Appendix A. Degree Requirements

Editor's Note: The following degree requirements are excerpted from the 2006 Academic Catalog.

Graduate School of Business and Public Policy

Master of Business Administration

Requirements for the degree Master of Business Administration are met by:

  1. Completion of all required courses in the business core.
  2. Completion of all required courses in the mission-related core.
  3. Completion of an approved sequence of courses in a concentration area with a minimum of 24 graduate level credit hours.
  4. Completion (excluding by validation) of a minimum of 58 credit hours of graduate-level courses, at least 22 of which are at the 4000 level.
  5. Completion of an acceptable application project or thesis.
  6. Approval of the candidate's program by the Dean, Graduate School of Business and Public Policy.

Requirements for the degree Master of Business Administration (MBA) are met en route to satisfying the Educational Skills Requirements.

Executive Master of Business Administration

Completion of this program results in an Executive Master of Business Administration degree. Requirements for the degree are met by completing:

37 hours of core EMBA courses

17 hours of an approved sequence of BPP electives

Remaining a student in "good academic standing" as defined by NPS criteria

The 17 hours of approved electives can be tailored to meet student sponsor needs.

Executive Master of Management

Completion of this program results in the degree Master of Executive Management. Requirements for the degree are met by completing

Master of Science in Management

  1. Completion or validation of the Management Fundamentals program, which consists of a total of 32-quarter-hours of 2000 and 3000 level courses, including a minimum of the following hours by discipline:

    Accounting and Financial Management

    (6)

    Economics

    (6)

    Organization and Management

    (6)

    Quantitative Methods

    (8)

  2. In addition to the above, completion of a minimum of 48 hours of graduate-level courses, at least 12 hours of which are at the 4000 level.
  3. Completion of an approved sequence of courses in the student's area of concentration.
  4. Completion of an acceptable thesis.
  5. Approval of the candidate's program by the Dean, GSBPP

Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development

The degree Master of Science in Human Resource Development requires

Master of Science in Contract Management

The degree of Master of Science in Contract Management requires:

Master of Science in Program Management:

The degree of Master of Science in Program Management requires:

Acquisitions Management Graduate Certificate

Requirements for the graduate certificate in program management are met by successful completion of all seven courses. Graduate credit is obtained by maintenance of a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Should a graduate of the Advanced Acquisition Program matriculate into the Master of Business Administration degree program in the Systems Acquisition Management (816) curriculum, or the Master of Science in Program Management (836), graduate credit for AAP courses will be applied to the curricula as appropriate.

Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science

Department of Applied Mathematics

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics

In order to enter a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, a student must be qualified by background for a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in mathematics or with a strong mathematical orientation in physical science or engineering.

A program that leads to the degree Master of Science in Applied Mathematics for a student who has met the entrance criteria must contain a minimum of 45-quarter-hours of graduate-level courses with a minimum QPR of 3.0, subject to the following conditions:

The program must be approved by the Chairman of the Department of Mathematics and the Academic Associate.

  1. The program must include at least fifteen hours at the 4000 level, with at least twelve hours in 4000 level mathematics courses.
  2. The program must contain at least nine hours in an approved sequence of application courses from within the Applied Mathematics Department, or outside the department.
  3. An acceptable thesis is normally required and is credited as the equivalent of nine hours of 3000 level mathematics courses. A student receiving a dual masters and writing a thesis in another department may petition the Chairman of the Applied Mathematics Department to substitute 2 or 3 approved courses for the thesis. The thesis, however, must contain a strong mathematical content.
  4. Courses in the following areas are specifically required in any program; some of these courses may be used to satisfy part (or all) of the mathematics sequence requirement in item (3) above:

In addition to the core courses required in item (3), the program allows the student to select an applied subspecialty option from the following list: applied mathematics, numerical analysis and computation, discrete mathematics, operations research, theoretical mathematics, and intelligence.

Doctor of Philosophy

The Department of Applied Mathematics offers the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Mathematics. Areas of specialization will be determined by the department on a case by case basis. Requirements for the degree include course work followed by an examination in both major and minor fields of study, and research culminating in an approved dissertation. It may be possible for the dissertation research to be conducted off-campus in the candidate's sponsoring organization.

Entrance into the program will ordinarily require a master's degree, although exceptionally well-prepared students with a bachelor's degree in mathematics may be admitted. A preliminary examination may be required to show evidence of acceptability as a doctoral student. Prospective students should contact the Chairman of the Applied Mathematics Department or the Academic Associate for further guidance.

Certificate Program (Mathematics of Secure Communication)

The Mathematics of Secure Communication certificate program comprises four courses (MA3025, MA3560, MA4560, and MA4570), designated below by an asterisk. Upon successful completion of the coursework, students will be awarded a certificate of accomplishment in keeping with standard practices of the Naval Postgraduate School. The purpose of this program is to provide Mathematics education to Naval officers and DoD civilians in the broad area of Cryptography and Secure Communications.

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

The department offers programs leading to the Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering (MSEE), the Master of Science in Engineering Science with a major in Electrical Engineering [MSES (EE)], the degree of Electrical Engineer (EE) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). A student is able to earn an academic degree listed above while enrolled in Electronic Systems Engineering (Curriculum 590), Electrical Engineering (Curriculum 590), Space Systems Engineering (Curriculum 591), Combat Systems Science & Technology (Curriculum 533), and Undersea Warfare (Curriculum 525). The department typically graduates over 40 MSEE degree candidates, 1 EE degree recipient and 3 Ph.D.s per year.

A Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or its equivalent is required. Credits earned at the Naval Postgraduate School and credits from the validation of appropriate courses at other institutions are combined to achieve the degree equivalence.

To complete the course requirements for the master's degree, a student needs a minimum of 52 credit hours of graduate level work. There must be a minimum of 36 credits in the course sequence 3000 - 4999 of which at least 30 credits must be in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The remainder of these 36 credits must be in engineering, mathematics, physical science, and/or computer science. Specific courses may be required by the department and at least four courses that total a minimum of 12 credits, must be in the course sequence 4000 - 4999.

An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits must be presented to, and approved by, the department.

Students with acceptable academic backgrounds may enter a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Engineering Science with an emphasis in Electrical Engineering [MSES (EE) degree]. The program of each student seeking this degree must contain at least 52 credit hours of graduate level work including 36 credit hours in the course sequence 3000 - 4000. Of these 36 course credits, at least 20 must be in Electrical and Computer Engineering, and an additional 12 must be in engineering, mathematics, physical science and/or computer science. At least 12 of the 36 must be in the course sequence 4000-4999. All students must submit an acceptable thesis of at least 16 credit hours. This program provides depth and diversity through specially arranged course sequences to meet the needs of the Navy and the interests of the individual. The department Chairman's approval is required for all programs leading to this degree.

Students with strong academic backgrounds may enter a program leading to the Degree of Electrical Engineer.

A minimum of 96 total graduate credits is required for the award of the engineer's degree of which at least 24 must be in accepted thesis research and at least 54 credits must be in Electrical and Computer Engineering courses.

