Rail Transportation System (M.Eng)
Curriculum
Curriculum Options at the Major Level
Academic Program and Professional Program
In the program, students can select between two distinct pathways: the Academic Plan or the Professional Plan. Both pathways are designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in railway engineering; however, their focus and structure differ.
Despite the different approaches of the Academic and Professional Programs, all students are expected to achieve mastery of all Expected Learning Outcomes (ELOs) by the end of their studies. The Academic Program focuses on research, while the Professional Program emphasizes practical application. As a result, graduates are well-prepared for their respective career paths, whether in academia, research, or professional practice.
Table 1 compares the differences between these study pathways.
Table 1: Comparison between Academic and Professional Programs
| Program Elements | Academic Program | Professional Program |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | The Academic Program is research-oriented and emphasizes the development of in-depth academic knowledge and research skills. | The Professional Program is practice-oriented and emphasizes practical skills and professional competencies. |
| Coursework | Students in the Academic Program have a reduced coursework load compared to those in the Professional Program, allowing them to dedicate more time to research. | Students in the Professional Program undertake more coursework, including practical and applied subjects relevant to the railway industry. |
| Thesis / Independent Study | A significant component of the Academic Program is the completion of a thesis. The thesis involves original research and contributes to the academic body of knowledge in railway engineering. | Instead of a thesis, students complete an independent study project. This project focuses on solving real-world problems and applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings. |
| Objective | This program is ideal for students who aspire to pursue academic careers, research positions, or advanced technical roles requiring strong research capabilities. | This program is designed for students who aim to enter the workforce directly after graduation, particularly in roles that require practical problem-solving skills and hands-on experience in railway engineering. |
Table 2 presents the elective course requirements for students in the Academic and Professional Plans. Students in the Academic Plan are required to take at least nine credits of elective courses while concentrating more on their thesis.
In contrast, students in the Professional Plan are required to take at least 15 credits of elective courses, which is equivalent to two additional courses compared with the Academic Plan.
Figure 1 presents the curriculum options for students in the Railway Transportation System Program.
Table 2: Curriculum Structure
| Course | Academic Plan | Professional Plan |
|---|---|---|
| 1) Mandatory Courses | 15 credits | 15 credits |
| 2) Elective Courses, not less than | 9 credits | 15 credits |
| 3) Thesis | 12 credits | - |
| 4) Independent Study | - | 6 credits |
| Total, not less than | 36 credits | 36 credits |
