<p>Hey guys I just wanted to ask if grad schools have less stricter admissions for masters degrees that are non-thesis. I know some schools have master of engineering as thesis and master of science as non-thesis. </p>
<p>I'm thinking of going to graduate school but still have awhile left. I'm thinking of doing a master of engineering in mechanical engineering but I'm planning on going into the workforce after I'm done. From what I've read, a masters degree with a thesis is more for people planning on moving into a Phd program.</p>
<p>From what Ive heard, non-thesis programs are less strict as you said, but they are still somewhat hard to get into nonetheless. Since you are just taking a lot of grad level courses in those programs, I think your undergrad gpa has a very heavy influence on admissions.</p>
<p>I am in a similar situation with you I guess. I have a low cum GPA (3.21) but a high major GPA (3.62). I am applying to a couple of M.Eng programs, hoping that they will look at my last three years of academic history or my major GPA. We’ll see how it goes.</p>
<p>In graduate admissions, the transcript is looked at very carefully and the major GPA is a significant factor. When I look at graduate applications for my department (physics), i look at how well students have done in core physics classes and this is the same for my engineering colleagues. The key is that the admission decision is made by faculty in the department and they know what to look for. Another important factor are your GRE scores which usually are used as an initial cutoff.</p>
<p>I would like to make a suggestion, however. If you plan to enter the workforce after your Master of Engineering, consider taking a couple of years of work before your Masters degree. Many programs in engineering like to see real work experience in their graduate applicants for the more professional degrees. It also will be a good way for you to decide which kind of graduate program is right for you. Finally, and possibly most importantly, your employer may pay for some or all of your program and save you additional debt. Professional Masters degrees are almost always self-funded.</p>
<p>Thanks for the response xray and good luck to you gsaray. I have been thinking of going to work before going for the masters degree. I have friends that have had there employers pay for there masters degree which might be a much better idea. Thanks for the help!</p>