Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on your eligibility and completed coursework you may be able to enter into the MSE-SSC Online program if you have been accepted into the MSE-AI Online or MSE-DS Online programs. For more information see the Change of Degree section of the student handbook.

Depending on your eligibility you may be able to enter into the MSE-SSC Online program if you have been accepted into the MSE-AI Online or MSE-DS Online programs. Please reach out to us at online-admissions@seas.upenn.edu for more information on changing your major.

If applications are still open, yes. Please reach out to us at online-admissions@seas.upenn.edu and we can assist you in getting your application properly submitted.

No, only the method of instruction is different. For the courses offered, the content is the same and taught by the same world-class, renowned professors that teach in the on-campus program.

MSE-SSC Online is a new program so official graduate outcomes data is not available at this time. Please refer to the Penn Engineering’s official Career Outcomes report to review career outcomes of Penn Engineering students in adjacent on-campus engineering master’s degree programs.

It’s possible to progress on to a PhD program, but you would likely need to supplement your studies with research to be prepared for a PhD program.

No, the MSE-SSC Online program does not require a thesis.

MSE-SSC Online is a degree centered on software systems and security. The curriculum will focus on software infrastructure, cybersecurity, big data systems, blockchain, cloud technologies, etc. The online courses offered will primarily correspond with the on-campus MSE-SSC degree. For the courses that are offered, the content is the same between on-campus and online and upholds the same academic rigor as all Penn Engineering degree programs.

No, the program is 100 percent online. That said, one of our optional Open Elective courses, DATO 5990 Practicum, includes a one-week on-campus intensive component.

Admission to the MSE-SSC Online program is very competitive. We look for applicants who are likely to succeed in, benefit from, and contribute to the program. For tips on how to strengthen your application, read our Admissions Advice articles.

In addition to the online application, you’ll need to submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a resume. If you are an international applicant or a non-U.S. citizen/permanent resident for whom English is not their first language, you will also need to submit official English Language Proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo).

For details, see the MSE-SSC Admissions page.

Yes. MSE-SSC Online students are eligible for VA education benefits.