Introduction
In recent years, the number of students applying for engineering master’s programs has steadily increased. This is mainly because there are more and more opportunities in engineering today than ever before. With this in mind, you may wonder which program is right for you: Master of Engineering (MEng) or Master of Science (MSC)?
Below, we’ll look at the main difference between MEng and MSc and separate the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
What Are the MEng and MSc Degrees?
MEng. and MSc. degrees are the most common engineering degrees awarded. They offer students a broad education in engineering that includes topics from mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to materials science and design.
MEng. Degrees
The MEng degree is for professionals with substantial work experience who have completed a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and wish to pursue a more advanced course of study.
Students who complete an MEng degree typically work as engineers for large companies or government agencies. Still, many also obtain employment as independent consultants or consultants for small businesses.
MSc. Degrees
The MSc degree is for individuals who have completed a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science but would like to expand their knowledge base by adding specific courses not required by the first-degree program they earned at university (for example, physics).
Students who complete an MSc degree typically work as engineers for large companies or government agencies. Still, many also obtain employment as independent consultants or consultants for small businesses.
What Are the Main Differences Between the MEng And MSc Degrees?
The differences between the Master of Engineering (MEng.) and Master of Science (MSc.) degrees are academic and professional. The most crucial difference is that an MSc. degree is a post-graduate diploma during an MEng. The degree is not.
The reason behind this distinction is that there are two types of engineering degrees: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) and Master of Science in Engineering (MSE). While both programs require students to complete 1,600 hours of coursework over four years, their focus and requirements differ.
An MEng program is designed for people who want to pursue a career in engineering or technology after earning their undergraduate degree. In contrast, an MSc. program is meant for those pursuing research or graduate school studies in engineering or science after earning their undergraduate degree.
The Most Significant Difference Between the Two
The most significant difference between the Master of Engineering and the Master of Science degrees is that the MEng degree requires a thesis, while the MSc. degree does not. The Master of Science degree is designed to be more theoretical than the Master of Engineering degree.
The Takeaway
The takeaway here is that if you want to pursue an engineering or technology-related career after earning your undergraduate degree, then the Master of Engineering degree is a better option than the Master of Science degree.
However, suppose you are more interested in pursuing research or graduate school studies in science and engineering after earning your undergraduate degree. In that case, the MSc. degree is exactly what you’re looking for!
