Master of Science in Learning Engineering: FAQ

We understand that you may have questions about the Master of Science in Learning Engineering Program at Carnegie Mellon. We have included the most common questions below.

• Program Logistics and Requirements
• Completing the Application
• Test Scores: Required and Recommended
• Finding Financial Aid and Loans
• Master Degree versus Ph.D.
• Job Placement, OPT and CPT

Program Logistics and Requirements

Does the program accept students without a Bachelor’s degree?
No, the program does not accept students without a Bachelor’s degree.

What is the name of the degree?
The degree as stated is “Master of Science in Learning Engineering.” 

What are my chances of getting in?
We plan to accept up to 30 students for the class starting in the fall semester each year. The chances of acceptance will depend on the number of qualified applicants.

If I am accepted, may I defer my enrollment?
You may request a deferral of your enrollment for one year. Please include your reasons in your MSLE offer of admission reply form. However, your application will be re-reviewed with the next cohort, and re-admission isn’t guaranteed.

May I work on my MSLE degree part-time?
Yes, if you are a United States citizen or a green card holder. If you are eligible, you may choose to work full-time while completing your program as a part-time student. However, MSLE Capstone Project I and II must be completed within the same calendar year. Example: If you take Project I in Spring 2027, you must take Project II in Fall 2027. If you are attending on a student visa (F-1 or J-1 visa), federal regulations require you to be enrolled in the program full-time.

What is the cost of attendance for this program?
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the tuition is $27,000 per semester, plus living expenses and university fees. Part-time students taking 35 units or fewer will be charged $750 tuition per unit.

Is this program available online?
No. Due to the collaborative nature of the program, it is currently only offered at the Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh campus. At this time, we are not offering an online version.

The MSLE program is in the School of Computer Science. However, I do not have a strong programming background. May I still apply?
Yes! This is an interdisciplinary program jointly taught by the Human-Computer Interaction Institute in the School of Computer Science and the Department of Psychology in Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. We welcome and encourage applicants from a wide variety of disciplines outside of computer science—such as design, psychology, business and education. Because our curriculum is designed to accommodate diverse academic backgrounds, programming experience or prior coursework is not required to apply or enroll. However, to help ensure your success in the program, we highly encourage students without prior programming knowledge to prepare before matriculating. All Carnegie Mellon students receive free access to LinkedIn Learning, and we recommend taking introductory courses—such as Python for Beginners and Python Data Analysis—prior to starting MSLE classes.

Will I have to take a lot of programming courses?
While you will not be required to enroll in heavy computer science courses, our curriculum does include classes with programming components. For example, the required course 05-840 Tools for Online Learning requires some programming to complete the assignments. Thus, we encourage students without prior programming experience to take some introductory programming courses as mentioned above.

Will I need to have a good knowledge of statistics to apply?
No. However, if admitted, you will be required to satisfactorily complete a statistics prerequisite or demonstrate equivalent knowledge prior to matriculating. We offer a free, self-paced online introductory course during the summer prior to matriculation that teaches the basics of statistics and probability; passing this course satisfies the prerequisite.

I don’t meet the statistics prerequisite requirement for MSLE. May I still apply and be considered for admittance?
Yes. Students may be admitted to the program before satisfying the statistics prerequisite. The course must be completed online prior to matriculation into the MSLE program. Failure to successfully complete this prerequisite will prevent you from matriculating.

I have been out of school for some time. May I submit reference letters from my employers instead of from instructors?
Yes, you may send us letters from your employers.

Is this program appropriate for teachers and other education professionals already established in their careers?
Yes, MSLE represents a transformative opportunity to elevate their impact and expand their professional capabilities. This intensive four-semester program uniquely positions working educators to become leaders in the rapidly evolving intersection of education and technology. Unlike traditional graduate programs that may feel disconnected from practical application, MSLE bridges the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world implementation, making it particularly valuable for professionals who want to drive meaningful change in their educational contexts.

Does the MSLE program qualify for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
At this writing, it does. While we do not expect any changes, given that the visa process is controlled by the United States Government, we cannot guarantee it will in the future.

Does the MSLE program qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension in addition to the 12-month OPT?
At this writing, it does. While we do not expect any changes, given that the visa process is controlled by the United States Government, we cannot guarantee it will in the future.

