Difference between Master of Engineering (MEng) and Master of Science (MS)
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When pursuing a master's degree in science, the problem of choosing between a Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Engineering (MEng) leaves none. Master of Engineering vs Master of Science programs share certain similarities but mostly have their core areas plus, both 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 MEng in Abroad
MEng or Master of Engineering is a STEM course and also a specialized postgraduate 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 Master of Engineering. Moreover, it is a professional degree and students are not required to submit any thesis upon the course completion.
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Top 10 MEng Universities Abroad 2023-24
The following is a list of MEng offering universities across the globe
| Master's in Engineering Universities Abroad | QS - Engineering & Technology Rankings 2023 |
|---|---|
| MIT | #1 |
| Stanford University | #2 |
| University of Cambridge | #3 |
| University of Oxford | #4 |
| University of California, Berkeley | #5 |
| Imperial College London | #6 |
| ETH Zurich | #7 |
| Harvard University | #8 |
| Tsinghua University | #9 |
| California Institute of Technology (CalTech) | #10 |
Check out other Top MEng Colleges in the World
All about MS in Abroad
Master of Science more commonly referred to as MS or MSc is a common post-graduation study pursued by individuals in topics mostly related to technology, computer science, and general sciences. Students can pursue several topics at the Master of Science level. Candidates are required to have completed their graduation to be eligible for MS studies.
Top MS Universities Abroad
- University of Toronto
- Technical University of Munich
- Texas A & M University
- Harvard University
- McGill University
Check out the list of the Top MS Colleges in the World
MEng v/s MS: What is the difference?
While the two courses are identical in nature. We are going to elucidate the factors that differentiate one from the other.
| Indicators |
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 |
|
|
| 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 semesters spanning over a year. |
MS takes comparatively a longer time to complete up to 4 semesters or spanning 1.5 to 2 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. |
| Popular Jobs |
|
|
| Ideally for |
Those looking for some technical experience and build their skills in and around it. | For future research scholars. |
MEng v/s MS: Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for pursuing a Master in Engineering (MEng) or Master of Science in Engineering overlap each other and candidates would be required to have the following
- Relevant Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university
- English Proficiency Test Scores
- GRE Score
- Letter of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Admission Essays
- Resume
MEng vs. MS Admission Criteria
In order to qualify for admissions for MEng and MS courses abroad, applicants must:
- Score a 3.0 GPA or above on a 4.0-point scale
- Submit scores of IELTS or TOEFL fulfilling the minimum requirements
- Submit research papers for MS admissions or projects completed while in BE/BTech for MEng
- Also, applicants may be required to pursue certain subjects at the bachelor's level so that they do not have to pursue a pathway program.
- In the majority of cases, BE/BTech is a must for MEng admissions
- While a BSc or BS is required for MS admissions
Basic admission criteria are more or less the same but may vary on a case to basis or based on the university the international applicant is applying to for admission as well.
Explore popular universities
Popular Jobs for MEng & MS Grads Abroad
The job prospects of both courses that is, MEng and MS in abroad are more or less on the same lines. Some of the popular job roles are as follows:
| Popular Jobs for MEng & MS Grads Abroad | ||
|---|---|---|
| Data Scientist | Computer Engineer | UX/UI Designer |
| Electronic Engineer | Operations Manager | Software Engineer |
| Data Analyst | Civil Engineer | Psychotherapist |
| Biochemist | Digital Marketer | Aerospace Engineers |
However, candidates who have pursued a Master of Science in Engineering can opt for a Ph.D. but a candidate with an MEng degree usually enters professional life.
For queries, do write to us in the comments section below or sign up for free counselling at - https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply.
MEng v/s MS 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 abroad. For those inclined towards engineering should go for MEng courses while others can pursue an MS degree abroad based on the choice of course taken up. Both courses are equally competitive and lucrative for international students.
Q. Which country is the best for studying MEng?
A. UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, USA, etc. are the top countries to study MEng abroad. The reason for pursuing an MEng degree from these countries is because the ROI is high, scholarships are available, faculty is class apart and most importantly along with internships there are full-time jobs also available for students. There is also high chance of getting a permanent residency also in these countries for international students. Thus, applicants can choose to study in these countries for an MEng degree.
Q. Which are the top universities to study MS abroad?
A. MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, University of California, Berkeley, etc. are the top universities to study MS abroad. Pursuing an MS in USA is equally worth the effort. Applicants who get admission at these top MS colleges in abroad can open for themselves doors of opportunities. There are various job prospects and good salary options available for people holding an MS from these top universities. The chances of good ROI is very high and so are the chances for a good and high paying job.
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 engineering roles with a better precision. The applicants who are able to get through the competitive MEng course admissions, they are sure to reach high positions in the corporate ladder if they choose them so.
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.
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