COURSE CURRICULUM

Across Wichita State University’s graduate portfolio, programs are designed around a common structure of admission requirements, applied learning, and flexible specialization pathways, while differing in disciplinary focus, credit distribution, and career outcomes. In STEM-oriented programs like Data Science, Mathematical Data Science, Industrial Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Engineering Management, and Forensic Biology, students typically complete around 30–34 credit hours combining core courses, electives, and a capstone experience such as a thesis, internship, project, or comprehensive exam, with strong emphasis on machine learning, analytics, systems design, or laboratory-based research depending on the field. Admissions usually require a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, a minimum GPA around 3.0 (some programs allow conditional admission), and additional materials such as statements of purpose, resumes, and recommendations; certain technical programs like ECE may require GRE scores and stronger mathematics prerequisites. Business-related and interdisciplinary degrees such as Economics and Quantitative Analysis, Human Resource Management, and Industrial Engineering Management blend analytical tools like econometrics, database systems, and optimization with management, finance, or organizational behavior, often allowing concentrations in data analytics, supply chain, or operations research. Education-focused programs like Educational Leadership, Educational Psychology, and English MA emphasize pedagogy, leadership practice, research methods, licensure preparation, or thesis/portfolio completion, often including background checks, practicum work, or field-based internships. Health and science programs such as Exercise Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Firearms, and EEPS integrate laboratory training, applied research, or fieldwork with structured core science courses and specialization tracks. Across nearly all programs, applied learning is a consistent requirement, whether through capstone projects, internships, practicum experiences, or research theses, and many programs require advisor-approved plans of study, comprehensive exams, or external certifications. Overall, Wichita State’s graduate degrees are structured to balance theoretical foundations with workforce readiness, offering multiple pathways—thesis for research depth, project or internship for applied practice, and coursework-only or portfolio options for flexible professional advancement depending on the discipline.