Proving Your Potential: The Value of the ASAP Application Process at Stevens

Stevens Institute of Technology is making graduate education more accessible by removing traditional admissions barriers. Its Accelerated Success Academic Pathway (ASAP) Application model offers an alternative route to the school’s online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) and Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (MEM) programs.

Through ASAP, you’ll be evaluated on what really matters: your ability to complete graduate-level coursework successfully. Earn qualifying grades in two degree-level courses to gain admission to the program. Your ability to complete the coursework is your application. It’s a low-cost, low-risk way to begin work on your master’s degree (especially if your employer covers tuition as part of your benefits package).

More than just a brief, streamlined application process, the ASAP process is designed to support your success from Day One. This article explains how the ASAP Application works, what makes it unique and who is likely to benefit most from this performance-based approach.

What Is an ASAP Application?

ASAP Applications is a skills-focused admissions model in which students complete initial courses related to their target degree and earn full admission by performing well. The ASAP Application model broadens access to Stevens’ master’s degree programs, welcoming both experienced professionals and career changers without compromising on academic rigor. 

So, how does it work?

1. Prospective students complete a quick application form. To qualify, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or first professional degree (e.g., JD, MD).
2. Applicants are immediately enrolled in two courses, both of which are credited toward their master’s degree. 
3. Students take two 8-week asynchronous courses (which they can take consecutively within one academic term), committing approximately 20 hours per week per course. Students receive support and structure from the Stevens team throughout the courses. 
4. After successfully completing the first two courses with a grade of B or better, students submit a shortened application and unofficial transcripts to formally enter the master’s degree program. 

A Forward Pathway for Computer Science Careers (MSCS) 

Prospective online MSCS students can apply through the ASAP program to enter either the traditional or advanced program track:

• The traditional track is ideal for professionals with a background in another field who want to pivot into computer science.
• The advanced track is designed for those with prior experience in computer science or technology who want to deepen their expertise.

ASAP applicants begin by completing two asynchronous courses (students on the traditional track complete Introduction to Java Programming and Data Structures; those on the advanced track take Algorithms and Systems Programming). Regardless of the track, all applicants are eligible to enroll in the full MSCS program upon successful completion of the first two courses.

These courses are the same as those taken by students who apply through the standard application, and they mirror the academic rigor of the full MSCS curriculum. The ASAP process allows students to demonstrate their readiness for graduate study through hands-on coursework rather than essays and test scores. 

Built for Engineers Who Want to Lead (MEM) 

The ASAP Application also offers a flexible entry point into the online MEM — a program built for engineers ready to step into leadership roles.

The MEM curriculum emphasizes T-shaped professional development, combining deep technical knowledge with broad strategy, leadership and communication skills. ASAP candidates take rigorous, faculty-led courses that uphold the standards of the complete MEM program. From Day One, the coursework integrates engineering tools, systems thinking and real-world leadership scenarios, equipping students with skills they can apply immediately in their careers.

Who Benefits from an ASAP Application?

The Stevens ASAP Application model is an excellent fit for various types of prospective students, including: 

• Career changers: If you’re looking to transition into tech or leadership without a formal academic background in the field, the ASAP Application offers a low-risk, high-reward way to explore a new field. 
• Working professionals: If you have significant work experience but lack strong academic credentials (e.g., a low undergraduate GPA), the ASAP Application enables you to demonstrate your readiness for graduate school. Additionally, the ASAP Application model enables working professionals to assess their readiness for graduate school, particularly in terms of balancing work, life and academic responsibilities. 
• Motivated learners: If you’re ready to earn your admission through action and performance (rather than relying on a traditional application process), ASAP is for you.

How Stevens Supports Your Success

The ASAP Application is designed with working professionals in mind, offering structure, flexibility and support at every step. Courses follow a clear, milestone-based format and are taught by expert Stevens faculty. While learning is primarily asynchronous to fit your schedule, students also benefit from direct access to instructors through online office hours.

Along the way, you’ll not only earn credits toward your graduate degree; you’ll also gain confidence, strengthen your skills and prove your ability to succeed in a rigorous academic environment. Best of all, the knowledge you gain can be applied immediately in your current role.

Take the Next Step: Enroll in Your First Courses Today 

Ready to kickstart your graduate journey? The ASAP Application provides a quicker, more flexible way to begin pursuing your master’s degree, with no need to wait for an admissions decision. This performance-based pathway enables you to enroll in asynchronous courses immediately and begin building momentum toward your goals. Take advantage of this low-cost, low-risk alternative to program admissions. Your employer may even cover some or all of the cost.

Connect with an enrollment advisor to learn more about the Stevens ASAP Application process. Or if you’re ready to get started, submit your ASAP Application today.