It is recommended that all new students attend orientation sessions held by the MIE department and the Graduate School of Engineering to acquaint themselves with the coursework requirements and research activities of the department as well as with the general policies, procedures, and expectations.

In order to receive proper guidance with their coursework needs, all MS students are strongly encouraged to complete and submit a fully signed Plan of Study to the department before enrolling in second-semester courses. This form not only helps the students manage their coursework but it also helps the department to plan for requested course offerings. The PS form may be modified at any time as the students progress in their degree programs. 

Students pursuing study or research under the guidance of a faculty member can choose project option by taking Master’s Project (EMGT 7945). An MS project must be petitioned to the MIE Graduate Affairs Committee and approved by both the faculty member (instructor for Master’s Project) and the student’s academic advisor. The petition must clearly state the reason for taking the project course; a brief description of the goals; as well as the expected outcomes, deliverables, and grading scheme.

Students pursuing coursework option may petition the MIE Graduate Affairs Committee to substitute up to a 4-semester-hour Independent Study (EMGT 7978). An independent study must be approved by the academic advisor. The petition must clearly state the instructor; the reason for taking the course; a brief description of the goals; as well as the expected outcomes, deliverables, and grading scheme. Students in other options (i.e., thesis or project) are not eligible to take independent study. When taking thesis or project options, the independent study course cannot be taken.