Frequently Asked Questions for Graduate Students

• What is the program code for the Master's in Software Engineering?
  
  VSEM.
• Who should I contact in the department when I have a question?
  
  Your first point of contact should be the Sarah Mittiga in the Sofware Engineering Main Office. Stop by 70-1690, call (585-475-5461) or email (sarah@se.rit.edu).
• What are the admissions requirements?
  
  • Bachelor's degree with minimum GPA of 3.0
  • One of the following
  • Degree in a computing field (Software Engineering, Computer Science or Computer Engineering), plus one year professional software development experience, OR
  • Degree in a non-computing field, plus three years professional software development experience
  • Minimum TOEFL Scores (if English is not your native language):
  • 570 on the paper-based test
  • 230 on the computer-based test
  • 88 on the Internet-based test
• How do I apply for admission?
  
  Contact the Office of Graduate Enrollment, (585) 475-6768 Or apply online here
• Can I start the program in the Winter or Spring?
  
  Yes, applications are accepted year round.
• Can I take software engineering masters level courses online?
  
  No, currently this department does not offer online graduate courses.
• How do I apply for a Grad Assistantship?
  
  View the form and instructions here
• How do I get my Software Engineering computer account?
  
  Your account will be set up when you register for your first SE course. Your user name and password will be distributed on the first day of class.
• How do I register for classes?
  
  Each quarter, you should schedule a meeting with the Graduate Program Coordinator, about a week prior to your registration date. On the day of registration, register your courses using the SIS website (infocenter.rit.edu)
• Can I take a software engineering graduate course if I'm not a matriculated student?
  
  Yes, non-matriculated students can take SE courses. You will need permission from the Graduate Program Coordinator. You will also need to provide proof (Official Transcripts) that you have completed your bachelor's degree, and any prerequisites required by the course.
• Can I transfer credits into this program?
  
  Yes. You may transfer up to 9 quarter hours of graduate level credit from another university. The decision to apply courses as transfer credit is at the discretion of the Graduate Program Coordinator.
• How do I change my address or contact information?
  
  You can update your personal information on SIS (infocenter.rit.edu). You can also contact the SE Office, either in person or via email. Updates cannot be made over the phone.
• How many courses must I take to complete this degree?
  
  There are 13 required courses (in addition to any Bridge courses), for a total of 52 credits. You will need to complete

  • 9 core courses
  • 1 track elective course
  • 3 technical elective courses
• Can I take electives in any program?
  
  The Graduate Program Coordinator will help you choose technical electives that support your academic goals. With approval from the Graduate Program Coordinator, any graduate-level course may be applied toward your technical elective requirement.
• What is a Bridge course? Do I have to take Bridge courses?
  

  Bridge courses are undergraduate-level courses that provide a background in areas of Software Engineering.
  Some students are accepted into the program on the condition that certain Bridge courses will be completed (with a grade of B or higher).

  Bridge courses are not required for all students. Your Plan of Study will list any Bridge courses you need to take.

• Can I take Bridge Courses at the same time as graduate level courses?
  
  Yes. You may register for Bridge courses and your other required courses at the same time. Keep in mind that Bridge courses must be completed within the first 2 quarters after you enroll in the program.
• Can I test out of a Bridge Course?
  
  Yes. You must get authorization from the Graduate Program Coordinator who will help you make arrangements with an instructor.
• Is co-op required for graduation from this program?
  
  No. Co-op is optional for this masters program.
• Will doing a co-op effect my graduation date?
  
  Yes, your graduation date will change if you choose to do a co-op. Co-ops are not built-in to your Plan of Study, and therefore you should allot extra time if you plan to do a co-op.
• Do I have to do a thesis?
  
  No, a thesis is not a part of the MSSWE program.
• How do I apply to graduate?
  

  Submit your Application for Graduation two quarters before you expect to complete your coursework. Pick up an application in the SE Office, or find it online here

  Once you submit the form, the Sr. Staff Specialist will contact you and schedule a meeting to review your remaining requirements.