Skip to main content
College of Engineering
Operations Research Graduate Program
Three sections in one image. The left section is a group of four students sitting on the steps outside a building. The middle section is a professor standing over a student's shoulder as they discuss something on the student's computer monitor. The right section is a student studying at a library table on his laptop.

Operations Research Degrees

NC State offers three Operations Research degrees (master, master of science and Ph.D.) with an online master's option and also two minors (master of science and Ph.D.)

Last Updated: 01/28/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

On-Campus? Online? Which is Better for Me?

NC State’s Operations Research Program offers three degree options: Master of Operations Research (MOR), Master of Science in Operations Research (MSOR) and Ph.D. in Operations Research (Ph.D.). The MOR is offered both on-campus and online, but which one is right for you? Each option provides an excellent educational experience with many benefits. Therefore, before choosing a program, you should consider which method best suits your learning style and personality.

Choose from our Operations Research Degrees

A group of four students from the IMSEI on-campus programs sitting on the steps outside of a building.

Master of Operations Research

The Master of Operations Research prepares you for a career as an OR practitioner in the private or public sector. Specifically, the MOR degree requires completing 31 credit hours in OR and related courses. Consequently, this degree equips you with the skills needed for success in various industries. Ultimately, our program ensures you are ready for the challenges in both the private and public sectors.

Read more
An online student working on her laptop at a coffee shop.

Online Master of Operations Research

The Master of Operations Research prepares you for a career as an OR practitioner in the private or public sector. Additionally, the online MOR degree requires you to complete 31 credit hours in OR and related courses. Unlike some other degrees, it does not require on-campus residency. Therefore, you have the flexibility to study from anywhere.

Read more

A professor standing over a student's shoulder as they discuss something on the student's computer monitor.

Master of Science in Operations Research

The Master of Science in Operations Research prepares you for careers as research and development engineers in industry. Additionally, it sets the foundation for entering Ph.D. programs in Operations Research. The MSOR degree requires a minimum of 31 credit hours and the completion of a thesis. Therefore, students gain in-depth knowledge and practical research experience.

Read more
A student studying at a library table on his laptop.

Ph.D. in Operations Research

Outstanding students like you pursue a Ph.D. in Operations Research. It suits those interested in independent study and research. It requires advanced coursework and research beyond the master’s degree. Moreover, you must pass a written and oral comprehensive preliminary examination. Additionally, you need to write a dissertation and successfully defend it in a final oral examination. Thus, the program prepares you for advanced research roles.

Read more

Operations Research Minors

Master of Science

To minor in operations research as part of a Master of Science degree, you need three OR courses (nine credits). You must also include an OR faculty member on your committee. If an OR course is cross-listed with other departments, register using the OR prefix.

Doctor of Philosophy

To minor in operations research as part of a Ph.D., you need four OR courses (12 credits). You must also include an OR faculty member on your committee. If an OR course is cross-listed with other departments, register using the OR prefix.

Go Beyond Operations Research Degrees

Join an Organization
Get involved in department organizations to network outside the classroom. The college has many engineering student organizations to choose from.

Become a Global Engineer
Engineer without borders! Consider study abroad and international degree programs. Learning about other work cultures can expand your career possibilities.

Plan Your Career
Co-op and internships give you work experience while pursuing your degree. Our nationally recognized Engineering Career Fair gets you hired!

Explore Research
We are a world-renowned research university and offer graduate research opportunities in our focus areas.

Get an Advanced Degree
Consider our master’s and doctoral offerings, or get a distance master’s degree from Engineering Online.

Become a Licensed Engineer
The Professional Engineer (PE) license is a certification that can enhance your career options. Learn how to get your PE.

Why Operations Research Degrees?

An NC State OR alum using his operations research degrees to explain what is happening on the computer to his co-workers.

When you earn a graduate degree in operations research, you gain useful skills for many different jobs. You learn how to solve problems using data and math. Also, you learn how to make better decisions and improve systems. You build skills in working with numbers, computer models and problem-solving. These skills help you find jobs in areas like healthcare, business, shipping and manufacturing. You can also move into leadership roles and earn higher pay.

In many programs, you work with others to solve real-world problems. You also learn how to use tools to improve health care, transportation and emergency systems. Employers like when you can turn data into smart ideas. As a result, this degree helps you become a strong leader. Overall, operations research gives you great opportunities for your future.