This guide describes the process for obtaining the Masters of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences. For answers to questions not found here, please contact the Masters Student Services Advisor (Michael Sun, grads-ms@berkeley.edu, 215 Cory Hall). The same process and guidelines are required of Ph.D. students who plan to earn the M.S. degree along the way to the doctoral degree.
Coursework
- Minimum of 24 units required:
- 10 units of 200 series (excluding 298, 299) in EECS
- 4-10 units of 299 for Plan I or 3-6 units of 299 for Plan II
- remainder can be 100 or 200 series (excluding 299 units do not have to be EECS)
- All courses must be taken for a letter grade, EXCEPT for 299s which are taken for the S/U option.
- A minimum “B-” or better grade needs to be earned in order to receive credit towards satisfying degree requirements. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required overall, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 is required for technical coursework in order to graduate.
Research Advisors
Tips for Finding an Advisor
Try looking through websites and publications to learn about faculty research interests and projects. Then discuss opportunities in office hours or by setting up a meeting (email usually works best, but use other means if you do not get a response). You may also consider starting a conversation about research with one of your instructors, perhaps during office hours or after a lecture. Seminars are another opportunity not only to learn about technology and science but also to meet fellow grad students who can tell you about their experiences and introduce you to faculty they are working with. Many groups hold regular meetings where you can get to know team members and their projects. Ask professors or their students if you may attend a group meeting. Contact your temporary advisor or Staff Graduate Advisor if you have questions or have not made contact with prospective thesis advisors by the end of your first semester. Inform the Masters Student Services Advisor when you have found a permanent advisor and also if you change your advisor (yes, it happens and is OK).
When you have found a Research Advisor and no longer have a temporary one, you must notify the Masters Student Services Advisor and the Infrastructure Development & Support Group (idsg-admin@eecs.berkeley.edu) to update the department records. No other forms or paperwork are required.