So, I'm seriously considering industrial engineering as my major. I'm struggling to find schools that have strong programs in this field. Can anyone recommend some good schools for industrial engineering? Prep resources would be appreciated too!
Sure, happy to help! A variety of universities have strong Industrial Engineering programs. Here are a few:
1. Georgia Institute of Technology: Known for its STEM programs, Georgia Tech stands out as one of the very best for Industrial Engineering. They have a highly-ranked Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering and offer various concentrations, including Economic Decision Analysis and Quality/Statistics.
2. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor: Another excellent choice, UMich's Department of Industrial & Operations Engineering has a robust curriculum with many opportunities for research and internships.
3. University of California—Berkeley: UC Berkeley’s Industrial Engineering & Operations Research program is renowned, particularly if you are interested in operations research.
4. Stanford University: Stanford's Management Science and Engineering department offers a program that combines industrial engineering with other disciplines for a unique, interdisciplinary approach.
In terms of prep resources, I'd recommend checking out some textbooks to get a sense of what the coursework might look like. Some good ones include "Introduction to Industrial Engineering" by Jane M. Fraser and Richard E. Grubb or "Factory Physics" by Wallace J. Hopp and Mark L. Spearman.
University websites often have syllabi and class descriptions for their programs too. You might find it beneficial to research these since it will aid in understanding what being an industrial engineering major might entail.
Lastly, remember to consider factors like location, size, and overall college fit when choosing a school. Industrial Engineering is a broad field with many sub-disciplines, so take some time to consider what element of Industrial Engineering most appeals to you as different schools might have stronger offerings in specific areas.
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