MS / MEng in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Oregon State University

Program Overview

Oregon State University offers two graduate pathways in Civil Engineering: a research-oriented Master of Science (M.S.) and a professionally focused Master of Engineering (M.Eng.). Students can specialize in architectural engineering, coastal and ocean engineering, construction, geomatics, geotechnical engineering, infrastructure materials, structural engineering, transportation engineering, and water resources, developing advanced technical knowledge for careers in engineering practice, research, and infrastructure development.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish advanced engineering knowledge through graduate-level coursework in their chosen concentration. Core subjects include CE 526 – Graduate Studies Research Skills and Scientific Communication in Civil Engineering Disciplines (M.S.), CE 507 – Seminar, and advanced 500- or 600-level Civil and Construction Engineering courses. M.Eng. students also complete professional coursework in leadership or ethics.

Year 2: Students deepen their specialization through approved electives and complete the requirements of their chosen degree. M.S. students undertake CE 503 – Thesis or CE 506 – Project, while M.Eng. students complete additional coursework and a professional portfolio as their final assessment. The M.S. pathway is suitable for students interested in research and doctoral studies, while the M.Eng. focuses on professional engineering practice.

Note: Oregon State does not prescribe a fixed year-wise course sequence. Course selection depends on the concentration and faculty-adviser-approved study plan.

Focus Areas

Architectural Engineering, Coastal and Ocean Engineering, Construction Engineering, Engineering Education, Geomatics, Geotechnical Engineering, Infrastructure Materials, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Apply advanced civil engineering principles, demonstrate subject-matter expertise, conduct independent research or creative engineering work, develop professional engineering solutions, communicate technical findings effectively, and demonstrate ethical responsibility in engineering practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Institutional Accreditation: Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

ABET Accreditation: The undergraduate B.S. in Civil Engineering is ABET-accredited. Separate ABET accreditation for the M.S. and M.Eng. degrees is not listed.

Reputation & Employability

Oregon State's School of Civil and Construction Engineering offers specialized research facilities and opportunities to work on real-world engineering challenges. Students can explore research in earthquake-resilient construction, sustainable building materials, mass timber construction, roadway safety, coastal engineering, and infrastructure systems. The university does not publish program-specific graduate employment rates or salary statistics on the referenced program page.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Oregon State University, the MS/MEng Civil Engineering programs are designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for success 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 curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, internships, and research opportunities, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also skilled practitioners.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the Civil Engineering program at Oregon State University:

- Advanced Laboratories: Students can work in specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Lab, Geotechnical Engineering Lab, and Environmental Engineering Lab, where they can conduct experiments and research.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to construction sites, water treatment facilities, and other relevant locations, allowing students to see engineering principles in action.

- Internships and Co-ops: Students are encouraged to participate in internships and cooperative education experiences with industry partners, providing valuable work experience and networking opportunities.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, where students work in teams to solve real engineering problems, fostering teamwork and communication skills.

- Software Proficiency: Students gain experience with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and MATLAB, which are essential tools for modern civil engineers.

- Research Opportunities: The program offers opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research through various institutes, such as the Institute for Natural Resources and the Oregon Transportation Research and Education Consortium.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The OSU libraries provide extensive resources, including access to engineering journals, databases, and technical reports that support student research and learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MS or MEng in Civil Engineering at Oregon State University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in roles such as Structural Engineer, Transportation Engineer, and Project Manager, equipped with the skills to tackle complex engineering challenges. The demand for civil engineers continues to grow, making this a promising field for future employment.

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

- University Services: Oregon State offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for engineering students. The Engineering Career Services team connects students with potential employers through job fairs and on-campus recruiting.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers earn a median salary of around $88,570 per year, with many graduates from Oregon State reporting starting salaries above this average. The university boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with many securing positions within six months of graduation.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Oregon State has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as CH2M Hill and HDR Engineering. These collaborations provide students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience, enhancing their employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The civil engineering program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest educational standards and is recognized by employers nationwide.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from Oregon State’s civil engineering program have a strong track record of success, with many advancing to leadership positions within their organizations or pursuing further studies.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS or MEng in Civil Engineering, you may choose to further your education by pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or a related field. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, and specialized roles in engineering consulting. Additionally, you could explore certifications such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which can enhance your credentials and career prospects even further.