Anything I should know about Pittsburgh?
If you want to get to know the city a little better from an insider’s view, see our Welcome to Pittsburgh page as well as Made in PGH and NEXTpittsburgh.

Completing the Application

Can I apply to more than one program within the School of Computer Science?
Yes. Each program has its own admissions committee, and applications are not typically shared across programs.

Can I apply to the MHCI program and the MSLE program?
Yes. While both programs are housed within the HCII and each has its own admissions committee, they target very different areas. MHCI focuses on learning how to design, develop, study and manage novel systems and interfaces. MSLE focuses on learning how to apply science of learning principles, evidence-based research, qualitative and quantitative cognitive task analysis and data-driven methods to design, create and improve educational resources and technologies that enable students and instructors to succeed.

Do I need to include a link to my portfolio in my application?
A portfolio is not required but is greatly appreciated, as it typically enhances your application. If you have an online portfolio, please submit a link. This will help us better understand your capabilities. The portfolio should include descriptions of your role in projects you previously developed or contributed to.

Do I need to include a video in my application?
Yes. Prepare a 1-2 minute video that lets the admission committee know who you are. Talk about what you like, what you do outside of work and school, how you spend your free time, your personal and professional goals, or anything that you did not already share in your Statement of Purpose. This will help the committee know you better and help us to evaluate your communication skills.

Does my statement of purpose need to be single or double spaced?
Either is acceptable as long as it’s legible.

I have not completed my undergraduate degree yet. Does my transcript need to show classes that I am currently taking?
Yes. Your transcript should include all classes that you have taken with grades as well as all classes that you are currently taking. If admitted, we will need a transcript that shows that a degree was granted.

Do I need to submit official transcripts with my application?
You do not need to submit your official transcripts with your application. However, unofficial transcripts must be uploaded to your online application. The MSLE admission office will only require your official transcripts if you are admitted and accept our offer of admission. For transcripts to be considered official, they must be received directly from the university, not from you.

Should I visit before I apply (and will that help my chances of being admitted)?
Visiting the department before you apply does not improve the chances of admission. The Institute receives numerous requests every year from prospective applicants for tours and visits of the department. While we certainly do not discourage prospective students from visiting the campus, we do not have the department resources to arrange individualized agendas and tours to accommodate such requests nor do we offer pre-admission assessments or interviews. Students who have been admitted will be invited to visit during the Spring Open House where they will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and current students.

May I apply for admission starting in the spring instead of the fall?
No. With exception of students accepted into the accelerated master’s program, new cohorts begin in the fall semester. Applications are due in December for admission in the fall term of the following year.

Do my chances of getting admitted increase if I submit my application early?
No. All applications are reviewed as a group once the application deadline has passed. Submitting early does not increase your chances of admittance.

If I pay for and submit my application early, can I continue working on my application?
No. Once you submit your application and pay the fee, your application is considered final and no further changes can be made except for updating recommenders’ contact information.

Test Scores: Required and Recommended

Do you superscore the GRE, TOEFL or any other test scores?
We do not superscore the GRE and English language proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS or DET). If you submit GRE and/or TOEFL scores more than once, application reviewers will have access to all scores. Your highest score will be taken into consideration.

Do I have to submit the GRE scores?
While the GRE scores are optional, we highly encourage submission as they offer a valuable opportunity to demonstrate your quantitative and qualitative readiness for the program. Please note that the GRE at Home Test is not accepted.

Do I have to take the GRE Subject test?
The GRE Subject Test is not required. However, applicants are encouraged to take the GRE General Test.

How high do my GRE scores need to be?
There is no minimum GRE required. We are committed to a holistic approach to admission. Apart from English language proficiency tests for F-1 students, no single grade, factor, score or activity guarantees or disqualifies any candidate’s admission to the department.

Do you accept GMAT scores?
No. The MSLE program does not accept GMAT scores.

Am I required to submit a language test score, and which tests do you accept?
If you will be studying on an F-1 visa and English is not your native language (defined as one spoken at home and from birth), you are required to submit an official English proficiency test score with your application. We accept the TOEFL iBT, IELTS or Duolingo English Test (DET).

