MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering Plan II

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of California Davis

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering (Plan II) at the University of California, Davis is a professional, coursework-oriented graduate program designed to develop advanced engineering knowledge and practical problem-solving skills. Students specialize in Environmental, Geotechnical, Structural, Transportation or Water Resources Engineering, combining advanced technical coursework with a capstone project or comprehensive examination to prepare for professional engineering careers.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 36 units of graduate and upper-division coursework, including a capstone project, capstone course or written examination. It does not require a traditional research thesis.

Year 1: Students develop advanced technical expertise through specialization-specific core courses and graduate electives. Depending on their chosen area, subjects include Water and Waste Treatment (ECI 243A), Advanced Soil Mechanics (ECI 281A), Advanced Matrix Structural Analysis (ECI 211A), Transportation Demand Analysis (ECI 251) and Water Quality (ECI 240).

Year 2: Students complete remaining specialization requirements, advanced electives and their final professional assessment. They undertake an independent capstone project, a capstone course or course series, or a written examination, demonstrating their ability to apply advanced engineering knowledge to practical challenges.

Note: The professional Plan II can be completed in as little as nine months (three quarters) of full-time study. Students choosing an individual capstone report generally require at least 12 months.

Focus Areas

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

Learning Outcomes

Advanced Engineering Knowledge: Apply advanced engineering principles to complex civil and environmental challenges.
Technical Analysis: Evaluate engineering systems using mathematical, computational and scientific methods.
Problem-Solving: Develop practical solutions for infrastructure and environmental issues.
Sustainability: Address water quality, environmental protection and resilient infrastructure.
Professional Skills: Strengthen technical communication, critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

ABET: The official graduate program information does not specify separate ABET accreditation for the MS Plan II degree. No master's-level accreditation claim is made.

Reputation & Employability

Research Environment: UC Davis offers advanced research and interdisciplinary learning opportunities through its Civil and Environmental Engineering department.

Specialized Expertise: Students benefit from faculty guidance and advanced coursework across five major engineering specializations.

Industry Preparation: The professional Plan II emphasizes applied engineering knowledge and capstone-based problem-solving, preparing graduates for careers in engineering firms, consulting companies, government agencies and infrastructure organizations.

Rankings: No specific current graduate Civil Engineering ranking is stated on the official program page.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UC Davis, the MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering Plan II offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical skills through hands-on experiences that are integral to their education. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students are well-equipped to tackle the challenges in civil and environmental engineering.

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

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

- Field Trips and Site Visits: The program includes field trips to construction sites, water treatment facilities, and other relevant locations, providing students with firsthand experience of industry practices.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as students work together to design and implement engineering solutions.

- Internship Opportunities: The program has strong connections with local and regional engineering firms, offering students the chance to engage in internships that provide valuable industry experience.

- Software Proficiency: Students gain experience with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and GIS tools, which are essential for modern engineering practices.

- Research Institutes: UC Davis hosts several research institutes, such as the Center for Watershed Sciences, where students can engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to impactful projects.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive library system provides access to a wealth of engineering resources, journals, and databases that support student research and learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering Plan II at the University of California Davis prepares graduates for a variety of impactful careers in engineering and environmental management. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as Environmental Engineer, Civil Engineer, Project Manager, and Sustainability Consultant. With a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Here’s how UC Davis supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: UC Davis boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for MS graduates in this field is around $80,000, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UC Davis has established strong connections with leading companies and organizations in the engineering sector, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- 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: Graduates of the program have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant projects that shape our communities and environment.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or a related field, allowing you to delve deeper into research and potentially teach at the university level. This advanced study can open doors to leadership roles in academia, research institutions, or high-level industry positions, further enhancing your expertise and career prospects.