Accelerated BE/MS Program (APP)

Program Description

The accelerated degree programs (APP) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering are designed for students seeking a greater academic challenge or a broader range of studies. These programs offer advanced coursework that prepares students for graduate-level study or a variety of advanced professional roles. The accelerated programs maintain the same rigor as completing the BE and MS degrees separately.

Students in the accelerated programs take two graduate courses during their senior year. These courses count both as two electives for the BE degree and toward 6 of the 30 credits required for the master’s degree, enabling students to complete both the BE and MS degrees within five years.

What programs are being offered?

You can select one of the following accelerated programs:

1) BE in Electrical Engineering / MS  in Electrical Engineering

2) BE in Computer Engineering / MS in Electrical Engineering 

3) BE in Electrical Engineering / MS  in Computer Engineering

4) BE in Computer Engineering / MS in Computer Engineering

What are the advantages of the accelerated degree programs?

1. Simplified admission to our graduate programs:
   
   
   
   
• Students follow an expedited graduate admission process.
• No TOEFL exam required
• No GRE exam required
• No application fee
  
  
  
  
2. Reduced number of credits:
   
   
   
   
• Six graduate credits taken during the senior year count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees.

What are the admission criteria?

• Students in electrical or computer engineering should apply in the second semester of the Junior year
• Minimum cumulative GPA requirement of  3.3
• Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of  3.0 or above to be admitted to the Graduate School.

What is the application procedure?

• Complete the Accelerated Program Application Form
• Students should apply to the accelerated program three semesters before their anticipated graduation date
• Upon admission, you will get an offer letter of admission into the accelerated program.

What is the procedure for enrolling in graduate courses?

· Students must complete two graduate-level courses during their senior year. These may be taken as one course in the fall and one in the spring, or both in the final semester. Please note that no more than 6 credits may be double-counted toward both the BE and MS degrees.

To ensure these credits apply appropriately, prospective accelerated students are encouraged to enroll in graduate courses once they have declared the accelerated program on their subplan.  

· Complete Form for taking graduate courses (Please be sure to reach out to the Graduate Program Director and Undergraduate Director for approval before completing the google form)

· Undergraduate Program Director (Prof. Kamoua) must approve the selection of the two graduate courses. If you have further questions about how courses count toward your BE degree, please contact the Undergraduate Program Coordinator. For questions regarding graduate courses and program requirements, the Graduate Program Coordinator is available to assist you.

· Submit signed form with a copy of the admission letter to the accelerated program to the Graduate School. 

· Deadline: 5th day of classes for the semester (it is preferred to submit the forms much earlier).

When and how do I change my status to graduate student?

• Students transition from undergraduate to graduate status in their fifth year or during the final semester of their undergraduate program.
  
  
  • Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • Complete the "Application Form to Graduate School for the Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree".
  • Final Deadlines:  

1) April 1 for students completing the undergraduate program in May

2) November 15 for students completing the undergraduate program in December

Please note that all incoming graduate students must attend Graduate Orientation their first semester as Graduate Student.

When the BE degree is awarded?

The BE degree is awarded upon completion of all bachelor’s requirements, followed by the MS degree, which is awarded sequentially.

Can I do a Master’s Thesis?

Yes, you have the option of completing the Master degree with thesis or non-thesis. Please check the Graduate Student Guide for details.

Can I withdraw from the accelerated program?  

Yes, you will need to complete the withdrawal form.  Please email the Graduate Program Coordinator if you have questions.

See the Student Instructions for a comprehensive, streamlined guide for accelerated program (APP) processes.