Can I do research in a professional MS program?

Most professional MS programs are preparing students for positions in industry. Courses taken in a professional MS program may be quite different from the related courses in an academic MS program, and may offer only limited opportunities for research.

That said, if you are admitted to a professional MS program in a research university, you may be able to connect with research opportunities by reaching out to professors at the university. While some programs may facilitate this process, and even grant elective credit for that kind of work, this can vary a lot from one program to another. So, if you are interested in getting some research experience while doing a professional MS, check programs out carefully and ask program staff.