Benchmarking the Content of Master's Degrees in Systems Engineering in 2013

Abstract

This paper fills a gap in the literature by describing a benchmarking study of the knowledge taught in a sample of systems engineering degrees performed in October 2013. By describing the methodology, the development of the benchmarking criteria, and presenting the observations from the benchmarking study, the paper provides an example of the activities performed in the early stages of the Scientific Method. Since the study was performed to benchmark the Master of Defence Technology and Systems (MDTS) degree offered by the Temasek Defence Systems Institute (TDSI) in the National University of Singapore (NUS), the paper: Highlights benchmarks of the MDTS degree against the sampled Masters’ degrees. Covers the first stage of the Scientific Method, in which observations are made, sorted and analysed before a hypothesis is developed. Proposes criteria to be used for benchmarking degrees from other institutions.