BS/MS

Here are answer to the most frequently asked questions about the BS/MS program.

Q: I am interested in the BS/MS program. The admission requirement states that the applicant must have between 75 and 90 credit hours. I have less/more credit hours. Can I still apply?

A: The application window has been extended to:

BS/MS Advisor

The Computer Science BS/MS advisor is Prof. Liberatore (office hours).

BA/MS

There is no substantial difference between BS/MS and BA/MS. BA students can apply to the BA/MS program in Computer Science with the same procedure and following the same requirements as the BS/MS students.

Requirements

Before complete the application, consult the program's requirement in the bulletin. It is the authoritative source of regulations for the program. It will make it much easier to complete the application if you are aware of the regulations. An important point is that "A BS/MS student is required to choose the thesis-focused track initially." 

Application Mechanics

If you have questions about the mechanics of the application, the best answers come from the Student Affairs office. The application deadlines are regularly updated by the School of Graduate Studies.

Letters of Recommendation

You will need to provide three references. Ask them early because everyone is busy. It is to your advantage to include letters from CWRU CDS professors since they are in the best position to assess whether you are a good fit for the BS/MS program. Do not be shy about asking for letters. CWRU CDS professors know recommendation letters are needed, so they know that these requests are coming. Furthermore, few students have research or working relationship with faculty, so you should ask regardless. Finally, it is to your advantage to ask for letters to those who have a favorable view of your potential. In general, though, you are allowed to provide letter from anybody you would like to ask. It is just that different letter writers will carry different weights. 

Statement

The statement is one of the least important parts of the application. It is reviewed carefully only in the case of applicants with a low GPA or other dubious history. In general, you can limit your statement to the following: your motivation to pursue a graduate degree, previous and ongoing research projects (if any, do not worry if you do not have any), research area(s) for your thesis (if you have any preference, you can skip this if you have not decided yet), professors with whom you would like to work for your thesis (if any), and explanation for the weaker parts of your track record, such as a low GPA (if any).

Financial Aid

In the past, students have graduated from the BS/MS program while being supported by their undergraduate scholarship for most or all of their studies. Undergraduate aid is especially helpful to students who graduate in 4 or 4.5 years. However, the department does not have expertise on financial aid nor access to your financial records. If you are interested in this option, you should talk to Financial Aid instead. 

A competitive Herbold fellowship supports about 50% of BS/MS tuition expenses. A call for application is circulated every year by email by the CDS Student Affairs office.