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Colorado School of MinesThe M.S. in Civil Engineering (Non-Thesis) at Colorado School of Mines develops advanced technical expertise through graduate coursework and applied engineering projects. Students select one of three emphasis areas—Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering or Water Resources Engineering—to prepare for professional engineering practice and infrastructure-related careers.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Students complete advanced graduate courses in their chosen emphasis area. Geotechnical students focus on soil and rock mechanics, foundation engineering and slope stability; Structural Engineering students study structural analysis, advanced materials and infrastructure resilience; Water Resources students explore hydrology, water systems and environmental modelling.
Year 2: Students complete the remaining graduate coursework and the non-thesis requirement through either a three-credit research-based independent study (CEEN 599) or an approved three-credit design course. Students also attend two semesters of Civil Engineering Seminar (CEEN 590).
Focus Areas: Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, soil and rock mechanics, foundation engineering, structural analysis, infrastructure resilience, hydrology, stormwater management and sustainable water infrastructure.
Learning Outcomes: Apply advanced engineering principles, analyse complex infrastructure systems, evaluate soil and structural behaviour, use numerical modelling and analytical methods, develop sustainable water solutions, solve practical engineering challenges, communicate technical findings.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is offered through the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Separate ABET accreditation for this graduate degree is not stated.
Reputation and Employability: The university reports an average starting salary of $75,000 for recent graduates of this program. Employers listed include AECOM, Bechtel, Jacobs, Kiewit, WSP, Stantec, Tetra Tech and Carollo Engineers.
At the Colorado School of Mines, the Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Non-Thesis) program 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 facilities, tools, and opportunities that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced software, and collaborative projects, students are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of underground construction and tunnel engineering.
Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:
- Advanced Software Training: Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, PLAXIS, and GeoStudio, which are crucial for design and analysis in underground construction.
- Collaborative Group Projects: The program encourages teamwork through group projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges, fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills.
- Internship Opportunities: Students have access to internships with leading companies in the field, providing invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: The curriculum includes field trips to active construction sites and engineering projects, allowing students to observe and learn from professionals in the industry.
- Dedicated Laboratories: The program features specialized laboratories equipped for research and experimentation in geotechnical engineering, rock mechanics, and tunneling technologies.
- Research Institutes: Students can engage with research initiatives at the Center for Underground Construction and Tunneling, which focuses on innovative solutions and advancements in the field.
- Library Resources: The university's extensive library system offers access to a wealth of resources, including journals, books, and databases specific to underground construction and engineering.
- Simulation Tools: Students utilize digital tools for modeling and simulation, enhancing their understanding of complex engineering concepts.
The MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering (Non-Thesis) prepares graduates for professional engineering careers involving infrastructure development, structural systems, geotechnical analysis and water-resource management. Students develop practical technical expertise that supports opportunities in engineering consultancy, construction, environmental services, energy, mining and government organisations.
Career development and employment opportunities:
Career services: Access the Mines Career Center for career development resources, employment preparation and professional guidance.
Industry connections: The university identifies employers such as AECOM, Bechtel, Jacobs, Kiewit, WSP, Black & Veatch and Burns & McDonnell as organisations recruiting Mines graduates.
Environmental and water resources: Explore opportunities with Carollo Engineers, CDM Smith, Geosyntec Consultants, Hazen and Sawyer, Stantec and Tetra Tech.
Government opportunities: Potential employers include the Colorado Department of Transportation, Denver Water, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Geological Survey.
Potential job roles: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Water Resources Engineer, Project Engineer, Infrastructure Consultant, Construction Engineer and Environmental Engineer.
Employment outcomes: The university reports an average starting salary of US$75,000 for recent graduates of this program.
Industry relevance: The three specialisations provide technical preparation for infrastructure design, structural performance assessment, geotechnical investigations and sustainable water-resource projects.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Colorado School of Mines or other research universities. Students interested in advanced research can explore areas such as structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, water resources, infrastructure resilience and environmental systems. The university also offers a separate thesis-based MS pathway for students interested in developing research experience before pursuing doctoral studies
US universities use a holistic admissions review. Beyond grades and standardized test scores, they weigh the strength of your overall profile to understand who you are as a student and a person.
Profile Assessment: Engineering applicants are generally assessed on the strength of their preparation in advanced Mathematics and laboratory sciences, particularly Physics and Chemistry. Calculus, technical projects, robotics, engineering competitions, research and evidence of practical problem-solving can strengthen the application. Universities may also look for creativity, teamwork and the ability to apply scientific concepts to real-world challenges.Advanced Placement(AP) Guidance: AP availability depends on the student's school. Relevant APs can strengthen an application and may earn university credit, but are not compulsory unless the university or programme explicitly requires them.Essays & recommendations: Personal essays and teacher/counselor recommendations give context to your achievements and help demonstrate fit with the program.Civil EngineerGeotechnical EngineerStructural EngineerWater Resources EngineerInfrastructure EngineerProject EngineerEnvironmental EngineerConstruction EngineerEngineering ConsultantTechnical ConsultantHydrology EngineerProject Manager
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