ME vs MSc

This was one of the biggest confusions all my classmates had when we started grad school in Texas A&M University.

ME (Master's of Engineering) is master's degree with no research and thesis involved. More classes are required for graduation and an extra design course is taken. A supervisor is required only to guide for which courses should be taken.

MSc (Master's of Science) is master's degree with research and master's thesis being required. A number of classes are required but not as much as an ME degree. A supervisor for research thesis is required.

Advantages of ME

- More advanced classes are taken.
- Preferred option for industry engineers.
- Sooner graduation.

Disadvantages of ME

- Not accepted for PhD applications in most of the countries.
- No research experience is gained.
- Reading and writing skills are not necessarily improved.

Advantages of MSc

- Research is introduced. It is usually in form of case study supported with literature review.
- Preferred for industry firms which has research and development development.
- Research related delays in graduation may occur.
- Writing skills are improved.
- Solid knowledge on literature review process.

Disadvantages of MSc

- Literature review can be challanging and overwhelming time to time.
- If there is no specific project, finding a gap in literature can be tough.
- Funding is needed even for an analytical research project.

At the end of the day, it is out decisions that make us who we are. Sometimes what we think is best is not best for us. I highly recommend an MSc degree if time and funding are not an issue. In close future it may open more doors.