MEng in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Program Overview

The Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Civil Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a professional, coursework-based graduate program designed to prepare students for advanced engineering practice and industry leadership. The program provides 30 credits of advanced study, allowing students to strengthen their technical knowledge, analytical abilities and professional skills for careers in infrastructure development, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering and transportation systems.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 30 graduate credits and does not mandate a thesis or project. Students develop an advanced course plan in consultation with their academic advisors.

Year 1: Students build advanced engineering knowledge through graduate-level coursework in their selected area of interest. Relevant study areas include structural engineering, computational mechanics, geotechnical engineering, earthquake engineering and transportation engineering.

Year 2: Students complete their remaining advanced coursework and strengthen their professional engineering capabilities. Students may also choose an optional 3-credit or 6-credit project in consultation with their academic advisor, gaining additional experience in applied engineering problem-solving.

Note: RPI does not publish a fixed year-wise curriculum or prescribed course sequence for this M.Eng. degree.

Focus Areas

Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, Earthquake Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Infrastructure Systems, Civil Engineering Design and Analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Advanced Engineering Knowledge: Apply advanced engineering principles to complex civil engineering challenges.
Technical Analysis: Evaluate structural, geotechnical and transportation systems using engineering methods.
Problem-Solving: Develop practical solutions for infrastructure and construction challenges.
Professional Practice: Apply engineering knowledge to real-world industry requirements.
Project Management: Strengthen technical coordination, planning and professional decision-making skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

ABET: RPI's undergraduate Civil Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. The M.Eng. degree is not separately identified as ABET-accredited.

Reputation & Employability

Established History: RPI awarded its first Civil Engineering degree in 1835, making it the first U.S. institution to issue a Civil Engineering degree.

Industry Preparation: The department emphasizes engineering design, analysis, fabrication, communication, management and teamwork, preparing graduates for professional practice.

Research Environment: Students benefit from advanced facilities and research activities in earthquake engineering, computational mechanics, structural engineering and geotechnical engineering.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 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 cutting-edge 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 the experiential learning opportunities available in the MEng in Civil Engineering program:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students can utilize specialized labs such as the Geotechnical Engineering Lab, Structural Engineering Lab, and Environmental Engineering Lab, which are equipped with advanced technology for testing and research.

- 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 leading engineering firms, providing students with invaluable work experience and networking opportunities in the industry.

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

- Research Institutes: Access to Rensselaer’s research institutes, such as the Center for Infrastructure and Transportation Studies, allows students to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation.

- Libraries and Resources: The Folsom Library and the Rensselaer Libraries provide extensive resources, including access to engineering journals, databases, and study spaces conducive to research and collaboration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MEng in Civil Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 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, among others. The skills and knowledge gained here not only prepare you for immediate employment but also set the stage for a successful and impactful career in the engineering field.

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

- University Services: Rensselaer offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals. The Center for Career and Professional Development is dedicated to helping students connect with potential employers.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The employment rate for graduates in engineering fields is impressively high, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. According to recent data, the average starting salary for civil engineering graduates is around $70,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Rensselaer has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as Turner Construction and AECOM. These collaborations often lead to internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance your learning experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEng 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 from Rensselaer’s MEng in Civil Engineering program have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant infrastructure projects and innovations in sustainable engineering practices.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MEng, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or a related field. This path can lead to advanced research opportunities, teaching positions at universities, or specialized roles in industry research and development. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can enhance your career prospects and credibility in the field.