A strong foundation in the sciences can open the door to advanced study in engineering. 


At Johns Hopkins, many of our Master of Science (MS) and Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) students begin their academic journey with undergraduate degrees in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, or physiology. With the right preparation, you can transition into an engineering master’s program that complements the foundational knowledge you’ve already gained. Advanced engineering degrees from Johns Hopkins University open doors to in-demand careers in engineering and technology—fields known for strong growth and high earning potential.  

With nearly 20 full-time master’s programs, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art learning spaces, Johns Hopkins Engineering provides the resources and support to help you transition into engineering and achieve your career goals. 

How to Strengthen Your Transition from the Sciences to Engineering

Graduate engineering study builds on the problem-solving, analytical, and research skills that you have developed in scientific fields. If you have completed undergraduate coursework in areas such as calculus, linear algebra, programming, and laboratory sciences, you are well positioned to succeed in our master’s programs.  

For applicants whose backgrounds are primarily in the sciences, prerequisites vary by program but often include:

  • Mathematics through multivariable calculus and differential equations 
  • Computer programming and data analysis 
  • Core physical or natural sciences relevant to the chosen engineering field 

 

To prepare for a master’s in engineering program and build upon your science background, focus on strengthening these areas:

  • Mathematics: Multivariable calculus and differential equations 
  • Programming: At least one modern language (Python, MATLAB, or C++) and data analysis skills 
  • Core sciences: Physics, chemistry, or biology—depending on your chosen engineering field 
  • Problem-solving mindset: Experience with labs, research projects, or applied problem-solving activities 

With these foundations in place, you’ll be positioned for success in either the MSE or MS pathway as you transition into a graduate-level engineering program. 

Why Johns Hopkins Engineering? 

  • Flexible entry points: We welcome students from chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and other STEM backgrounds, offering a direct path to an engineering career with strong earning potential. 
  • Academic options that meet your needs: Many of our master’s programs offer multiple options to complete your degree, including courses, research, or internships. 
  • Research-driven environment: Work alongside world-class faculty on projects advancing fundamental science and real-world engineering solutions.
  • Career impact: Our engineering graduates launch careers across industry, research, and government, leveraging their scientific training to enter high-impact fields such as data science, materials development, and biotechnology.

Popular Pathways from the Sciences to Engineering 

Students with science degrees most often pursue engineering master’s programs, such as: 

  • Applied Mathematics and Statistics
  • Data Science
  • Materials Science and Engineering
  • Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Environmental Health and Engineering

Undergraduate to Graduate

Here are some examples of how your undergraduate degree in science can be transitioned into an engineering master’s degree. These on-campus programs take between 18 months to 2 years to complete.  

Undergraduate Science Major Complementary Engineering Master’s Degrees  Foundational Skills  
Mathematics / Applied Mathematics  Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Data Science, Systems Engineering  Strong quantitative and modeling foundation, directly applicable to computational and analytical engineering. 
Physics  Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering  Physics underpins mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, and electromagnetism — core to many engineering fields. 
Chemistry  Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Environmental Engineering  Chemistry majors work with reactions, materials, and processes, aligning with engineering of chemicals, biomolecules, and materials. 
Biology / Molecular Biology / Physiology  Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Health and Engineering  Biological sciences translate into applying engineering solutions to health, medicine, and environmental systems. 
Computer Science  Computer Science and Engineering, Data Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering  Programming and computational problem-solving are central to modern engineering disciplines. 
Earth Sciences / Environmental Science  Environmental Health and Engineering, Civil Engineering,   Earth systems knowledge supports solving infrastructure, climate, and sustainability challenges. 
Neuroscience / Cognitive Science  Biomedical Engineering, Data Science (AI/ML), Systems Engineering  Bridges biological understanding with computational modeling, brain–machine interfaces, and health technologies. 

Online and Part-time Master’s Pathways

If you are a working professional looking to advance your education while continuing your career, consider Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals. These part-time and online graduate programs are designed for students who want the rigor of a Johns Hopkins education with the flexibility to balance professional and personal commitments. There is no GRE required, and the program can be completed with just 10 courses.

Learn more about EP