At least 36 of the total hours are to be in courses in the sequence 4000 - 4999. Approval of all programs must be obtained from the Chairman, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

The Total Ship Systems Engineering Program is an interdisciplinary, systems engineering and design-oriented program available to students enrolled in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering or Combat Systems programs. The program objective is to provide a broad-based, design-oriented education focusing on the warship as a total engineering system. The eight-course sequence of electives introduces the student to the integration procedures and tools used to develop highly complex systems such as Navy ships. The program culminates in a team-performed design of a Navy ship, with students from all three curricula as team members. Students enrolled in programs leading to the Engineer Degree are also eligible for participation. Entry requirements are a baccalaureate degree in an engineering discipline with a demonstrated capability to perform satisfactorily at the graduate level. The appropriate degree thesis requirements must be met, but theses that may address system design issues are welcome.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has an active program leading to the degree Doctor of Philosophy. Joint programs with other departments are possible. A noteworthy feature of these programs is that the student's research may be conducted away from the Naval Postgraduate School in a cooperating laboratory or other installation of the Federal Government. The degree requirements are as outlined under the general school requirements for the doctor's degree.

Engineering Acoustics Academic Committee

Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics

The degree Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics will be awarded as an interdisciplinary program in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. A student pursuing a program leading to a Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics must have completed work which would qualify him/her for a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or physical science. Credit requirements for the Master of Science degree must be met by courses in addition to those used to satisfy this requirement.
  2. The Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics requires a minimum of 36 graduate credit quarter-hours of course work; at least 20 graduate quarter-hours must be taken in acoustics and its applications. Three 4000 level courses must be included from any three of the following six areas: wave propagation; transducer theory and design; noise, shock, and vibration control; sonar systems; signal processing; and communications. In addition, these courses must include at least one from each of the sponsoring disciplines (physics and electrical engineering).
  3. An acceptable thesis must be completed.

Approval of each program by the Chair of the Engineering Acoustics Academic Committee must be obtained prior to reaching the mid-point of the degree program.

Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Engineering

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Physics jointly sponsor an interdisciplinary program in Engineering Acoustics leading to either the degree Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Engineering. Areas of special strength in the departments are physical acoustics, underwater acoustics, acoustic signal processing, and acoustic communications. A noteworthy feature of this program is that a portion of the student's research may be conducted away from the Naval Postgraduate School at a cooperating laboratory or other Federal Government installation. The degree requirements and examinations are as outlined under the general school requirements for the doctor's degree. In addition to the school requirements, the departments require a preliminary examination to show evidence of acceptability as a doctoral student.

Department of Mechanical and Astronautical Engineering

The following degrees are available. Consistent with NPS Academic Policy, with the exception of the Engineer's or Doctoral degrees, all degree requirements must be satisfied independently. A student is able to earn an academic degree listed below while enrolled in Mechanical and Astronautical Engineering (Curriculum 570), Reactors/Mechanical Engineering DL (Curriculum 571), Space Systems Engineering (Curriculum 591), and Combat Systems Science & Technology (Curriculum 533).

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

A candidate shall have completed work equivalent to the requirements of this department for the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Candidates who have not majored in mechanical engineering, or who have experienced significant lapses in continuity with previous academic work, will initially take undergraduate courses in mechanical engineering and mathematics to fulfill these requirements in preparation for their graduate program.

The Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: There must be a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. Of the 32 quarter-hours at least 24 quarter-hours must be in courses offered by the MAE Department.

A student seeking the Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must also demonstrate competence at the advanced level in at least one of the available disciplines of Mechanical Engineering. These disciplines are the thermal-fluid sciences; solid mechanics, shock and vibration; dynamic systems and control; system design; and materials science. This may be accomplished by completing at least eight quarter-hours of the 4000 level credits by courses in this department and a thesis in one of these discipline areas.

An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits is also required for the Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. An acceptable thesis for the degree of Mechanical Engineer may also meet the thesis requirement of the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree. The student's thesis advisor, the Academic Associate, the Program Officer and the Department Chairman must approve the study program and the thesis topic.

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

The Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: There must be a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. Of the 32 quarter-hours at least 24 quarter-hours must be in courses offered by the MAE Department.

A student seeking the Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering must demonstrate knowledge of orbital mechanics, space environment, attitude determination, guidance and control, telecommunications, space structures, spacecraft/rocket propulsion, and spacecraft design. The student must also demonstrate competence at the advanced level in one of the above disciplines of Astronautical Engineering. This may be accomplished by completing at least eight quarter-hours of the 4000 level credits by courses in this department and a thesis in one of these discipline areas.

An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits is also required for the Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering. An acceptable thesis for the degree of Astronautical Engineer may also meet the thesis requirement of the Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering degree. The student's thesis advisor, the Academic Associate, the Program Officer and the Department Chairman must approve the study program and the thesis topic.

Master of Science in Engineering Science (Mechanical Engineering)

Candidates with acceptable academic background may enter a program leading to the degree of Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Mechanical Engineering). Candidates who have not majored in mechanical engineering or closely related subject areas, or who have experienced significant lapses in continuity with previous academic work, will initially take undergraduate courses in mechanical engineering and mathematics to prepare for their graduate program.

The Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Mechanical Engineering) degree requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: there must be a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. Of the 32 quarter-hours at least 24 quarter-hours must be in courses offered by the MAE Department.

A student seeking the Master of Science in Engineering Science must also demonstrate competence at the advanced level in at least one of the available disciplines of Mechanical Engineering. These disciplines are the thermal-fluid sciences; solid mechanics, shock and vibration; dynamic systems and control; system design; and materials science. This may be accomplished by completing at least eight quarter-hours of the 4000 level credits by courses in this department and a thesis in one of these discipline areas.

An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits is also required for the Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Mechanical Engineering) degree. The student's thesis advisor, the Academic Associate, the Program Officer and the Department Chairman must approve the study program and the thesis topic.

Under special circumstances as approved by Academic Associate, Program Officer and the Department Chair, students may take four additional courses in lieu of a thesis. Those four additional courses should be at least 3000 and 4000 level courses offered by the MAE Department, and among them at least 2 courses should be at the 4000 level.

Entrance into the 571 Reactors/Mechanical Engineering Curriculum program, leading to the degree Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Mechanical Engineering), is restricted to individuals who have successfully completed the Bettis Reactor Engineering School (BRES) and who have an academic profile code (APC) of 121 or better. All entrants must be nominated for the program by the designated program coordinator and primary consultant for Naval Reactors (SEA-08).

This program includes the following BRES courses: BRES 200 Mathematics; BRES 340 Applied Structural Mechanics; BRES 350 Heat Transfer and Fluid Flows; BRES 360 Reactor Dynamics, Control and Safeguards. The foregoing are equivalent to 16 credit hours of ME3XXX level courses. In addition, the BRES 370 Reactor and Power Plant Design Project and report must be successfully completed. In addition, the program must include 20 hours of graduate level (ME4XXX) level NPS courses in a program approved by the Department Chairman.

Master of Science in Engineering Science (Astronautical Engineering)

Candidates with acceptable academic background may enter a program leading to the degree of Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Astronautical Engineering). Candidates who have not majored in astronautical engineering or closely related subject areas, or who have experienced significant lapses in continuity with previous academic work, will initially take undergraduate courses in astronautical engineering and mathematics to prepare for their graduate program.

The Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Astronautical Engineering) degree requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: there must be a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. Of the 32 quarter-hours at least 24 quarter-hours must be in courses offered by the MAE Department.

A student seeking the Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering must demonstrate knowledge of orbital mechanics, space environment, attitude determination, guidance and control, telecommunications, space structures, spacecraft/rocket propulsion, and spacecraft design. The student must also demonstrate competence at the advanced level in one of the above disciplines of Astronautical Engineering. This may be accomplished by completing at least eight quarter-hours of the 4000 level credits by courses in this department and a thesis in one of these discipline areas.

An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits is also required for the Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Astronautical Engineering) degree. The student's thesis advisor, the Academic Associate, the Program Officer and the Department Chairman must approve the study program and the thesis topic.

Master of Science in Engineering Science (Materials Science and Engineering)

Students with acceptable backgrounds in science or engineering may enter a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Engineering Science (with major in Materials Science and Engineering). The candidate must take all courses in a curriculum approved by the Chairman of the MAE Department and the faculty member designated to represent the Materials program. At a minimum, the approved curriculum must satisfy the requirements listed below.

The program must include at least 48 quarter-hours of graduate work in Materials Science, consisting of 32 credit hours in graduate level courses and 16 credit hours of thesis work. Of the 32 course credit hours, at least 16 must be at the 4000 level and at least 8 quarter-hours of graduate credit must be earned outside of Materials Science and Engineering.

An acceptable thesis is required for the Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering degree. The thesis advisor, the Academic Associate, the Program Officer and the Department Chairman must approve the study program and the thesis topic.

Mechanical Engineer

A graduate student with a superior academic record (as may be demonstrated by a graduate QPR of 3.70 or better) may apply to enter a program leading to the degree Mechanical Engineer. A candidate must prepare his or her application and route it through the Program Officer to the Department Chairman for decision. Typically, the selection process occurs after completion of the candidate's first year of residence.

A candidate must take all courses in a curriculum approved by the Chairman of the MAE Department. At a minimum, the approved curriculum must satisfy the requirements stated in the following paragraphs.

The Mechanical Engineer degree requires at least 64 quarter-hours of graduate level credits in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, at least 32 of which must be at the 4000 level. At least 12 quarter-hours of graduate level credits must be earned outside of the MAE Department. At least one advanced Mathematics course should normally be included in these 12 quarter-hours.

An acceptable thesis of 28 credit hours is required for the Mechanical Engineer degree. Approval of the thesis advisor and program must be obtained from the Chairman of the MAE Department.

Astronautical Engineer

A graduate student with a superior academic record (as may be demonstrated by a graduate QPR of 3.70 or better) may apply to enter a program leading to the degree Astronautical Engineer. A candidate must prepare his or her application and route it through the Program Officer to the Department Chairman for decision. Typically, the selection process occurs after completion of the candidate's first year of residence.

A candidate must take all courses in a curriculum approved by the Chairman of the MAE Department. At a minimum, the approved curriculum must satisfy the requirements stated in the following paragraphs.

The Astronautical Engineer degree requires at least 64 quarter-hours of graduate level credits in Astronautical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, at least 32 of which must be at the 4000 level. At least 12 quarter-hours of graduate level credits must be earned outside of the MAE Department. At least one advanced Mathematics course should normally be included in these 12 quarter-hours.

An acceptable thesis of 28 credit hours is required for the Astronautical Engineer degree. Approval of the thesis advisor and program must be obtained from the Chairman of the MAE Department.

Total Ship Systems Engineering Program

The Total Ship Systems Engineering Program is an interdisciplinary, systems engineering and design-oriented program available to students enrolled in Mechanical and Astronautical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering or Combat Systems programs. The program objective is to provide a broad-based, design-oriented education focusing on the warship as a total engineering system. The sequence of electives introduces the student to the integration procedures and tools used to develop highly complex systems such as Navy ships. The program culminates in a team-performed design of a Navy ship, with students from all three curricula as team members. Students enrolled in programs leading to the Engineer Degree are also eligible for participation. Entry requirements are a baccalaureate degree in an engineering discipline with a demonstrated capability to perform satisfactorily at the graduate level. The appropriate degree thesis requirements must be met, but theses that address system design issues are welcome.

Missile Systems Engineering

The Missile Systems Engineering Track is an option can be perused within the framework of the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) or Master of Science in Engineering Science degree programs. This program is a regular part of the TEMASEK program, but is also open to DoD contractors. The program provides a solid engineering foundation in analysis and design techniques involved in developing offensive and defensive missile systems.

This option consists of a four-course sequence of special missile courses embedded in the normal MSME or MSES (ME) degree program of courses and a thesis.

The courses for this program are:

  1. ME3205 Missile Aerodynamics (4-1) in Winter.
  2. ME4703 Missile Flight Dynamics and Control (4-1) in Spring.
  3. AE4452 Advanced Missile Propulsion (4-1) in Summer.
  4. ME4704 Missile Design (3-2) in Fall.

NPS works with industry, primarily with Raytheon Missile Systems Division in Tucson, AZ, to create this unique blend of high-quality academic courses and "real word" systems engineering focus in missile design and manufacturing leads to a program of unique military relevance.

Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Engineering

Students who have a superior academic record may request entrance into the doctoral program. All applicants will be screened by the departmental doctoral committee for admission into the program. The department also accepts officer students selected in the Navy-wide doctoral study program, qualified international officers, and civilian students selected from the employees of the United States Federal Government.

An applicant to the doctoral program who is not already at NPS should submit transcripts of previous academic and professional work, plus results of a current Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test (if available), to the Director of Admissions, Code 01C3, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California 93943-5100.

Every applicant who is accepted for the doctoral program will initially be enrolled in the Mechanical and Astronautical Engineering Program under a special option which satisfies the broad departmental requirements for the Engineer's degree, which includes research work. As soon as feasible, the student must identify a faculty advisor to supervise research and to help formulate a plan for advanced study. As early as practicable thereafter, a doctoral committee shall be appointed to oversee that student's individual doctoral program as provided in the school-wide requirements for the doctor's degree. Joint programs with other departments are possible.

A noteworthy feature of the program leading to the Doctor of Engineering degree is that the student's research may be conducted away from the Naval Postgraduate School in a cooperating laboratory or other installations of the Federal Government. The degree requirements are as outlined in the general school requirements for the doctor's degree (see Academic Policy manual, Section 5.4 (h.

Department of Meteorology

A student is able to earn an academic degree listed below while enrolled in Meteorology (Curriculum 372) and METOC (Curriculum 373).

Master of Science in Meteorology

Entrance to a program leading to a Master of Science degree in Meteorology requires a baccalaureate degree with completion of mathematics through differential and integral calculus and a minimum of one year of college physics.

The degree Master of Science in Meteorology requires completion of:

  1. Necessary prerequisite courses in mathematics (through partial differential equations) and meteorology,
  2. The sequence of core courses in the fields of dynamical, numerical, physical and synoptic meteorology,
  3. An approved selection of graduate elective courses,
  4. An acceptable thesis.

The total number of quarter-hours in (2) and (3) above must be at least 36. These 36 hours must include 18 quarter-hours at the 4000 level in courses other than directed study.

Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

Direct entrance to a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography requires a baccalaureate degree in one of the physical sciences, mathematics or engineering. This normally permits the validation of a number of required undergraduate courses such as physics, differential equations, linear algebra, vector analysis, and various courses in meteorology and/or oceanography which are prerequisites to the graduate program. These prerequisites may be taken at the Naval Postgraduate School; however, in that event the program may be lengthened by one or more quarters.

The degree of Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography requires completion of:

  1. Necessary prerequisite courses in mathematics (through partial differential equations), meteorology, and physical oceanography,
  2. The sequence of core courses in the fields of dynamical, numerical, physical and synoptic meteorology and oceanography,
  3. An approved selection of graduate elective courses in meteorology and oceanography,
  4. A significant educational experience at sea on a research vessel.
  5. An acceptable thesis on a topic approved by the department.

The total number of quarter-hours in (2) and (3) above must be at least 48. These 48 hours must include 20 hours at the 4000 level in courses other than directed study and they should show an approximate balance between the disciplines of meteorology and oceanography.

Dual Degree in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

The Meteorology and Oceanography Departments have adopted a policy to not recommend the award of dual Master's degrees in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography.

Doctor of Philosophy

The Ph.D. program is offered in the Department of Meteorology in the following areas of study: numerical weather prediction, geophysical fluid dynamics, boundary-layer meteorology, analysis of atmospheric systems and tropical meteorology.

The requirements for the degree are grouped into three categories: course work, research in conjunction with an approved dissertation and examination in both the major and, if elected, a minor field. The minor field is usually in physical oceanography, mathematics or physics.

The Department of Meteorology also may require a preliminary examination to show evidence of acceptability as a doctoral student.

Prospective students should consult with the Chairman of the Department of Meteorology for further guidance regarding doctoral programs.

Department of Oceanography

A student is able to earn an academic degree listed below while enrolled in METOC (Curriculum 373), Operational Oceanography (Curriculum 374), Oceanography (Curriculum 440), and Undersea Warfare (Curriculum 525).

Master of Science in Physical Oceanography

Entrance to a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Physical Oceanography requires a baccalaureate degree. Minimal requirements include mathematics through differential and integral calculus and one year of calculus-based physics.

The degree Master of Science in Physical Oceanography requires:

  1. Completion of at least eight physical oceanography graduate courses with at least four courses in the OC4000 series. The entire sequence of courses selected must be approved by the Department of Oceanography. Significant educational experience at sea on a research vessel is required for the degree. (OC3570 satisfies this requirement).
  2. Completion of an acceptable thesis on a topic approved by the Department of Oceanography.

Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

Direct entrance to a program leading to the degree Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography requires a baccalaureate degree in one of the physical sciences, mathematics, or engineering. This normally permits the validation of a number of required undergraduate courses such as physics, differential equations, linear algebra, vector analysis and various courses in meteorology and/or oceanography, which are prerequisites to the graduate program. These prerequisites may be taken at the Naval Postgraduate School; however, in that event the program may be lengthened by one or more quarters.

The degree Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography requires:

  1. Necessary prerequisite courses in mathematics (through partial differential equations), meteorology and physical oceanography.
  2. The sequence of core courses in meteorology and oceanography in the fields of dynamical, numerical and physical and synoptic meteorology and oceanography.
  3. An approved selection of graduate elective courses in oceanography and meteorology.
  4. A significant educational experience at sea on a research vessel.
  5. An acceptable thesis on a topic approved by either department.

The total number of quarter-hours in (2) and (3) above must be at least 48. These 48 hours must include 20 hours at the 4000 level in courses other than directed study and they should show an approximate balance between the disciplines of Meteorology and Physical Oceanography.

Dual Degree in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

The Meteorology and Oceanography Departments have adopted a policy to not recommend its award of dual Master's degrees in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

Doctor of Philosophy

Department of Oceanography admission requirements for the degree Doctor of Philosophy include:

A bachelor's degree with a high QPR or a highly successful first graduate year in a Master's program, with clear evidence of research ability.

A master's degree may be required before admission to candidacy.

The Ph.D. Program is in Physical Oceanography, including areas of study in ocean circulation theory, air-sea interaction, ocean acoustics, nearshore, and coastal/littoral oceanography among others. An applicant to the Ph.D. program who is not already at NPS should submit transcripts of previous academic and professional work, plus results of a current Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test, to the Director of Admissions, Code 01C3, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California 93943-5100.

A student is able to earn an academic degree listed below while enrolled in Combat Systems Science & Technology (Curriculum 533), and Space Systems Engineering (Curriculum 591).

Department of Physics

Master of Science in Physics

A candidate for the degree Master of Science in Physics must complete satisfactorily a program of study which includes a minimum of 30 quarter-hours of physics courses (not including thesis) distributed among courses at the graduate (3000 or 4000) level; of these 30 hours at least 15 hours must be at the 4000 level. Upon approval of the Chairman of the Physics Department, a maximum of 4 hours of courses taken in another department may be applied toward satisfying the above requirements. In lieu of the preceding requirements, students who are qualified to pursue graduate courses in physics when they arrive at the Naval Postgraduate School may complete a minimum of 20 hours entirely of 4000 level physics courses. In addition, all students must satisfy the general Postgraduate School minimum requirements for the master's degree and present an acceptable thesis advised by a member of the Physics Department.

The following specific course requirements (or equivalent) must be successfully completed for a student to earn the degree Master of Science in Physics:

1.

PH3152:

Analytical Mechanics

 

PH3352:

Electromagnetic Waves

 

PH3991:

Theoretical Physics

 

PH3782:

Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics.

 

PH4353:

Topics in Advanced Electricity and Magnetism

 

PH4656:

Quantum Mechanics

2.

In addition to the above, a graduate sequence containing at least two physics courses, at least one of which must be at the 4000 level.

All programs leading to the degree Master of Science in Physics must be approved by the Chairman of the Department of Physics.

Master of Science in Applied Physics

To be awarded the degree Master of Science in Applied Physics, a student must complete a program which includes at least 20 quarter-hours of Physics courses at the graduate level, including 12 at the 4000 level. The total graduate hours in Physics, Mathematics, and Engineering must be at least 32 including 20 at the 4000 level.

The program must include at least one graduate level course in each of the following areas: mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum physics. Students will demonstrate additional breadth by taking at least one 4000-level physics course outside their concentration area.

In addition to the above required courses, a student's program must include an area of concentration containing a four-course sequence of graduate level courses, at least two at the 4000 level, in an area related to applied physics and approved by the Chairman of the Department of Physics. A list of courses and concentrations meeting the above requirements is available from the Chairman of the Physics Department.

All programs leading to the degree Master of Science in Applied Physics must satisfy the general Postgraduate School requirements for the Master's degree, must include a thesis advised or co-advised by a member of the Physics Department, and must be approved by the Chairman of the Department of Physics.

Master of Science in Combat Systems Technology

A candidate for the degree Master of Science in Combat Systems Technology must complete satisfactorily a program of study that includes a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of graduate work in Physics, Mathematics, and Engineering with at least 18 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. Included in these hours must be at least 20 quarter-hours of graduate-level physics including 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level.

