Industrial Engineering is a real engineers' degree, in which you learn to translate new industrial techniques into practical solutions, such as a more sustainable production process or new products.
In the Bachelor’s degree programme in Industrial Engineering and Management (Technische Bedrijfskunde in Dutch), you learn how to analyse problems and develop, design and apply solutions. You are first and foremost trained to become an industrial engineer, and you learn to look at the applicability of your solutions in the business world.
After all, a technical solution is only useable if you have thoroughly tested its feasibility. Imagine, for example, that you have developed a new method to keep pepper-flavoured crisps fresh for longer. Is the production process still cost efficient? Does the method fit into the production line? What do the company’s employees think of it? And do customers still find the crisps tasty?
The degree programme is offered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering so you can be sure of lots of course units in maths, physics and chemistry. In addition, you will follow course units in business studies, management and logistics. Your technical know-how and your management insights will prepare you for jobs where technology and management meet. Embedding in business and society is a key element of this degree programme.
International Bachelor’s programme
The business world and the profession are becoming increasingly internationally oriented. Multinationals are introducing new products to the global market or want to open a factory abroad. These are all good reasons for offering this degree programme in an international English-taught variant. Your fellow students and lecturers come from the Netherlands and abroad.
Read morePerfect combination of engineering and business-oriented subjects
I decided to study IEM because I was unsure which engineering pathway I wanted to take. This was mostly due to my additional interest in business-oriented subjects. IEM seemed like the perfect combination of both fields, and so far, it has exceeded my expectations.
In the first year, I really enjoyed an assignment which was based on a real-life case: a budget airline company needed to be managed to prevent it from bankruptcy.
Originally, I’m from Punto Fijo, in Venezuela. I really enjoy living in Groningen, although the weather sometimes makes me think otherwise. The city has an overall amazing vibe and I have friends from many different countries and continue to meet new and exciting people every week.
Read morePerfect balance between basic business administration and technical detail
After my graduation I started as a consultant at the Strategy & Operations practice of Deloitte Consulting. I focus on large scale transformations like designing and implementing new operating models, large scale cost reductions and mergers and acquisitions.
Currently I’m working on a M&A project where I work in the team that designs the global to-be organization structure of two merging international clients in Consumer Business. My role typically includes facilitating client sessions, doing data analysis and making client documentation.
During my years in Groningen I became a broad allround engineer with a strong analytical background. The combination of analytical and numerical skills and knowledge of business administration is crucial for a good consultant in my opinion. IEM Groningen offered me the perfect balance between basic business administration and technical detail.
The study also allowed me to learn about my own strengths and interests. I think it’s important to do the things that you are passionate about and IEM will provide you with the right toolset to pursue any type of career after your graduation
