Website: www.unbc.ca/engineering/master-applied-science-engineering
The Master of Applied Science in Engineering degree is a research-based degree with a thesis. The degree is suited to students who wish to pursue a research-based program in engineering disciplines such as, but not limited to, civil, environmental, structural, and building sciences.
MASc in Engineering students are expected to complete an original research program, culminating in the preparation of a thesis. Graduates are prepared for careers in applied research and engineering or for further academic study.
Requirements
The Master of Applied Science thesis is designed for candidates who wish to develop career interests related to applied scientific research or who intend to pursue further academic research degrees. MASc students are required to complete 3 credit hours of the ENGR 700-3 Technical Writing course, 3 credit hours of the ENGR 701-3 Graduate Seminar in Engineering course, along with 6 credit hours of mandatory courses to be selected from graduate-level methods and/or analysis courses, a minimum of 6 credit hours of approved electives, and a 12 credit-hour thesis (ENGR 790-12). It is expected that electives consist of engineering courses, and the thesis involves an independent investigation resulting in a scientific contribution.
The 6 credit hours of electives must be graduate-level study (i.e., at or above the 600 level) selected from the courses available at UNBC. A maximum of 3 credit hours from independent studies can be counted towards the elective requirement. Specific details of coursework are determined by the research area undertaken by the student. The supervisory committee ensures an appropriate selection of elective courses is taken and may require a student to complete more than 6 credit hours of electives if, for example, weaknesses in the student's background exist (including undergraduate prerequisites for graduate courses).
As part of the MASc thesis (ENGR 790-12), students are required to (a) make an oral presentation of the thesis proposal to the supervisory committee; (b) write an original thesis based on the completed research (in accordance with established UNBC guidelines); and (c) present an oral defence of the thesis to the examining committee as per Final Oral Examinations and Examining Committees in Admissions and Regulations. All course requirements must have been satisfied prior to the oral defence.
| ENGR 700-3 Technical Writing | 3 credit hours |
| ENGR 701-3 Graduate Seminar in Engineering | 3 credit hours |
| Methods and/or Analysis Courses | 6 credit hours |
| Elective Courses | 6 credit hours |
| ENGR 790-12 MASc Thesis | 12 credit hours |
| Total Required for Degree | 30 credit hours |
Recommended Progression
The normal time for completion of the MASc is two academic years as a full-time student. While this is the recommended timeline, it may be adjusted at the discretion of the supervisory committee to suit a particular student's research and program needs.
The Graduate Seminar in Engineering course is offered during the September and January semesters.
Mandatory methods and/or analysis courses and electives may be taken at any time. The sequencing of courses is determined by the student in discussion with their supervisor and the supervisory committee. In Year 1, the student, under the direction of the supervisory committee, develops a thesis proposal. By the end of the second semester after enrollment, the student should have successfully defended their proposal to the supervisory committee. This allows the student to start the collection of data and/or preparation of experiments and models during the last semester of Year 1. Students are expected to successfully defend their thesis by the end of Year 2.
Admission, Regulations and Committee Structures
Admission Requirements
In addition to the admission application requirements outlined in General Admission of the Graduate Academic Calendar, applicants are required to hold a four-year Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution in engineering or related area. Acceptance to the MASc program is contingent upon prospective students finding a faculty member to serve as their supervisor.
Applicants are required to provide three letters of recommendation. Normally, at least two of the three letters, exclusive of any letter provided by an intended supervisor, must be from individuals who are able to comment on the applicant's academic and research potential.
Application deadlines are found in this calendar under "Academic Dates" or online at www.unbc.ca/calendar/graduate, under "Semester Dates." The Master of Applied Science Program accepts students for the September, January, and May semesters.
For additional information about graduate admissions or to download application materials, go to the Office of Graduate Administration website at www.unbc.ca/graduate-administration.
Transfer Students
On the recommendation of the School of Engineering, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering may accept courses taken at other institutions for credit toward a UNBC graduate program. At the time of application, it is recommended applicants clearly state in a letter their intent to transfer courses and identify the courses to be considered for possible transfer.
Normal Time Required for Completion
Normally, the degree should be completed within two years. Students may take longer to complete the degree depending on their personal circumstances and the nature of their research involvement.
Committee Structure
Students are advised by a supervisory committee consisting of at least three members, including the academic supervisor who serves as the Chair of the committee. At least one committee member (in addition to the supervisor) should be member of the UNBC School of Engineering (exceptions must be approved by the program Chair). The committee is formed during the student's first semester of study.
Updated: July 2, 2024