Faculty and students solve problems in SMU’s M.S. operations research and analytics program.

Graduate programs

Master’s in operations research and analytics

Empower organizations to become more effective in the age of big data

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Program format

In-person and online

Commitment

Full time or part time

Duration

Two years (full time);
Three years (part time)

Overview

SMU’s M.S. in operations research and analytics is at the forefront of leveraging advanced quantitative methods to drive effective decision-making across diverse industries. This program equips students with the analytical prowess and computational skills necessary to tackle complex organizational challenges in areas such as supply chain management, healthcare, finance and more. You’ll gain hands-on experience through case studies and industry partnerships, applying analytical and computational techniques such as mathematical modeling, probability, statistics, optimization and machine learning. 

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures graduates are prepared to navigate the dynamic landscape of data-driven decision-making. With a curriculum designed by expert faculty and experienced industry professionals, students benefit from an operations research and analytics graduate program structure rooted in real-world considerations. Developed with working professionals in mind, students have the opportunity to pursue their degree in-person or online. 

This program is part of SMU’s Operations Research and Engineering Management Department.

 

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Student success

Our graduates consistently secure positions at leading companies and organizations in private and public sectors. SMU operations research and analytics master’s students become leaders across industries implementing innovative strategies and driving organizational success in industry, government and academia.

 

This program prepares you to excel in the following areas and professions:

  • Supply chain and logistics
  • Financial services and risk management
  • Health care analytics
  • Manufacturing and industrial engineering
  • Data science and machine learning
  • Defense and national security
  • Transportation and urban planning
  • Retail and e-commerce analytics

$95,000

Median starting salary for Lyle graduate students (2023–24)

Career Outcomes Dashboard

9:1

Graduate student-to-faculty ratio

26%

of Lyle graduate students are women

Student stories

A photo of SMU Lyle alum Garrett Madison

From football to engineering

SMU linebacker Garrett Madison ’23, ’26 says mentorship from Lyle School of Engineering guided his path to doctoral researcher.

Admissions

Deadlines and details

Key dates and admissions information to help plan your application with confidence.

International students

All the essential admission requirements international students need to know.

Application questions

Find answers to Lyle application questions.

Additional links

Requirements

  1. Application
  2. Application fee
  3. Official transcripts
  4. English language proficiency documentation (if applicable)
  5. Minimum 3.0 GPA or higher from undergraduate degree is strongly desired

All applications are holistically reviewed.

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Ready to apply?

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Tuition and financial aid

Tuition and costs

Explore the cost breakdown of tuition for graduate programs.

Financial aid

Find information on scholarships and financial support available at SMU.

Curriculum and learning

Featured courses

OREM 7361

Simulation for Systems Analytics

Introduction to the design and analysis of discrete probabilistic systems using simulation with phases on model construction, probabilistic methods, statistical output analyses and simulation software.

OREM 8378

Optimization Models for Decision Support

Study of the design and implementation of decision support systems based on optimization models. Students will develop modeling skills and operations research techniques.

OREM 7331

Data Mining

Introduces data mining techniques used in analytics. All material covered is reinforced through hands-on experience using state-of-the art tools.

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Outside the classroom

  • Centers and institutes

    Grow as an engineer with collectives that promote leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.

  • Maria Murad with friends in Jordan

    Internships

    Get practical experience to develop industry skills, build a professional network and gain valuable insights. Internships can open doors to future opportunities and contribute to long-term career success.

  • Clubs and organizations

    Explore interests, develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers.

  • SMU students working with plants at Bontham Family Farms

    Community engagement

    Apply your classroom knowledge to real-world issues while making a positive impact.

Research

Participate in graduate research opportunities and tackle real-world challenges in manufacturing, production, health care, telecommunications, energy and finance.

Lyle students and faculty perform research that has global implications, taking advantage of state-of-the-art facilities and funding from government agencies, foundations and private companies. 

Faculty

Our distinguished faculty are industry leaders and subject matter experts, bringing real-world experience and industry insights to the classroom. SMU Lyle maintains small class sizes, allowing students to develop meaningful mentorships with their professors.

