The MS&E Department courses provide broad elective freedom while maintaining some common structure and basic course unity. This is accomplished by means of a Required Core Courses and Advanced Courses of Reinforcement.

The first level of courses in MS&E is that of the "required core" - a set of courses and labs which every MS&E student must complete. These courses and labs are important because they form a common basis upon which successive courses and labs may build.

The advanced courses of reinforcement include Phys 205, an advanced science elective or chemistry course, and two or three MS&E advanced courses of 400 level or above.

In addition to the core courses, the student must choose electives in the areas of liberal studies and technical electives. Guidelines for the choice of these electives are included in this booklet and in the UW College of Engineering Bulletin. Another category called "Free Electives" can be used for any credits (technical or nontechnical).

The guidance material in this booklet is keyed to the various areas of specialization in MS&E. Relatively few students know exactly which of these areas they wish to pursue when they begin the curriculum. It is important, however, that you begin thinking about your choice as early as possible so that you can take full advantage of your electives in developing an overall program. Through the progression of the required and elective core, together with exposure to the different areas and consultation with advisors, the choice should be narrowed down to one or two areas before the senior year - earlier if possible.