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The Online Master of Engineering and Technology Leadership (METL) Program
Earn your Online Master of Engineering and Technology Leadership (METL) from UC Santa Barbara—where world-class engineering meets forward-thinking leadership education.
As technology advances with increasing speed and organizations grow more complex, technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Successful leaders confidently guide teams, shape strategy, and make choices that influence the direction of their organizations.
The Online METL program helps engineers and technology professionals transform from contributors into decision-makers. Learn from globally recognized faculty while gaining the leadership, communication, AI, and strategic skills to guide teams, projects, and innovation.
Why Choose the Online METL at UC Santa Barbara?
The technical credibility that employers respect. The leadership capability that drives results.
UC Santa Barbara’s College of Engineering is ranked among the top in the world for research influence and innovation. The METL program brings that same excellence online—combining advanced technical specialization with management and leadership education designed to help working professionals adapt to industry change and spearhead tomorrow’s innovations.
- Learn from industry experts who are shaping the future of engineering and technology
- Balance work, life, and study: Learn on your schedule with a flexible online format designed for working professionals
- Specialize your path: Choose from Semiconductor Technology, Quantum Information, AI & Machine Learning, or Technology Management
- Access employer-aligned tuition support: Many METL students receive full or partial funding through partner companies
Program Snapshot
Course Delivery
100% online; asynchronous learning and live sessions with faculty
Total Units
38
Tuition per Unit
$1,050
Time to Completion
As few as ten months (full-time) or up to four years (part-time)
Master Engineering and Leadership in a Program Built for You
The Online METL program is designed for early- to mid-career engineers and technology professionals ready to move into leadership roles. Whether you're advancing within your organization or positioning yourself for new opportunities, this program gives you the technical depth and strategic perspective to lead with confidence.
Typical METL students have:
- Three to ten years of professional experience in engineering, computer science, or applied technology
- A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, chemistry, data science, or a related technical field
- Interest in advancing their expertise in semiconductor technology, quantum information, technology management, and or Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for science and technology
- Professional goals that include management, innovation leadership, or strategic decision-making
Four specialized tracks. One unified leadership foundation.
Every METL student builds a foundation in leadership and technology management— coupled with technical expertise in one of four cutting-edge tracks:
Semiconductor Technology
Master the materials, devices, and systems driving the global semiconductor industry.
Continue ReadingSemiconductor Technology
AI and Machine Learning
Learn to apply machine learning to solve complex problems in engineering, research, and innovation.
Continue ReadingAI and Machine Learning
Quantum Information
Gain expertise in quantum computing, sensing, and communication at the forefront of scientific discovery.
Continue ReadingQuantum InformationWhat you’ll gain:
Future-ready expertise. Real-world impact.
- Deeper technical knowledge in high-growth fields
- Stronger leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
- Connections with faculty and peers driving breakthroughs in research and industry
- At UCSB, you don’t just learn what’s next—you lead it.
Your capstone project brings it all together—applying technical depth and leadership strategy to a challenge that matters to your work, your industry, or the future of technology. Complete it online, at your employer site, or during a summer residency at UCSB.
UCSB professors John Martinis and Michel Devoret have been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics
What Makes UCSB’s METL Program Different?
Nobel-level expertise. Real-world collaboration.
UC Santa Barbara is home to eight Nobel Laureates, 34 members of the National Academy of Engineering, and a #1 global ranking for research citation impact in engineering. That means you’ll study with the same faculty whose discoveries are transforming semiconductors, quantum technologies, and AI. That level of expertise doesn’t just elevate your learning—it elevates your career.
This isn’t theory for theory’s sake. It’s education that connects discovery to leadership.
Apply to METL
The application portal for Fall 2027 admission will open in September.
For specific admissions questions, please reach out to our Admissions Team.
Learn more. Connect with us.
There’s so much to know about UCSB’s Online METL program that you’re bound to have questions. We’re here to help. For information and support, contact the METL Admissions Counselor at metl@engineering.ucsb.edu. We’ll make sure you get all the answers.