|
|
 |
 |
 |
CSE Distance Frequently Asked QuestionsAcademics- How do I register for distance education classes?
One month prior to the start of classes, submit a completed Course Registration Form. This form can be scanned to jtlsmith@cs.cmu.edu or faxed (412-268-5413). - How much time will I need to devote to my courses?
The short answer is: it all depends on the course and the program. At a minimum, you will need to set aside time each week for the following activities: | • | watching or attending course lectures (2–3 hours) | | • | attending the course chatroom session (1 hour) [DE only]
| | • | reading the course text and required readings (4–6 hours) | | • | completing course activities or homework assignments (4–6 hours) |
The course load varies with each course. In some, you are asked to complete weekly assignments, in others you are required to complete two or three major projects. The expectation, however, is that you will be working on these projects throughout the course.
The last item listed is the variable. If you have extensive experience in software development, you may find that you are able to complete the course assignments in less time than others who do not. - How long do I have to complete the CSE?
You must complete the five core courses within five years with a grade of "B" in all courses.
- Are courses taken in a Certificate progam able to be applied for credit later should I apply and be accepted to a degree program?
Upon acceptance into either the MSE or MSIT-SE program, a waiver for credit consideration may be requested. Acceptance of the course credits toward degree completion requirements is generally dependent upon when the course was taken and the grade that was awarded upon completion. If the course is waived, you will not be required to take the course a second time. Under no circumstance will non-credit courses be waived.
A word of caution: successful completion of distance education courses or the Certificate Program is no guarantee of acceptance into the degree program.
- Will I have an advisor and when can I contact him/her?
Each student is assigned an academic advisor while enrolled in the program. Campus students first meet with their academic advisor during the on-campus MSE/MSIT orientation. In advising sessions, students discuss career objectives and map out an academic plan. Students studying remotely typically correspond with their advisor via email to discuss their professional goals and make registration decisions.
General- How would taking distance education courses help my career?
Many of our students report the following benefits that they have observed since taking a distance education course: | • | Professional Advancement
As you come to learn new technologies, new management methods, your performance improves with noticeable bottom-line results. For example, students completing the Managing Software Development course have remarked about how they approach the challenges in their workplace differently with the added skills and knowledge received in that course. | | • | Competitive Edge
Like many businesses, your company must keep pace with its competitors to remain strong in the marketplace. Incorporating the latest research, and the most recent software developments into your workplace can only guarantee that competitive edge. | | • | Increased Marketability
Today’s fluctuating business environment requires employees to hone their marketability. Learning at a distance brings the latest developments in the software engineering field directly to you—solid assurance of continued employment throughout your career. |
- What if I need to withdraw during the semester?
All of our courses follow the official academic schedule for Carnegie Mellon University, therefore no exceptions will be made with regard to the withdrawal deadlines. Consult their schedule for specific dates, however, generally speaking, you have two weeks from the start of classes to "drop".Should you wish to withdraw from a Distance Education class, please contact the Program Administrator immediately at DE-registration@cs.cmu.edu. - Will I get a computer account and when can I start using it?
All students are required to provide their own laptops or desktops for use while actively enrolled in the program. Before the program starts, we will provide you with a list of recommended equipment and software so that you plan accordingly. All students are assigned an Andrew account when they enter the program. Your userid and temporary password will be given to you before you start the summer prepatory course in June. - Will I get any practical experience from distance education courses?
Our courses require the completion of a variety of homework assignments and projects. Many students are able to immediately apply the concepts and techniques they learn by doing the assignments to their job.
Tuition / Financial Aid- Do the professional programs in Software Engineering have a structured financial aid program?
As with many graduate programs, the graduate software engineering program does not have a structured financial aid program. Following the completion of the first fall semester, it is possible for exemplary students to obtain positions as Teaching Assistants (TA) in the Computer Science Department (CSD) of the School of Computer Science (SCS). International students must take and successfully pass an international teaching assistants test (ITA) given each April for opportunities the following fall semester. Given the intense nature of the MSE/MSIT-SE 12 and 16-month programs, however, most students typically do not have the additional time to devote to preparation for the test or to teaching assistantship responsibilities. Valuable information about finacial assistance can be found at Carnegie Mellon's Enrollement Services website. - How much is tuition?
For the 2013-14 academic year | • | A one-semester course, for credit (12 units): $5952 | | • | A mini-course, for credit (6 units): $2976 | | • | One credit unit: $496 |
In addition, the University is charging students $180 in the fall and spring semesters for a technology fee. - Is financial aid available?
Numerous companies provide tuition assistance for its employees as a benefit. You may want to contact your company's human resources representative to determine if your organization provides a tuition assistance program as part of its benefit package for employees.
|
|
|
|
|