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A portrait of Dinesh Rajan at SMU Lyle School of Engineering

Dinesh Rajan, Ph.D.

Interim Chair for Research Operations & Engineering Management Cecil and Ida Green Chair …
Miju Ahn, Ph.D.

Miju Ahn, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management

Adel Alaeddini

Adel Alaeddini Ph.D.

O'Donnell Foundation Professor Co-Executive Director of Center for Digital and…
Headshot of Professor Dick Barr of SMU lyle.

Dick Barr, Ph.D

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
A headshot of Digvijay Boob, a member of the Lyle School of Engineering Faculty.

Digvijay Boob, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
Sila Cetinkaya Headshot

Sila Çetinkaya, Ph.D.

Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management Cecil H. Green Professor of…
Y Chang headshot

Yanling Chang, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
Headshot of Diana M. Easton, Ph.D of SMU Lyle.

Diana M. Easton, Ph.D

Clinical Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
John H. Evers Headshot

John Evers, Eng.D.

Senior Lecturer of Operations Research & Engineering Management Director of Systems…
Harsha Gangammanavar, Ph.D.

Harsha Gangammanavar, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
A headshot of Eric Larson, a member of the Lyle School of Engineering Faculty.

Eric Larson, Ph.D.

The Bobby B. Lyle Endowed Professorship of Engineering Innovation Associate Professor of …
MacFarlane, Duncan

Duncan MacFarlane, Ph.D.

Bobby B. Lyle Centennial Chair in Engineering Entrepreneurship Professor of Electrical & …
A headshot of Eli Olinick, a member of the Lyle School of Engineering Faculty.

Eli Olinick, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
Ohad Perry, Ph.D.

Ohad Perry, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
A headshot of Aurelie Thiele, a member of the Lyle School of Engineering Faculty

Aurelie Thiele

Associate Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management
Halit Uster Headshot

Halit Uster, Ph.D.

Professor of Operations Research & Engineering Management Fellow, Hunt Institute for…

Facilities

SMU Lyle students have access to state-of-the-art facilities where they can conduct research, meet with industry leaders, and gain skills on new and established technologies.

SMU engineering researchers work in a state-of-the-art lab in Caruth Hall.

Caruth Hall

Caruth Hall houses laboratory space for team research projects, academic departments and the Caruth Institute for Engineering Education – a national center of excellence focused on research and development of STEM education programs.

SMU Lyle Engineering students build prototypes in the Deason Innovation Gym, aka The DIG

Deason Innovation Gym

The Deason Innovation Gym (the DIG) provides the tools and space to work on immersion design projects to accelerate learning, innovation and leadership. Get trained on 3D printers, power tools, metal shop machines and more.

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Frequently asked questions

Operational research and analytics use advanced analytical methods to help organizations improve their operations and generate managerial insights for practical implementation in fields such as supply chain, logistics, manufacturing, production, health care, telecommunications, energy, finance and others.

Skilled operations research analysts are in high demand as the world grapples with evolving business and operations challenges. There is predicted to be a 23% increase in job growth for operations research analysts through 2033 – the average growth rate for all occupations is four percent.

A master’s degree in operations research and analytics from SMU signals to employers and graduate schools that you have formal knowledge and skills in the specialty and makes you a more competitive candidate for leadership positions, especially those in STEM-based industries.

The M.S. operations research and analytics degree prepares students to address complex decision-making problems using data-driven, analytical and computational techniques, including mathematical modeling, probability, statistics, optimization and machine learning. The program offers hands-on analytics experience through case studies and industry practicum.

Yes, the operations research and analytics master’s degree at SMU includes a capstone project.

SMU’s Master of Science in operations research and analytics can be completed within two years when attending full-time. Students can also take advantage of our flexible learning options, including online and weekend classes, to pursue their degree. Part-time commitment and weekend format typically takes at least three years to complete the degree.

The average starting salary of SMU graduates with an M.S. in operations research and analytics was $92,500 in 2023–24. Long-term salary potential is also strong, with higher earners making over $115,000 in according to U.S. News and World Report (2023).

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