Master of Science in Civil Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth is a research-focused graduate program designed for students seeking advanced technical expertise and practical problem-solving skills in civil engineering. Students work closely with faculty and can specialize in environmental and water resources, geotechnical, structural, or transportation engineering through thesis-based or project-based study, with an emphasis on sustainability and infrastructure development.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop advanced knowledge in their chosen specialization through graduate-level civil engineering courses (5000- and 8000-level). They also build research, engineering design, and professional communication skills through faculty-guided coursework and research planning.

Year 2: Students focus on specialized research or applied engineering projects. Thesis students complete CE 8777 – Master's Thesis (10 credits), while project-based students complete CE 8094 – Master's Project (4 credits), supported by advanced coursework and an oral examination.

Degree requirements: Minimum 30 credits. Thesis option (Plan A): 20 coursework credits and 10 thesis credits. Project option (Plan B): 26 coursework credits and 4 project credits. The program typically takes two years.

Focus Areas

Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Materials Engineering, Sustainable Infrastructure.

Learning Outcomes

Advanced civil engineering knowledge, research methodology, engineering design and problem-solving, infrastructure analysis, sustainable engineering practices, technical communication, leadership, teamwork, project management, independent research capabilities.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program develops research and professional competencies relevant to advanced civil engineering practice. Program-specific accreditation: No separate accreditation is stated on the official graduate program page.

Reputation & Employability

Research opportunities: Students work closely with faculty on projects that contribute to peer-reviewed publications, engineering design codes, and improvements in infrastructure practices.
Research facilities: Structural testing laboratory, hydraulic laboratory, infrastructure materials laboratory, pavement engineering laboratory, geomaterials laboratory, and environmental laboratory.
Graduate support: Most MS students receive financial support through teaching or research assistantships, according to the department.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, the Master of Science in Civil Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills 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 technology.

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

- 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 cutting-edge technology for hands-on experiments and research.

- Software Proficiency: The program incorporates industry-standard software tools like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SAP2000, allowing students to gain proficiency in essential design and analysis techniques.

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

- Internship Opportunities: The program has strong connections with local and national engineering firms, providing students with internship opportunities that offer valuable work experience and networking possibilities.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to construction sites, water treatment facilities, and other relevant locations, giving them a firsthand look at civil engineering in action.

- Research Institutes: The university hosts several research institutes, such as the Institute for Sustainable Solutions and the Center for Transportation Studies, where students can engage in innovative research projects.

- Libraries and Resources: The University of Minnesota Libraries provide extensive resources, including access to engineering databases, journals, and technical reports that support students' academic and research needs.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering program at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities prepares graduates for a variety of rewarding careers in the civil engineering field. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and innovative problem-solving, alumni often find themselves in roles such as Structural Engineer, Transportation Engineer, and Project Manager. The program equips students with the knowledge and experience needed to excel in these positions and make a significant impact in their communities.

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

- University Services: The Career Services office offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and job search resources tailored specifically for engineering students. Additionally, the Engineering Career Center hosts job fairs and networking events that connect students with industry leaders.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates from the MCE program secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $75,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Minnesota has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the civil engineering sector, such as AECOM and HDR, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MCE 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 of the MCE program are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in their field, with many advancing to senior positions within just a few years of entering the workforce.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Science in Civil Engineering program, students have the option to pursue further studies, such as a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or related fields. This can open doors to academic positions, advanced research opportunities, or specialized roles in areas like environmental engineering or urban planning. Additionally, many graduates choose to obtain professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can enhance career prospects and earning potential.