Post-Baccalaureate - Basic Requirements

Some post-baccalaureate MS programs require a design project or thesis. Some provide the option of substituting equivalent coursework and passing a culminating comprehensive exam. The two joint interdisciplinary programs require a project/thesis in addition to a culminating comprehensive exam. The requirements regarding culminating experience appear below:

MS Degree Program Thesis or Design Project Requirement Option of Coursework with Comprehensive Exam?
Aerospace - Research Specialization 9 units no
Aerospace - Space Systems Specialization 5 units no
Civil & Environmental 9 units yes
Computer Science 6 units no
Electrical 9 units yes
Industrial 9 units yes
Mechanical 9 units yes
Engineering - Biochemical Specialization 9 units yes
Engineering - Bioengineering Specialization 9 units no
Engineering - Biomedical Specialization 9 units no
Engineering - Technology Management Specialization 9 or 10 units (internship option) no
Engineering - Materials Specialization 9 units no
Engineering - Water Engineering Specialization 9 units yes

Other requirements for the Master of Science degree are:

  • 45 units of approved 400 and 500-level coursework (including project or thesis, if applicable), which must be completed within seven years.
  • At least 23 of the 45 units must be 500-level courses.
  • 32 units of work must be completed in residence (see the Graduate Programs portion of the General Catalog for details).
  • A minimum B (3.0) average must be maintained in all coursework toward the degree.

Specific requirements are itemized in the specific degree descriptions accessed through the degree list above and the General Catalog's Curriculum section. Contact the appropriate graduate coordinator for additional questions.
Picture of Daniel Wesonga
Daniel
Wesonga
Electrical Engineering
2006
“We took 18 club members to the Society of Black Engineers & Scientists convention in Pittsburgh, which was very inspiring.”

It was the "Learn by Doing" mantra that first attracted me to Cal Poly. The Multicultural Engineering Program scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies. It also allowed me the time to be president of the Society of Black Engineers & Scientists. The support of companies that fund scholarships is vital and is, of course, very much appreciated.