Thesis and non-thesis options are available for the M.S. Computer Engineering. For a non-thesis degree, a minimum of 30 semester hours of course work is required. Thesis options require 30 credit hours of which six credits of ECE699 shall be devoted to individual study with a member of the graduate faculty. This work must culminate in the preparation of a written thesis on a significant problem of common interest, and an oral defense of the thesis. To obtain a masters degree in Computer Engineering, a student must have at least a GPA of 3.0 for all courses taken as a graduate student.

Program Requirements

In order for a student to become a candidate for a Master of Science degree in Computer Engineering, he/she must either have completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering or at least demonstrated its equivalent. In order to demonstrate the equivalent of a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree, the student must show high scholastic competency in all the required undergraduate Computer Engineering courses. This may be done by actually enrolling in the undergraduate Electrical Engineering or Computer Science courses or by passing an equivalency examination which covers the material appropriate to the undergraduate Computer Engineering course. Typically, a student with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science would be required to complete ECE471 and ECE275 as part of the Graduate program of study (or demonstrate the equivalent). Similarly, a student with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering would be required to complete ECE471, ECE275, and COS431.

A set of four core courses in Advanced Microprocessor Based Design (ECE 571), Microprogramming (ECE 573), Linear Systems Analysis (ECE 512), and Database (COS 520 or SIE 550) are offered on a rotating basis. Students are expected to complete at least three of these four courses. All students must complete at least one graduate-level (500 or above) course in Computer Science. In addition to the core curriculum, students may enroll in state-of-the-art courses offered by the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science graduate programs.

Normally no more than 6 credits of ECE or COS400 level course work will be acceptable for graduate credit. In addition, no more than one ECE599 and two ECE598 courses may be taken toward fulfilling the requirements for a Master of Science degree in Computer Engineering. Degree candidates may also choose to take courses in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and other disciplines which are consistent with his/her program goals.

The Computer Engineering Catalog can be found here.