Students in the program fulfill part of the requirement for additional classes by taking courses during their co-operative work assignments. These are generally done through distance learning or in the evenings and usually amount to about a third of the added courses. The remaining courses are taken in lieu of advance placement credits (generally earned during high school) and by sacrificing one co-op assignment in favor of a full class load.
Degree combinations available within the ACCEND program are detailed in the chart below. There are advantages to each degree combination but in general you will find -
MS - The ACCEND programs that offer an undergraduate degree in engineering along with the Master of Science in an engineering discipline will appeal to students who are interested in research and greater depth in a particular engineering field. These students often go on to PhD programs or work in fields that require more specialized knowledge. The MS ACCEND track culminates in a research experience and thesis.
MEng - The ACCEND programs that offer an undergraduate degree in engineering along with the Master of Engineering will appeal to students who are interested in greater breadth in engineering and want to focus on the practice of engineering. These students often are seeking pragmatic skills and knowledge that will allow them to improve the contribution they make to a technical organization. The MEng provides a traditional coursework based master’s and does not include a thesis component.
MBA - The ACCEND programs that offer an undergraduate degree in engineering along with the Master of Business Administration will appeal to students who want to understand both the technical side of an organization and the business aspects of the organization. Students seek this program because it increases their value to an organization and prepares them to take on a management role earlier in their careers.