Will you waive the TOEFL, IELTS or DET requirement for me?
No, we do not issue waivers for non-native speakers of English. We do not issue waivers based on previous study at an English-language high school, college or university inside or outside of the United States. No amount of educational experience in English, regardless of which country it occurred in, will result in a test waiver. This program is very intense, and the program demands that students have excellent language skills in order to succeed. 

What is the minimum TOEFL requirement?
For the iBT, a minimum score of 25 in each of the subsections is strongly preferred although on occasion we will accept students with a speaking score of 23 or 24. If your speaking score is below 25, we may contact you for a recorded Zoom interview.

What is the minimum IELTS requirement?
IELTS minimum subscores: Reading 7, Listening 7, Speaking 7.5, Writing 6.5.

What is the minimum Duolingo English Test requirement?
Duolingo minimum subscores: Literacy 115, Conversation 120, Comprehension 125, Production 110.

What are the GRE and TOEFL institution and department codes?
GRE: Institution code, 2074; Department code, 0402. TOEFL: Institution code, 4256; Department code, 78

How do I submit my IELTS score electronically?
Use the account name: Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science. Our address is School of Computer Science, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States.

How do I submit my Duolingo score electronically?
Send Duolingo test results, includes your subscores, to Carnegie Mellon University – Graduate Computer Science Programs.

Should I send you a copy of my GRE and English proficiency test reports?
Self-reported scores must be entered into the online application. In addition, you need to send your official scores electronically to us using the correct institution and department codes listed above for your application to be considered complete.

My scores will not be available by the application date. Can I still apply?
Yes, MSLE grants more leniency than the general test score deadlines specified in the application. Applicants to the MSLE program whose GRE and/or English proficiency test scores are not available by the application deadline may still apply. However, the test scores should be sent to us by end of December.  We start reviewing applications immediately after the deadline, and we will need the test scores before a final decision can be made on the application. 

When will my GRE scores, English language scores or transcripts be marked as received in my application?
It takes up to two weeks for us to receive your official GRE and English proficiency test scores after you have submitted them via your ETS, IELTS or DET portal. If your test scores are not marked as received after 10 business days, please email MSLE-help@cmu.edu to follow up.

Once your unofficial transcripts are submitted in your application, they will be marked as received. The MSLE Admissions Office will only require an official copy of your transcript if you are admitted and decide to accept your offer of admission. For transcripts to be considered official, they must be received directly from the university in a signed and sealed envelope or emailed directly from your university to MSLE-help@cmu.edu. You only need to upload your unofficial transcripts to your application.

Finding Financial Aid and Loans

Is financial aid available?
We do not provide financial aid but there may be fellowships and grants available to graduate students. It is up to the student to pursue these options on their own. However, for the past several years, we have provided small merit scholarships for highly qualified students. We cannot guarantee that we will continue providing them in the future.

Is it possible to increase the amount of the merit scholarship that I was offered?
No. The merit scholarship is set on a formula (which varies from year to year) and is applied to all accepted applicants. Therefore, once the formula is set and applied, we are unable to change the merit scholarship amount for individuals.

Where can I find information on graduate student scholarships and financial aid?
Carnegie Mellon provides several resources to help with scholarships and financial aid. The Carnegie Mellon Fellowships and Scholarships Office is your primary portal for assistance, and international students should check the appropriate tab on that page. The HUB at Carnegie Mellon has more general information on graduate student financial assistance. Additionally, some graduate student fellowships for students in the School of Computer Science are listed here, and other external databases like Pathways to Science offer a wide range of fellowships and grants.

Many students have been able to obtain funding or financial assistance from their current employers. Employees of Carnegie Mellon University often receive tuition benefits as part of the benefits package. Please note: if you are employed while enrolled in the MSLE program, the length of your program will likely be extended beyond four semesters. If you plan to be employed while enrolled in the program, please be sure to complete the “Employment Information” section on your application.

Are there stipends and scholarships available for U.S. citizens?
DoD SMART Scholarship is an opportunity for prospective MSLE Master’s students who are United States citizens to receive full tuition, annual stipends, internships and guaranteed employment with the DoD after graduation. The deadline is December 1, so time is of the essence. To qualify, you will need to pursue a degree in one of the 21 STEM disciplines; MSLE qualifies as one.

