Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) stands as a beacon of innovation, driving forward the boundaries of what’s possible in engineering, business, technology and nursing. With a legacy that intertwines with the heart of Milwaukee’s development, MSOE has become synonymous with excellence, opportunity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
At the Forefront of AI Education
The emergence of artificial intelligence is helping MSOE shape the future of innovation. MSOE established a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science focused on AI in 2017 and opened the Dwight and Dian Diercks Computational Science Hall in 2019 to support the program. The computer science program has rapidly grown to become MSOE’s second-largest undergraduate program, and there is ongoing expansion in offerings with new graduate certificates and a Master of Science in Machine Learning. The Diercks Hall is filled with next-generation technologies to support these programs, including an NVIDIA supercomputer named Rosie. Unlike other universities, Rosie is available to undergraduate students to empower them to solve problems in a matter of minutes. At the same time, a typical computer would take days to compute the same data. Rosie continues to be upgraded so her computing capabilities are up- to-date with the ever-advancing technologies.
AI is interwoven throughout the curriculum at MSOE to prepare students to become experts in their fields and tackle the technological challenges of tomorrow. With AI-centered courses, students are empowered to delve deep into theory and gain practical experience exploring hands-on projects. Students put their passions into practice in and out of the classroom to develop new systems, solve problems, and make discoveries.
“MSOE is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow.”
A Century of Excellence
Founded in 1903 by Oscar Werwath, MSOE was conceived with a revolutionary idea: an education grounded in real-world application. This vision set MSOE apart, creating a unique educational model that has evolved alongside industry demands, ensuring its graduates are not just participants but leaders in their fields. MSOE sets the standard for preparing leaders to solve the diverse technical challenges of the 21st century.
“Today, MSOE is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow,” says Dr. John Y. Walz, President of MSOE.
The university offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering, business, nursing, computer science, user experience (UX), and actuarial science. Dr. Walz emphasizes: “Experiential learning and industry partnerships are at the heart of an MSOE education and prepare students for success after graduation. In fact, the class of 2022-23 saw a 99% graduate outcomes rate, meaning they obtained a job in their field or went to graduate school within six months of graduation — with an average starting salary of $76,647.”
Pioneering Innovation
MSOE’s commitment to innovation is not just a value; it’s a way of life. The university fosters a culture where creativity and new ideas flourish, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and industry partnerships that bring learning to life. MSOE’s innovative spirit has led to significant advancements across sectors, demonstrated by its rapid adaptation to industry needs and the development of cutting-edge programs.
The allure of MSOE for students lies in its emphasis on hands-on lab experiences and direct career preparation, bolstered by a dedicated faculty focused on enriching student learning. Its intimate campus setting, nestled within a lively urban environment, along with unparalleled graduate employment rates and the noteworthy achievements of its alums, further elevates its appeal. Acknowledged by US News and World Report as the second top university in the Midwest for 2024, and recognized by PayScale Inc. for offering the highest return on investment in Wisconsin for 2023, MSOE stands out as a premier institution.
The MSOE Mindset
At the heart of MSOE’s mission is the MSOE Mindset, which identifies graduates as leaders of character; responsible professionals; passionate learners; and value creators. Faculty focus on helping students develop the MSOE Mindset throughout their educational journey. By leveraging its industry partnerships, incorporating high-impact educational practices throughout campus, and enhancing educational programs to deepen experiential learning, MSOE ensures that all students use real-world projects in their field of study. This mindset is a testament to MSOE’s commitment to not only educating the mind but also nurturing the character, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.
Beyond Education
MSOE’s impact extends beyond its campus, contributing significantly to the innovation ecosystem in Milwaukee and beyond. Initiatives like the We Energies STEM Center engage thousands of K-12 students annually, sparking interest in STEM fields and nurturing the next generation of innovators.
MSOE cultivates a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere, placing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) at the heart of campus life. This commitment is reflected in the celebration of diverse perspectives and a culture emphasizing respect and inclusion. MSOE encourages every community member to promote fairness and justice, ensuring a welcoming environment where everyone’s unique backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs are valued and respected.
Dr. Walz says proudly: “MSOE’s influence is felt through its vibrant student life, with over 100 student organizations from professional associations, service organizations, fraternities, sororities, STEM groups, and more. It also boasts 28 NCAA Division III sports teams.”
It is also home to the Grohmann Museum, the world’s most comprehensive art collection dedicated to human work, comprising more than 1,900 paintings, sculptures, and other works on paper from 1500 to the present day.
The Center for Professional Education (CPE) at MSOE excels in continuing education and professional training, offering avenues for upskilling, acquiring recognized credentials for career growth, enhancing technical expertise in evolving sectors, and fulfilling licensure needs. The Applied Technology Center™ (ATC) leverages the expertise of MSOE’s faculty, staff, and students to address current industry challenges, featuring specialized centers like the Fluid Power Institute and Rapid Prototyping Center. Additionally, the We Energies STEM Center engages K-12 students with practical STEM activities, while WMSE, MSOE’s celebrated 24-hour radio station, broadcasts on 91.7 FM and online at www.wmse.org.
A Vision for the Future
As MSOE looks to the future, it stands at the forefront of AI education, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. With a commitment to innovation, community engagement, and the MSOE Mindset, MSOE is not just preparing students for the future; it’s shaping the future itself.
