While you are an undergraduate student, careful coordination of your class schedule may allow you to take courses toward a master’s degree from McCormick. Taking graduate-level classes as an undergraduate shortens the time required to earn a master’s degree. For some students, it may even be possible to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the same time.

There are many compelling reasons to consider earning a master’s degree, including:

• Increased starting salary
• Enhanced job opportunities
• Greater potential for job advancement
• Familiarity with McCormick programs and faculty
• Greater convenience prior to starting employment

There are several master’s degree options at McCormick, including:

• Simultaneous BS and MS degrees allowing students to begin work on the MS before completing the BS degree
• BS degree followed by MS degree in the same department
• BS in one department and an MS in another department

Actions:

• As early as the completion of 24 courses (combination of course completion and advanced credit), you are encouraged to complete the Letter of Intent and return it to Bruce A. Lindvall, assistant dean for graduate studies.
• As early as the completion of 36 courses (combination of course completion and advanced credit), you can apply for formal admission to The Graduate School.
• Note: You are guaranteed admission to a McCormick master’s program if you finish your undergraduate degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Recommendations:

• Work closely with your undergraduate advisor or with personnel in the Office of Undergraduate Engineering
• If your ultimate goal is to complete the PhD, then it is recommended that the MS with the thesis option be completed.
• Review the listing of critical undergraduate courses that you should take as an undergraduate if you plan to seek an MS degree in another department.
• Contact the director of graduate studies (DGS) in the master's degree department. The DGS is the person responsible for graduate admission to the department. Please refer to the list below and make an appointment to see the DGS early in your undergraduate years.

Questions?

Please contact Bruce A. Lindvall, assistant dean for graduate studies.  He is located in L261 and can be reached at (847) 491-4547 or b-lindvall@northwestern.edu.

Director of Graduate Studies for each McCormick department or program: