Engineering, M.S.

Typical tasks and responsibilities undertaken by students in the curriculum for this program would not fall within one of the traditional specialties in engineering, e.g. aerospace, chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering, or computer science and engineering. The student may pursue an interdisciplinary program, approved by a graduate advisor, by selecting courses from the various departments of engineering. For information concerning the programs, special facilities, laboratories and research possibilities, contact the College of Engineering.

Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree in an ABET accredited curriculum in engineering with a minimum GPA of 2.7; or
A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.7 in engineering, mathematics, natural science or other discipline with the requirement that essential undergraduate prerequisites in engineering are satisfied.
The general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required.
Graduate students must consult with a graduate advisor, with whom they will be working, for information concerning procedures and requirements for appropriate approval of their courses of study prior to enrolling in their graduate programs.
The Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) must be met during the first semester in residence. Failure to attempt to fulfill the GWAR during the first semester will prevent registration in engineering courses in subsequent semesters.

Requirements

PLAN I

Completion of a minimum of 30 units beyond the bachelor’s degree in graduate and 400-level courses approved by the student’s Department Graduate Advisor, including:

Eighteen units of 500- and/or 600-level courses in engineering;
Six units of electives selected from approved graduate or 400-level courses from appropriate areas;
Completion of six units of 698-Thesis and submission of a written thesis.

PLAN II

Completion of a minimum of 30 units beyond the bachelor’s degree in graduate and 400-level courses approved by the student’s Department Graduate Advisor, including:

Twenty-four units of 500- and/or 600-level courses in engineering;
Six units of electives selected from approved graduate or 400-level courses from approved areas;
Completion of a comprehensive written exam. Note: Students are strongly advised to read and be familiar with the campus regulations described under “Graduate Programs” elsewhere in this catalog.

Advancement to Candidacy

Students applying for advancement to candidacy must have:

completed all undergraduate deficiencies with grades of “C” or better;
attained an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0;
completed at least 12 units applicable to the degree with a GPA of at least 3.0;
fulfilled the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR). This requirement can also be met by presenting evidence that the student met the requirement while an undergraduate at CSULB or at certain CSU campuses;
program of studies approved by the program’s graduate advisor.