BS/MS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Welcome to the WPI BS/MS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. This resource is designed to help you navigate the dual-degree program with ease. Here, you'll find answers to common questions about the application process, including eligibility criteria and required documents. We also provide a detailed timeline to help you plan your academic journey, from initial application to graduation. Additionally, you'll discover valuable tips for academic planning, ensuring you can balance your coursework and research effectively. Whether you're just starting to consider the BS/MS program or are already enrolled, this FAQ page is your go-to guide for a successful academic experience at WPI.
Application Process
How long does it take to get accepted into the BS/MS degree program?
Understand your four-year plan:
- Most majors at WPI require 15 terms or 45/3 units of course work to complete a four-year degree
- Most students have an open term built into their four-year plans
- Students who complete their PE requirement in fifteen terms gain an additional 1/3 unit of space in their four-year plan
- Students who can count two AP/Transfer/Retroactive courses toward their four-year degree can create a second open term
- WPI offers two summer terms each year: E1 & E2
Where do I apply for the BS/MS program?
You can apply to the BS/MS program just like any other graduate program at WPI—through the grad application portal.
When do I apply for the BS/MS program?
Most departments suggest that students apply for the BS/MS program in the Spring of their third year, but requirements can vary by department or individual circumstances.
Do I have to pay the grad application fee?
No, the grad application fee is waived.
Is a Graduate Records Exam (GRE) needed to apply to the BS/MS program?
No, current WPI undergraduates or WPI alumni do not need a GRE to apply to the BS/MS program.
Timeline and Completion
- Freshmen & Sophomore year: Connect with your academic Advisor on BS/MS options and attend department specific information session
- Sophomore & Junior year: Connect with the graduate coordinator of the department you are seeking to earn a BS/MS to identify course requirements
- Start your application by junior year (unless in BME then senior year)
- Work on your Plan of Study with the academic department
Is it possible to do BS/MS in less than 5 years?
Yes, it is possible but requires a substantial amount of planning well in advance of your admission to the BS/MS program, in addition to having a considerable amount of AP credit and potential overloading. Please consult your academic advisor for assistance.
If I want to complete my BS/MS degrees in four years, do I have to complete my BS degree in three years?
No, most students who complete their BS/MS in four years also complete some portion of their BS degree in their fourth year to maintain undergraduate financial aid status, usually 3/3 MQP. Students should consult the Financial Aid Office for more information.
How long do I have to complete the MS portion of my degree?
You will have 5 years from the date of matriculation into your MS, starting from when you are accepted into the BS/MS program.
When can I start to take graduate courses?
Students can begin to take graduate courses during their undergraduate years but should consult their advisor(s) about BS/MS degree requirements.
Academic Planning
How do I know what courses from my BS will count toward my MS?
Eligible BS courses must have a letter grade of B or higher. From the Graduate Catalog, you can use the BS/MS section for your program as a guide to double counting courses. Please work with your academic advisor to ensure that you have an approved plan of study.
How can I get my completed BS courses reflected on my MS record?
If you have already graduated from your BS, please populate the Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Course Designation Form and work with your department for submission.
When will my BS courses be reflected on my MS record?
These courses will be reflected the semester after you complete your Bachelors and have submitted the Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Course Designation Form.
Can the MS portion be done online?
Yes, if your program of study has an online offering.
Do I need to be a full-time student for the MS?
No, you can enroll as a part-time graduate student.
Do I have the same advisor for the MS?
In most cases, your department will assign you a graduate-specific advisor, who is usually different from your undergraduate advisor.
Can I do an MS Thesis while pursuing the BS/MS?
Yes, it is possible to pursue and successfully complete an MS Thesis as part of the BS/MS program.
Can I NR a graduate course?
Yes, if you are an undergraduate student. Graduate students are unable to NR a course.
Can I get an MS in a major other than my BS major?
Yes, with careful planning an interdisciplinary BS/MS is possible, but you must consult with each department and their specific requirements.
How do MS courses differ from BS courses?
Although course workloads and delivery vary across programs, all MS courses require grades of C or higher for degree credit and there is no option to NR a course. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required to confer your MS degree.
Who should I contact to discuss my interest in the BS/MS program?
Your undergraduate Academic Advisor in the Office of Academic Advising (OAA) can assist you with planning or direct you to the assigned graduate coordinator for a specific department.
Returning Undergrad Alumni
How long do I have to apply for the BS/MS program after graduating with my BS degree?
You will have a maximum of five years from the date you graduate with your BS degree.
Can I double count BS credits if I apply for the BS/MS program after I graduate with my BS degree?
Yes, WPI alumni can double count BS degree credits toward their MS degree even after they graduate with their BS degree within 5 years.
Business Programs
- The earliest a student's application will be reviewed is after they have completed C-term of their sophomore year.
- A student in the B.S./M.S. continues to be registered as an undergraduate until the bachelor’s degree is awarded.
- Students cannot take graduate business courses until they have been accepted into a graduate program.
- Note: No undergraduate credit may be counted toward a graduate business degree.
Can I get an MBA through the BS/MS program?
No, the MBA program is not part of the BS/MS option.
Can I get a Business MS if I am a STEM major?
Yes, but the Business MS accepts only graduate credits to double count between the BS and MS.
When should I apply for the Business MS?
The Business School suggests that students apply for the Business MS during their sophomore year.
Funding/Financial Aid
Will my undergraduate financial aid/scholarship pay for my MS degree?
Only if you complete your BS/MS in 16 terms or four years. Students should consult the Financial Aid Office for more information.
Is financial aid/assistance available for the graduate portion of the BS/MS?
Graduate students typically pay the discounted price out-of-pocket but there are other sources of financial aid possible: employee assistance, loans, etc. Students should consult the Financial Aid Office for more information.
How does the BS/MS program impact my scholarship?
Undergraduate scholarships end after 16 terms or the completion of the BS, whichever comes first. Students that have completed their BS are eligible for an alumni discount applicable to their MS.