The boxes below organize the steps to an MS in CS using the project option. Detailed requirements are contained in sections 2 and 3 of the CS Graduate Handbook. If requirements conflict, requirements in the MS Program and MS Project Option pages take precedence.

1 Submit a study list During the first semester

Create and submit a study list that satisfies coursework requirements. Be sure that your study list satisfies the breadth requirement and includes 10 classes in addition to CS 698R.

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2 Find a Project Mentor During 1st or 2nd semester

Identify a professor in the CS department who is willing to serve as your project mentor. Your mentor should be doing work you find interesting and should be someone you get along with.

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3 Update your Graduate Profile Twice a year in September and February.

Profile updates are used during twice-yearly MS Progress Reviews. At these reviews, the Department reviews each MS student. Students are placed on "satisfactory", "warning", "marginal" or "unsatisfactory" status.

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4 Satisfy Breadth Requirement By completing coursework

Take at least one class from 3 of 4 breadth groups. These classes should also be listed on your Study List.

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5 Update your Graduate Profile Twice a year in September and February

Profile updates are used during twice-yearly PhD Progress Reviews. At these reviews, the graduate CS faculty review all PhD students. Students are placed on "satisfactory", "warning", "marginal" or "unsatisfactory" status.

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6 Propose Project Before doing the project

With your mentor, identify a suitable project that includes specific activities, clearly defined goals and 125-150 hours of work. Submit a project proposal before the semester in which you will do the project. Get an add code and register for CS 698R.

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7 Work on your project During a single semester

While taking CS 698R, complete your project. Track the hours you spend on the project and prepare a report.

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8 Apply for Graduation Beginning of the semester in which you plan to graduate

See Jennifer Bonnett for details. In many cases, this will happen in the semester in which you do your project. In some cases, it will be after the semester in which you do your project.

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9 Complete your project At the end of the semester

Submit a written report describing work completed on your project. Present your project at the end of the semester during a 3 hour block during finals week.

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