MEng, MS, MSc

goldandblue92 · 07-25-2012, 06:20 PM

what's the difference between MEng, MS, MSc? I've seen different grad schools offer each of these, some offer more than one. is it like research emphasis vs course emphasis? terminal vs going on for PhD? length of degree program?

boneh3ad · 07-25-2012, 07:04 PM

There isn't any set standard. More often than not, M.Eng. degrees are non-thesis, but that isn't always the case. M.S. and M.Sc. are the same thing, just abbreviated differently.

GLOBALTRAVELER · 07-25-2012, 07:44 PM

There USED to be clear-cut differences across all schools but now, it depends on the school. There are:

M.Eng degrees that are totally courses only
M.Eng degrees that are almost totally courses only but with a 3-credit paper
M.Eng degrees that are almost totally courses only but with a 3-credit project

Note: Some M.Eng degrees have majors and some do not (interdisciplinary)

M.S. degrees with thesis
M.S. degrees without thesis that are totally courses only
M.S. degrees without thesis that require a 3-credit paper or project
M.S. degrees without thesis and no major (M.S. in Engineering)

One phrase covers all: Depends on school

goldandblue92 · 07-26-2012, 12:55 AM

Ok thanks. So I'm guessing that a non-thesis masters is for someone who plans on going into the industry as opposed going for a PhD?

boneh3ad · 07-26-2012, 02:03 AM

In general, yes.

goldandblue92 · 07-26-2012, 08:00 PM

So does that make the reverse true? Is a thesis masters only for someone who wants to go on for a phd?

TaciturnType · 07-26-2012, 09:33 PM

Nope. It would actually be unwise to obtain a Masters if your ultimate goal is to go for a PhD. Masters degrees are normally unfunded, so you'd have to pay ~50-60K per year for two years, and then you'd still have to spend at least 2-3 more years on a PhD thesis. If you apply directly to PhD programs after obtaining your BS, however, you would be fully funded for however long it takes to finish your defense. The only reason for going for obtaining a Masters before a PhD is if you feel your undergraduate experience wouldn't get you a reasonably good (if any) PhD program. You might find out you prefer research to industry during your MS (which would lead you into a PhD), but most students use it to gain an edge in applying for higher up design/analysis jobs.

boneh3ad · 07-26-2012, 10:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldandblue92

So does that make the reverse true? Is a thesis masters only for someone who wants to go on for a phd?

In general, no.

goldandblue92 · 07-27-2012, 11:37 AM

Thanks, that clears a lot up!