Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Engineering Management
• Systems Engineering (Industrial Engineering or Systems Engineering concentrations)
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (Power Systems; Electrification and Sustainability; Embedded and Intelligent Systems; Circuits, Signals, and Systems)
• Manufacturing Engineering (Advanced Manufacturing Processes; Quality Engineering; Sustainable Manufacturing)
• Mechanical Engineering (tracks for students with a bachelor’s mechanical engineering background  or other STEM degrees)
• Regulatory Science

Graduate certificates are available in specialized, career-focused areas, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Engineering for Educators
• Engineering Leadership
• Manufacturing Systems
• Medical Device Development
• Power Electronics and Systems
• Quality Engineering
• Sustainability

Yes. Graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas are designed for working professionals, with flexible in person and online (co-flex) offerings in the evening.

Most students complete their graduate engineering degree in 2 to 2.5 years, depending on course load and pacing. Students can take up to 7 years to complete the program if needed.

Most programs prefer applicants with an engineering or technical background. However, some programs, such as Engineering Management or certain Mechanical Engineering tracks, may consider applicants with other STEM degrees.

Students can begin graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas in the fall, spring, or summer terms.

There are no formal prerequisites required for graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas. That said, many programs may require a particular academic or professional background or have specific tracks for students.

Yes. Graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas combine technical expertise with leadership and real-world application. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in engineering, operations, product development, and management across a wide range of industries.

The right program depends on your background and career goals:

• Deep technical specialization: consider Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Systems Engineering
• Leadership and career advancement: consider Engineering Management
• Highly regulated industries (e.g., medical devices, pharma): consider Regulatory Science

You can feel free to reach out to any of our program directors to get answers to the questions you may have about our graduate programs in engineering. They will work with you to help you determine if a specific  program is right for you based on your background and career goals.

Graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas emphasize:

• Industry-aligned curriculum and specializations
• Small class sizes and faculty with real-world experience
• A strong focus on leadership and career advancement
• Connections to the Twin Cities engineering and manufacturing sector

Yes. Students at the University of St. Thomas can collaborate with faculty on applied research projects, including opportunities through the Center for Microgrid Research. This center focuses on microgrids, distributed energy, and carbon-free electricity, giving students hands-on experience in one of the fastest-growing areas of engineering.

Yes. Flexible scheduling allows students to balance full-time or part-time work while completing their master’s degree or graduate certificate program.

Graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas stand out for their combination of practical and applied approach, leadership development, and flexible delivery. Located in a major engineering and manufacturing hub, students benefit from strong employer connections and programs designed with direct industry input.

Yes. Many graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas offer concentrations aligned with industry demand, including power systems, sustainability, manufacturing, embedded systems, and quality engineering.

• Electrification and sustainability
• Advanced manufacturing
• Systems engineering
• Embedded and intelligent systems
• Quality and process engineering

Graduates work in industries such as:

• Manufacturing and Advanced Manufacturing
• Energy and power systems
• Medical devices and healthcare technology
• Aerospace and defense
• Technology and automation

Graduates pursue roles such as:

• Engineering Manager
• Systems Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Electrical or Mechanical Engineer
• Quality Engineer
• Product Development Manager

Engineering graduates typically pursue careers with strong earning potential. Salaries vary by specialization and experience, but many engineering and leadership roles offer competitive, above-average salaries nationally.

Yes. Students in graduate engineering programs at the University of St. Thomas can participate in applied research and hands-on learning through the Center for Advanced Manufacturing. This includes work in AI-enabled manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and machining optimization, all aligned with current industry needs.

Yes. Programs like Engineering Management are specifically designed to help engineers move into leadership, operations, and strategic roles.

Yes. The University of St. Thomas has strong connections with employers in the Twin Cities. Students receive job opportunities, career support, and access to internships and on-campus employment opportunities.

No. The University of St. Thomas does not require the GRE for admission to graduate engineering programs.

Yes. Through the Quick Admit for Tommies, eligible St. Thomas seniors, current graduate students or alumni can take advantage of an expedited application process including: no transcripts requests are required (we already have them on file), no application fee, and an admissions decision within 1-3 business days.

Your application may be missing required documents such as official transcripts. Contact the Graduate Admissions team at gradengineering@stthomas.edu for assistance.

You can log in to your application portal to check your status and view any missing documents. If you have questions, contact gradengineering@stthomas.edu.

• Official transcripts from all institutions attended (course-by-course evaluation required for international transcripts)
• Essay or personal statement
• Resume or CV

No. Official transcripts must be sent directly from your college or university to the University of St. Thomas. Electronic delivery is preferred.

Yes. Applicants with a lower GPA are encouraged to apply and connect with the Graduate Admissions team (gradengineering@stthomas.edu) to discuss their background and potential fit.

It typically takes 1–2 weeks for documents to be processed after submission.

After submitting your application, monitor your application portal for missing documents. Once your application is complete, you can expect an admissions decision within 1–2 weeks.

Yes. All graduate engineering programs are STEM-designated, allowing eligible international students to apply for up to 3 years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States.

Yes. The University of St. Thomas provides dedicated support for international students, including admissions guidance, visa support, and career preparation resources.

International students must provide proof of sufficient funds for at least the first year of study and demonstrate financial support for the duration of the program.

After admission, international students work with the Office of International Students and Scholars to complete the I-20 process.

English proficiency is required, but the University of St. Thomas offers multiple ways to meet this requirement, including residency or citizenship in over 50 approved countries.

Yes. Students on various visa types, including H and L visas, may be eligible to apply. Contact oiss@stthomas.edu for guidance.

The University of St. Thomas offers financial aid options for graduate students. Many students also take advantage of employer tuition reimbursement programs.

The total cost of an engineering graduate degree at the University of St. Thomas is approximately $40,500 (for the 2025-2026 academic year). Tuition is $1,350 per credit for most 30-credit master’s programs. Many students use employer tuition reimbursement or financial aid to help fund their education. 

Yes. The University of St. Thomas offers graduate students in engineering programs opportunities for faculty research, ability to work in our Centers, and on-campus student employment. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience and professional development while completing your degree.