Carnegie Mellon University also offers the Rales Fellowship for qualified applicants. The CMU Rales Fellows Program is a distinctive and transformative program dedicated to developing a diverse community of exceptionally talented national STEM leaders from underrepresented or under-resourced backgrounds by eliminating cost as a barrier to graduate education. Applications are due in mid-December at approximately the same time as your MSLE application.

Carnegie Mellon University also participates in the GEM program which offers qualified MS and Ph.D. level applicants an outstanding opportunity to enter industry at the graduate level in areas such as research and development, product development and other high level technical careers. 

Are there scholarships for women?
One site that lists scholarships for women is https://www.onlinecolleges.net/for-students/scholarships-for-women/

Where can I find loans for graduate school?
While regulations prohibit recommending particular loan programs, Carnegie Mellon is able to point students to private loans used by our students in the past. You can find these resources on the CMU Private Loans page and through the FastChoice loan comparison service. 

Master Degree versus Ph.D.

I just finished my undergraduate work. Should I apply for the MSLE program first as preparation for my Ph.D. work?
The MSLE program is intended to teach the skills necessary for professional practice in various learning engineering-related careers. However, an increasing number of our graduates successfully go on to pursue a Ph.D. To support this pathway, we have introduced a Special Research course designed specifically to provide students with the foundational research methods in HCI and Education for doctoral studies.

If I am not accepted for the HCII Ph.D., will I be automatically considered for admission to the MSLE program instead?
No. Because of the distinct educational goals of each program, their admissions processes are separate. However, your HCII Ph.D. application includes a section asking if you wish to be considered for the MSLE program should your Ph.D. application no longer be under consideration. If so, please select “yes” to have your application reviewed for the MSLE program.

May I apply to both the Master and Ph.D. program?
Yes, you may apply to both programs, but students usually prefer one to the other. The programs have been designed to address different goals, as stated above.

Job Placement, OPT and CPT

What are the typical career outcomes for MSLE students after graduation?
MSLE alumni consistently achieve excellent career outcomes. Many secure positions in leading companies, while others choose to pursue advanced degrees, building upon their MSLE foundation. See Career Services First Destination which tracks where our graduates land.

What resources should I know about?
We have collected the essential resources for your success on the MSLE Student Resources page.

What kind of jobs can I get with a MSLE degree and who employs MSLE graduates?
It is our expectation that graduates of the program will take key positions in corporations and private and public universities and schools; they will become learning engineers, designers, developers and evaluators of educational technologies and learning environments as well as domain experts, learning technology policy-makers or consultants. Please visit our alumni page to see where our graduates are now.

Are there job boards where I can see what type of positions are available? 
Yes. See https://www.edsurge.com/jobs, and https://jobs.td.org for a sample list of jobs. This is just a very small sample; this is a growing field and demand is high. Positions abound in most schools, colleges and universities as well as in educational software companies and publishers. Most large corporations also have large training departments that they staff internally. Also https://wellfound.com/jobs lists positions available in startup companies.

Are there professional organizations that I should know about?
Yes. The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) has more than 2400 members and focuses on improving instruction through technology. The QM Instructional Designers Association aims to enhance online education and student learning through effective instructional design practices. The EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) encourages sharing of ideas and innovations among higher education professionals that lead to improvements in learning through technology. Each of these organizations also has its own job board.

Does the department provide career counseling or job placement?
We do not provide job placement. However, students are encouraged to keep their resumes and/or websites current and are provided with opportunities to meet with prospective employers. Additionally, the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) is available for counseling services and any employment announcements we receive from outside sources are posted frequently. A great resource for your job search is https://www.cmu.edu/career/students_and_alumni.

Does the MSLE program qualify for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
At this writing, it does. While we do not expect any changes, given that the visa process is controlled by the United States Government, we cannot guarantee it will in the future.

Does the MSLE program qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension in addition to the 12-month OPT?
At this writing, it does. While we do not expect any changes, given that the visa process is controlled by the United States Government, we cannot guarantee it will in the future.

Does the MSLE program offer Practicum (Internship) opportunities?
Yes. Starting with the Fall 2026 cohort, all MSLE students are required to complete either a summer internship (Practicum) or a Special Research course with a research faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University during the summer semester.

After I graduate, when will I receive my diploma?
The diploma is mailed to your diploma address approximately two months after graduation whether you graduate in August or December.

Additional questions? Please email MSLE-help@cmu.edu.