California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.S. - Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Specialization

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Mechanical Engineering department offers both a Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) as well as a blended 4+1 program leading to MSME degree. The only difference between the two programs is that up to 8 units of undergraduate technical electives may be double-counted towards the masters requirements. Other differences between the two programs are only internal and relate to the process of application and financial aid. In 4+1 program the undergraduate degree is not awarded until requirements for both BSc and MSC are satisfied.

Cal Poly's masters program includes 45 units of course work and/or a thesis. The same philosophy and emphasis on best teaching practices, hands-on education, with classes and labs taught by faculty apply to the masters program as well. Our program is still more hands-on than most other schools, especially when a thesis is involved.

We offer both a thesis oriented program as well as coursework oriented program. The thesis (9 units) is conducted by the student under the advice of a committee of three faculty members. Alternately, 9 units of ME-500 level courses and a comprehensive exam may be taken in lieu of the thesis.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Small Suburb

Size & Settings: 10,000 - 19,999