We offer several graduate degree programs including a Master’s of Science (both thesis and non-thesis track options), a combined Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science degree, a combined Master’s of Science and Master’s of Business Administration degree, as well as a Doctorate degree.
MS Program
We offer both a thesis-track option (research-oriented degree) and a non-thesis-track option (in-depth emphasis area). Distinguish yourself from the large number of students with bachelor’s degrees by increasing your knowledge, interests, and training with an MS Degree. The Master of Science, non-thesis (MSNT) degree is designed to provide an in-depth educational experience in a specific area of emphasis and to provide more breadth at an advanced level through elective courses in complementary areas. As opposed to the MST, there is no required research component. Students desiring some research experience may construct an independent study contained within a single semester. Students interested in a rigorous research experience or who are planning to pursue the Ph.D. degree are encouraged to pursue the MST. The Master of Science, thesis (MST) is a research-oriented degree. A student who intends to pursue the Ph.D. degree is encouraged to seek the MST rather than the MSNT. The MST Program will provide students with the opportunity to conduct comprehensive research under the mentorship of Mechanical Engineering faculty.
Coursework Requirements
Bachelor’s/Master’s Program
The BS/MS program is intended for undergraduate students who are interested in vigorous pursuit of research. The combined program fosters undergraduate research and accelerates progress towards the MS degree. It ultimately allows advanced students to complete both their B.S. and M.S. degrees in five years, one year earlier than if the degree were completed separately. This degree option provides students with an advantage in the job market by equipping them with more training, research experience, and an increased skill set. More experience can potentially lead to increased earning potential in a future career. Students are accepted into the B.S./M.S. program in the spring of their junior year. During a student’s senior year, 2 of the 4 undergraduate technical electives are taken at the graduate level and are counted toward the M.S. degree. The result is the B.S. degree being shortened by 6 credit hours. The students also use their senior year (year 4) to get started on their independent thesis research. During the student’s final year (year 5), the student will finish their graduate level coursework, research, and defend their thesis. At the end of year 5, students graduate with their B.S. and M.S. degrees simultaneously.
Coursework Requirements
MS/MBA Dual Degree Program
Our combined MS program with the David Eccles School of Business MBA program provides students with the opportunity to acquire training in engineering and develop comprehensive business skills. Graduates are qualified to manage the transition of new products, processes, and systems from the laboratory to the boardroom. Graduates of the MS/MBA program earn two distinct degrees in one integrated educational experience. In general, students take 21 credit hours in the College of Engineering, 47 hours in the College of Business and a 6 hour capstone project course taught across the Colleges. Up to 9 credit hours appear on the program of study for both degrees eliminating up to 18 credit hours that would be required to complete the two programs separately. The net is a two year MBA and a one year M.S. completed in two and a half years – a considerable time and cost advantage.
Coursework Requirements
Doctor of Philosophy
The Ph.D. degree is designed to give students the opportunity to pursue a rigorous in-depth study in a particular research area. Doctorate students are given more autonomy in crafting their topics and designing their research. A large portion of our Ph.D. students receive funding while working closely with our outstanding faculty. Doctorate graduates have the flexibility to choose a career in industry, research, or education. Students may apply for the Ph.D. after completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science (thesis or non-thesis) degree from an accredited institution. It is recommended that a student pursue the Master’s of Science thesis option to prepare for Ph.D. level research.