Master of science in engineering vs master of engineering

Master of science in engineering vs master of engineering

When pursuing a master's degree in science, the problem of choosing between a Master of Science and a Master of Engineering leaves none. Master of Engineering vs Master of Science programs share certain similarities also but mostly have their core areas. Masters of Engineering or more commonly referred to as MEng and Masters of Science are popular courses for Indian students wanting to study abroad. Students looking to further their engineering degree can opt for either of the identical courses. In this article, we will examine the different aspects of the courses mentioned above, as students are often confused about the degree to opt for. However, before we delve into the courses, let us study them individually.

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All about Masters of Engineering (MEng)

MEng or Masters of Engineering is a specialized Master’s degree in engineering that focuses on coursework. This is more like an advanced Engineering degree pursued by those who wish to become Chartered Engineers. Students who want to become professional engineers pursue Masters of Engineering.

All about Masters of Science (MS)

Masters of Science or more commonly referred to as MS or MSc is a common post-graduation study pursued by individuals in topics mostly related to engineering, computer science, and general sciences. Students can pursue several topics at the Masters of Science level. Candidates are required to have completed their graduation to be eligible for MS studies.

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While the two courses are identical in nature. We are going to elucidate the factors that differentiate one from the other.

Indicator

Masters of Engineering (MEng)

Masters of Science (MS)

Nature of degree

MEng is often termed a professional degree

MS is often described as a non-professional degree.

Curriculum

Due to its professional nature, the curriculum is focused on coursework and how to apply theory to practical applications.

Due to its non-professional attribute, the curriculum is more research-oriented with a focus on theoretical work.

Specializations

  • Physics
  • Information Systems
  • Data Science
  • Technology Management
  • Food Safety, Hygiene, and Management
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  •  Mechanical Engineering – Automotive
  • Transportation Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering

Nature of study

The students are mainly tested through examinations or projects. The thesis presentations don’t have any role here.

Students are often tested via thesis presentations in addition to regular exams and projects.  

Duration

MEng is of shorter duration, usually of two-semester spanning over a year.

MS takes comparatively a longer time to complete up to 4 semesters or spanning 1.5 to2 years.

Purpose of the study

Ideal for candidates looking to start their professional life due to the nature of the curriculum that is aimed at developing skills ripe for the industry.

Ideal for candidates looking to pursue higher education such as Ph.D. or also enter professional life.

MEng v/s MS: Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for pursuing a Masters in Engineering (MEng) or Masters of Science in Engineering overlap each other and candidates would require to have the following

  • Relevant Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university
  • English Proficiency Test Scores
  • GRE Score
  • Letter of Recommendation

Similarly, the job prospects of both courses are more or less on the same lines. However, candidates who have pursued a Master’s of Science in Engineering can opt for Ph.D. but a candidate with an MEng degree usually enters professional life. For a list of Top Engineering Colleges in the World, Click Here.

Top MEng Universities Abroad

  • MIT
  • Stanford
  • Cambridge
  • ETH Zurich
  • University of California, Berkeley

Top MS Universities Abroad

  • University of Toronto
  • Technical University of Munich
  • Texas A & M University
  • Harvard University
  • McGill University

For queries, do write to us in the comments section below.  

FAQs

Q. Which is better MEng or MS?

A.  Both the courses have their reputation in the world. Both are exceptional choices for international students thinking of studying Master’s level courses in engineering abroad.

Q. Which are the top universities to study MEng abroad?

A.  MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, University of California, Berkeley, etc. are the top universities to study MEng abroad.

Q. Which country is the best for studying MEng?

Q. Is it worth getting an MEng?

A.  The MEng program will provide additional skills required to excel in your necessary field. As your career develops, you will take on more responsibility and potentially become a manager; an MEng will help prepare you for a management role.

Q. Is MEng accepted in the USA?

A.  The UK MEng (undergraduate degree) is not recognized in Canada, the USA, India, or Europe as a true master's degree. A master's degree in these countries takes a further 1–2 years after a 4-year bachelor's degree. A UK MSc attained as a degree separate from a bachelor's degree is recognized as an accurate Master’s degree.

Which is easier MEng or MSc?

What is this? For those who wish to become chartered engineers, the MEng will be the better choice. While it is possible to become a chartered engineer with an MSc, it is generally considered easier to achieve accreditation if you have an MEng.

Should I do MEng or MS?

If you see yourself pursuing a PhD or a career in academia, choose a research-focused MS in engineering. If you want to increase your business operations knowledge and learn relevant strategies for communicating with and leading teams of engineers, pursue a practice-oriented Master of Engineering program.

Which is better MEng or BEng?

In simple terms, a BEng is an undergraduate degree programme of three years, while a MEng is a programme of four years – a longer period of study because it is an undergraduate course with an integrated Master's.

Which is better MS or MSc?

MS is a professional course, whereas M.Sc. covers a broad knowledge and skills. Candidates who have completed their M.Sc. degree can also pursue an MS degree.