Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Cincinnati

Program Overview

The Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering at the University of Cincinnati is a professionally oriented, non-thesis program designed for graduates and working professionals seeking to advance their technical expertise and engineering careers. The program combines advanced civil engineering coursework with professional development and leadership training, allowing students to specialize in infrastructure design, engineering systems, and project management while developing practical industry skills.

Curriculum Structure

Program Duration: Minimum 30 graduate credit hours. Requirements can be completed in approximately one year, with up to two years permitted.

Year 1: Students develop advanced technical and professional competencies through discipline-specific graduate courses and two professional core courses. Depending on their selected focus, they explore infrastructure design, structural systems, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, construction engineering, and infrastructure management, alongside project management and professional leadership.

Year 2 (if required): Students complete remaining electives and their practical capstone requirement through an industry internship or an applied engineering project. This final component allows them to demonstrate their technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and professional competencies in real-world engineering settings.

Note: The university does not prescribe a fixed year-wise course sequence. Students can complete the program in one year, although they have up to two years.

Focus Areas

Infrastructure Design and Materials, Infrastructure Systems and Management, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Construction Engineering, Infrastructure Management, Engineering Project Management.

Learning Outcomes

Apply advanced civil engineering principles, analyse infrastructure systems, develop engineering design solutions, evaluate construction materials, manage technical projects, apply leadership and communication skills, solve practical engineering challenges, and integrate technical knowledge into professional engineering practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Program Orientation: Professionally focused, non-thesis master's degree with professional core courses and a capstone experience through an applied project or internship.

Accreditation: The University of Cincinnati is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Separate ABET accreditation for this master's program is not stated.

Reputation & Employability

The University of Cincinnati highlights its strong cooperative education and internship network, with the university reporting a Top 5 U.S. ranking for co-op and internships. Students can benefit from industry connections and practical experience through internships and capstone projects, supporting career development in civil engineering and infrastructure-related industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Cincinnati, the Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experience that is essential for a successful career in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern civil engineering.

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

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students have access to specialized labs, including the Structural Engineering Laboratory and the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, where they can conduct experiments and research projects.

- Software Proficiency: The program incorporates industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SAP2000, ensuring that students are proficient in the tools they will use in their careers.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work in teams to solve complex engineering problems, simulating real-world engineering environments.

- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships with local and national engineering firms, providing students with invaluable work experience and networking opportunities.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to construction sites and engineering projects, giving them firsthand insight into the practical applications of their studies.

- Research Institutes: The university hosts several research institutes, such as the Center for Transportation Studies and the Center for Urban Appraisal, where students can engage in cutting-edge research.

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

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue an Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering at the University of Cincinnati opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for roles such as Structural Engineer, Transportation Engineer, Project Manager, and Environmental Engineer. The skills and knowledge gained here not only make you competitive in the job market but also set a strong foundation for a successful career in civil engineering.

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

- University Services: The University of Cincinnati 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: 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 $65,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Cincinnati has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as GE Aviation and Procter & Gamble. These collaborations provide students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience, enhancing their employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEng in Civil Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest educational standards. This accreditation is recognized globally and adds significant value to your qualifications.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from the MEng program have gone on to work for top engineering firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, contributing to impactful projects that shape our infrastructure and environment.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering, you may choose to further your studies 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. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can enhance your career prospects and credibility in the field.