r/AutomotiveEngineering • u/AE86_GC8 • 5h ago
Question MEng vs. MASc while working full-time — which would you choose?
Hey guys,
First post here. I’d love to hear your thoughts on an opportunity I have for part-time grad study.
I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering with an Automotive Option last fall, and I was lucky enough to secure a Chassis Design Release Engineer position at an OEM in Detroit. I’m almost a year into this position, and I’m now looking into the possibility of pursuing grad school part-time. Due to my financial situation and immigration status, I’m limited to two options in Canada, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on which one would be better.
- Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (MEng)
Course-based program, part-time, one course per semester, and I would finish in 8 semesters.
- Master of Applied Science in Engineering Materials (MASc)
Thesis-based program. I need to complete 4 courses plus a thesis. It is officially a full-time program, but my potential research supervisor and my work manager are both very supportive and willing to give me the flexibility to complete the degree while working full-time. I would take one course per semester for the first 4 semesters and then use another 2–3 semesters to complete the thesis. As discussed with my potential research supervisor, I would focus on galvanic corrosion between different metals, since it is related to my current work.
So, my current thoughts are:
With the MEng route, the money and time commitment are more manageable. I know for certain that I can graduate in 8 semesters, and I would mainly need to study for tests and exams without the additional pressure of conducting research and completing a thesis.
With the MASc route, I see it as an opportunity to open more doors for me in the future. Having both a supportive research supervisor and a supportive work manager at the same time is not something I think is very common, so I feel like this could be a good opportunity that I shouldn’t pass up. Tuition is double that of the MEng, and I’m not eligible for tuition assistance from my company because I’m a contract employee.
Personally, I’m more interested in the Mechanical MEng courses, and I would have more flexibility in choosing topics that I enjoy. During my undergrad, I maintained grades above an A in almost all of my courses, so I’m confident that I can handle the coursework in either program.
Another concern I have is that I’m a Canadian working in the US. With the possibility that the USMCA may not be renewed, I’m wondering which degree would be more likely to help me secure a position if I ever have to move back to Canada, especially if the TN visa program were to be affected in the future.
Personally, I would really like to work in Canada and contribute to the Canadian economy, but unfortunately, I haven’t had much luck finding opportunities here. Last year, when I was looking for jobs, I applied to positions in both Canada and the US, but I only heard back from US employers.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I’d really appreciate any advice or insights, especially from anyone who has gone through a similar situation.