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Computer Science Graduate Program

MS “En Route” Procedure for PhD Students

PhD students are eligible to receive an MS non-thesis degree “en route” to the PhD when they meet these requirements:

  1. they have passed the PhD Written Qualifier (or Written Prelim) Exam (CSC 890);
  2. they have completed the curriculum requirements for the MS non-thesis option, listed on the PhD degree page; and
  3. they will receive the MS “en route” at least two semesters before completing the PhD degree.

The MS “en route” curriculum requirements must include at least 27 credits of letter-graded courses at the 500- or 700-level. At most three credits of CSC 830 may be used to satisfy the Computer Science graduate electives or “restricted electives” of the MS “en route” curriculum requirements. The remaining 7 credits include 6 credits or CSC 890 and 1 credit of CSC 600, as listed on the PhD degree page. No other credits at the 600- or 800-level may be used to satisfy the MS “en route” curriculum requirements.

To receive the “en route” MS degree, wait until the semester in which you will meet the first two requirements above. At that time you may request the addition of the “en route” MS degree by first completing the Change Degree Status or Curriculum form found here. Use these answers for the following questions on the form:

  • Is this a premium tuition program?  Yes (in both places)
  • Effective Semester and Year of Change/Request:  current semester
  • Check En-route Masters box
  • Enter a short, two- to three-sentence, justification in the box

Email the completed form to the CSC DGP. If approved, the graduate office will send the form to the Graduate School for their approval. You should see (using MyPack) the new Masters academic program in a few days (possibly more if it is a busy time of semester). Fill out the Masters “en route” plan of work (PoW) and list your PhD advisor as chair. Once the PoW has been approved you may apply to graduate with the Masters degree.