Late Entry Accelerated Program (LEAP)

For more than 40 years, the Late Entry Accelerated Program (LEAP) at Boston University has enabled talented individuals and working professionals with bachelor’s degrees in non-engineering fields to earn graduate degrees in engineering. The program is designed for students who have at least a bachelor’s degree in the liberal arts or another non-engineering field which does not qualify them for direct admission to one of the College of Engineering’s graduate programs.

LEAP students choose from any of the college’s master’s programs in biomedical engineering, computer & electrical engineering, materials science & engineering, mechanical engineering, product design & manufacture, or systems engineering. The curriculum begins with core undergraduate engineering courses to achieve a fundamental level of proficiency. Students then transition successfully to master’s degree candidacy in their chosen field of engineering.

LEAP Foundation

Students begin LEAP by taking undergraduate core courses that are customized according to the students’ undergraduate background. Successful completion of the foundation courses qualifies students to transition to a Master of Engineering or Master of Science program in the College of Engineering. Sample core curricula for each area of study are available on the LEAP website.

Master’s Program

The Master of Science and Master of Engineering programs can be completed in 1–2 years depending on a student’s precise program of study, degree requirements, and part-time/full-time status.

Applicants to the LEAP program should refer to the Instructions for LEAP (Late Entry Accelerated Program) applicants in the application. Application information is also available on the LEAP website.

Engineering is a calculus-based curriculum:

• Applicants are strongly encouraged to have successfully completed Calculus 1 for math or science majors before applying.
• The LEAP math sequence begins with Calculus II. Prior to matriculating, students are expected to be proficient with Calculus I concepts.

US citizens and permanent residents are eligible for University scholarships and federal and private loans. International students must submit financial documentation to cover tuition and living expenses with their application materials.

For further information, visit the LEAP program website.

A complete description of available financial aid may be found on the College of Engineering website.

Inquiries should be directed to LEAP, Graduate Programs office, College of Engineering, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215. Email: enggrad@bu.edu.