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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of transitioning from a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mathematics to a Master of Science (MS) in Electrical Engineering (EE) without obtaining a BS in EE. Participants explore the necessary qualifications, potential challenges, and the implications of such a transition, focusing on academic requirements and personal preparedness.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that it may be possible to pursue an MS in EE with a BS in Mathematics, depending on the institution and the applicant's ability to demonstrate qualifications.
  • Others argue that without any prior EE coursework, acceptance into a graduate program may be unlikely due to perceived lack of qualifications.
  • One participant notes that while a BS in EE may not be strictly necessary, it could significantly benefit the applicant by reducing the amount of catch-up work required.
  • There is mention of the need for "leveling" undergraduate courses for non-engineering majors, which could amount to around five courses, to prepare for graduate-level EE studies.
  • Some participants highlight that a strong background in certain mathematical subjects (e.g., discrete math, linear algebra, differential equations) could be advantageous for specific areas within EE, such as communications or signal processing.
  • One participant expresses a willingness to take necessary EE classes and inquires about the leniency of graduate admissions at state colleges regarding the lack of a BS in EE.
  • The participant also mentions a strong academic performance in mathematics, with a GPA of approximately 3.9, as a potential asset in the admissions process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of a BS in EE for admission to an MS in EE program. There are multiple competing views regarding the qualifications needed and the challenges faced by applicants with a BS in Mathematics.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the variability of admission requirements across institutions and the potential need for additional coursework to meet prerequisites for graduate study in EE.

Skrew
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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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