MS in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering in Construction Engineering and Management

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Mason University

Program Overview

The MS in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering – Construction Engineering and Management (CEM) at George Mason University develops advanced technical and managerial skills for planning, designing and delivering complex construction and infrastructure projects. The concentration combines civil engineering fundamentals with construction administration, cost estimation, Building Information Modeling (BIM), project planning and infrastructure management.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 30 credit hours, including 6 credits of core courses, 9 credits of concentration courses, 12 credits of electives and a 3-credit seminar.

Year 1: Students complete the core courses CEIE 601 – Infrastructure Modeling and CEIE 605 – Risk and Uncertainty in Civil Engineering. They begin their concentration through subjects such as CEIE 571 – Construction Administration, CEIE 572 – Building Information Modeling, and CEIE 573 – Legal Aspects of the Construction Process.

Year 2: Students complete the remaining concentration requirements and approved electives. Options include CEIE 575 – Design for Constructability, CEIE 576 – Construction Cost Estimating, CEIE 578 – Construction Planning and Scheduling, CEIE 677 – Construction Simulation, and CEIE 607 – Public Infrastructure Management and Finance. Students also complete CEIE 795 – Civil and Infrastructure Engineering Seminar.

The year-wise structure is indicative. Students must develop a faculty-approved plan of study by the end of their second semester.

Focus Areas

Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Building Information Modeling, Construction Administration, Cost Estimation, Construction Planning and Scheduling, Design for Constructability, Infrastructure Management, Construction Simulation, Risk Analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Apply advanced engineering principles to construction and infrastructure projects.
Develop construction cost estimates, schedules and project management strategies.
Evaluate construction contracts, legal requirements and administrative processes.
Use BIM and digital technologies for construction planning and coordination.
Analyse infrastructure risks and uncertainty in engineering decisions.
Manage complex construction projects through technical and analytical approaches.

Professional Alignment

Accreditation: The university does not specify separate ABET accreditation for this master's program. Its curriculum provides advanced academic and professional preparation in civil and infrastructure engineering.

Professional relevance: Coursework in construction administration, cost estimation, BIM and project planning aligns with competencies used in construction engineering and management practice.

Reputation and Industry Connections

George Mason University's Volgenau School of Engineering offers graduate education that integrates civil engineering theory with modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, remote sensing and BIM. Its location in Northern Virginia, near Washington, D.C., provides access to government agencies, engineering consultancies and infrastructure-related organizations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Mason University, the MS in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering in Construction Engineering and Management offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical skills that are essential for success in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world projects, collaborate with peers, and utilize state-of-the-art facilities and tools. This hands-on approach not only enhances your understanding of theoretical concepts but also prepares you for the challenges of the construction industry.

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

- State-of-the-Art Laboratories: Access to specialized labs equipped with advanced technology for structural testing, materials analysis, and geotechnical engineering.
- Software Proficiency: Gain experience with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Primavera P6, which are essential for project planning and management.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on team-based projects that simulate real-world construction scenarios, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships with local construction firms, providing valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Participate in site visits to active construction projects, allowing you to observe and analyze construction processes in real-time.
- Research Institutes: Engage with faculty-led research initiatives at the Center for Transportation Research, which focuses on innovative solutions in civil engineering.
- Access to Libraries: Utilize the extensive resources at the George Mason University Libraries, including databases and journals specific to civil engineering and construction management.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MS in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering in Construction Engineering and Management at George Mason University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Project Manager, Construction Manager, and Civil Engineer, among others. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of construction and infrastructure development.

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

- University Services: George Mason offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for engineering students. The Office of Career Services also connects students with industry professionals through job fairs and internships.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the Civil and Infrastructural Engineering program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $75,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.

- University–Industry Partnerships: George Mason has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the construction and engineering sectors, such as Bechtel and HNTB. These collaborations provide students with real-world project experience and potential job placements.

- 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: Alumni of the program have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant infrastructure projects both domestically and internationally.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS in Civil and Infrastructural Engineering, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering or a related field. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, and specialized roles in engineering management or policy-making. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional certifications, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) or becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), which can enhance your career prospects even further.