Can You Skip a BS in EE and Pursue an MS in EE with a BS in Mathematics?

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Transitioning from a BS in mathematics to an MS in electrical engineering (EE) without a BS in EE is possible, but it depends on the institution and the applicant's qualifications. While some programs may allow this, having a BS in EE is generally advantageous and can significantly enhance the chances of acceptance. Applicants without an EE background may need to complete "leveling" undergraduate courses to catch up on essential EE topics, which could include circuits, signals and systems, and electronics. Those pursuing this path should consider taking relevant EE courses during their undergraduate studies to strengthen their application. A strong math background, as indicated by a high GPA, can be beneficial, but prospective students should consult with the EE department to understand specific requirements and expectations.
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I was wondering if it was possible to go from a BS in mathematics to a MS in EE and skip the BS in EE altogether?

I was interested in a double major of EE and Mathematics but I'm wondering if its really needed to get a BS in EE to do a MS in EE?
 
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Depending on the institution and your ability to convince a graduate committee you are qualified, it is possible. However, if you've never taken an EE class you are likely not going to be accepted on the reasonable basis you're not qualified.
 
Skrew said:
I was wondering if it was possible to go from a BS in mathematics to a MS in EE and skip the BS in EE altogether?

I was interested in a double major of EE and Mathematics but I'm wondering if its really needed to get a BS in EE to do a MS in EE?


Probably not necessary...but probably strongly in your favor to get a BS in EE. You would need to do so much catching up. If your career goal is to do something EE related why not double major or major in EE minor in math? I know a graduate student in physics who did his BS in Aerospace engineering. He said he had to take classes for a year to "catch up", and I would say AE is more closely related to Physics than Math to EE.
 
For every non-engineering major who wants to do engineering graduate school, you will have to take "leveling" undergrad courses to get caught up. This can be 5 courses or so. If you're still in your B.S. and have free electives, fill the free electives with the undergrad EE leveling courses. You'll have to talk to the EE Department about that.
 
You *might* be good to do communications or signal processing with a math background (namely discrete math, linear algebra, differential equations, numerical analysis and maybe complex analysis will serve you well in EE); I agree with Shackleford to start taking some EE classes: signals&systems, circuits, electronics, maybe logic design or controls or communications if you want to catch up.
 
Shackleford said:
For every non-engineering major who wants to do engineering graduate school, you will have to take "leveling" undergrad courses to get caught up. This can be 5 courses or so. If you're still in your B.S. and have free electives, fill the free electives with the undergrad EE leveling courses. You'll have to talk to the EE Department about that.

I wouldn't have any problem with taking those classes, I actually assumed I would have to do something along those lines.

When it comes to actual graduate school admission at a state college, do you believe they would be pretty lenient when it comes to not having a BS in EE but a BS in mathematics?

In terms of math my scores are pretty good, my GPA is ~3.9.
 
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