FAQ’s about WPI’s Master of Science in Systems Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: When will the Master of Science in Systems Engineering (SE) program start?
A: The anticipated start date of the cohort will be Fall 2023 (end of August).
Q: How long is the MS in SE cohort program and how often are courses per academic year?
A: The Master of Science in Systems Engineering can be completed in 3 and 1/3 years. To stay on track with the cohort, you are expected to take three courses each academic year (Fall, Winter, Spring and Spring 2).
Q: What are the admissions requirements for the WPI program?
A: An ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or Computer Science
- Undergrad mathematics coursework including Advanced Calculus, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra
- Major GPA of 3.0 or higher
- The GRE is NOT required for this program
Q: What if my background does not meet the program requirements, can I still participate and get accepted into the program?
A: There are ways to build your case for admissions. We would like to discuss your transcripts in detail to determine what options are available for those students who do not meet the program requirements. WPI takes a holistic approach to the application review. Our team strongly recommends applying for admission as soon as possible to obtain an admissions decision before starting the first course. Please contact Danielle Dodakian to discuss. Schedule a 15-minute time slot to discuss.
Q: What is the enrollment process?
A: It’s important that you comply with BAE Systems education policy when pursuing your studies. Please contact Bill Luk, at william.luk@baesystems.com,, or Cheryl Chaput, at cheryl.chaput@baesystems.com, to review internal practices before moving forward with your studies. (Supervisor will be needed to “approve business related” study.) Next, you will need to complete a WPI Enrollment Form.
Q: What is needed for the application process?
A: Upon completion of the form, Danielle Dodakian, Associate Director – Enrollment, will reach out to schedule a time to go over your background and the application process. We also have a handy interactive application checklist to keep you on track when you’re gathering documents for your application to WPI.
Items needed:
- Unofficial Transcript – Required
- All Transcripts from all previously-attended Colleges/Universities should be uploaded.
- Statement of Purpose – Required
- A document with guidance will be provided to you.
- You will need to write a strong statement of purpose as to why you want to participate in this program and highlight any career achievements and practical work experience in the field.
- 3 letters of Recommendation – Required
- Your authors will receive an auto-generated link as you work through the application process. They must submit their letters through this link, so the letters properly attach to your application.
- We recommend that you ask people who have managed or supervised you.
- Resume – Required
Q: Are there any fees associated with enrolling? Or registering?
A: The graduate application fee ($70) is waived by our office for all BAE Systems employees applying for this program. If you would like to obtain a student ID (not required), there is a $15.00 charge (ID’s are useful for student discounts). There are no additional fees associated with the program above and beyond tuition and course materials (books/software/etc.).
Q: What is the tuition?
A: WPI’s tuition for next academic year is $4,830 per course. All BAE Systems students will receive a 10% discount.
Q: What is the tuition reimbursement policy through Ed-Assist?
A: Please contact your internal HR team to learn about your reimbursement policy through Ed-Assist.
Q: What is the payment process for the program?
A: Tuition payment is due prior to the first day of class for each course. Payment instructions are included within the WPI Course Confirmation email, which is sent to each student approximately two weeks before the start of the course. Graduate students may enroll in a monthly payment plan called Nelnet. A $55 application fee allows you to pay your bill over a 4-month period; each payment is due the 1st of each month. Visit our payment page for more information.
Q: If I have taken courses at another school, can those credits be transferred to the WPI?
A: A student may petition to use graduate courses completed at other accredited, degree-granting institutions to satisfy WPI graduate degree requirements. A maximum of one-third of the credit requirements for a graduate degree may be satisfied by courses taken elsewhere and not used to satisfy degree requirements at other institutions. Each credit transfer request is reviewed by the respective academic department at WPI to verify academic standards, relevance of the course content, and adherence to all transfer guidelines stated in the WPI Graduate Catalog. The transfer credit process can be initiated after a student receives his/her admissions decision.
Q: What happens once the cohort is confirmed and reaches the 18 qualified and enrolled students?
AA – You will then be assigned to Elizabeth Giangrande, your Student Success Manager. She will be able to assist you with your application, course registrations and support throughout your academic journey.
