CBM

Here are answer to the most frequently asked questions about the CBM (formerly referred to as 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:

• After 60 credits of undergraduate course work

• At least one semester of undergraduate requirements remaining

CBM Advisor

The Computer Science CBM 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. You have to complete your application by these deadlines. Letters of recommendation can arrive after the deadline as long as you have completed your part on time. However, late letters will delay your application, resulting in late decision notification and possibly impacting your ability to enroll in next semester courses.  

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. 

Planned Program of Study (PPoS)

You are required to submit a Planned Program of Study (PPoS). The PPoS must be signed by a CDS faculty member, typically the BS/MS advisor. It normally takes a couple of iterations between applicant and advisor to finalize the PPoS. The most common reason for delay is the failure to list thesis credits and their respective semesters. Furthermore, it is unrealistic to assume a thesis can be completed in a single semester. Rather, thesis credits should be planned across multiple semesters.

Statement

The statement of purpose 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). At the time of application, an advisor is not required, but you are encouraged to note any potential research area or advisor in the statement of purpose.

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. Additionally, individual faculty may have research student support. For research assistantships, you should contact your research advisor directly.

Research Advisor

A research advisor is crucial as your advisor will supervise your research, which is the major component of your Master’s requirements, accounting for 12 credit hours. Therefore, having a good advisor and a strong professional relationship is extremely important. 

Unlike undergraduate advisors, finding a research advisor is your responsibility. The university does not assign one to you. The relationship with your research advisor is much tighter than with an undergraduate advisor. It’s not just about finding an advisor; it’s about finding the right advisor. For example, an advisor may meet with Master’s students at least once a week for an hour to discuss ideas, progress, and next steps. The university cannot mandate this kind of interaction. Undergraduate advisors primarily ensure you are making progress toward your degree and may offer career advice. However, they do not guide you in conducting original research. Relying on an undergraduate advisor to release holds can be risky, as they may not know you are a Master’s student or the program requirements and may not adequately supervise your thesis.

Steps to Find a Research Advisor

1. Identify Your Research Interests: Start by identifying research areas that interest you. Taking courses and exploring these areas can help you pinpoint your interests. For example, if you are interested in algorithms and theory, contact professors who specialize in these areas and take their classes.

2. Perform Well in Relevant Courses: Doing well in courses related to your research interests can make you a well-known quantity to potential advisors. Professors who know and appreciate your work are more likely to be willing to supervise your research.

3. Select a Research Topic: Within your chosen research area, select a specific topic that interests you. Each professor may have multiple research directions, so choose one that aligns with your interests.

4. Evaluate Compatibility: Consider whether you would have a good working relationship with the advisor and other students in the research group. A cooperative environment is essential for a successful research experience.

5. Contact Professors: Don’t hesitate to contact professors. They enjoy doing research and are usually happy to discuss potential projects with students. They will likely be eager to talk to you if you have performed well in their classes. Potential advisors can be contacted by email or by approaching them after class or during office hours.

6. Discuss Projects and Expectations: When you meet with potential advisors, discuss specific projects, research areas, timelines, and expectations. Although plans may be vague initially, it’s important to start organizing your work and understanding what is expected.

Almost all students have no trouble finding a research advisor and completing a thesis successfully. If you struggle to find a research advisor, contact the academic CBM advisor. Although he may not supervise your thesis, he can discuss potential strategies to progress in your studies.

In conclusion, finding a research advisor is your responsibility. You cannot rely on undergraduate advisors for your Master’s thesis work. Identify your research interests, perform well in relevant courses, select a specific topic, evaluate compatibility, and contact professors to find the best advisor for you.