How long does it take to complete a MS in structural engineering?

[ride5150]

Im a junior majoring in civil engineering, and I am considering going to grad school to get a MS in structural engineering. i see that my school requires 36 credit hours for a MS in structural, which is about 12 classes. assuming that i took 2 classes over the summer, could i finish a MS in 2 semesters +summer?

or is the courseload so much that you can only take a few classes at a time?

 

[edgepflow]

I think this may be difficult. If you take two summer classes, I would plan on 3 semesters as these classes will take some work. Does your MS program require a thesis or project write-up?

BTW, structural engineering is a very interesting field - I think you are making an excellent choice. I have learned a lot of practical structural engineering on-the-job over the years.

 

[ride5150]

I think this may be difficult. If you take two summer classes, I would plan on 3 semesters as these classes will take some work. Does your MS program require a thesis or project write-up?

BTW, structural engineering is a very interesting field - I think you are making an excellent choice. I have learned a lot of practical structural engineering on-the-job over the years.

thank you for the response. my school doesn't require a thesis if youre doing the 36 credit hour route. the other option is to take twenty-something (cant remember exact number) credit hours but it requires a thesis.

so you're saying that classes in grad school would be a lot more work than my undergrad classes now?

 

[edgepflow]

thank you for the response. my school doesn't require a thesis if youre doing the 36 credit hour route. the other option is to take twenty-something (cant remember exact number) credit hours but it requires a thesis.

so you're saying that classes in grad school would be a lot more work than my undergrad classes now?

The non thesis option would be faster in my opinion. In my case, I had all my graduate engineering classes done, but went round-and-round with my professor on the thesis write-up (mostly nit-picky things).

A few companies may be interested in your thesis, but for a practical field like structural engineering, the fact that you have a masters degree is what counts.

My experience was the graduate classes were usually more work than undergrad. There is more theory in graduate school, whick took me longer.

 

[Matrix0]

As a fellow scientist and structural engineer, I can say that obtaining a MS in structural engineering is a great choice for your career. It will provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in this field, making you more competitive in the job market. The number of credit hours required for a MS in structural engineering may vary depending on the university, but it is typically around 30-36 credit hours.

It is possible to complete a MS in 2 semesters plus a summer if you take 2 classes over the summer. However, the courseload can be intense and it is important to consider your own study habits and time management skills. Some students may find it challenging to take multiple classes at once, while others may thrive in this environment. It is important to assess your own capabilities and determine if this is a feasible option for you.

Alternatively, you can also spread out your coursework over a longer period of time and take a few classes at a time. This may be a more manageable approach for some students, allowing them to balance their studies with other commitments.

In general, it is important to maintain a balance and not overload yourself with coursework. Remember, the quality of your education is just as important as the quantity. It is also important to consult with your academic advisor to ensure that you are on track to meet all the requirements for your degree.

Overall, the decision to complete a MS in structural engineering in 2 semesters plus a summer or over a longer period of time should be based on your own capabilities and goals. Whichever path you choose, I wish you the best of luck in your academic and professional pursuits.