Enhancing Competency and Industry Integration: A Case Study of Collaborative Systems Engineering Education for Future Success

Abstract

This case study examines the effectiveness and industry relevance of a collaborative systems engineering master’s program in Kongsberg, Norway. Through close collaboration with industry partners, students gain practical experience and tackle real engineering challenges. The authors used statistical data, meeting notes, and an alumni survey to assess the program’s impact. The results indicate a high success rate of 87%, with alumni holding desirable positions in various engineering disciplines. The alumni expressed satisfaction with flexibility and teacher quality but desired more focus on leadership and soft skills. Strategic inputs highlight digitalization, sustainability, security, and progress in technology as critical topics for the industry, shaping the program’s evolution for continued relevance.

Systems Engineering Education: From Learning Program to Business Value

“…The ESA program and the later-developed education do not result in formal credits, as opposed to a university education. However, the pedagogic format, learning material, and learning outcomes are close to the master's courses in the industry master's program in systems engineering at the University of South-Eastern Norway [36]. Table 2 shows a summary of most of them.…”