Master of Science Thesis

There are eight focus areas for mechanical engineering students enrolled in the Master of Science Thesis program. Each has a unique curriculum. Click the links below for curriculum information on each focus area.

You should aim to complete at least 21 credits in Mechanical Engineering and no more than 9 credits outside of the department. Students may take a different combination of coursework if their research advisor recommends it.

MS Thesis Credits

Master of Science Thesis students will complete 6 master’s thesis credits (MCEN 6959), preferably spread out over their final two semesters, in place of two 3-credit ME courses. Students are not able to register for thesis credits on their own and should schedule an appointment with an ME graduate advisor to be registered.

Thesis Advisor

To remain in the program, please secure a thesis advisor and project by the end of your second semester. Please consult with your thesis advisor for course selection recommendations.

Professional Development Program (PDP)

You must also complete a series of seminars/colloquiums to fulfill the Professional Development Program (PDP) requirement. MS Thesis students must attend 15 seminars/colloquiums as well as the 10 Professional Development Workshops (PDWs). More information on requirements and tracking PDP progress can be found in your individual D2L PDP account. These accounts will be available by the end of Summer 2017.

Students who have already completed at least one semester of MCEN 5027 Graduate Seminar will be credited 10 seminars for each completed semester. Students who have already completed MCEN 5208 Intro to Research will not be required to complete the Professional Development Workshop (PDW) requirement.

Additional Information

  • You must complete 30 graduate-level credits at the 5000 level or higher and obtain a minimum of a C (2.0) in each course for it to count toward your degree.
  • You must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher in order to remain in good academic standing. 
  • For information on tuition, visit the site, click on the tuition and fees PDFs listed under the graduate heading, and review the 'Engineering' category.