Admission requirements for engineering grad programs

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Admission requirements for engineering graduate programs vary significantly by discipline, but common prerequisites include advanced mathematics courses such as Calculus 1-3, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra. Additionally, applicants must complete relevant undergraduate engineering courses specific to their desired field, such as signals and systems or circuit analysis for a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE). Proficiency in programming is also essential, with C being a traditional standard, though current requirements may vary. Prospective students should consult specific university engineering department websites for detailed prerequisites.

PREREQUISITES
  • Calculus 1-3
  • Differential Equations
  • Linear Algebra
  • Undergraduate engineering courses relevant to the chosen discipline
NEXT STEPS
  • Research specific engineering graduate program requirements at universities of interest
  • Learn about undergraduate engineering courses relevant to your desired specialization
  • Develop proficiency in a programming language commonly used in engineering, such as Python or C
  • Explore resources on advanced mathematics applications in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Prospective engineering graduate students, undergraduate students transitioning from non-engineering backgrounds, and professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications for engineering programs.

3.141592654
Messages
85
Reaction score
0
I am hoping someone can provide me with some information about what undergraduate courses are typically expected on an applicants transcript for engineering masters programs. I presume the different disciplines of engineering require different classes as prerequisites, so I'd be interested in hearing about them all, if possible.

I have an undergraduate degree in economics and currently work full-time. I made a decision late in undergrad that I wanted to attend grad school for economics, which typically requires Calculus 1-3, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra as minimum requirements. These are not classes I ever considered taking until I realized they'd be necessary for something I wanted to achieve, so I decided that it'd be best for me to finish my degree and take these classes while working. So far I have stuck to my plan and am currently enrolled in Calc 2 and find the subject very interesting. I seem to enjoy the engineering applications as much as topics I studied in economics and the type of work engineers do appeals to me. I have just begun to scratch the surface of considering a new path, so I wanted to see what requirements I would be faced with to even enroll in engineering grad programs. Thanks for the help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If you have a specific university in mind, then the web sites for its engineering department(s) should give you a good idea what is needed.

The math courses you listed are probably adequate preparation for most master's programs. But just as important will be some undergraduate engineering courses in whatever degree you're pursuing. E.g., if you want a MSEE you'll probably have to bring at least some of the following to the table, depending on what field within EE: signals and systems, probability and random processes, circuit analysis, electromagnetism, communication theory, digital logic/design, etc., etc.

And you will probably need some kind of proficiency with computer programming if you don't already have it. I don't know what language is the standard at universities these days; it was C when I was in school but that was ~20 years ago.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
5K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K