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Master's Degree

A Master of Science (MS) degree is an opportunity to deepen their academic interests and add to their intellectual and work-related skills ahead of a career in industry or continuing education with a PhD degree Our MS is taught in a research intensive environment, which gives students exposure to ideas and projects which have a global impact.

We offer an MS across 17 different subjects which are 1.5 years in duration for non-thesis (three Semesters and one Summer Session) or 2 years for the thesis option (four Semesters and one Summer Session). Our curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, so whilst you are developing expertise in your chosen field, you will have the opportunity to explore how your interests intersect with others.

Unlike many MS programs at other universities our program is funded, allowing students to focus on their studies full time. Competition for places on our programs is high and so prospective students are expected to be strong academically and encouraged to apply early.

Key information

Study Duration:MS 1.5 years (2 years with thesis)
Costs:Read more
Entry requirements:Read more
Application deadlines:Read more

Program Benefits

Work with Leading Faculty

At KAUST, you’ll have the opportunity to learn, work, and live alongside some of the best minds in their field.

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State-of-the-art Research Facilities

Get access to cutting-edge facilities, equipment, expertise, and training.

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Live in a Diverse, International Community

Join an international community of scholars and scientists living and working together in an all-inclusive campus.

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Program Outcomes

Graduates of the master’s program leave with a deep knowledge and understanding of their field, as well as gaining a broad range of skills that can be applied in many different industries. Our graduates have gone on to work in fields ranging from business consulting to oil & gas engineering, marketing & communications to biomedical research, from product development at top tech companies like Google and Tesla to careers in government service and nonprofit management.

For students interested in pursuing a career in research and academia, the exposure to leading faculty and cutting-edge research facilities ensures that the master’s program also sets graduates up with an ideal pathway to the Ph.D. Degree at KAUST.

Entry Requirements

We’re looking for exceptional students from around the world to join us on our mission to solve the world’s most pressing challenges. To find out more about our entry requirements and how applications are evaluated, please visit our entry requirements page.

 

Cost of Study

The cost of our master’s program has been benchmarked against some of the world's leading universities, reflecting the quality of education and state-of-the-art academic environment you’ll have access to. To find out more about the cost of studying at KAUST please visit our Fees & Funding page.

Program Structure

The master’s degree program is a 36-credit program with an option to complete a thesis. Students are expected to complete the program in three semesters and one summer session.

Each program has a specific set of courses that fit within the below requirements. For a list of these courses, please visit your chosen discipline page.

Student Stories

Axel Mendoza Ortiz

Because there are only a handful of places in the world where you can accomplish the research done in KAUST. Not to mention it's beautiful.

Pauline Falkenberg

I choose to study at KAUST because studying here is like being on a conference. This university is a cultural melting pot providing a stepping stone to connect to the world

Wejdan Alosaimi

KAUST is a vibrant hub of innovation where brilliant minds collaborate, pushing boundaries to shape a better future.

Aaron Pantoja Angles

KAUST is a vibrant, multicultural university offering an enriching environment. With cutting-edge facilities, it's been a space for my academic and personal growth.

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