Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Rice University

Program Overview

Rice University's Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering is a non-thesis, career-focused program designed for practicing engineers, technical managers, and consultants seeking advanced expertise in infrastructure and environmental challenges. Students develop specialized engineering knowledge alongside management and leadership skills, preparing them for professional roles in structural engineering, resilient infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental systems.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 30 semester credit hours and can be completed in as little as one year on a full-time basis. Students choose between Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering specializations.

Year 1: Students develop advanced technical expertise through courses based on their chosen specialization. Civil Engineering students study Advanced Mechanics of Materials, System Reliability Methods, and Structural Analysis, while Environmental Engineering students explore Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Hydrogeology, and Sustainable Engineering Design.

Year 2: Not applicable to the standard one-year completion pathway. Students complete their remaining electives, professional development coursework, and a two-credit final project (CEVE 590 – MCEE Special Study), applying engineering principles to practical infrastructure or environmental challenges.

Focus Areas: Structural Engineering, Resilient Civil Infrastructure, Sustainability, Climate Resilience, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Remediation, Infrastructure Risk Assessment, Sustainable Engineering Design.

Learning Outcomes: Structural analysis, infrastructure resilience, disaster risk mitigation, environmental protection, water resource management, climate adaptation, sustainable engineering, contamination assessment, engineering project management, technical leadership.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program combines advanced engineering coursework with professional development in management and leadership. A separate professional accreditation is not specified on the official program pages.

Reputation (Employability): Rice provides professional seminars with industry leaders and potential employers, networking opportunities, and exposure to Houston's engineering and industrial sectors. Program-specific employment rankings and graduate placement statistics are not published on the official program page.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Rice University, the Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Students engage in a variety of practical learning opportunities that enhance their technical skills and prepare them for real-world challenges. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students can immerse themselves in projects that reflect current industry standards and innovations.

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

- Research Laboratories: Students have access to specialized labs such as the Environmental Engineering Lab and the Structural Engineering Lab, where they can conduct experiments and research on pressing environmental and structural issues.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local construction sites, water treatment facilities, and environmental restoration projects, allowing students to observe and analyze real-world applications of their studies.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as students tackle complex engineering challenges together.

- Internships: The program emphasizes the importance of practical experience, and students are encouraged to pursue internships with leading engineering firms, government agencies, and non-profits, providing invaluable industry exposure.

- Software Tools: Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and GIS tools, which are essential for modern civil and environmental engineering practices.

- Research Institutes: Students can collaborate with various research institutes at Rice, such as the Rice Center for Engineering Leadership and the Institute of Biosciences and Bioengineering, to work on innovative projects that address global challenges.

- Libraries and Resources: The Fondren Library offers extensive resources, including access to engineering databases and journals, which support students in their research and coursework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities in a rapidly evolving field. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as Civil Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Project Manager, and Urban Planner. With a strong foundation in both civil and environmental principles, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in infrastructure and sustainability.

Here’s how Rice University supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The Center for Career Development offers personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events tailored specifically for engineering students.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of graduates from the engineering programs secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $80,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Rice has established strong connections with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as Shell, Bechtel, and Jacobs Engineering, providing students with internship and job placement opportunities.
- Accreditation: 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.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant projects that shape our cities and environment.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil or Environmental Engineering, which can lead to advanced research opportunities and academic positions. Alternatively, you could specialize further in areas such as Sustainable Engineering or Water Resources Management, enhancing your expertise and career prospects even more.