Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! The MSE graduate program is open to applicants with undergraduate degrees in MSE, but also physics, chemistry, biology, computer science and various STEM and engineering disciplines. The program is flexible in order to accommodate individual backgrounds, but as both the MS and PhD are technical degrees, your experience and coursework should reflect a suitable background in calculus, physics and chemistry.
We strongly suggest a minimum of two years of calculus/differential equations, an introductory chemistry and physics course, plus advanced undergraduate coursework appropriate to the MSE track that will be followed. However, those courses are not absolutely required for admission. A customized plan to address any deficiencies will be assembled with your advisor as appropriate.
We do not have formal minimum requirements for admission; however, the average GPA of our admitted students is 3.68.
You can submit unofficial transcripts in the application. However, if you are admitted will require official transcripts prior to registration.
There is no need to convert your GPA because we have trained staff in the office of Graduate Admissions who can do so for you.
No, the subject GRE is not required for admission and it will not affect your eligibility.
If you intend to eventually pursue a PhD, then you should apply to the PhD program directly. You can earn a Master’s degree along the way.
You are welcome to visit campus anytime but we will personally invite students admitted into the PhD program for an all-expense-paid visit and tour in the spring.
For more information on campus visits follow: https://www.colorado.edu/graduateschool/admissions
After your application has been successfully submitted you may check the status of your application in your account on the Admissions website.
Fall application deadlines are December 15 for both international and domestic students. Spring deadline for MS students is September 1. Note: PhD applications are only accepted for the fall term.
No. Unfortunately, no edits are allowed to an already submitted application. Additional materials (e.g. recommendations, transcripts, etc.) can be added by forwarding those materials directly to the admissions office at gradprocessing@colorado.edu. Make sure to include your full name and either the application number or your employee/student ID number.
For assistance with links to letters of recommendation contact technical support at gradadm@colorado.edu
You cannot add additional names, or remove names, of recommenders in your application once it has been submitted; however, recommendations can be sent by your recommenders to the graduate admissions office, gradprocessing@colorado.edu.
Our students normally complete the MS in 2-3 years, the PhD in 5-6 years. The time limit set by the graduate school for the MS is 4 years, the limit for the PhD is 6 years. See the graduate school rules for more detailed information.