Difference between MS and MTech (2024)

MS and MTech are two major streams of engineering. They differ in their area of specialization, duration, and eligibility criteria to apply for degree programs. MS is a two-year post-graduation program offered by various universities to complete your Masters’s Degree in Computer Science (MSC) or Master of Technology (MTech). MTech is a four-year graduate course offered by IITs and NITs, aiming to give you hands-on experience with the latest technologies. In this blog, let’s discover the key differences between MS and MTech.

Duration

Duration is the first difference between these two. MS degree is a two-year program, while an MTech degree is a three-year program.

The second difference between MS and MTech degrees is their research orientation. In comparison, a student can opt for a research-oriented stream in any branch of engineering like mechanical, electrical and electronics, computer science, etc.

Students with research interest appear for admission to Master of Technology (MTech) courses offered by most reputed universities only after completing their Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or equivalent qualification from any recognized institute/university with minimum marks individually required per university norms.

Criteria for admission

• The eligibility criteria for admission to a postgraduate program vary from institute to institute. Some institutes have a minimum marks requirement, while others have only a minimum GPA requirement. Some colleges require students to have at least two years of work experience before applying for their programs.
• Specific colleges may even conduct interviews as part of the admission process or require you to submit your resume and application form.
• Finally, some institutes may require applicants to hold specific educational qualifications before being considered for the program, including an undergraduate degree in computer science or engineering from a recognized university or college.

Subjects

MS and MTech are the same in terms of their duration, credit hours, and eligibility. While an MS degree can be earned either by pursuing a Ph.D. or doing an MPhil coursework program, MTech is offered only after completing a bachelor’s degree. As a result, those who hold a bachelor’s degree can only pursue an MS rather than an MTech.

The subjects of study differ between these two degrees. Generally speaking, for an MS, you need to take classes like Advanced Calculus or Probability Theory. In contrast, for an MTech, you need to take courses like Data Structure & Algorithms or Computer Architecture & Design Patterns.

Job opportunities after MS

• MS attracts a lot of job opportunities worldwide.
• MS is a postgraduate degree and is more specialized. You can choose your area of specialization and then proceed with your studies. For example, if you want to specialize in Artificial Intelligence (AI), you can opt for an AI course focusing on the same subject and earn an MS in this field.
• Compared to those with only bachelor’s degrees, An MS degree might help you land higher-paying jobs.
• Additionally, this opens up new doors for those interested in pursuing PhDs or even further studies after completing their master’s program later in their lives.

Job opportunities after MTech

• One of the most significant differences between MTech and MS is job opportunities. An MS degree is more applied and less specialized, thus making it easier to get a job with nothing to do with your field of study.
• On the other hand, an MTech degree focuses on research and development in specific areas such as electrical or mechanical engineering. Hence, it’s not easy for someone who has earned an MTech degree to find work outside their field of study.
• MTech would be an ideal career path involving research and development and practical applications for your knowledge.

Key takeaways

• An MS offers a more specialized study, but an MTech may allow you to work in industry and participate in the latest research.
• An MS will give you more theoretical knowledge, whereas an MTech will offer more practical knowledge.
• You may be eligible for higher paying jobs with an MS than with an MTech as it requires more academic training, but both degrees can lead to high-paying careers.
• Some colleges may require that you choose between an MS or MTech program before being admitted into their school. In contrast, others allow students to enroll in either degree program at any time during their college career.

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FAQs

Q1. Between MTech and MS, which program is better after a BTech degree?

Ans- The best option after BTech depends on your objectives and is highly subjective. You need to practice for MTech and GATE if you want to earn a master’s degree in your primary field of study or work for a PSU (Public Sector Undertaking). Choose MS if you’re going to get it from a university abroad.

Q2. After earning my MTech, can I pursue an MS?

Ans- Yes, you can apply for MS programs after MTech. The only requirement is that you have a respectable GRE and profile.

Q3: Why do students pursue an MS degree after a BTech?

Ans- Because there are lucrative career options if you have an MS degree after a BTech degree from a top engineering school. MS courses can provide quick advancement, higher pay, multiple career paths, and a job you enjoy.