Additional credits may be in a minor, usually mathematics, computer science or electrical engineering. The program of study is planned in consultation with a graduate advisor and is subject to approval by the student's advisory/examining committee and the graduate dean. The thesis should demonstrate the student's ability to carry out independent research. All master of science candidates must pass a final oral examination administered by the student's advisory/examining committee. The emphasis in the examination will be on the thesis.

Subject to the approval of the committee, a student may elect to follow the Plan B (without thesis) option. For the master's program without thesis, 32 credits are required, with no more than six credits in special problems courses. Students also must pass a written comprehensive examination and a final oral examination on graduate-level course work administered by the student's advisory committee.

To be admitted to candidacy, all students must successfully complete department course requirements, and satisfy the university residency requirements. In addition, Plan A students must present and successfully defend a written thesis, and Plan B students must pass the written and oral comprehensive examination.