MSE Program Requirements

The MSE program allows the student to design his or her own focus, with the guidance and approval of his or her academic adviser. The MSE degree program requires the completion of ten course units:

No fewer than seven of the ten course units required for the master's degree must be CIS courses. Courses offered by other departments may also be counted toward the MSE degree, with the approval of the student's academic adviser and the graduate group chair. (In general, outside courses must have a strong technical component in order to be approved. A list of pre-approved courses may be found here.) Master's students are encouraged to participate in advanced courses to increase the depth of their knowledge in specific research areas, and to write a thesis, which counts for two elective course units.

As a full-time student, it is possible to complete the master's program in one year, taking four courses in the Fall, four courses in the Spring, and two courses in the Summer  Full-time students may also enroll in three courses in the Fall and Spring, extending the completion time for the degree.

Although there are generally no classes in the evening, it is possible for an MSE candidate to be enrolled as a part-time student.

Full details on degree requirements can be found in the CIS Graduate Handbook.