Comprehensive Exam; Other Curriculum Issues

Other Curriculum Issues

Most MS programs contain some required classes, some approved electives, including in some cases electives outside the major field, and the thesis or project. In some programs, the thesis/project may be replaced by a comprehensive exam and additional approved electives. Some programs also require that you enroll and participate in a special graduate seminar, the scheduling of which should be established at the beginning of your program.

Cal Poly has a Graduate Writing Requirement that can be met in several ways. See the GWR pdf file for details.

A minimum B (3.0) average must be maintained in all coursework that is part of the MS degree program.

The Comprehensive Exam

Some MS programs permit the thesis/project requirement to be replaced by a comprehensive exam and additional units of approved electives. If you select the exam option, early in your last quarter of study you should arrange with your Graduate Coordinator to schedule this exam. Since most graduate students complete theses or projects, in most programs if you don't take the initiative to ask that a comprehensive exam be scheduled, it won't happen. Requirements and procedures for comprehensive exams vary by degree program. See your Graduate Coordinator for details.