Is a Manufacturing Degree Right For You?

If you’ve built a career in manufacturing, you may be wondering whether a degree is truly necessary to advance. After all, experience on the shop floor and understanding production processes have already brought you this far. But as the industry evolves with technological advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, companies are looking for professionals who can do more than just keep operations running.

So, do you really need a degree to move forward? Most times the answer is yes. “The manufacturing industry isn’t just about keeping things moving—it’s about continuous improvement and leadership,” says Krassi Marchev, a professor of the practice and the lead for the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology programs at Northeastern’s College of Professional Studies. “The people who thrive are the ones who can step back, see the bigger picture, and implement change.” This growing demand for leadership-minded professionals makes advanced education a key differentiator.

So, is a manufacturing degree right for you? Take a look at what these programs offer, the career benefits they unlock, and how they can position you for long-term success in a competitive field.

What is a manufacturing degree?

A manufacturing degree provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the complex and evolving world of manufacturing. It’s designed for professionals already working in the industry, focusing on key areas such as:

• Production management
• Supply chain optimization
• Quality control
• Emerging technologies like smart manufacturing

Types of manufacturing degrees

There are so many manufacturing degree programs that it can be overwhelming to understand which one is right for you. However, choosing the right manufacturing degree often depends on your career goals and current expertise.

Here are some degrees professionals in the industry consider:

• Advanced manufacturing systems: Designed for professionals aiming to excel in modern manufacturing, this degree focuses on advanced technologies and processes that help solve real-world industry challenges.
• Manufacturing management: Ideal for those looking to move into leadership roles, this degree focuses on production planning, operations management, and efficiency improvements.
• Industrial engineering: This degree emphasizes optimizing systems and processes, making it a strong choice for professionals aiming to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Mechanical engineering with a manufacturing focus: A solid choice for those who want a strong technical foundation in materials, design, and manufacturing processes.

Signs you might benefit from a manufacturing degree

Choosing the right degree isn’t the only challenge you might be facing. You might also wonder if it’s the right time to pursue this advanced education.

You’re seeking career growth beyond your current role.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career but find yourself limited by your current skill set or position, a manufacturing degree can help you bridge the gap. Many professionals in manufacturing start in technical or production roles, gaining hands-on experience, but later realize that leadership positions require more than just time on the job. In fact, many companies look for candidates with formal education in leadership, operations, and strategy to fill management roles.

Without the right education, even experienced professionals can struggle to break into these higher-level positions. Therefore, this degree can help set you apart and ensure you’re prepared to take on greater leadership responsibilities.

You want to stay competitive in an evolving industry.

Manufacturing is changing rapidly with advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making reshaping how production is managed. Staying ahead of these changes is critical. Professionals who invest in upskilling are more likely to remain competitive and access new career opportunities.

A manufacturing degree provides a deep understanding of emerging technologies, lean manufacturing principles, and supply chain analytics, ensuring you’re prepared to lead in a modern, tech-driven manufacturing environment. Without these skills, you risk falling behind as companies increasingly seek professionals who can navigate digital transformation and process optimization.

If it seems like it’s time to take the next step in your career by earning a manufacturing degree, here are a few benefits you can expect from this formalized education.

6 benefits you can expect from a manufacturing management degree

1. Leadership skills development

As a manufacturing professional, you already understand the technical aspects of production, but advancing into leadership requires a different skill set. A manufacturing degree equips you with the ability to make strategic, data-driven decisions that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall operations.

“There’s a big need for individuals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and management in manufacturing,” Marchev says. “Companies are looking for professionals who not only understand the processes but can also lead teams and implement improvements at scale.”

In these programs, you’ll develop expertise in supply chain optimization, operational efficiency, and manufacturing systems management—core competencies that companies look for in operations managers, plant directors, and supply chain leaders. You’ll learn how to assess production challenges, implement process improvements, and align business objectives with manufacturing goals.

2. Industry-relevant learning experiences

To stay competitive in manufacturing, you need more than theoretical knowledge—you need hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world challenges. A manufacturing degree is designed with industry relevance in mind, incorporating practical learning experiences such as case studies, simulations, and capstone projects.

Many programs, like Northeastern, emphasize experiential learning, allowing you to work with real industry data, analyze supply chain inefficiencies, and propose solutions to common production bottlenecks. Whether you’re optimizing manufacturing workflows, implementing automation strategies, or improving quality control processes, these hands-on projects ensure that what you learn in the classroom translates directly to your role.

