Graduate Programs > Masters' Programs

MASTERS' PROGRAMS

The minimum requirement for the Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) degree is the successful completion of at least ten course units. These consist of lecture courses, independent study, and thesis credits as determined by the requirements of the individual graduate group committees.

To receive the M.S.E. degree, the candidate must be certified by the graduate group committee. The decision is based on overall performance and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0, exclusive of thesis grades. In addition to the above requirements, a thesis may be required, depending on the graduate group with which the student is associated.

No more than two course units of graduate work completed at other institutions may be transferred to meet the requirements of the M.S.E. degree. The Graduate Group Chair and the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs must approve such transfer credit. Except for official exchange programs, following matriculation no courses may be taken for degree credit other than at the University of Pennsylvania. Also, no credit toward the graduate degree requirements in Engineering and Applied Science is allowed for Wharton evening coursework, for courses taken through the College of General Studies, or for Executive Education programs.

The maximum time allowed for the completion of all M.S.E. requirements is seven years. Course units older than seven years may not be counted toward the degree requirements. All students must file an application to graduate in the Office of Academic Programs during the early part of the semester in which they intend to graduate.

Graduate students may register on either a full-time or part-time basis. Part-time status is offered primarily for the benefit of employed students. Students interested in part-time status must complete the same application as full-time students, meeting the same requirements for admission.