Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering

1 Year On Campus Accelerated-masters Program

University of Wisconsin Madison

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering (Professional MS) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is an accelerated, coursework-based program designed to develop advanced engineering knowledge and practical industry skills. Students can choose from six specialization pathways, including Construction Engineering and Management, Structural Engineering, Geosystems Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Water Resources, preparing them for technical and leadership roles in the engineering industry.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 30 graduate credits and can be completed in approximately one year (three semesters). Students customize their curriculum according to their selected specialization, without a mandatory thesis requirement.

Year 1: Students establish advanced technical foundations through specialized graduate coursework in their chosen engineering area. Depending on their pathway, they study subjects related to construction project management, structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, environmental systems, transportation planning and water resources management.

Year 2: A second academic year is generally not required because the program is designed for completion in three semesters. Students complete their remaining specialization courses and advanced technical electives, strengthening their abilities in engineering analysis, infrastructure planning and practical problem-solving.

Focus Areas

Construction Engineering and Management, Structural Engineering, Geosystems Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Technical Expertise: Apply advanced scientific and engineering knowledge to complex civil engineering challenges.
Engineering Analysis: Evaluate infrastructure systems and develop effective technical solutions.
Project Management: Develop skills in construction planning, coordination and project execution.
Specialized Knowledge: Build expertise in structural, environmental, geotechnical, transportation or water resources engineering.
Professional Readiness: Strengthen analytical thinking, technical communication and industry problem-solving skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

ABET: Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from an ABET-accredited program or an appropriate recognized international institution. The professional MS itself is not separately identified as ABET-accredited.

Reputation & Employability

U.S. News & World Report 2025: UW–Madison ranked 11th among U.S. public universities for graduate Civil Engineering.

Graduate Salary: The university reports a $99,590 median salary in 2024 for relevant civil engineering occupations, based on Lightcast data. This is an occupational market figure, not a program-specific graduate salary.

Industry Connections: Graduates pursue opportunities with leading engineering employers, including WSP Global, Black & Veatch, AECOM, Jacobs, HNTB and Stantec.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical skills that are essential for success in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning through a variety of opportunities, including state-of-the-art facilities, advanced software tools, and collaborative projects. Students engage in real-world problem-solving, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Access to specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Laboratory, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, and the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, where students can conduct experiments and research.

- Software Tools: Proficiency in industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and ArcGIS, which are integral for design, analysis, and project management in civil and environmental engineering.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for professional success.

- Internships and Co-ops: Opportunities to work with leading engineering firms and organizations, providing valuable industry experience and networking connections.

- Field Trips: Organized visits to construction sites, wastewater treatment plants, and other relevant facilities to observe engineering practices in action and gain insights from professionals in the field.

- Research Institutes: Collaboration with research centers such as the Wisconsin Water Resources Institute and the Engineering Research Center, where students can engage in cutting-edge research projects.

- Libraries and Resources: Access to extensive resources at the University of Wisconsin-Madison libraries, including engineering databases and journals, to support academic and research endeavors.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares graduates for a dynamic career in engineering, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle pressing environmental challenges. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as Environmental Engineer, Civil Project Manager, Water Resources Engineer, and Sustainability Consultant. With a strong foundation in both technical and practical aspects of engineering, you’ll be well-positioned for success in a variety of industries.

Here’s how UW-Madison supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of graduates from the College of Engineering secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $75,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with leading companies such as AECOM, CH2M Hill, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provide students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards and is recognized globally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to innovative projects that shape sustainable infrastructure and environmental practices.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Civil Engineering or a related field, allowing you to delve deeper into research and potentially teach at the university level. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications or professional licenses, such as becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), which can further enhance your career prospects and expertise in the field.