About Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering · Seattle
The Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering at the University of Washington is a dynamic academic unit focused on analyzing, designing, optimizing, and implementing complex systems where people, engineering, and information intersect. It sits at the convergence of engineering, mathematics, statistics, and science, with a mission to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life across sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, robotics, and disaster response. Often called the 'Business School of Engineering,' it emphasizes leadership, strategic thinking, and data-driven decision-making, preparing students for impactful roles in industry and public service.
Industrial & Systems Engineering (ISE) at the University of Washington is an interdisciplinary field that blends engineering, data science, and strategic management to solve complex real-world problems. The department trains students to lead projects, manage teams, and make data-informed decisions across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and technology. It offers graduate certificate programs, Master of Engineering degrees, and professional programs tailored for working professionals. Faculty and students are engaged in cutting-edge research, including AI, healthcare systems, food engineering, and cybersecurity. The department is located on the UW Seattle campus and is ABET-accredited. Graduates enjoy high employment rates and competitive salaries, with Seattle offering some of the highest compensation for industrial engineers nationally.
- Serves
- Seattle, WA (and nationally through graduate programs and research partnerships)
What is ISE?
Industrial & Systems Engineering (ISE) at the University of Washington is a dynamic and ever-evolving discipline that sits at the crossroads of engineering, mathematics, statistics, stochastics and science — the building blocks of machine learning and artificial intelligence. Our mission is to analyze, design, optimize and implement complex systems where people, engineering and information intersect.
Why ISE?
ISE is often dubbed the 'Business School of Engineering,' and for good reason. This discipline is people-centric, merging technical skills, scientific knowledge and strategic thinking in a variety of fields. As an ISE student, you are trained to grasp the bigger picture, understanding the intricate connections within complex systems. This comprehensive perspective equips you with the ability to assume leadership roles, manage multifaceted projects, lead diverse teams, and make impactful decisions within organizations.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national mean annual wage for IEs stands at $98,560. In Seattle, the average compensation is $117,800/year — the highest of any city on the list. Employment is projected to grow 10 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to a projected 224,000 new job openings for industrial engineers over the next decade.