It is possible to combine an Embedded Systems master’s programme with a second master’s programme. The result is a double degree programme, also called a combined programme. The idea of a double degree programme is that you complete two master’s programmes during the same period. Because some overlap is assumed between the learning outcomes of both programmes, some reductions on the study load can be obtained by combining them.
These reductions are the following (this is the text of Article 3.6 of part A of the Teaching and Examination Rules of the EEMCS faculty):
- A student can obtain diplomas for two UT Master’s degree programmes on the basis of a combined programme.
- Students need to be admitted and enrolled in both degree programmes in order to combine two programmes.
- Approval for the programme and overlap in courses is required from the Examination Boards of both Master’s degree programmes.
- The following requirements apply to the composition of a combined programme:
a. The programme of courses represents an amalgamation of the separate degree programmes and satisfies the requirements of each individual degree programme, including the programme intended learning outcomes. The minimum size of the combined programme in EC, 𝐸𝐶𝑃𝐶 , is expressed as: ECPC = ECP1 + 0.5 ∑ ECPi n i=2 where 𝐸𝐶𝑃1 corresponds to the ECs of the largest programme in EC, and 𝑛 is the total number of programmes the student combines.
b. The combined programme must include two separate Master’s final projects, or one larger combined Master’s final project.
c. Two separate Master’s final projects may only be combined into one larger one, if the topic is relevant and suitable to both Master’s programmes. The minimum study load of a combined Master’s Final Project (MFP) in EC, 𝐸𝐶𝑀𝐹𝑃𝐶 , is: 𝐸𝐶𝑀𝐹𝑃𝐶 = 𝐸𝐶𝑀𝐹𝑃𝑃1 + 0.5 ∑ 𝐸𝐶𝑀𝐹𝑃𝑃𝑖 𝑛 𝑖=2 where 𝐸𝐶𝑀𝐹𝑃𝑃1 is the number of ECs of the largest MFP in EC, where here 𝑃1 could be a programme that is not the largest in study load. (Footnote: For some EEMCS programmes graduation is divided into a 10EC preparatory study unit and 30EC thesis project. For the purpose of this rule A3.6.4d only, they are considered one single 40EC project.)
d. In case there is a Standard Programme for a combined study programme defined by two UT Master’s degree programmes, the requirements laid down in the Standard Programme apply.
e. The requirements on examiners and supervision for the internship and Master’s final project of both programmes must be met. - Students who complete a programme as described take a combined final examination which they pass if the assessments included in their file would result in a pass for the final examination of both degree programmes individually in accordance with the applicable regulations. The Examination Boards of the degree programmes involved decide whether a student passes the final examination. The degree programmes provide instructions concerning the date of a combined final colloquium.
PASSING THE FINAL ASSESSMENT FOR A COMBINED PROGRAMME
Students who complete a study programme as described above take a combined final assessment which they will pass if the assessments included in their file would result in a pass for the final assessment of both programmes individually in accordance with the applicable regulations. The Examination Boards of the programmes involved will decide whether a student will pass the final assessment. The Programme Board will provide instructions concerning the date of a combined final colloquium.
COMBINING THE EMSYS MASTER’S PROGRAMME WITH A MASTER’S PROGRAMME FROM ANOTHER FACULTY
In case the other programme is from another faculty, this faculty may have other rules regarding the way both programmes are combined. In such a case a dedicated solution will have to be worked out for the individual student. The final decision, as always, will be taken by the examination boards, which both should approve the programme.
PROCEDURE FOR CREATING A COMBINED PROGRAMME
Within the Embedded Systems programme you will have to discuss the EMSYS-part of your programme. The same way you can discuss the other programme with a programme mentor from the other study programme. Next you can discuss with these mentors how to combine the two programmes.
Finally you create a request to both examination boards for approval of the combined programmes. Clearly explain the following points:
- If your combines programme will contain a combined master thesis project and/or a combined internship.
- Give separate course lists for both programmes and indicate which courses appear in both course lists.
Before submiting your request to the EEMCS examination board, please send it to the programme coordinator for approval.