- The traditional, research oriented M.S. program with thesis emphasizes advanced study and research experience. To be eligible for research, a student must have identified an appropriate research area and be accepted as an M.S. thesis student by a member of the MPGE faculty.
- The non-thesis program is designed to meet the professional needs of part-time students and other students whose background and educational goals may be best served by additional instructed study in lieu of the research investigation involved in an M.S. thesis. To pursue this plan-of-study, students must indicate interest in the coursework emphasis program on the application for admission. After admission, these students are encouraged to identify faculty members who will serve as their academic M.S. program advisers or they may complete the program under the overall guidance of the Graduate Liaison. The non-thesis M.S. program culminates in a comprehensive examination.