Q: Can a graduate student start out in the PhD program or must one start with a Master’s degree?
A: If the student does not have a Master’s degree in Engineering, he or she must complete the M.S. and then move on to the Ph.D.
Students with an M.S. can start the Ph.D. upon arrival. UCI does not allow second master’s degrees.
Q: Is the fellowship only for one year?
A: The duration of the fellowship varies and it is normally awarded during the first year. All admitted PhD students receive an offer that includes full financial support for the duration of their studies.
Q: How long will it take to complete the PhD?
A: The shortest M.S. (a courses-only program) may be completed in three quarters (9 months). An M.S. with a thesis may take 1 year or one and a half years. A Ph.D. may take 2 to 4 years beyond the M.S.
Q: How many letters of recommendation and who should they be from?
A: At least and typically three letters. Preferably from professors familiar with the academic and research (if any) performance of the student. A letter from someone in Industry, if relevant, may substitute one of the three letters from academia.
Q: What is the starting date for the Fall Quarter?
A: Usually the last week in September. Please see the UCI Academic Calendar for the first day of classes.
Q: Will there be an opportunity to work for an engineering company while pursuing a graduate degree at UCI
A: Sometimes there are internship opportunities. After completing their PhD in the U.S., students can apply for a one-year period of Practical Training (OPT) which allows the graduate to seek temporary employment in the U.S.
Q: Must applicants take the TOEFL and GRE exams ?
A: The TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS is required by the University. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is now waived by most departments. Consult your department website for the latest information.