Fifth-Year BS/MS Program
Most master's degree programs take several years to complete. CSE's BS/MS students earn a master's degree in approximately one year of courses beyond standard bachelor's requirements. This accelerated program works because most students begin graduate requirements during their senior year in the department. Students are admitted after finishing 300-level requirements so they can plan their CSE senior and graduate requirements as a coherent two-year plan.
The program was created with industry-bound students in mind. A master's degree is often the most cost-effective industry degree: the relatively short amount of time spent on the master's (and relatively low expense of one year's tuition) can significantly boost compensation and job opportunities. Both starting salary and long-term prospects are improved with an advanced degree. For students headed to industry, we expect this opportunity to be efficient and effective.
While BS/MS coursework, research options, and faculty connections are valuable for all students, this program may not be necessary for Ph.D.-bound students. Strong students intent on pursuing a Ph.D. should consider applying directly to Ph.D. programs. However, if you are uncertain about your plans, advisors and faculty welcome the opportunity to discuss options with you.

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