Graduate Frequently Asked Questions

Transfer credit
Q:  I want to pursue a graduate program, but I am not sure if I will choose PSU.  Can I take graduate level coursework and apply this to my graduate degree?
 A:  It is always best to consult with an advisor at the institution of which you would like to attend.  If you are unsure, speak to your faculty advisor and/or schedule an advising appointment with Dr. Wells. Note that you can only transfer 1/3 of your total credits from outside PSU to earn a PSU degree. Hence for an MS degree this would be a maximum of 15 credit hours; for the MENGR degree this would be 16 credit hours.

Delay admission
Q:  I have been admitted into the graduate program, but have not taken classes (therefore, have not matriculated in the PSU system) and I would like to request delay in admission - is this possible?
 A:  Yes, upon approval from your assigned faculty advisor.  Request a delay (be specific with term/year) and inform the CEE office so that we can submit an updated admission letter to the admissions office.

Leave of absence
Q:  I have been admitted into the graduate program and have already completed courses (matriculated in the PSU system).  I would like to request a Leave Of Absence (LOA).  Is this possible?
 A:  Upon approval from your faculty advisor.  Inform you advisor and the CEE office.  We will submit the LOA verification to the Office of graduate Studies.  Be specific with the term and year you will return to your studies.

Graduate degree in CEE if UG degree in another field
Q: I have a BS or BA degree in another field other than Civil and Environmental Engineering, can I get a Master’s degree in CEE?
A:  If you have a BS degree in another engineering discipline or a hard science, one may be able to enter the MS program after taking required pre-requisite courses. If though your degree was not in engineering, this could affect your ability to get an engineering license to practice engineering. Please see the State of Oregon License Board for information. If you have a degree that is not one of those noted above, you will need to obtain a 2nd bachelor’s degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering.