MASc

Master of Applied Science (MASc)

The work leading to the degree of MASc provides an opportunity for the student to pursue advanced studies and to carry out research or undertake creative design in a field of mechanical engineering.

The primary component of the program is the thesis, which reports the results of an independent research investigation or creative design carried out by the student under the supervision of a member of the department’s graduate faculty..

Program requirements

In consultation with their supervisors, MASc students set up their programs by selecting courses and a thesis topic.

Course Requirements

The program consists of a minimum of 18.0 units, normally with not less than 7.5 units of graduate course work, a 1.5 unit seminar, and a thesis (MECH 599).

Required course work is subject to the approval of the department.

Other Requirements

The program of study is determined by the supervisory committee in consultation with the student. The supervisory committee may decide that additional course work is required.

The program allows for a maximum of one Directed Studies course (MECH 590), not directly related to the thesis topic, and one 400-level undergraduate course. With permission of the supervisor and Graduate Program Director, up to 4.5 units of relevant coursework may be taken from other departments.

All MASc students are required to give a seminar (MECH 595) on their thesis research during the second year of the program. Normally, students will register in MECH 595 until program completion. The seminar has a unit value of 1.5. Students must attend a minimum of 6 of the seminars per term, for a total of 36 seminars over 2 years.

Thesis

The thesis (MECH 599) for the MASc program is typically equivalent to 9 units. The topic of the thesis is subject to the approval of the department.

Oral Examination

MASc students will be required to defend their completed thesis in a final oral examination which is open to the public.

Program Length

The program length is determined by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Typically, the Department of Mechanical Engineering MASc students are expected to complete program requirements within 24 months. Normally, financial support will not be continued beyond this time limit.

Admission

Applicants will normally hold an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. The minimum requirement for admission to the MASc is B (grade point average of 5.0 on the University of Victoria scale of 9.0) for the last two years of university work.

Admission to the program is subject to the sponsorship of a supervisor. Students should contact potential supervisors before applying.

Learn about admission requirements.