MSOE: DRIVING INNOVATION IN MILWAUKEE’S TECH ECOSYSTEM

This story was created in partnership with Innovations of the World to produce the book INNOVATE® Milwaukee, a collection of stories highlighting innovation in the MKE Tech region. To learn more about organizations and thought leader innovations in the region, visit the Innovations homepage.

Milwaukee School of Engineering: A Hub for Innovation and Technology

Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) is a leader in engineering, business, computer science, and healthcare education, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. 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 for students from all over the globe.

At the Forefront of AI Education

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is helping MSOE shape the future of innovation, transforming industries worldwide. To support this initiative, 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. 

The computer science program has rapidly grown to become MSOE’s second-largest undergraduate program. Offerings are expanding, with new graduate certificates and a Master of Science in Machine Learning. Diercks Hall has 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 MSOE curriculum to prepare students to become experts in their fields and tackle the tech 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.

Key AI and Technology Programs at MSOE

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (AI-focused)
• Master of Science in Machine Learning
• Graduate Certificates in AI and ML
• AI-powered research initiatives

“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.”

MSOE: A Century of Engineering and Excellence
Founded in 1903 by Oscar Werwath, MSOE was built on a revolutionary idea: to provide real-world, applied education that aligns with industry needs. This vision set MSOE apart, creating a unique educational model that has evolved alongside industry demands. MSOE ensures its graduates are not just participants but leaders in their fields. Today, that vision continues as MSOE remains a top engineering and technology university in the Midwest.

“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.”

Why MSOE?

• 99% graduate outcomes rate
• Industry partnerships with leading companies to provide internships, co-ops, and research opportunities that could lead to employment.
• Hands-on, lab-based approach prepares students to graduate job-ready with technical expertise and application.

Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the #2 Best University in the Midwest (2024) and by PayScale Inc. as having the highest return on investment (ROI) in Wisconsin (2023), MSOE stands out as a premier technology institution in Milwaukee.

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 this throughout their educational journey. By leveraging its industry partnerships, incorporating high-impact educational practices throughout campus, and enhancing academic 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 educating the mind and nurturing the character, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.

Expanding Innovation Beyond Campus

MSOE’s impact extends beyond its Milwaukee campus. It plays a key role in shaping the city’s innovation landscape through partnerships, outreach, and community engagement. 

Key MSOE Programs Driving Milwaukee’s Tech Growth

• We Energies STEM Center – Engages thousands of K-12 students in STEM activities, fostering Milwaukee’s next generation of tech innovators.
• The Applied Technology Center™ (ATC) – Home to industry-leading research labs like the Fluid Power Institute and Rapid Prototyping Center, solving real-world engineering and manufacturing challenges.
• The Center for Professional Education (CPE) – Offers continuing education, certification programs, and opportunities for upskilling to help professionals further their career growth and stay ahead in rapidly evolving fields.
• WMSE 91.7 FM – MSOE’s student-run radio station, serving as a creative outlet for media, music, and technology students.
• Grohmann Museum – Housing the world’s most comprehensive collection of art dedicated to the evolution of human work and industry, comprising more than 1,900 paintings, sculptures, and other works from the 1500s to the present day.

“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.” – Dr. Walz

Vision for the Future: A Milwaukee Innovation Powerhouse

As Milwaukee’s tech sector continues to grow, MSOE remains committed to leading the charge in AI, engineering, and experiential education to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. By continuously evolving its programs, partnerships, and research initiatives, MSOE empowers the next generation of innovators, engineers, and business leaders to drive technological advancement.

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