MS in Architectural Civil and Environmental Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Colorado Boulder

Program Overview

The University of Colorado Boulder offers MS in Architectural Civil and Environmental Engineering through its Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering. These programs combine advanced coursework with research or project-based learning, allowing students to specialize in areas related to buildings, infrastructure, construction and environmental systems.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students complete core and specialized graduate courses in their chosen research area, supported by electives. Architectural Engineering students can focus on building energy, illumination, materials and carbon, or construction engineering and management; Civil Engineering students select a subplan such as structural engineering, geotechnical engineering or construction engineering and management.

Year 2: Students complete their remaining coursework and either a thesis or an approved project, depending on the degree plan. The Civil Engineering M.S. offers a 30-credit thesis option or non-thesis coursework options, while the Architectural Engineering M.S. requires 30 credits, including six thesis credits or three project credits.

Focus Areas: Architectural Engineering, Civil Systems Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Building Energy, Building Decarbonization, Illumination Engineering, Materials and Carbon, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydrology and Water Resources, Structural Engineering.

Learning Outcomes: Apply advanced engineering principles, analyse building and infrastructure systems, develop sustainable design solutions, evaluate construction methods and project performance, use advanced analytical and computational tools, conduct independent research and communicate technical findings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The department offers graduate engineering degrees in specialized research areas. Separate ABET accreditation for these M.S. programs is not stated.

Reputation and Employability: CU Boulder reports that its graduate civil engineering program ranked No. 9 in 2025 among public graduate engineering programs. The department also reports that more than 80% of civil and architectural graduate alumni secured job offers or continued their education within six months of graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Colorado Boulder, the MS in Architectural Civil and Environmental Engineering 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 innovative facilities and tools that enhance the educational experience. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced software, and collaborative spaces that foster teamwork and creativity.

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

- Research Laboratories: Students can work in specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering and Materials Laboratory, the Environmental Engineering Laboratory, and the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, where they can conduct experiments and engage in cutting-edge research.

- Software Proficiency: The program incorporates industry-standard software tools like AutoCAD, Revit, MATLAB, and ArcGIS, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the technical demands of their careers.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work in teams to solve real-world engineering challenges, simulating the collaborative nature of the industry.

- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to pursue internships with leading engineering firms, providing invaluable work experience and networking opportunities that can lead to future employment.

- Field Trips: Students often participate in field trips to construction sites, environmental projects, and engineering firms, giving them firsthand exposure to the practical applications of their studies.

- Research Institutes: The university hosts several research institutes, such as the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) and the Sustainable Built Environment program, where students can engage in interdisciplinary research.

- Libraries and Resources: The University of Colorado Boulder boasts extensive library resources, including the Engineering Library, which provides access to a wealth of academic journals, books, and databases relevant to civil and environmental engineering.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Architectural Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder prepares graduates for a variety of impactful careers in the engineering field. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as Structural Engineer, Environmental Consultant, and Project Manager, where they can apply their skills to design sustainable infrastructure and address pressing environmental challenges. With a strong foundation in both technical and practical aspects of engineering, graduates are well-equipped to thrive in a competitive job market.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for engineering students. Additionally, the Engineering Career Services team connects students with industry professionals and hosts job fairs featuring top employers in the field.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates from the program secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $80,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: CU Boulder has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as CH2M Hill, HDR, and Jacobs Engineering, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience that enhances their learning and employability.

- 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 of quality and is recognized by employers worldwide.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the program have gone on to work for prestigious firms and government agencies, contributing to innovative projects that shape the future of urban development and environmental sustainability.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Architectural Civil and Environmental Engineering, you may choose to pursue a PhD in a specialized area of engineering, which can open doors to advanced research positions, teaching opportunities at the university level, or leadership roles in industry. This path not only deepens your expertise but also enhances your career prospects in academia and beyond.