Graduate Education
Combined B.S./M.S. Program
Also known as the Fifth Year Master’s Program – our combined B.S./M.S. program enables current and recent Allen School undergraduate majors to earn both degrees in approximately 5 years.
The Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s (B.S./M.S.) program was designed so that students may complete both their Bachelor’s of Science in CS or CE and their Master’s of Science in CSE degrees in approximately five years of study. In reality, students complete the program in a variety of timelines depending on when they enter the Allen School and how many credits they are bringing in. The program is intended to allow increased breadth and depth of study to better prepare students for their careers and was designed with feedback from faculty, industry affiliates, and CSE students themselves.
Allen School B.S./M.S. students earn a master’s degree in approximately one year of courses beyond standard bachelor’s requirements. Most students are admitted after finishing 300-level requirements in their junior year so they can plan their CSE senior and graduate requirements as a coherent two-year plan. The application process for the B.S./M.S. program is competitive, and roughly 60 applicants are admitted each year.
The program accepts only currently enrolled UW Seattle CS/CE majors.
Explore Our B.S./M.S. Program
Application
Information
Allen School undergraduate majors typically apply to the B.S./M.S. program in their junior or senior year, once they have completed 300-level coursework.
Degree
Requirements
B.S./M.S. students complete their master’s requirements primarily through a combination of Ph.D., PMP and 400-level courses along with research or internship credit.
Degree
Planning
B.S./M.S. students have access to a variety of tools and guidance, including periodic review of their working degree plan, to stay on track for graduation.
Satisfactory
Progress
Our satisfactory progress policy is designed to ensure B.S./M.S. students meet academic requirements while meeting their goals for graduation.
Internship
Credit
A summer internship offers students the opportunity to explore career paths, make connections and develop their skills while earning credit toward their degree.
Advising Info
& FAQ
Visit our FAQ page for additional information on eligibility, admissions and the components of the B.S./M.S. to explore whether the program is right for you!
Why a Combined B.S./M.S.?
The program was created with industry-bound students in mind. Both starting salary and long-term prospects may be improved with an advanced degree. The program may also be a good fit for students interested in teaching computer science at the college level; in addition to teaching assistant opportunities, some B.S./M.S. students get the opportunity to instruct courses in the Allen School. Finally, some students considering a Ph.D. may find B.S./M.S. valuable (however, students should consider applying directly to Ph.D. programs if they are ready to submit a competitive application).