MEng in Civil and Environmental Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New Hampshire

Program Overview

he University of New Hampshire's M.Eng. in Civil and Environmental Engineering provides advanced, practice-oriented training in sustainable infrastructure design, construction and engineering management. The program is ideal for engineering graduates seeking to strengthen their professional expertise in environmental, geotechnical, materials, structural or water resources engineering, with a coursework-focused pathway that can be completed in as little as one year.

Curriculum Structure (Year-wise)

The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and offers a non-thesis pathway with a concluding project or examination. The university does not prescribe a fixed year-wise course sequence.

- Year 1: Students develop advanced technical expertise through courses such as Introduction to Sustainable Engineering (CEE 805), Environmental Life Cycle Assessment (CEE 806), Engineering Behavior of Soils (CEE 865) and Matrix Structural Analysis and Modeling (CEE 880), depending on their specialization.

- Year 2: Students deepen their knowledge through specialized courses such as Advanced Water Treatment Design (CEE 831), Foundation Design I (CEE 878), Dynamics of Structures (CEE 881) and LRFD Bridge Design (CEE 894). Students complete their remaining coursework and one concluding requirement: a three-credit master's project, an oral examination or a written examination.

Focus Areas: Environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, materials engineering, structural engineering, water resources engineering.

Learning Outcomes: Advanced engineering analysis, computational modelling, sustainable infrastructure design, structural assessment, environmental problem-solving, geotechnical evaluation, water resources management and professional engineering communication.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The University of New Hampshire is institutionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). No separate program-specific professional accreditation is stated for this master's degree.

Reputation (Research & Employability): Students benefit from specialized facilities and initiatives, including the Living Bridge Project, UNH Stormwater Center and Center for Infrastructure Resilience to Climate. The university reports that engineering graduates with advanced degrees earn approximately $15,000 more annually than those with undergraduate degrees alone.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New Hampshire, the MEng in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for a successful career in the field. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various projects, internships, and collaborative opportunities that prepare graduates to tackle complex engineering challenges.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MEng in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering program at UNH:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students can utilize specialized labs such as the Structural Engineering Lab and the Geotechnical Engineering Lab, which are equipped with advanced testing equipment for materials and structural analysis.

- Software Proficiency: The curriculum includes training in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and Civil 3D, ensuring that students are well-versed in the tools used by professionals in the field.

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

- 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: The UNH Center for Infrastructure Resilience and the UNH Stormwater Center offer students opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to projects that address current engineering challenges.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The Dimond Library and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Library provide extensive resources, including access to engineering journals, databases, and study spaces.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue an MEng in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering at the University of New Hampshire opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, and Environmental Engineer. The skills and knowledge gained here not only prepare you for immediate employment but also set a strong foundation for long-term career success:

- University Services: The Career and Professional Success office offers tailored career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically designed for engineering students. Additionally, the Engineering Cooperative Education program provides hands-on experience with industry partners.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of our engineering graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $70,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: UNH has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the engineering sector, such as AECOM and HDR, which often lead to internship and job placement opportunities for students.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEng 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 of the program have gone on to work for prestigious firms and government agencies, contributing to significant infrastructure projects and sustainable development initiatives.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MEng in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or related fields. This advanced degree can lead to academic positions, research opportunities, or specialized roles in high-level engineering projects. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can enhance your career prospects and earning potential even further.