Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Washington University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering at The George Washington University prepares students to develop innovative solutions to challenges involving modern infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and urban development. Students can specialize in six areas, combining advanced technical coursework, engineering analysis, and research opportunities to build expertise for careers in infrastructure, transportation, environmental management, and structural engineering.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop advanced engineering knowledge through specialization-specific courses. Depending on their chosen focus, they study subjects such as CE 6501 – Environmental Chemistry, CE 6210 – Introduction to Finite Element Analysis, CE 6201 – Structural Analysis, and CE 6721 – Traffic Engineering and Highway Safety.

Year 2: Students complete advanced electives and focus on research or additional coursework. Thesis students undertake 6 credits of thesis research alongside 24 coursework credits, while non-thesis students complete 33 coursework credits to fulfil their degree requirements.

Degree Requirements: Thesis option: 30 credits (24 coursework + 6 thesis research). Non-thesis option: 33 coursework credits. Full-time duration: approximately two years; part-time duration: approximately three years.

Focus Areas

Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Mechanics and Materials Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Environmental assessment, water and wastewater treatment, foundation design, soil mechanics, structural analysis, materials evaluation, transportation planning, traffic engineering, hydraulic modelling, infrastructure optimization, engineering research and technical problem-solving.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program develops advanced technical and research competencies relevant to civil and environmental engineering practice. Students gain specialized knowledge through graduate coursework and research. ABET accreditation: The university identifies ABET accreditation for its undergraduate Civil Engineering program; separate accreditation for this master's program is not stated.

Reputation & Employability

Research environment: Students learn from internationally recognized faculty working across infrastructure, environmental engineering, transportation, and structural systems.
Research opportunities: Access to research involving infrastructure development, automated vehicles, intelligent transportation systems, and environmental sustainability.
Location advantage: Washington, D.C. offers access to federal agencies, engineering organizations, consulting firms, and transportation institutions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Washington University, the Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and utilize state-of-the-art facilities and tools. This approach not only enhances your understanding of civil engineering concepts but also prepares you for real-world challenges in the field.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering program:

- Advanced Laboratories: Access to specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Laboratory and the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, where you can conduct experiments and research on materials and structures.

- Cutting-Edge Software: Proficiency in industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SAP2000, which are essential for design, analysis, and project management in civil engineering.

- Collaborative Projects: Opportunities to work on group projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Internship Opportunities: Strong connections with local and national engineering firms provide avenues for internships, allowing you to gain valuable work experience and network with professionals in the field.

- Field Trips: Engaging field trips to construction sites and engineering projects, giving you firsthand insight into the practical applications of your studies.

- Research Institutes: Collaboration with research institutes such as the GW Institute for Sustainability and the GW Center for Urban and Environmental Research, where you can participate in cutting-edge research initiatives.

- Access to Libraries: Utilize the extensive resources at the Gelman Library, which offers a wealth of engineering journals, books, and databases to support your studies and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering at George Washington University (GWU) opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Civil Engineer, Project Manager, Structural Engineer, and Transportation Engineer. The skills and knowledge gained here not only prepare you for immediate employment but also set the stage for long-term career advancement:

- University Services: GWU offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events with industry professionals. The Office of Career Services also hosts job fairs specifically tailored for engineering students.

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

- University–Industry Partnerships: GWU has established partnerships with leading firms and organizations in the civil engineering sector, such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and local government agencies, providing 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, enhancing your employability.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering program have gone on to work for top companies like Bechtel, AECOM, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, showcasing the program's strong reputation in the industry.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Civil and Environmental Engineering or related fields, which can lead to advanced research opportunities, teaching positions at universities, or high-level roles in industry research and development. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can further enhance your career prospects and credibility in the field.