Guide to getting a master’s degree in civil engineering

Although the practice of engineering is as old as the first built human settlements, the term ‘engineering’ was first applied in a military context. It referred to the construction of fortresses and other structures built to fortify settlements. Civil engineering gets its name from the distinction between military and non-military construction projects.

If this career calls to mind bridges, buildings, and tunnels, you are partly right. Designing and managing infrastructure is at the core of this field, but the specific tasks civil engineers carry out are diverse.

A day in the life of a civil engineer could involve:

• analyzing maps or survey reports
• identifying potential environmental hazards
• submitting applications to government agencies
• budgeting for projects
• overseeing highway repairs
• directing water treatment facility maintenance

A master’s in civil engineering prepares you for advanced and leadership roles in this field. It can also be an entry point into academia and a teaching career. Explore the top-ranking  master’s in civil engineering programs to make an informed choice.

What can you do with a master’s in civil engineering?

Civil engineering is an umbrella term encompassing a range of occupations.

With a master’s degree in this field, you could:

• consult on construction, transportation, or water management
• design and build deep-sea drilling technology
• ensure a new building incorporates correct fire-safety elements
• help a factory safely dispose of waste products
• spearhead the implementation of new highway markings

Your day could be spent in an office, out in the field, or both. Regardless of which branch of civil engineering you choose, the ultimate responsibility is protecting the public.

Should you get a master’s in civil engineering?

Earning a master’s can fast-track your career. Most 4-year degree holders begin as graduate or level-1 engineers. To become senior engineers, they need 7 or more years of on-the-job experience. With a master’s degree, you can start at a higher level as soon as you graduate.

A master’s can also qualify you to teach or work in corporate research and development.

» Read: What is the return on investment of your degree?

Below you can view the economic performance of this degree 3 years after graduation. We compare earnings to the median debt accrued and contrast this sum to earnings 3 years after graduating with a bachelor’s in civil engineering.

How to choose a master’s in civil engineering

As a first step, narrow your focus. A master’s degree is an opportunity to advance your skills in a chosen concentration – find a program that offers the one you are interested in.

Examples of civil engineering concentrations include:

Accreditation

While ABET accreditation is critical at the bachelor’s level, very few master’s programs are accredited. Keep in mind that you may not get accepted into a master’s program without an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree.

Can you get a master’s in civil engineering online?

While it is possible to earn this degree through a fully online program, it may not be the wisest choice given the amount of hands-on and lab work.

» Read: Housing options for students on or off campus

The above data suggests that some programs may be offered in a hybrid format, with some online components. If you are looking for flexibility, such a program could be your best bet, as it allows you to complete practical elements on campus and the rest remotely.

How much does a master’s in civil engineering cost?

See below how the debt and repayment rates for civil engineering master’s programs differ based on institution type. Note that we are limited to measuring the median debt students have incurred at graduation.

Financial aid and scholarships for master’s in civil engineering

1. Your first stop for financial aid is the Department of Education’s website for Federal Student Aid. This is where you can find and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The deadline to file your FAFSA is March 1st of every year but you can file as early as October 1st of the year before you plan to attend. The earlier you can get your application in, the better your chances of receiving financial aid.
2. If you fail to receive enough federal grant money to attend college, you may want to consider taking out a guaranteed student loan.
3. If you are employed, check whether your employer offers a tuition assistance program.
4. Apply for as many eligible scholarships as you can.
5. Talk to your school’s financial aid department about fellowships, scholarships, and private grants.

» Read: Helpful tips for repaying your student loans

What to expect from a master’s in civil engineering

Most graduate civil engineering programs focus on applying the principles of advanced math to the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure such as dams, bridges, roads, airports, and tunnels. Along with core civil engineering courses, you take electives in your specialization, and a breadth of requirements from other STEM or non-STEM fields.

How long does it take to earn your master’s in civil engineering?

Most students complete this program in 1-2 years.

Thesis or non-thesis route

Master’s programs focused on the application of knowledge generally don’t require a thesis for completion, while those focused on research do. Civil engineering master’s degrees are more commonly offered as non-thesis programs, though may schools offer both options. If you are interested in teaching or pursuing a Ph.D., choose the thesis route.

Internship requirement

Internships are not mandatory but can be beneficial for your career. They help you gain real-life experience and network with other professionals in the field.

Licensing requirement

Licensing is optional, but is quite common among civil engineers, as they often serve the public or are employed by the government. The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams are required for licensure.

You can complete the FE as soon as you finish your bachelor’s, and the PE after working in the field for at least 4 years. Precise licensing rules vary by state, but the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) administers the FE and PE exams in all states.

Bridge programs

Interested in this degree but don’t have a bachelor’s in engineering? Some colleges offer bridge programs for students who wish to change majors or those with an unaccredited bachelor’s degree. A bridge is a transitional program aimed at helping students get up to speed in the engineering concepts needed to earn their master’s.

Master’s in civil engineering courses

Courses you may encounter in your studies include:

• Project planning – Students learn to plan and estimate the overall scope of a project, including all contingencies.

• Construction law – This course introduces the basics of legal issues as they apply to construction.

• Physical hydrology – Includes instruction on groundwater systems, precipitation and runoff, and storm response.

• Coastal structures – Students learn about coastal protection measures to prevent shoreline erosion and flooding.

• Project controls – The course explains key project management techniques, tools, and resources.

What types of master’s degrees are available in civil engineering?

Many schools allow students to choose between an M.S. or an MEng in civil engineering.

What jobs can I have with a master’s in civil engineering?

Your master’s degree in civil engineering takes you a step besteyond applicants with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering only. You may find it easier to qualify for leadership and management roles and are likely to earn a higher salary. Many industries create specific positions for civil engineers, ensuring a huge range of available careers.