At Rice, graduate study is offered in three broad categories:

1. Research-based programs (thesis) leading to the M.A., M.S., and various doctoral degrees,
2. Professional master's programs (non-thesis) which provide advanced course work and lead to degrees in specific disciplines.
3. Graduate certificate programs which provide post-bachelor's coursework (typlically 4-5 courses) to recognize students who have achieved a defined level of competence, skill, or professional expertise

Research-based degrees will transform a student to be expert in their field; qualified doctoral applicants often receive tuition support and a stipend to support cost of living. Non-thesis master's degrees and graduate certificates offer exceptional training and propel students to the next level of their careers.

Programs with STEM OPT Designation can be found here.

Use the links below to find information on specific programs. A full chart of degree programs is found in theGeneral Announcements. Graduate programs at Rice usually require full-time study, however, many non-thesis programs can be completed on a part-time basis and some offer online options. Check with your department of interest for specifics, including application deadlines.

Rice Graduate Studies is not requiring the GRE for 2025, but will provide students with the option of submitting those scores. However, the following individual Rice degree programs will recommend, strongly recommend, or require the general GRE for 2024 admission:

• General GRE is recommended but not required: Master's in Material Science and NanoEngineering; Ph.D. in Materials Science and NanoEngineering
• General GRE is strongly recommended but not required: Master's in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Ph.D. in Civil Engineering; Master's in Architecture; Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
• General GRE is required for the PhD in Economics and Political Science

Please check in with your program of application on all individual requirements.

Graduate programs in the Jones School of Business generally require some standardized testing, such as GMAT, Executive Assessment or the GRE. Waivers may be available for those with appropriate qualifications as described at the Jones School’s application site.

For 2025 admission, Rice is also waiving doctoral application fee waivers for students graduating from institutions in Texas or bordering states, or for students who reside in those states. This excludes programs in the Jones School of Business.