Schools Is a Thesis Required for a Master's in EE? How Does the Grad School System Work?

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Graduate programs in Electrical Engineering (EE) typically offer a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) with a non-thesis option, allowing students to focus solely on coursework. Most institutions require around 40-50 units of classes, enabling completion of the degree in about two years for full-time students. The non-thesis path is particularly suitable for those who plan to work while studying and do not intend to pursue a PhD. While some students may complete their MSEE in as little as one year, this is less common and often requires a heavy course load. Engaging in a thesis is generally seen as beneficial for those considering further academic pursuits, such as a PhD.
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How does Grad School EE work? I don't want to go for a PhD, and I've been hearing about a Masters without a thesis option? I just want to take the courses and not really do any research.

I'm kind of confused on how the system works. Also, if I go the route where I don't have to do a thesis (if such exists), how long does it usually take, on average?

..

Also, when applying for admission to a MBA school, will it matter that I only have a BS or BS & MS, and leadership experience in both cases?
 
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Most schools (probably 90%) grant the MSEE with no thesis requirement. Most schools require approximately 40-50 units of classes for a master's. You should be able to complete an MSEE in about two years, attending full-time.

- Warren
 
There are usually two options for an MSEE - one with a large course requirement and one that requires a thesis.

I was told that if you ever want to go for a PhD, you should do the thesis option. If you are just pursuing an MSEE and are planning on working and not going for any more schooling, the non-thesis option is the way to go.

I think that the non-thesis MSEE option would be a good path for someone who is working while going to grad school - i.e. not a full time graduate student.
 
chroot said:
Most schools (probably 90%) grant the MSEE with no thesis requirement. Most schools require approximately 40-50 units of classes for a master's. You should be able to complete an MSEE in about two years, attending full-time.

- Warren

I see. I've heard of a few people completing their MSEE in 1 year, going fulltime to college. True?
 
I'm not an engineer, but wouldn't doing a thesis be something right up an engineer's alley? I mean isn't it getting in there and designing something with your own ideas (and the help of an advisor) the most interesting part of engineering?
 
Beeza said:
I'm not an engineer, but wouldn't doing a thesis be something right up an engineer's alley? I mean isn't it getting in there and designing something with your own ideas (and the help of an advisor) the most interesting part of engineering?

Yep, they're called R&D engineers and they have doctorates (done a thesis).
 
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