The program must include two approved sequences of courses related to combat systems technology. Each sequence must consist of at least four graduate level courses with at least two courses at the 4000 level. A list of approved sequences is available from the Chairperson of the Department of Physics.

All programs leading to the degree Master of Science in Combat Systems Technology must satisfy the general Postgraduate School requirements for the Master's degree, must include a thesis advised or co-advised by a member of the Physics Department, and must be approved by the Chairperson of the Physics Department.

Doctor of Philosophy

The Department of Physics offers the Ph.D. degree in several areas of specialization which currently include acoustics, electro-optics, free electron lasers, space physics, and theoretical physics.

Requirements for the degree may be grouped into three categories: courses, dissertation research, and examinations.

The required examinations are outlined under the general school requirements for the Ph.D. In particular, the Department requires a preliminary examination to show evidence of acceptability as a doctoral student. This examination may be taken before or after commencement of graduate studies at NPS.

The department offers two options for the Ph.D.; major in Physics or major in Applied Physics. For the major in Physics, a minimum of 40 credit hours of physics courses at the 4000 level is required. The major in Applied Physics also requires 40 credit hours of 4000 level courses, but a portion of these hours may be taken in other departments in technical subjects related to physics.

A more detailed description of departmental requirements for the Ph.D. is contained in the booklet "Doctoral Study in Physics or in Applied Physics at the Naval Postgraduate School" available from the Academic Associate.

An applicant to the Ph.D. program who is not already a student at NPS should submit transcripts of previous academic and professional work, plus results of a current Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test, to the Director of Admissions, Code 01C3, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California 93943-5100.

Total Ship Systems Engineering Program

The Total Ship Systems Engineering Program is an interdisciplinary, systems engineering and design-oriented program available to students enrolled in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering or Combat Systems programs. The program objective is to provide a broad-based, design-oriented education focusing on the warship as a total engineering system. The eight-course sequence of electives introduces the student to the integration procedures and tools used to develop highly complex systems such as Navy ships. The program culminates in a team-performed design of a Navy ship, with students from all three curricula as team members. Students enrolled in programs leading to the Engineer Degree are also eligible for participation. Entry requirements are a baccalaureate degree in an engineering discipline with a demonstrated capability to perform satisfactorily at the graduate level. The appropriate degree thesis requirements must be met, but theses that may address system design issues are welcome.

Undersea Warfare

This interdisciplinary program divides naturally into five major academic areas, allowing the student to specialize in the area of choice. Specialization options within the core interdisciplinary program offer the opportunity to satisfy degree requirements for the various degrees, depending upon academic qualifications, the specialization sequence selected, and the thesis. A student can earn one of the following degrees in the Undersea Warfare (Curriculum 525/526): Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics, Electrical Engineering, Physical Oceanography, and Applied Science. Required classes vary by degree.

Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics

The degree Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics will be awarded as an interdisciplinary program in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. A student pursuing a program leading to a Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics must have completed work which would qualify him/her for a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or physical science. Credit requirements for the Master of Science degree must be met by courses in addition to those used to satisfy this requirement.
  2. The Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics requires a minimum of 36 graduate credit quarter-hours of course work; at least 20 graduate quarter-hours must be taken in acoustics and its applications. Three 4000 level courses must be included from any three of the following six areas: wave propagation; transducer theory and design; noise, shock, and vibration control; sonar systems; signal processing; and communications. In addition, these courses must include at least one from each of the sponsoring disciplines (physics and electrical engineering).
  3. An acceptable thesis must be completed.

Approval of each program by the Engineering Acoustics Academic Committee must be obtained prior to reaching the mid-point of the degree program.

Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Engineering

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Physics jointly sponsor an interdisciplinary program in Engineering Acoustics leading to either the degree Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Engineering. Areas of special strength in the departments are physical acoustics, underwater acoustics and acoustic signal processing. A noteworthy feature of this program is that a portion of the student's research may be conducted away from the Naval Postgraduate School at a cooperating laboratory or other Federal Government installation. The degree requirements and examinations are as outlined under the general school requirements for the doctor's degree. In addition to the school requirements, the departments require a preliminary examination to show evidence of acceptability as a doctoral student

Master of Science in Physical Oceanography

(with emphasis on the prediction of the littoral battlespace environment, ocean acoustics and environmental effects on sonar performance)

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering

(with emphasis on communications or signal processing)

Master of Science in Operations Research

(with emphasis on tactical applications and decision analysis)

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

(with emphasis on autonomous systems)

Master of Science in Engineering Science

(with emphasis on autonomous systems)

Master of Science in Applied Science

Students who have limited time for degree completion or whose technical backgrounds are weak may choose to pursue a Master of Science in Applied Science (Signal Processing), (Physical Oceanography), (Acoustics), or (Operations Research) degree.

Space Systems Academic Group

Master of Science in Space Systems Operations

The Space Systems Operations students are awarded the degree Master of Science in Space Systems Operations. A minimum of 45 quarter-hours of graduate level work is required of which at least 15 hours must be at the 4000 level. Graduate courses in at least four different academic disciplines must be included and in two disciplines, a course at the 4000 level must be included. There is also a requirement of three courses constituting advanced study in an area of specialization and an experience tour. Each student is required to write a thesis that is space oriented. The Chairman of the Space Systems Academic Group must approve all study programs.

Space Systems Engineering

The Space Systems Engineering students earn a Master's degree in one of the following academic areas: Astronautical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics. Refer to the degree requirements in the associated departments.

Space Systems Graduate Certificate Requirements

Requirements for the certificate in program management are met by successful completion of all four courses. Credit is obtained by maintenance of a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale

Department of Systems Engineering

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

A candidate shall have completed work equivalent to the requirements of this department for the Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline. Candidates who have not majored in engineering, or who have experienced significant lapses in continuity with previous academic work, may initially take undergraduate courses in engineering and mathematics to fulfill these requirements in preparation for their graduate program.

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

To be considered for this degree a student must enter the curriculum with an ABET accreditable engineering BS degree or establish equivalency with an ABET degree, and complete all the requirements of curriculum #311

This degree requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: there must be a minimum of 36 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 16 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. The course work must include a four course core consisting of one course each in systems engineering methods, engineering project management, systems assessment, and systems suitability. Five more courses must be selected from an approved list consisting of additional systems engineering topics.

The candidate must complete a 12 hour -equivalent team systems engineering project. This degree is offered both in residence and non-residence. The non-resident programs are described in detail at http://www.nps.edu/dl/NPSO/index.html.

Master of Science in Engineering Science

Students who enter without an ABET accreditable engineering BS degree and cannot establish equivalency, and who complete all the requirements of curriculum #311, will earn a Master of Science in Engineering Science Degree.

Master of Science in Product Development

Candidates do not require an undergraduate engineering background for this degree.

The Master of Science degree in Product Development requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work.

The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: there must be a minimum of 36 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 16 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. The course work must include a four course core in systems engineering methods, Five more courses must be selected from an approved list consisting of additional systems engineering topics.

The candidate must complete an approved thesis.

Master of Science in Systems Engineering Management

To be considered for this degree a student must enter the curriculum with an ABET accreditable engineering BS degree or establish equivalency with an ABET degree, complete all the requirements of curriculum #721, and have approval of their program by the Chair, Department of Systems Engineering

Candidates do not require an undergraduate engineering background for this degree.

The Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering Management requires a minimum of 48 quarter-hours of graduate level work.

The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must satisfy the following requirements: there must be a minimum of 36 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 16 quarter-hours at the 4000 level. The course work must include a four course core consisting of one course each in systems engineering methods, project management, risk management, and operations analysis. Five more courses must be selected from an approved list consisting of additional systems engineering topics.

The candidate must complete an approved thesis.

Undersea Warfare Academic Committee

This interdisciplinary program divides naturally into five major academic areas, allowing the student to specialize in the area of choice. Specialization options within the core interdisciplinary program offer the opportunity to satisfy degree requirements for the various degrees, depending upon academic qualifications, the specialization sequence selected, and the thesis. Students typically earn their degree in one of the following areas: Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics, Electrical Engineering-Signal Processing, Physical Oceanography, Operations Research, or Mechanical Engineering-Unmanned Systems. Required classes vary by degree.

Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics

Master of Science in Physical Oceanography

(with emphasis on the prediction of the littoral battlespace environment, ocean acoustics and environmental effects on sonar performance)

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering

(with emphasis on communications or signal processing)

Master of Science in Operations Research

(with emphasis on tactical applications and decision analysis)

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

(with emphasis on autonomous systems)

Master of Science in Engineering Science

(with emphasis on autonomous systems)

Master of Science in Applied Science

Students who have limited time for degree completion or whose technical backgrounds are weak may choose to pursue a Master of Science in Applied Science (Signal Processing), (Physical Oceanography), (Acoustics), or (Operations Research) degree

Certificate Program (Anti-Submarine Warfare)

The Anti-Submarine Warfare Certificate program comprises four courses (OC2930, EC2450, OS3680, and PH2401). Upon successful completion of the coursework, students will be awarded a certificate of accomplishment in keeping with standard practices of the Naval Postgraduate School.

The Anti-Submarine Warfare Certificate program supports Navy ASW needs and complements existing ASW training by providing cross-disciplinary science and engineering education at the graduate level for the four primary technical disciplines involved.

Since completion of the distance-learning ASW Certificate introduces students to each of the four disciplines in USW and completes the first quarter, it is an excellent way for students to decide on their area of interest. Arriving at NPS for a master's degree with an already-completed ASW certificate can either reduce on-board tour duration or increase thesis-research time at NPS.

Graduate School of Operational and Information Sciences

Department of Computer Science

Master of Science in Computing Technology

The Master of Science in Computing Technology program is awarded after the satisfactory completion of a program, approved by the Chairman, Computer Science Department, which satisfies, as a minimum, the following degree requirements:

At least 40 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which at least 12 quarter-hours must be at the 4000 level.

Completion of an approved sequence of courses constituting specialization in an area of computing technology.

Completion of a capstone paper.

Master of Science in Computer Science

The degree of Master of Science in Computer Science is awarded after the satisfactory completion of a program, approved by the Chairman, Computer Science Department, which satisfies, as a minimum, the following degree requirements:

At least 40 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which at least 12-quarter-hours must be at the 4000 level.

At least 28 of the 40 graduate-level credit hours listed above must be CS/MOVES/SW courses.

Completion of an approved sequence of courses constituting specialization in an area of Computer Science. Completion of an acceptable thesis in addition to the 40-quarter-hours of course work.

Requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Computer Science are met as a milestone en route to satisfying the Educational Skill Requirements established by the sponsor for the curricular program.

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science has a program leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. A noteworthy feature is that the candidate's research may be conducted off-campus in the candidate's sponsoring laboratory or unit of the federal government. The degree requirements are as outlined under the general school requirements for the doctoral degree.

Master of Science in Software Engineering (MSSE)

The Master of Science in Software Engineering program is intended for DoD software practitioners with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering (or equivalent) and at least two years of software development experience. Students enrolled in the program typically complete the program in two years on a part-time basis completing a total of 12 graduate-level Software Engineering courses, which are taught at NPS and televised to the distant site, and an acceptable thesis, in addition to the required course work.

Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering

The Ph.D. program in Software Engineering is designed for DoD software practitioners who want to acquire the skill and knowledge to perform state-of-the-art research on issues related to the development and evolution of large, complex, software systems, and to intelligently manage the research of other software practitioners. It offers the software professionals a unique program of study and advances software engineering principles and technology vital to DoD researchers and program managers. Students typically take three years to complete the doctoral program.

The first milestone in the Ph.D. program is the Written Qualifying Examination. This provides early feedback to students and faculty so that a course of study that leads to the successful completion of all the requirements can be determined

Master of Science in Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation

The degree of Master of Science in Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation is awarded after satisfactory completion of a program, approved by the Chairman of the MOVES Academic Committee, which satisfies, as a minimum, the following degree requirements:

  1. At least 40 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which at least 12 quarter-hours must be at the 4000 level.
  2. Completion of an approved sequence of courses constituting specialization in an area of Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation.
  3. Completion of an acceptable thesis in addition to the required course work.

Doctorate in Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation

The Ph.D. degree requires the equivalent of at least three academic years of study beyond the baccalaureate level (some of which may be for another post-baccalaureate degree), with at least one academic year (or its equivalent) being spent in residence at NPS. The student must complete, in order, the following steps, which are detailed at www.nps.navy.mil/moves/PhD.htm

  1. Form a dissertation committee
  2. Pass a written qualifying examination
  3. Declare a secondary specialization
  4. Pass an oral qualifying examination
  5. Pass a final examination
  6. Complete a dissertation

No courses are required for the Ph.D. degree besides the secondary specialization unless the student's doctoral committee so stipulates.

Ph.D. Minor

A Ph.D. minor in Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation consists of:

  1. Three courses at the 4000 level that form a coherent sequence relating to Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation.
  2. The courses must be from at least two departments or academic groups.
  3. The head of the MOVES Ph.D. program will write a letter attesting that the student has fulfilled the requirements upon request of the student.

Department of Defense Analysis

Master of Science in Information Operations

The Master of Science in Information Operations degree will be awarded in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. This degree requires 45 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which 15 hours must represent courses at the 4000 level.
  2. Completion of an acceptable thesis.
  3. The Chairman of the Defense Analysis Department and the Academic Associate of the Joint Information Operations curriculum approve each individual program.

Requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Information Operations are met as a milestone en route to satisfying the Educational Skill Requirements of the curricular program.

Master of Science In Defense Analysis

The Master of Science in Defense Analysis degree will be awarded in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. This degree requires 45 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which 15 hours must represent courses at the 4000 level in at least two disciplines. Within the course program there must be a specialization sequence consisting of at least six courses.
  2. In addition to the 45 hours of course credit, an acceptable thesis must be completed.
  3. The Department of Defense offers the Special Operations curriculum 699 and the Information Operations curriculum 698.

Requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Defense Analysis are met as a milestone en route to satisfying the Educational Skill Requirements of the curricular program. The program currently offers eight specialty tracks. Other specialty tracks can be tailored to meet student interests. The current tracks include Irregular Warfare, Information Operations, Operations Analysis, C4I Systems, Combat Systems, Financial Management, National Security Affairs, and Terrorist Operations and Financing.

