Master of Science with Thesis

The master?s program requires a minimum of 33 graduate credit hours above the baccalaureate degree, including 6 credit hours allowed for the thesis. The department graduate advisor will meet, advise, and approve courses for the degree each semester. A written thesis is required for the master?s degree. In addition, the candidate?s thesis committee will administer a final oral exam in defense of the completed thesis.

Master of Science without Thesis

The department also offers a nonthesis master?s program that requires a minimum of 33 graduate credit hours approved by the graduate advisor (excluding seminar). The graduate program for nonthesis master?s candidate is specifically tailored for that candidate?s educational background, industry experience, and individual interest.

For both the thesis and the nonthesis programs, a final comprehensive examination is required. The policy governing the comprehensive examination is available with the departmental graduate advisor. Comprehensive examinations are given only after the graduate dean has admitted the students to candidacy.