<p>I was planning to do a BS/MS program at my school (Environmental Engineering) but am thinking about applying to some 1 year MS programs because I have not been thrilled with the focus of the MS program here. I have a good GPA (3.8) and have been working for almost a year at an environmental engineering firm BUT I have no research experience. Is this really going to hurt? I don't want to do a PhD and am actually looking to enter a professional firm or policy group after graduation (and not really doing research based work). Any thoughts? Thanks!</p>
<p>I doubt lack of research will keep you out of a master's program. Especially with work experience. Good luck!</p>
<p>It won't hurt you. I applied to a bunch of civil engineering 1 year MS programs with no research experience, but only internships, and I had no problems getting in. The colleges usually only care about research if you're pursuing a research MS degree, which I assume you are not.</p>
<p>Some places like MIT and Cornell actually prefer demonstrated work experience over research for MEng degrees so it will work in your favor.</p>
<p>I think for a masters, you are fine.</p>