The Chairman of the Defense Analysis Department approves each individual program.

Department of Information Sciences

Master of Science in Information Technology Management

The degree of Master of Science in Information Technology Management will be awarded at the completion of the appropriate interdisciplinary program in Curriculum 370. The Master of Science in Information Technology Management requires:

  1. Completion or validation of core courses in each of the following disciplines: Information Systems, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Systems Management.
  2. Completion of a minimum of 52 hours of graduate-level courses, at least 20 hours of which are at the 4000 level.
  3. Completion of an acceptable thesis.
  4. Approval of the candidate's program by the Chairman, Information Sciences Department.

Master of Science in Information Warfare Systems Engineering/Master of Science in Electronic Warfare Systems Engineering

The degree of Master of Science in Information Warfare Systems Engineering/Master of Science in Electronic Warfare Systems Engineering will be awarded at the completion of a multidisciplinary program in Curricula 595 and 596, respectively. The Master of Science in Information Warfare Systems Engineering/Master of Science in Electronic Warfare Systems Engineering requires:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 45 quarter-hours of graduate-level work, of which at least 15 hours must represent courses at the 4000 level.
  2. Graduate courses in at least four different academic disciplines must be included and a course at the 4000 level must be included in two disciplines.
  3. An approved sequence of at least three courses, constituting advanced specialization in one area, must be included.
  4. In addition to the 45 graduate hours of course work, an acceptable thesis must be completed.

The candidate's program must be approved by the Chairman, Information Sciences Department.Master of Science in Systems Technology

The degree of Master of Science in Systems Technology (Command, Control, and Communications) will be awarded at the completion of the Joint Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) interdisciplinary program, Curriculum 365, carried out in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 45 quarter-hours of graduate-level work in four different academic disciplines, of which at least 15 hours must represent courses at the 4000 level in at least two of the disciplines.
  2. Within the course program there must be a specialization sequence consisting of at least three courses.
  3. In addition to the 45 hours of course credit, an acceptable thesis must be completed.

The program must be approved by the Chairman, Information Sciences Department.

Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations

The degree of Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations will be awarded at the completion of the Information Systems and Operations interdisciplinary program, Curriculum 356, in accordance with the following degree requirements:

  1. Completion of 40 quarter-hours of graduate coursework of which 15 hours must be at 4000 level.
  2. An acceptable thesis or project approved by the Chairman, Information Sciences Department.
  3. Individual student programs to be approved by the Chairman, Information Sciences Department.

Doctor of Philosophy in Information Sciences

The Department offers the Ph.D. degree in Information Sciences. The program begins with advanced course work guided by the Departmental Ph.D. Committee, which leads to qualifying examinations. The primary emphasis then shifts to the student's research program, culminating in the Ph.D. dissertation. Three areas of primary concentration within the field of information sciences are available: information systems, command and control, and information operations/warfare. Interested potential students may obtain further details by contacting the Information Sciences Ph.D. Program Director, Code IS, 589 Dyer Road, Room 200A, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93943-5100. An applicant to the Ph.D. program who is not already a student at NPS should submit transcripts of previous academic and professional work, plus results of a current Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test, to the Director of Admissions, Code 01C3, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93943-5100. Detailed admission procedures may vary depending on the individual's location and position. However, in all cases, the student must fulfill the general school requirements for the doctoral degree. Residency for this program generally requires three years beyond completion of a master's degree.

ISO Academic Certificate Requirements

To earn the ISO academic certificate you must pass all four courses with a C+ (2.3 Quality Point Rating (QPR)) or better in each course and an overall QPR of 3.0 or better. Students earning grades below these standards will need to retake the courses to bring their grades within standards or will be withdrawn from the program.

IST Academic Certificate Requirements

To earn the IST academic certificate students must pass all four courses with a C+ (2.3 Quality Point Rating (QPR)) or better in each course and an overall QPR of 3.0 or better. Students earning grades below these standards will need to retake the courses to bring their grades within standards or they will be withdrawn from the program.

Department of Operations Research

Certificate in Systems Analysis

Requirements for the graduate certificate in Systems Analysis are met by successful completion of all four courses.

Master of Science in Applied Science

Students with acceptable academic backgrounds may enter a program leading to a degree in Applied Science with a major in Operations Research. The program of each student seeking this degree must contain a minimum of 20 quarter-hours in Operations Research at the graduate level, including work at the 4000 level. Additionally, the program must contain a minimum of 12 graduate quarter-hours in an approved sequence of courses outside the Department of Operations Research. A total minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level, plus an acceptable thesis, is required. This program provides depth and diversity through specially arranged course sequences to meet the needs of the Navy and the interests of the individual. The Department Chairman's approval is required for all programs leading to this degree. Applications to include this degree in dual master's programs will not be approved.

Master of Science in Operations Research

The degree of Master of Science in Operations Research requires:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 40 quarter-hours of graduate-level courses with:
  2. Submission of an acceptable thesis on a subject previously approved by the Department of Operations Research.

Doctor of Philosophy in Operations Research

The department offers the doctoral degree in Operations Research. The program begins with advanced course work guided by the student's doctoral committee and leading to qualifying examinations in optimization, statistics, and stochastic processes as well as completion of a minor field of study outside of Operations Research. The primary emphasis then shifts to the student's research program, culminating in the Ph.D. dissertation.

An applicant to the Ph.D. program who is not already a student at NPS should submit transcripts of previous academic and professional work, plus results of a current Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test, to the Director of Admissions, Code 01C3, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93943-5100. Detailed admission procedures may vary depending on the individual's location and position. However, in all cases the student must fulfill the general school requirements for the doctoral degree. Residency for this program generally requires three years beyond completion of a master's degree.

Master of Science In Human Systems Integration

The degree of Master of Science in Human Systems Integration requires:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 40 quarter-hours of graduate-level courses with:
  2. Submission of an acceptable thesis on a subject previously approved by the Chairman, Department of Operations Research

Master of Systems Analysis

The MSA is a professional degree awarded for completing a curriculum focused on the practice of the profession rather than the more general arts or sciences behind the profession. It is analogous to the professional focus of an MBA (Master of Business Administration) compared to the more academic focus of an MS (Master of Science) in Management Science.

Systems Engineering Analysis Curriculum Committee

Master of Science in Systems Engineering Analysis

The SEACC awards the Master of Science in Systems Engineering Analysis (MS SEA) degree. The SEA curriculum is designed for unrestricted line officers who aspire to command and seek a graduate degree tailored to enhance their value as combat officers. The hallmark of the curriculum is a strong scientific and technical content that offers a balanced blend and breadth in systems thinking and analysis of current and future military operations.

Candidates normally are expected to have studied mathematics and science in their undergraduate work. Undergraduate engineering study is advantageous but not required.

The Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering Analysis requires a minimum of 48 quarters hours of graduate level course work. The candidate must take all courses in an approved study program, which must also satisfy the following requirements: There must be a minimum of 32 quarter-hours of credits in 3000 and 4000 level courses, including a minimum of 12 quarter-hours at the 4000 level.

A student seeking the Master of Science in Systems Engineering Analysis must also demonstrate knowledge in systems design and integration, systems analysis and application, combat technology, and familiarity with professional military education in strategy and policy. This may be accomplished by completing all courses in an approved study program.

Participation in a capstone project with a minimum of 16 credit hours is required for the degree. An acceptable thesis for a minimum of 16 credits may be substituted in lieu of a team project. The Academic Associate and the Program Officer must endorse such a request which will be subject to final approval by the Systems Engineering Analysis Curriculum Committee.

Graduate School of International Graduate Studies

Master of Arts in National Security Affairs

Master of Arts in Security Studies (Civil Military Relations)

Master of Arts in Security Studies (Stabilization and Reconstruction)

Master of Arts in Security Studies (Defense Decision-Making and Planning)

Master of Arts in Security Studies (Counter-Terrorism and Strategy)

Master of Arts in Security Studies (Homeland Security and Defense)

Doctor of Philosophy in Security Studies

Requirements for Master's Degree

All Master's degrees at the Naval Postgraduate School require a minimum of 44 hours of graduate-level work (i.e. courses numbered 3000 or above), of which at least 16 hours must be numbered 4000 or above. In addition, degree candidates must complete whatever courses, course sequences, or other requirements are specified by their particular curriculum. As is true for most academic programs at NPS, the actual requirements for NSA degrees significantly exceed the minimum 44-hour standard.

All NSA curricula share a common structure, which is designed to provide a firm foundation in the basics of security studies, along with in-depth exposure to a particular regional or topical specialty. This structure consists of five components, which vary slightly depending on whether or not a degree program requires a Master's Thesis.

1. Disciplinary core courses. All NSA students are expected to acquire a basic familiarity with the underlying academic disciplines that constitute the interdisciplinary field of security studies; history, international relations, comparative politics, and economics. All curricula incorporate specific required courses in each of these fields, as well as a course in the methods of social-scientific research. In addition to providing a foundation of or more specialized study, the disciplinary core courses afford all NSA students a common academic experience which they all share, independent of subsequent specialization. Because of their foundational purpose, disciplinary core courses should be completed early in a student's stay at NPS.

2. Curricular core courses. Curricular core courses provide an introduction to a student's area of specialization, and may also include advanced seminars on topics of particular importance. In the same way that the disciplinary core courses provide a common intellectual foundation for all students in National Security Affairs, curricular core courses provide a common foundation for all those specializing in a particular region or topical area.

3. Curricular electives. Curricular electives are courses that are directly relevant to a student's area of specialization, but are not required by name, as the curricular core courses are. Curricular electives take the form of a list of selected courses form which degree candidates must choose a minimum number. They afford students a range of choices within their area of specialization, while insuring that the education skill requirements of the program are all adequately addressed. The opportunity to choose electives means that students must take care that the resulting course of study satisfies minimum degree requirements. In particular, students must insure, in choosing their curricular and general electives (described below), that they complete at least 16 hours of work in courses number 4000 or higher.

4. General Electives. Degree programs in National Security Affairs usually afford some opportunity for students to take courses in subjects outside their area of specialization. such courses are called "general" electives, and they may be chosen from among the full range of course offerings by NSA, or by any other department or program at NPS. General elective may be freely chosen, but they are not optional. Curricula that provide scope for general electives also require that a certain number must be taken in order to complete the degree. The number of general electives available to students in a given program may vary somewhat, depending on sponsor requirements.

5. Thesis research. Most NSA curricula require a Master's Thesis, in which case blocks of time (designated by the place-holder course number NS 0810) are provided for independent research and writing. Students who write a thesis must also take NS 4080, which will assist them in conceptualizing and executing their research. Note that NS 4080 is a two-hour, pass-fail course. it does not count toward the minimum of 16 credit hours of 4000-level course work described above.

5a. Comprehensive examination. Students who do not write a thesis normally do additional course work in lieu of independent research. They must also take a comprehensive examination, for which they may prepare by enrolling in NS 0811. NS 0811 is not required, however. Some students prefer to take an additional elective instead.

Appendix B. List of NPS Curricula

Tables listing the curricula offered at NPS, by title and number, the academic units responsible for awarding each degree/ academic certificate, and degree or certificate name.

(Approved July 28, 2004) (Updated: per 2006 Academic Catalog)

The following lists NPS curricula, associated degrees, and the academic units that award those degrees.

Table B.1: Select Columns from the Registrar's Master Curriculum Chart

Curric

Curric

Normal

Normal

APC

P-Code

Dept

Degree

Title

Number

Length

Convening

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Months)

Dates

 

 

 

 

The Graduate School of Operations & Information Sciences

Information Systems & Operations

356

18

September

334

6100P

IS

MS Information Systems & Operations

Computer Technology (DL)

357

48

July/January

325

None

CS

MS Computing Technology

Operations Analysis

360

21

March/ September

325

3211P/I

OR

MS Operations Research

 

 

 

 

 

3211D

OR

PhD Operations Research

Operational Logistics

361

21

September

325

3110P

OR

MS Operations Research

Human Systems Integration

362

24

January

345

4600P

OR

MS Human Systems Integration

Master of Systems Analysis - MSA (DL)

363

24

March/ September

N/A

TBD (3200P)

OR

MSA Master of System Analysis

Joint C4I Systems

365

21

September

334

6204P/I

IS

MS Systems Technology (C3)

Computer Science

368

24

March/ September

325

6203P/I

CS

MS Computer Science

 

 

36

 

 

6203D

CS

PhD Computer Science

Software Engineering

369

12 to 18

March/ September

325

None

CS

MS Software Engineering

 

 

36

 

 

None

CS

PhD Software Engineering

Software Engineering (DL)

369

18 to 24

Any Quarter

325

None

CS

MS Software Engineering

 

 

36

Any Quarter

 

 

CS

PhD Software Engineering

Information Systems & Technology

370

24

March/ September

325

6201P

IS

MS Information Technology Management

Modeling, Virtual Environments & Simulation

399

24

March/ September

325

6202P

CS

MS Modeling, Virtual Environments & Simulation

 

 

 

 

 

6202P

CS

PhD Modeling, Virtual Environments & Simulation

Information Sciences

474

36

September

 

6201D

IS

PhD Information Sciences

Information Warfare

595

24

September

324

6205P

IS

MS Information Warfare Systems Engineering

Electronic Warfare Systems (International)

596

24

September

324

None

IS

MS Electronic Warfare Systems Engineering

Joint Information Operations

698

18

January/July

365

None

DA

MS Information Operations

Special Operations and Irregular Warfare

699

18

January/July

365

2500P

DA

MS Defense Analysis

The Graduate School of Engineering & Applied Sciences

Systems Engineering (DL)

311

24

Any Quarter

N/A

None

SE

MS Systems Engineering

Space Systems Operations (DL)

316

24

September

223

6206P

SSAG

MS Space Systems Operations

Space Systems Operations (International)

364

24

September

324

None

SSAG

MS Space Systems Operations

Space Systems Operations

366

24

September

324

6206P

SSAG

MS Space Systems Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meteorology

372

18

March/ September

323

None

MR

MS Meteorology

 

 

36

 

 

6403D

MR

PhD Meteorology

METOC

373

27

January/July

323

6401P

MR/OC

MS Joint Meteorology & Physical Oceanography

Operational Oceanography

374

24

January/July

323