MEES Answers to Degree Program Questions

Curriculum

  • How well do courses match your career and learning goals?
    Compare MEES course descriptions and your goals. The MEES curriculum integrates knowledge from a broad range of technical fields as well as project management skills. This is the only degree program in the world that focuses specifically on the technical needs of the internal combustion engine industry.
  • Is course content designed engineers with some experience
    MEES course content is specifically designed for experienced engineers, using your real-world projects.
  • How long does it take for most students to complete their degree in your specific program of interest?
    In the MEES program you take one course each fall, spring and summer. The program is set up so you complete the degree in three years even while working full-time and traveling.

The Institution

  • What is the university's reputation among employers and other engineers in your profession?
    • UW-Madison's College of Engineering is rated among the top 15 graduate engineering schools by U.S. News and World Report.
    • UW-Madison ranks third in research expenditures by U.S. public universities.
    • UW-Madison is home to the Engine Research Center, largest academic research center devoted to internal combustion engine research in the United States, and among the largest in the world.
    • UW-Madison is also home to the Powertrain Control Research Laboratory, which conducts research and trains engineers in powertrain system modeling, nonlinear engine diagnostics and powertrain control.
  • How is the specific degree program regarded in the academic and business communities?
    • The MEES curriculum is based on critical skill development needs shared throughout the industry that we identified through a series of discussions with internal combustion engine industry leaders.
    • World-leading engine employers have chosen to sponsor employees' MEES studies.
    • A recent survey by the Online University Consortium revealed that 65% of employers prefer online degrees from traditional, nationally respected universities rather than for-profit schools.
  • What is the relationship of the degree program to the home university?
    MEES is a full-fledged degree program of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Graduate School and College of Engineering. MEES meets all academic requirements of the Graduate school.

Faculty

  • Who will teach the specific courses you will be taking?
    MEES courses are taught by senior faculty and experienced professionals in the engine industry.
  • How accessible will these faculty be when you need help?
    MEES instructors are highly accessible. MEES students consistently say that they have far more interaction with MEES faculty than they have had in on-campus undergraduate or graduate programs.

Program Format

  • What is the format of courses?
    • MEES courses use a variety of formats to fully engage you with course content, the instructor and fellow students. MEES courses use your computer and the Internet as a doorway to a highly collaborative learning environment. This is radically different from the typical approach used by many online programs, which simply record and video stream on-campus courses. The MEES program design is based on the very successful Master of Engineering in Professional Practice (MEPP) degree, which has received several awards for distance learning design.
    • MEES courses are problem-based, focusing on immediate, real-world application of what you are learning. Research shows this is the most effective and satisfying approach for adult professionals.
  • How does course design facilitate meaningful interaction with faculty and with fellow students?
    • You will complete the program with a cohort of engineers over three years. This approach builds strong, supportive relationships, helping you to stay focused, motivated and meaningfully connected with peers facing the same challenges.
    • You will interact daily with instructors and fellow students using course Web sites. You will also participate in weekly Webconferences, and in group project Webconferences with fellow students.
  • What happens if you have to travel?
    MEES does not constrain your ability to travel for business or pleasure, or even to relocate during the program. You can keep up with your studies anywhere you can access an Internet-connected computer. Many MEES students travel extensively throughout the US and overseas and are able to fully participate in all coursework.
  • Who are your fellow students?
    In MEES you will take courses with other engineers from leading engine employers. Their insights, combined with yours and the instructors', create a much richer environment for learning than is typically possible at a local campus.

Student Support

  • How well does the program support students studying at a distance?
    MEES takes a very proactive approach to supporting students' study. We are firmly committed to helping all students who are admitted succeed in the program. The MEES advisor, program director, and support staff actively monitor the progress of every student and respond promptly and effectively to help you with any problems.