Thank you for your interest in our TxEEE Vanguard Program
The Engineering Management Fellows Program offers high-achieving undergraduate engineering students a unique opportunity to secure a future pathway into the Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) at The University of Texas at Austin. Below you will find the application process and key dates and deadlines.
Who Should Apply?
Minimum Eligibility:
- Cockrell School of Engineering undergraduate student graduating with a 3.0 GPA in a major.
Competitive Applicants Demonstrate:
- Strong technical performance, i.e., personal projects, entrepreneurship
- Demonstrates leadership positions in undergraduate career, ie, in student organizations, startups, projects, and internship programs.
Ability to show and demonstrate a clear vision towards engineering or tech leadership.
Application Process
- In your application, indicate that you are a TxEEE Vanguard Student
- Submit a UT Graduate School application for Option III Engineering Management
- What leadership role are you planning to grow into in the next 5 years?
- What do you plan to gain from taking this program?
- $1,000 deposit applied to future program
You’ve already done the hard work to earn your place at Cockrell.
This program ensures that investment in your education continues to pay through your first promotion, career, and beyond.
FAQs
What if I choose not to pursue the program in a few years, but I have paid a deposit and been accepted?
While the deposit is non-refundable, it does serve an important purpose: it secures your seat and confirms your admission into this highly competitive program. Once your deposit is submitted and you’ve been accepted, your place in the program is held for you, and your deposit goes directly to the program’s course fees.
Do I have to go full-time, or can I remain part-time the whole time?
While we do encourage students to take two courses per semester once they begin the program, we recognize that this pace may not be feasible for everyone. After starting the in-person component, you do have the option to petition for a reduced course load if needed. Our goal is to support you in progressing through the program in a way that aligns with your professional and personal responsibilities while still maintaining strong momentum toward completion.
I am planning to leave the state of Texas. Can I take this online?
Yes, you do have the flexibility to complete the program online, which allows you to continue your studies even if you relocate
This sounds like a great opportunity; however, I don’t know how to anticipate if I’ll be eligible in 5 years. What if I don’t want to take it anymore?
We understand that priorities and plans can change over time. Being accepted into the program simply reflects that we see strong potential in you as a future leader. If your path evolves and you decide not to pursue the program, that’s completely okay. We remain committed to supporting your lifelong learning journey in whatever direction it takes.
Does everyone need to submit essays even with extensive experience?
Yes, everyone must submit essays as part of the application process.
Can my future company cover my fees for my degree?
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement, and our courses typically meet the requirements for these programs. We’ve worked with a variety of payment methods and reimbursement processes to support students utilizing this benefit. We encourage you to connect with your employer to explore their tuition assistance options and take full advantage of this opportunity.
What is an Option III degree?
Option III refers to the Cockrell School of Engineering’s professional master’s degree programs administered through Texas Engineering Executive Education (TxEEE). These programs are designed to meet industry workforce needs by offering flexible, market-relevant graduate degrees and credentials for working professionals, often incorporating online, hybrid, or nontraditional delivery formats. The degrees and certifications are all issued by the Cockrell School of Engineering.
How much is the degree?
The current total cost of the program is $50,000 and covers all tuition and fees for the full degree. While tuition rates may change over time, once you are admitted and accept your offer, your program cost is locked in—so the amount at the time of your acceptance remains your total cost throughout your enrollment, even if you defer or pause your studies.
Payments are made on a per-course basis each semester as you progress through the program.
Are the fees for the degree the cost of the year I’m accepted, or the year I start?
The year you were accepted and submitted a deposit.
I’m an international student. Can I apply for this program?
While you are welcome to apply, you would have to participate in our fast-track program. For more information about that, please see here.
For more general Q&A about the program, click here.