About this Program

Further your background in modeling and simulation with a master of science degree. Our program prepares students for careers as simulation professionals in government and industry, teachers of modeling and simulation at the high school or junior college level, and for advanced graduate study in modeling and simulation or other related disciplines. The master's degree in modeling and simulation (M&S) emphasizes a strong, common subject core while providing the student with the flexibility to design a plan of study to meet each individual's study objectives and needs. The program's subject core consists of: an overview of modeling and simulation; an in-depth exploration of specific simulation methodological approaches; simulation system modeling principles and techniques; an introduction to computer visualization and visual simulation; and principles of stochastic analysis. This provides the mechanisms for the simulationist to work across disciplines and domains while maintaining a common frame of reference for communication, technical specialization, and advanced study and research.

Program Highlights

  • Program offers two options: thesis option and course option. The thesis option requires six hours of thesis credit and 24 hours of course credit and it is directed primarily at full-time students who are preparing for a career in advanced M&S research and/or academic positions. The course option requires 30 hours of course credit and it is focused on developing the practical skills and knowledge needed to solve problems requiring applications of modeling and simulation. The Course Optionis further divided into two tracks: Development Track and Application Track. The Development Track is programming intensive and prepares students for advanced simulation development, while the Application Track focuses on the usage of existing advanced simulation tools.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Master of Science
Concentration
Modeling and Simulation Engineering
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Software Developers, Applications

$106,710 Median Salary

Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. May analyze and design databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. May supervise computer programmers.

Electronics Engineers, Except Computer

$106,760 Median Salary

Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.

Computer Hardware Engineers

$119,650 Median Salary

Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.

Aerospace Engineers

$115,300 Median Salary

Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.

Alumni Careers

CISCO
ESRI
MathWorks
U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Modeling & Simulation Engineering at ODU?
Students entering the Master of Science program in Modeling & Simulation Engineering should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.

The Master's Degree in Modeling and Simulation is designed for students having bachelor's degrees in Engineering, Science or Mathematics, although students from other educational backgrounds may apply with appropriate leveling courses. Prerequisites for admission include: mathematics - two courses in differential and integral calculus and one course in calculus-based probability and statistics; and computer science - algorithmic problem solving using a high-level object-oriented programming language such as C++.

  • A completed graduate application form

  • A resume and statement of academic goals and objectives

  • Transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended

  • Recent Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores from the verbal, quantitative and analytical writing tests (GRE letters required of MS application thesis option only)

  • Two letters of recommendation from previous university instructors or employment supervisors (recommendation letters required of MS application thesis option only)

  • A minimum GPA of 2.80 overall and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the undergraduate major are required. Students with notable deficiencies may be considered for provisional admission and will be required to complete prerequisite course requirements in addition to the graduate degree requirements. Job experience and training may be considered in evaluating prerequisite requirements.

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $599
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $623
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,439

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Contact

Professor

1318 ENGR & COMP SCI BLDG
NORFOLK, 23529