What is the difference between the Master of Engineering and Master of Science degrees? There are several key differences including the degree curriculum, potential financial aid offerings, the skills and competencies gained, and career outcomes.
Curriculum Differences Between MEng and MS
A Master of Engineering (MEng) degree is a professional degree and consists primarily of coursework (with an optional independent design project) designed for students who want to enhance their educational background, but are not interested in doing advanced research. A Master of Engineering degree is designed so a student can typically complete their degree requirements in 2 semesters (9 months).
A Master of Engineering degree also provides more flexibility in coursework a student may wish to take outside the department to gain either a greater depth or more breadth in professional skills. For example, with approval from their graduate committees, Master of Engineering students may typically take several courses in business, policy, computer science, and other engineering disciplines.
A Master of Science (MS) degreee typically includes a research project, research report, or research thesis (2-10 credits). Sometimes a coursework option is also offered. A student will typically complete the degree requirements for a Master of Science degree in 4-6 semesters (1.5-2 years).
MEng and MS programs vary by college and university. It is important to review curriculum, requirements, learning outcomes, and degree options when weighing graduatee degree options between different colleges.
Career Outcome Differences Between MEng and MS
In our experience, the engineering profession views the Master of Engineering and Master of Science degrees as equal. Graduates of both degree programs obtain employment in a variety of careers, including government, industry, and consulting.
Engineering Master's Degree Salaries
Graduates of Master of Engineering degrees and Master of Science degrees are well paid. Year after year, engineering jobs are paid the highest average starting salary and advanced engineering degrees pay even more.
Master of Engineering (MEng / ME) Degree1
- Average base salary: $96K
Top job titles:
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Senior Software Engineer
- Senior Systems Engineer
- Process Engineer
1: PayScale.com MEng salary and job title data, accessed August 2022.
Master of Science (MS), Engineering Degree2
- Average base salary: $100K
Top job titles:
- Senior Systems Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Data Scientist
2: PayScale.com MS salary and job title data, accessed August 2022.
Engineering Master's Degrees at Michigan Tech
A graduate degree in engineering from Michigan Technological University will provide you with excellent opportunities to build on your strengths and concentrate your efforts on your chosen field. An advanced engineering degree will open many career doors for you.
Graduate Degrees in Engineering
Michigan Tech offers more than 20 graduate engineering degree programs and more than 30 graduate engineering certificates. In addition to our on-campus offerings, several of our graduate degree and certificate offerings are also available online through our Global Campus.
Master of Engineering (MEng)
The Master of Engineering (MEng) degree at Michigan Tech is a professional degree. It meets the needs of engineers who want to expand their knowledge in a specific discipline or to move into interdisciplinary areas as they plan careers in corporate markets as well as other professional arenas.