For example, Northeastern’s advanced manufacturing degree program partners with General Electric (GE) to provide students with direct exposure to industry challenges. Through this collaboration, students engage in projects that mirror real-world manufacturing scenarios, gaining insight into how large-scale operations implement process improvements and integrate new technologies. These types of partnerships give students access to industry leaders, cutting-edge practices, and invaluable networking opportunities that can help accelerate career growth.

3. Career growth opportunities

Advancing your career in manufacturing often requires more than just experience—it requires a strong understanding of management, operations, and strategic decision-making. A manufacturing degree provides the skills and credentials needed to move into leadership positions such as:

• Plant manager
• Operations director
• Supply chain executive

For example, even a production supervisor with years of hands-on experience may find that opportunities for promotion are limited without advanced knowledge of financial management, lean manufacturing, and operational strategy. While hands-on experience is invaluable, many leadership roles require the ability to analyze operational data, implement efficiency improvements, and make high-level strategic decisions.

A manufacturing degree provides the training necessary to develop these skills, helping professionals transition from overseeing day-to-day production to managing entire operations, leading teams, and driving business growth. As a result, earning this degree can open doors to higher-paying positions and long-term career advancement.

4. Access to a professional network

Success in manufacturing isn’t just about what you know—it’s also about who you know. That’s why a manufacturing degree is so important to your career. It provides access to a professional network that can open doors to career opportunities.

Many programs connect students with faculty members who have extensive experience in the field, alumni who have successfully advanced their careers, and industry leaders who offer valuable perspectives on the latest trends. These relationships help professionals stay ahead of industry changes, gain exposure to different career paths, and even receive guidance on job opportunities before they are publicly available.

Networking opportunities can take many forms, including:

• Guest lectures
• Industry partnerships
• Collaborative projects

A strong professional network not only helps with job placement but also provides long-term career support and growth. For example, having a well-established network can make a significant difference when transitioning to leadership roles, as hiring managers often prioritize candidates who come recommended by trusted industry professionals.

5. Positive return on investment

A manufacturing degree is an investment in your future, offering long-term financial and career benefits. While the cost of tuition can be a concern, the potential salary increases and career advancements often make it a worthwhile decision. According to the U.S. Census, manufacturing workers who earn an industry credential earn an average of $2,000 more per year and have higher employment rates compared to those without one. This added earning potential, combined with expanded job opportunities, demonstrates the financial value of further education.

Many employers also recognize the benefits of an advanced degree and offer tuition reimbursement programs to support employees’ professional development. Companies like Boeing provide up to $25,000 annually for graduate education. Leveraging these resources can significantly reduce the financial burden of earning your degree, making it a smart investment.

6. Diverse career paths

A manufacturing degree doesn’t just prepare you for one industry—it opens doors to a wide range of sectors that rely on advanced manufacturing expertise. From aerospace to medical devices, companies across industries need professionals who can integrate new technologies, optimize supply chains, and improve efficiency at every stage of production.

“Manufacturing today isn’t just about production lines,” Marchev says. “It’s about leveraging technology and data to improve processes across industries. Whether it’s automotive, pharmaceuticals, or electronics, companies need leaders who understand both the technical and business sides of manufacturing.”

With a degree in manufacturing management, you can pursue careers in industries such as:

• Aerospace and defense manufacturing
• Medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Automotive manufacturing
• Consumer goods manufacturing.
• Industrial manufacturing

With industries increasingly adopting automation, AI, and data-driven decision-making, professionals with expertise in manufacturing processes and management are in high demand. A manufacturing management degree gives you the flexibility to move between industries, making it a valuable investment for long-term career growth.

Take the next step toward your career goals.

If you’re looking to advance your career in manufacturing or stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry, earning a manufacturing degree is a smart investment. With the right education, you can gain the leadership skills, industry experience, and technical expertise needed to take on higher-level roles and make a lasting impact in the field.

Northeastern’s Bachelor of Science in Advanced Manufacturing Systems at the College of Professional Studies is designed for working professionals looking to take their careers to the next level. With a curriculum focused on emerging technologies, data analytics, and smart manufacturing strategies, this program provides the expertise needed to navigate the future of the industry. Plus, Northeastern’s flexible, experiential learning model allows you to gain real-world experience while balancing work and education.