Graduate Program Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you provide financial support?
A: Yes, there are a number of teaching assistantships available, but they are competitive. Assistantships provide financial support in the form of a stipend of $9,000 per year, plus full tuition coverage, in exchange for teaching undergraduate laboratory courses. In addition, some faculty have research grants for winter and summer months to cover the cost of living.
Q: Do you offer conditional admission?
A: Yes, All TOEFL and GRE scores must be submitted prior to being admitted to our program.
Q: Do you offer provisional admission if I did not have all the required classes?
A: Yes, if your course work will not meet the requirements, areas of deficiency will necessitate your taking undergraduate courses that will not be counted toward the 36 credit hours required for the degree program.
Q: Are the M.S. programs thesis-based?
A: Yes. The department has two M.S. degree programs that combine coursework and engagement with novel scientific research, culminating in a thesis.
Q: How many years does it take to graduate with a M.S. degree?
A: The M.S. degree can be completed in 2 years.
Q: What type of positions do students move to after graduation?
A: About two thirds of our graduates initially take research positions in academia, with the remainder getting into the government agencies, national labs, and industry.