SMU Lyle School of Humanities

Master of Science in datacenter systems engineering

The Master of Science in datacenter systems engineering at SMU Lyle is the only graduate program of its kind in the U.S. — designed to meet the surging demand for professionals who can lead in one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. Data centers are the foundation of AI, cloud computing and digital transformation, yet the industry faces a critical talent shortage. This interdisciplinary program blends electrical engineering, IT, facilities management, business continuity and cyber security, preparing graduates to manage complex infrastructure systems from end to end.

Whether you're an experienced professional or an early-career engineer, Lyle’s MS DSE equips you with the leadership, technical, and strategic skills needed to advance into high-impact roles.

Level up your career at SMU with a master’s degree designed for working professionals. Fill out the form to get more information.

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Over $107,000

Average starting salary of Lyle master’s degree students (2023-24)

Top 50

Lyle School of Engineering
ranked in the top 50
engineering grad schools
(Money Magazine 2024)

9:1

student to faculty ratio at the Lyle School of Engineering

Student experience

Industry-leading faculty

Learn from distinguished faculty members with extensive experience in data center systems engineering and related fields.

Flexible Learning Models

Flexible learning models

Tailor your experience with our Lyle Anywhere® flexible learning platform, a mixture of in-person or synchronous online classes.

Resource-Rich Environment

Resource-rich environment

Utilize cutting-edge facilities, labs and software, providing access to the latest industry-standard tools and technologies.

Jobs you can land

Jobs I Can Land

Potential roles include: 

  • Datacenter engineer
  • Infrastructure architect
  • Cloud solutions architect
  • Network security specialist
  • IT manager

Benefit from SMU’s global alumni network and our strong industry connections and career opportunities in Dallas-Fort Worth, a fast-growing datacenter hub. Industry data shows average starting salaries in datacenter management and architecture to be in the range of $150,000 annually.

 

The SMU Lyle difference

 

Unique

Gain a competitive edge with the nation’s only master’s degree program focusing on data center systems engineering in an industry where job demand continues to grow.

Leadership

Day one technical and management training prepares you for all phases of data center infrastructure including power, cooling, network, security and business.

Real-world experience

Acquire comprehensive knowledge of data center architecture, implementation and management through hands-on labs, capstones and projects with industry partners.