Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Massachusetts Lowell

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Engineering in Civil Engineering at UMass Lowell provides advanced technical education and practical learning opportunities across five specialized areas: environmental, geoenvironmental, geotechnical, structural, and transportation engineering. The program offers flexible thesis, project-report, and coursework-only pathways, preparing students for professional engineering careers in infrastructure development, environmental protection, structural design, and transportation systems.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop advanced technical expertise through courses selected according to their specialization. Environmental students study Physical and Chemical Treatment Processes, Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, and Biological Wastewater Treatment, while structural students may study Advanced Steel Design, Design of Concrete Structures, and Structural Dynamics.

Year 2: Students complete advanced electives and their chosen degree requirement. Geotechnical students can explore Advanced Soil Mechanics, Soil Behavior, and Advanced Foundation Engineering, while transportation students may study Urban Transportation Planning, Traffic Engineering, and Transportation Network Analysis. Students complete either a publishable thesis, a project report, or additional coursework.

Focus Areas

Environmental Engineering, Geoenvironmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Sustainable Infrastructure, Groundwater Remediation, Foundation Engineering, Structural Design, Transportation Planning.

Learning Outcomes

Apply advanced civil engineering principles, analyse structural systems, evaluate soil and foundation conditions, develop environmental remediation solutions, design sustainable infrastructure, assess transportation networks, apply engineering research methods, and solve complex technical problems.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

STEM Designation: Yes. The program is STEM-designated, making eligible international graduates potentially eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Accreditation: UMass Lowell is institutionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Separate ABET accreditation for this master's program is not stated.

Reputation & Employability

Career Outlook: The university reports projected 9% job growth for civil engineers between 2023 and 2033 and a mean annual salary of $132,200 for civil engineers holding a Professional Engineer (PE) licence, citing industry and government data.

Industry Connections: Graduates work with organizations including Massachusetts Department of Transportation, AECOM, HNTB, Stantec, Skanska USA, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Massachusetts Lowell, the Master of Science in Civil Engineering program is 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 program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including collaborative projects, internships, and advanced research.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MSE Civil Engineering program at UMass Lowell:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students can utilize specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Lab, Geotechnical 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, ensuring that students are well-versed in the tools they will use in their careers.

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

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

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

- Research Institutes: UMass Lowell hosts several research institutes, such as the Center for Advanced Materials and the Center for Sustainable Energy, where students can engage in cutting-edge research.

- Libraries and Resources: The university's libraries offer extensive resources, including access to engineering journals, databases, and technical reports that support students' research and learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSE) at the University of Massachusetts Lowell prepares graduates for a variety of rewarding careers in the engineering field. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Transportation Engineer, and Environmental Engineer. With a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern infrastructure and environmental issues:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs, specifically tailored for engineering students.
- Employment Statistics: UMass Lowell boasts an impressive employment rate of over 90% for graduates within six months of graduation, with average starting salaries around $80,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The program has established partnerships with leading companies such as AECOM, Tetra Tech, and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Accreditation: The MSE program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant projects that shape communities and improve infrastructure.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) in Civil Engineering, students have the option to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or related fields, allowing for deeper specialization and research opportunities. Additionally, graduates can seek professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can further enhance career prospects and open doors to leadership roles in the industry.