Georgia Institute of Technology, Center for Distance Learning

The Center for Distance Learning (CDL) at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) offers individual engineering courses and graduate study leading to a master of science (MS) degree. Students can enroll in the Registered Graduate Option (RGO) for academic degree credit. Professionals interested in further development can enroll in individual courses through the Professional Development Option (PDO). Courses and MS degrees are offered in the following areas of engineering: computational science and engineering, electrical and computer, civil, environmental, medical physics, industrial, mechanical, aerospace, and a new program - Professional Masters in Applied Systems Engineering. The MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering program offers specializations in computer engineering, telecommunications and digital signal processing, and electric power, systems and controls.

Georgia Tech uses a variety of delivery systems to serve students who cannot attend campus classes. Working professionals can earn an advanced degree or take courses via distance education. Enrolled students can view classroom lectures at times that meet their personal schedules. Live classes are recorded and provided via a video-on-demand download server to students.

US students usually retrieve class lectures and materials within 24-48 hours of the original class. If materials have to be shipped, delivery takes longer. The majority of courses are offered during the fall and spring semesters. Select courses are available during the May-July summer session.

MS Registered Graduate Option (RGO)
Students wishing to pursue a master's degree through distance study can enroll as RGO students. Program participants meet the same admission standards, assignment requirements and examination obligations as on-campus students, and are encouraged to take two to four courses per academic year. Faculty advisers are available to assist students with program planning and other academic issues. Typically, a student takes three years to complete the degree program.

Professional Development Option (PDO)
Professional engineers who wish to take graduate-level courses can enroll as PDO students. Courses are offered on a noncredit basis, and students can choose to have a grade assigned to their course work. Students who choose the grade option must complete all homework and assignments, while those who audit courses are not required to fulfill course work requirements. Upon request, students can receive a letter listing the Continuing Education Units (CEUs) they have earned through the program. The PDO option assists engineers in furthering their professional development. As courses are noncredit, they cannot be applied to the graduate degree program.

Admission Requirements
Applicants to an MS program should submit: an application for admission form; $50 application fee; three letters of recommendation from professors, colleagues and/or supervisors; a biographical sketch; and official transcripts of all previous college course work. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test scores are required from all applicants. Application deadlines for each semester vary by program. Admission materials should be sent to Graduate Academic and Enrollment Services. Students can apply online at www.grad.gatech.edu/admissions/.

International students must hold a degree equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited US institution. They must also provide a minimum paper-based TOEFL score of 550, 213 on the computer-based test, or 79 on the internet-based test. If applicants have attended a US college or university for at least one full academic year, they are exempt from the TOEFL.

Applicants to the PDO option must complete a one-time application form and registration form. No application fee is required. PDO application forms are available online or from the Distance Learning office.