UW CSE Combined BS/MS Frequently Asked Questions

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Please read through our main BS/MS page for more information on the application, curriculum, and other program details. Remember that because the CSE Combined BS/MS program is still under development, details may change and these FAQ should be considered tentative.

This page primarily covers questions about admissions and planning for the BS/MS. Questions about the curriculum and requirements will be answered when more specific details are established.

Eligibility

Can I apply after graduating from CSE?
Yes. However, we expect to admit most students after their junior year, and will likely admit very few recent alumni. To apply after graduating, you must begin the program within one year of graduation. For example, if you graduate in June 08, you must be apply by the end of Winter quarter so that you can be admitted as a graduate student before June 09. Students who plan to take a job after graduating may want to consider our Professional Master's Program instead.

I only have one/two 300-level courses to take. Can I just apply now?
No. You'll be eligible to apply when you've finished all 300-level CSE courses.

Can undergrads not majoring in CSE apply?
No. The masters curriculum is designed to overlap with the undergraduate CSE curriculum, so only current CS or CE majors may apply. Undergrads in other departments may be interested in our courses for non-majors.

The Application

I've graduated and no longer have access to edit info in MyCSE, and I can't access the application!
Please email Crystal, and your CSE account will be re-activated. If you are unable to update your MyCSE info, please just include updated work experience at the end of your personal statement.

I'm having technical issues with the application!
You may also email the undergrad advisers with any technical issues. If you need to include any additional info in your application, please include it at the end of the personal statement.

Is there an application fee?
Yes. It is $50.

Should we list non-CSE-related jobs in our work history?
You may list these jobs and experiences, but keep in mind that jobs related to computer science and engineering are probably most relevant and helpful for the admissions committee to see.

Can I submit letters of recommendation?
Nope, we are not accepting letters of recommendation, we just ask applicants to list CSE faculty references.

I did research with EE (or other) faculty, but it was approved by CS faculty. Can/should I list the EE faculty member on the application?
The online application only allows you to select CSE faculty and affiliate faculty. If you worked with someone in another department and had your research approved by CSE, you may mention that professor in your personal statement and provide a email address so we can contact him/her.

The Admissions Review Process

How many students will be admitted per year?
Initially the program is funded for 10 students per year. We plan to admit about 10 current seniors who will graduate from the master's program in Spring 09; at the end of this quarter, we will admit an additional 10 or so students, current juniors who will finish the program in Spring 2010.
Once the program is established, we plan to admit students every quarter, 30 per year -- that means that ideally we'll admit some students at the end of fall, winter, and spring. Given that more students graduate in spring, it's probable we'll admit more in the spring then in winter or autumn, but no numbers are set.

Planning for the Program

Can I attend the BS/MS program part-time?
No. While we haven't set an explicit deadline for completion, this is not meant as a part-time program. Students who want a part-time Masters program should apply to CSE's Professional Masters Program.

Will I be able to use Federal Student Aid towards grad school?
Read this link for information on financial aid and graduate school: http://www.washington.edu/students/osfa/graduate/

I hear BS/MS students are encouraged to TA, and would be paid at the graduate pay rate. Do you know what that is?
The TA pay rate for CSE BS/MS students will be $2,062 per month, plus tuition is fully paid, for 20 hours of work per week. Note that this rate takes effect once you're coded as a graduate student.

How much is tuition?
The 2007-08 tuition rate for tier 1 grad students was $3,139 per quarter for Washington residents, and $7,155 for non-residents.

Please note: There is also a $50 application fee for all applicants, and a $100 enrollment fee for admitted students (due before tuition).

Questions or concerns?

This page and our main BS/MS page contain all current details on the CSE combined BS/MS program. These pages will be updated as new details are finalized. Please contact the CSE undergraduate advisers if you have any questions or concerns not addressed here.

	Computer Science & Engineering University of Washington Box 352350 Seattle, WA  98195-2350 (206) 543-1695 voice, (206) 543-2969 FAX [comments to ugrad-advisor]