VCU offers an online, self-managed application process. See what’s needed to apply below and reference our list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) for graduate admissions.
Still have questions? Connect with the Office of Graduate Studies at gradengr@vcu.edu, email a graduate program director, or visit the Office of Admissions and International Admissions websites.
Newly admitted students are encouraged to register early for upcoming graduate admissions events and orientation.
Graduate Program Directors
- College of Engineering
- Engineering Management – Karla Mossi, Ph.D., mnegrad@vcu.edu
- Systems Engineering - Yanxiao Zhao, Ph.D., ecegradinfo@vcu.edu
- Biomedical Engineering – Dean Krusienski, Ph.D., djkrusienski@vcu.edu
- Biomedical engineering
- Rehabilitation engineering
- Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
- Chemical & Life Science Engineering – Nastassja Lewinski, Ph.D., nalewinski@vcu.edu
- Chemical and life science engineering
- Environmental and sustainable engineering
- Computer Science – Kostadin Damevski, Ph.D., csgrad@vcu.edu
- Computer science
- Data science
- Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering – Karla Mossi, Ph.D., mnegrad@vcu.edu
- Aerospace engineering
- Mechanical and nuclear engineering
- Electrical & Computer Engineering – Yanxiao Zhao, Ph.D., ecegradinfo@vcu.edu
- Electrical and computer engineering
- Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences – Thomas Roper, Ph.D., tdroper@vcu.edu
- Pharmaceutical engineering
The College of Engineering offers several 30 credit master’s programs. A single program can be completed in an average of three semesters with full-time study. Flexible part-time study is also an option. Learn more about the application process with our list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Applicants can estimate tuition and fees using the VCU cost calculator. Admitted students determined to be Virginia residents earn an in-state tuition rate, while out-of-state and international students entering an eligible program automatically receive a distinct and highly competitive out-of-state tuition rate.
Application materials:
- Statement of intent (not required by all programs)
- Letters of recommendation (not required by all programs)
- Transcripts
- English language proficiency test scores (if required)
- Application fee
Not needed to apply:
- GRE general test scores
- Foreign credential evaluation (e.g. WES or ECE)
The College of Engineering offers accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degree pathways for all departments. Eligible students earn both degrees in a minimum of five years by taking approved graduate-level courses during the final year of their undergraduate program. Upon graduating with the bachelor’s, students then matriculate into the master’s program and the applicable graduate course credits then cross over.
Required steps:
- Current undergraduate students obtain departmental pre-approval for acceptance into the accelerated pathway. Contact your advisor to fill out a request form.
- After receiving pre-approval, submit an application for the master’s degree, choosing the term after you graduate with your bachelor’s degree (e.g., Spring B.S. graduation means applying for Fall M.S. admission). The application fee is waived after submitting, so be sure to skip paying the fee!
- As a final step, students work with their advisor to register for graduate-level courses during their final undergraduate semester(s). These courses are those they intend to double count for both degrees. Limits vary by program.
Application materials:
- Statement of intent (not required by all programs)
- Letters of recommendation (not required by all programs)
- VCU Transcripts
Not needed to apply:
- Application fee is waived after submission
- GRE general test scores
- English language proficiency test scores
VCU alumni and employees of VCU College of Engineering Corporate Partners are invited to apply for one of our master’s programs through Quick Start, an initiative that celebrates your existing connection to VCU and your commitment to the Richmond region!
Through Quick Start, eligible applicants have a streamlined application process and designated review team.
As a Quick Start applicant you will have:
- No application fee (waived after submitting a complete application)
- Reduced application material requirements
- Expedited application review and processing*
Get Started: Complete the Quick Start interest form to indicate your connection to VCU and receive more information on the application process.
*Quick Start applicants receive expedited application review for an admission decision but are not automatically granted admission. All applicants must meet admission requirements for their chosen graduate program, including English language proficiency test scores if required.
The College of Engineering offers various doctoral programs, and applicants are automatically considered for funding based on their overall application. Applicants should be aware admission is highly competitive and is typically contingent upon first identifying a faculty advisor. If admitted, a faculty advisor or program would fund your studies by way of a Graduate Assistantship (full-time students only).
To identify a potential advisor, explore college research areas and the faculty directory. Contact faculty with expertise related to your interests and ask about research assistantship opportunities. Email the respective graduate program director for help identifying a potential advisor. Learn more about the application process with our list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Application materials:
- Statement of intent
- Three letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
- GRE general test scores (not required by all programs)
- English language proficiency test scores (if required)
- Application fee
Not needed to apply:
- Foreign credential evaluation (e.g. WES or ECE)
Additional details about the application materials:
- Statement of intent (if required) should summarize motivations and specific personal and/or professional goals for pursuing a graduate-level engineering degree.
- Letters of Recommendation (if required) should be from present or former professors, or others qualified, who can evaluate your fitness to engage in graduate-level studies in your chosen engineering field.
- Official copies of transcripts are required when admitted into a program. Unofficial copies are accepted for initial review of all applications.
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores are required for select doctoral programs. GRE test scores are not required to apply to a master's program.
- Proof of English language proficiency is required for all non-native English-speaking applicants without an approved exemption. See requirements.
When to apply
Students can apply for entry into Fall (preferred) or Spring semesters. Admission is based upon recommendation of the admissions committee, with the approval of the graduate program director, department chair, and associate dean for graduate studies.
Each program has a posted application deadline, yet some may offer rolling admissions. Contact the respective graduate program director with questions.