The orientation of industry is "productivity through quality." Significant productivity improvements demand that the industrial engineer focus on macro-level structures - a systems approach.

The Department of Industrial Engineering meets the challenge of the growing complexity of industry through an intensive educational program. Building upon a solid foundation in the basic sciences, engineering, and computers, the curriculum provides the student with (1) a capability for systems analysis and design that crosses traditional disciplinary lines and (2) an awareness of and concern for the demands of today's dynamic social systems.

Organizations employing industrial engineers include independent consultants, manufacturers, distributors, banks, hospitals, transportation, energy suppliers, distribution and logistics providers, retail corporations, government/military and educational institutions.