FAQ – 3+2 BA/MMSE Degree Program

Many employers now favor hiring more highly trained engineers at the entry level of the profession. Many in the academic community feel that a combined bachelor/master’s program will soon become the accepted standard training for engineers. The MSEG 3+2 BA/MMSE program is an integrated program that facilitates the completion of a master’s degree with two years of study beyond 94 of the credits required for the Millersville bachelor’s degree. It is anticipated that with proper planning and scheduling, a semester of study may be eliminated and students should be able to complete the BA and MMSE degrees within five years of study.

3+2 BA/MMSE status may impact negatively on the eligibility for undergraduate and graduate financial aid. The time-saving advantage of the 3+2 BA/MMSE program may be lost if the student does not follow an efficient plan of study when they enter the program.

Engineering is fast becoming a field where a master’s degree is of increasing importance for professional development. This degree is also a way to round out and enhance the knowledge gained by the undergraduate experience and to provide specific knowledge in a niche area of engineering. A master’s degree is also a necessary first step toward a Ph.D. degree.

The best time will depend on personal goals and plans. There are several paths to the Master’s degree including continuation immediately after the Bachelor’s degree, part-time education in conjunction with employment, and a delayed return to the University after field experience. Students should choose the route that fits with their individual career goals and lifestyle choices.

Neither Millersville University of Pennsylvania nor the University of Delaware has any financial responsibilities to this program. Students who apply to this program are responsible for all tuition, fees and living expenses that are applicable to their curriculum and enrollment. Any application for financial aid during enrollment at the University of Delaware will need to be completed through the University of Delaware Office of Financial Aid.

All articulated course credits earned at the University of Delaware with a grade of C or better will be accepted by Millersville University of Pennsylvania for transfer and credit toward the BA Physics degree at Millersville University of Pennsylvania, according to the program matrix.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania requires 120 credits for the BA Physics degree, and therefore, 26 credits will typically need to be transferred from the University of Delaware to meet this requirement.

Yes. Each graduate student in MSEG is required to choose a particular technical option that determines the specific course requirements. Currently, the approved options include Soft Materials, Hard Materials, and Composites. The specific course requirements vary depending on the particular option, as described in detail later in this document and on the MSEG web pages. An individualized option is also available with the permission of the MSEG Graduate Program Director.

To officially enter the 3+2 BA/MMSE program, the following requirements must be satisfied:

• Must be a student in the BA Physics degree program at Millersville University of Pennsylvania
• Completion of five semester or 94 credits of coursework of the baccalaureate degree program
• Cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher
• GRE quantitative score of at least 155 and a combined scores (quantitative + verbal of at least 300
• Three excellent letters of recommendations from faculty or scholars

First, make an appointment with Joshua Zide to discuss this program and ensure that it is a good fit with your career goals and plans.

Then, complete an online application for the Graduate School, selecting the 3+2 option. The application is submitted to the UDel Graduate School. The statement of purpose, transcripts (needed for courses taken at other universities) and three recommendation letters should be submitted directly to the MSEG Department. General Record Exam (GRE) scores are also required. The graduate school application fee must be submitted as well.

The application deadlines are:

• To begin 3+2 BA/MMSE in the fall term- U.S. & Canadian students apply by August 1, International students apply by June 1
• To begin 3+2 BA/MMSE in spring term- U.S. & Canadian students apply by Nov. 1, International students apply by October 1

Admission is not automatic. The MSEG faculty will carefully review your application. Your statement of purpose and letters of recommendation are important parts of the admissions decision.

The TOEFL is waived for students who have already taken it.