The department offers an accelerated B.S./ M.S. sequence that leads to an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering after students received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Industrial and Systems Engineering. This accelerated sequence is open to undergraduate engineering majors in the programs listed above who have finished at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate course work with a minimum GPA of 3.00. A minimum GPA of 3.00 must be maintained during the course of study. Failure to meet the requirements of the accelerated sequence may lead to a B.S. only, but only after the requirements for that degree have been met.
With this program, a student can take B.S. and M.S. courses simultaneously, up to three semesters before earning the undergraduate degree. Depending on the undergraduate major, one can have up to 18 semester hours count towards both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students coming from programs other than Mechanical Engineering may also have to take additional foundational mechanical engineering undergraduate courses as described in the Graduate Catalog.
A GRE is not required. Students must meet Graduate School application deadlines. Interested students should talk with an advisor as early as possible and are encouraged to apply during the spring semester of their junior year.
Students wishing to take part in this program should be aware of all the regulations and restrictions of accelerated baccalaureate/master's degree programs as outlined in the NIU Graduate School Catalog under the heading of Early Admission of NIU Undergraduates; and Admission to Accelerated Baccalaureate/Master's Degree Programs.
All students enrolled in this sequence must have their schedule approved by their faculty advisor each semester. Any deviation from an approved course schedule may delay graduation.
University Honors students in Mechanical Engineering who are actively accumulating points through honors course work or Engage PLUS are guaranteed admission to the B.S./M.S. program.