The MS degree in mechanical engineering requires 30 hours of graduate credit. Students are also required to complete a thesis (Plan A) or an oral exam (Plan B).

Plan A, Thesis Option, requires a written dissertation prepared by the student under the supervision of his/her advisor. Of the 30 required credit hours, this option requires:

6 to 12 hours of thesis research

At least 16 hours of courses 400 level or higher, at least 12 of these 16 course must be ME courses

The formal defense of the dissertation takes place after the completion of all coursework, and the student must be registered for the semester in which the defense takes place.

Plan B, Coursework Option, requires at least 20 hours of ME courses, at least 16 of which must be at the 400 level or higher. Reading and research credits cannot be counted towards the 20 required ME credit hours. The maximum number of research credits for this option is 6. At least 20 of the 30 credit hours must be in formal courses at the 400 level or higher.

Plan B students are required to take a comprehensive oral examination at the end of their coursework. Students should speak to the graduate coordinator and their faculty advisor to schedule the exam.