Individuals with an interest in improving manufacturing or design processes may wish to pursue a program in systems engineering. Students can find instruction in the design and architecture components of improving systems, as well as studies concerning the techniques, tools and methods for successful integration of new developments.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.