

Because the discipline combines technical knowledge with leadership skills, graduates enjoy outstanding career flexibility. You can work for manufacturers, technology companies, healthcare organizations, consulting firms, government agencies or defense contractors. Likewise, you can build a career in product development, operations, logistics, quality engineering, data analytics or engineering management.

For information about the industrial engineering profession, consult these links:

• U.S. Dept. of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook: Industrial Engineers
• Top Universities: 5 Reasons to Study Industrial Engineering
• Collegeboard.org: Major – Industrial Engineer

Build Your Career at NC State

At NC State, you prepare for a career in industrial engineering through hands-on learning, innovative research and real-world industry partnerships. You work alongside faculty who solve today’s engineering challenges while gaining experience with the tools employers expect.

Whether you want to improve healthcare, develop advanced manufacturing systems, optimize supply chains or apply artificial intelligence to engineering problems, this field provides the foundation. As industries continue to evolve, graduates will help shape how the world designs, builds and delivers the products and services people depend on every day.