MEng in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Florida State University

Program Overview

The M.Eng. in Civil Engineering at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is a coursework-based graduate degree that develops advanced knowledge of civil engineering, management and professional practice. The programme offers flexibility for part-time study or accelerated full-time completion, with an option to complete the degree in approximately one year.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students complete advanced coursework in a selected civil engineering specialty area, supported by multidisciplinary electives. The curriculum includes 15 credit hours in the specialty area, 12 credit hours of supplementary electives and at least 3 credit hours in mathematics, statistics or computational science.

Year 2: Students following a part-time pathway complete their remaining approved coursework and electives. The degree requires 30 semester credit hours in total; the exact course sequence depends on the student's chosen specialty and approved plan of study.

Focus Areas: Advanced civil engineering, specialty-area study, engineering management, professional practice, multidisciplinary electives, mathematics, statistics and computational science.

Learning Outcomes: Apply advanced civil engineering knowledge, evaluate engineering challenges, integrate management and professional skills into engineering practice, use quantitative and computational methods, develop multidisciplinary solutions to civil engineering problems.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The programme is designed for advanced professional development in civil engineering. Separate programme-specific accreditation for the M.Eng. is not stated on the official page.

Reputation and Employability: The programme is offered by the joint FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. Students can pursue the degree through either Florida A&M University or Florida State University; the coursework remains the same, but the diploma is awarded by the university through which the student applies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Florida State University, the MEng in Civil Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for a successful career in the field. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various projects, internships, and collaborative opportunities, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also skilled practitioners.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MEng in Civil Engineering program at FSU:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students can utilize specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Lab and the Geotechnical Engineering Lab, which are equipped with advanced testing equipment for materials and structural analysis.

- Software Proficiency: The curriculum includes training in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SAP2000, which are essential for design and analysis in civil engineering.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the program, allowing students to work in teams to solve complex engineering problems, simulating real-world engineering scenarios.

- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships with local engineering firms and government agencies, providing students with valuable work experience and networking opportunities.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to construction sites and engineering projects, offering firsthand insights into the practical applications of their studies.

- Research Institutes: FSU is home to several research institutes, such as the Center for Advanced Transportation Systems Simulation (CATSS), where students can engage in cutting-edge research and development.

- Libraries and Resources: The FSU Libraries provide extensive resources, including access to engineering databases and journals, which are crucial for research and project work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MEng in Civil Engineering at Florida State University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in roles such as Structural Engineer, Project Manager, and Transportation Engineer, where they can make a significant impact on infrastructure and community development. The demand for skilled civil engineers continues to grow, making this a promising field for future professionals:

- University Services: FSU offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers earn a median annual salary of around $88,570, with many graduates from FSU securing positions in reputable firms shortly after graduation.
- University–Industry Partnerships: FSU has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as HNTB and AECOM, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEng program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which enhances your degree's value and recognition in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Over 90% of FSU civil engineering graduates find employment within six months of graduation, reflecting the program's strong reputation and the effectiveness of its career support services.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MEng in Civil Engineering, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or related fields. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, and specialized roles in engineering consultancy. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential.