Undergraduate
Graduate
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What if I do not have a BS in engineering?
If you would like to enter the MS in Civil Engineering or Environmental Engineering
program at Michigan Tech and do not have a BS degree in an engineering discipline,
here are some options:
Civil Engineering
Environmental Engineering
2
What is the difference between the MS in Environmental Engineering and MS in Environmental
Engineering Science?
Students who consider the MS in Environmental Engineering Science have a first degree that is a non-engineering degree (e.g., chemistry, biology, physics,
geology, environmental science, etc.).
The MS in Environmental Engineering requires that a student either have an ABET accredited engineering degree as their
first degree (it can be a BS degree in any engineering field) or demonstrate through
a combination of the coursework associated with their first degree and graduate degree
that they meet engineering accreditation requirements. The amount of additional coursework
(if any) is student specific; however, it typically requires 1–2 semesters of additional
coursework beyond the 30 credits required for the MS degree.
After reviewing a student’s transcript from their previous degree, we can make a determination
on the actual number of additional credits that would be required.
In contrast, an individual with a first degree that is non-engineering can obtain
the 30-credit MS in Environmental Engineering Science without doing any make-up coursework.
Students who pursue this option should understand that they will still be in demand
by employers of our graduate students; however, they may not be able to become a professionally
licensed engineer at a later date. Professional registration rules vary by state,
so the student is encouraged to review the licensing laws in the states they seek
to practice.
3
What GRE or TOEFL scores are required?
For international students for whom English has not been the official language of
instruction, the TOEFL is required. We recommend a TOEFL score of 600 (100 ibt), but
there is no strict cut-off. All applicants must submit a GRE score to be considered
for fellowships or graduate teaching assistantships. While your GRE score is important,
we also have no specific cut-off for GRE scores, and consider the GRE score to be
just one part of your overall application. *At present time, the GRE requirement
is being waived.
4
Is there a separate application for financial support?
Yes/No. In general, your application for admission will be all that is required to
be considered for financial support, but see the next item below.
- Departmental support for students is typically determined in February for the upcoming
academic year.
- Students selected for this type of support should be notified no later than March
15.
- Faculty research assistantships are awarded on a rolling basis by faculty with current
research projects. Admitted students can contact each faculty to seek graduate research
assistantships.
5
What are graduate funding sources from the University or Department?
6
How do I switch from Coursework to Research MS option?
Students admitted for the coursework degree can easily change to research once they
find a faculty member willing to advise their research. Most students do this once
on campus and they are able to meet with faculty in person. Typically, a change from
a coursework to research degree would be done in the student’s first semester on campus.
7
What graduate programs are offered?
8
Can I obtain certificates instead of a degree in areas of civil, environmental, or
integrated geospatial technology?
The Department offers certificates for which students can apply. The requirement of
each certificate varies. It is possible to obtain the certificates enroute to and
concurrently with a degree or independently from any degree.
Graduate Certificates
