MASTER OF SCIENCE–THESIS OPTION (PLAN I): 30 CREDIT HOURS
- Graduates complete 24 hours of graduate course work and a thesis. All students on teaching or research assistantships in the department are expected to pursue the thesis option.
- A student’s curriculum and thesis must be approved by the student’s graduate advisory committee. The student must pass a final comprehensive examination, which is typically a presentation and defense of the thesis. In addition, the student must satisfy all University requirements defined in the current edition of The University of Alabama Graduate Catalog.
- A minimum of 12 semester hours in the major area at or above the 500 level. Major area courses are ME and ME cross-listed courses. Three hours of approved coursework in a closely allied area may be used as a major area course.
- A minimum of 6 hours of mathematics.
- A minimum of 6 hours of ME 599 thesis research hours and an approved thesis.
MASTER OF SCIENCE–NON-THESIS OPTION (PLAN II): 30 CREDIT HOURS
- Graduates complete 30 hours of graduate course work and take a comprehensive exam in the final semester. In addition, the student must satisfy all University requirements defined in the current edition of The University of Alabama Graduate Catalog.
- A student’s curriculum must be approved by the student’s graduate advisory committee.
- A minimum of 18 semester hours in the major area at or above the 500 level. Major area courses are ME and ME cross-listed courses. Six hours of approved coursework in a closely allied area may be used as a major area course.
- A minimum of 6 hours of mathematics.
- Pass a comprehensive exam. A Ph.D. proposal or journal paper, as approved by the committee, can serve as a comprehensive exam.
- This degree may be completed by distance. This option is intended primarily for students who are employed full-time or serve in the military.
For additional information about mechanical engineering graduate programs, contact Dr. Steve Shepard.
