WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University introduces a new online dual-degree pathway that integrates its Master of Science or Master of Science in Engineering (MS/MSE) in the Robert H. Buckman College of Engineering Online Education Program with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the Mitch Daniels School of Business.
The new dual-degree structure reflects what is expected of modern engineers and innovators — technical expertise and business insight. We’ve designed this program to give engineers the managerial insight they need while preserving the rigor of both disciplines. It’s about preparing leaders who can translate technical expertise into strategic impact.
Dilip Chhajed Associate Dean for Schoolwide Programs
Beginning with Fall 2026 admissions, the university is launching a fully Purdue-led online MBA and online MS/MSE dual degree designed to deliver greater flexibility, cost efficiency and integration between engineering and business education.
The new 60-credit program enables students to earn two Purdue degrees concurrently while combining advanced technical expertise with leadership and management training. Compared to pursuing the degrees separately, the structure reduces total credits and allows students to complete both credentials in less time with an estimated savings of 23%. This, combined with the recent 40% reduction in the cost of the online MBA program, makes it one of the most cost-effective professional dual-degree options offered by a major public university in the country.
“This transition reflects Purdue’s commitment to building fully integrated, high-impact programs that meet the evolving needs of working professionals,” says Jeff Nagle, managing director of online business programs. “By combining the Daniels School MBA with the College of Engineering's master's degree programs, we can offer students a cohesive curriculum, flexibility in how they learn, and a stronger connection between engineering knowledge and business leadership.”
This transition reflects Purdue’s commitment to building fully integrated, high-impact programs that meet the evolving needs of working professionals.
Jeff Nagle Managing Director of Online Business Programs
The dual degree also offers expanded course and time flexibility; students can take engineering and business courses concurrently, rather than following a fixed sequence.
“The new dual-degree structure reflects how modern organizations operate — at the intersection of technology and business,” says Dilip Chhajed, associate dean for schoolwide programs. “We’ve designed this program to give engineers the managerial insight they need while preserving the rigor of both disciplines. It’s about preparing leaders who can translate technical expertise into strategic impact.”
In addition to the dual-degree option, Purdue is also introducing updated management education pathways for engineering students, including a Daniels School Business Essentials certificate that can be integrated into the MSE curriculum.
The new OMBA/MS Engineering dual degree builds on Purdue’s nationally recognized strengths in both online graduate business and engineering education, creating a unified program aimed at professionals seeking to accelerate their careers at the intersection of innovation and leadership.
“The future of engineering leadership demands more than technical excellence alone,” says Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, associate dean for graduate and professional education at Purdue’s College of Engineering. “Through our dual-degree programs, we are equipping engineers with the business acumen needed to lead complex projects, drive innovation to market and make decisions that create real-world impact. This integration ensures our graduates are not only exceptional problem-solvers, but also strategic leaders in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”
