The MS/SE Program Admission Requirements

Applicants for the MSSE program should meet the following entrance requirements:

• Have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, economics, or a related field.

• Have completed courses in multivariate calculus, differential equations, matrix algebra, applied probability and statistics, and a computer language.

• Provide evidence of satisfactory educational achievement in at least one of the following forms: a GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate, or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses. International students must also achieve satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).
• Have achieved a satisfactory score on the TOEFL examination for non-native English speakers.
• Have three letters of recommendation submitted by former professors or supervisors.

Students who enter the program must have a working background in engineering mathematics and computer systems. A student lacking these foundations may apply for admission to the program, but may be required to take one or more foundation courses. The department offers SYST 500 as an intensive review of undergraduate engineering mathematics, including matrix algebra, calculus, differential equations, probability and statistics. Students who have not completed a two-semester calculus sequence and matrix algebra will be required to complete these courses prior to taking SYST 500. Upon acceptance, each student will be required to take a foundation qualification test a week or two before the school starts unless waived by the department chair or graduate coordinator. Students who fail the test will be required to take SYST 500 or other foundation courses. A sample waiver test is available online.

The use of analytical modeling software such as spreadsheets or math packages will also be very helpful.

Non-degree studies
Admission for non-degree graduate study is suitable for those persons who do not currently wish to pursue a degree, but are interested in taking graduate courses. Approval for non-degree status does not guarantee admission for a degree program at a later date. At most 12 credit hours taken in non-degree status may be transferred to a degree or certificate program, subject to the general rules for transfer of graduate courses. This limit is strictly enforced.