The Best Online Master’s in Civil Engineering
Civil engineers keep cities running and build the infrastructure that connects society.
They design highways, mass transit systems, and public works projects. Civil engineers can advance their careers and increase their earning potential with a master’s degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for civil engineers exceeds $86,000. A master’s degree qualifies civil engineers for supervisory roles, including jobs like engineering manager, which provides a median annual salary of over $140,000. The BLS also projects growing demand for civil engineering jobs from 2018-2028.
An online civil engineering degree offers more flexibility than an on-campus program, appealing to working engineers who are seeking career advancement. A master’s degree also helps professionals transition into the engineering field. Our ranking covers the best civil engineering schools to help prospective students find the right program.
Featured Civil Engineering Schools
The Best Online Master’s in Civil Engineering Programs
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Columbia University in the City of New York enrolls master's students in its online civil engineering program. The master of science in civil engineering and engineering mechanics emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to civil engineering. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in civil engineering or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Columbia University in the City of New York at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 5%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
Graduate Tuition In State: $47,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $47,600
- In-State$57,763
- Out-of-state$57,763
- In-State$47,600
- Out-of-state$47,600
- Retention Rate99%
- Acceptance Rate5%
- Students Enrolled31,456
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Stanford University
- Stanford, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Stanford, California, Stanford University offers an online master's in civil engineering. The master of science in civil and environmental engineering builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to civil engineering. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in civil engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Stanford University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 4%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $52,479
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $52,479
- In-State$52,857
- Out-of-state$52,857
- In-State$52,479
- Out-of-state$52,479
- Retention Rate99%
- Acceptance Rate4%
- Students Enrolled17,249
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, enrolls master's students in its online civil engineering program. The master of civil engineering emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in civil engineering. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a degree in civil engineering or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled27,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Wisconsin–Madison hosts a top-ranked master's in civil engineering program. The master of engineering in civil and environmental engineering helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum incorporates civil engineering theoretical and applied approaches. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on prior experience civil engineering during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,728
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,054
- In-State$9,273
- Out-of-state$36,333
- In-State$10,728
- Out-of-state$24,054
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled44,257
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online civil engineering program. The master of science in civil engineering helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in civil engineering. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with a background in civil engineering typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Virginia
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville, offers a flexible online master's in civil engineering. The master of engineering in civil and environmental engineering program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to civil engineering. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in civil engineering or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
The University of Virginia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 24%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,578
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,770
- In-State$14,970
- Out-of-state$47,833
- In-State$16,578
- Out-of-state$27,770
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled25,012
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Washington-Main Campus
- Seattle, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Seattle, the University of Washington offers an online master's in civil engineering. The master of science in civil engineering program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the civil engineering field and related industries. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in civil engineering. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program builds on prior civil engineering experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Washington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 52%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,198
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $32,439
- In-State$10,370
- Out-of-state$37,071
- In-State$18,198
- Out-of-state$32,439
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled47,576
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment8%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in civil engineering degree at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in civil engineering program. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The admission requirements include a background in civil engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Pittsburgh-Main Campus
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in civil engineering, offered by the University of Pittsburgh from its Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in civil engineering with a focus in construction management helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in civil engineering. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in civil engineering may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Pittsburgh at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering: Construction Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $23,530
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $39,898
- In-State$18,628
- Out-of-state$32,656
- In-State$23,530
- Out-of-state$39,898
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled32,686
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers an online master's in civil engineering. The master of science or master of engineering in civil engineering strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in civil engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled52,407
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- Knoxville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in civil engineering, offered by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville ranks as a top program. The master of science in civil engineering uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in civil engineering. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in civil engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,468
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,656
- In-State$11,332
- Out-of-state$28,522
- In-State$11,468
- Out-of-state$29,656
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled29,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Oklahoma-Main Campus
- Norman, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in civil engineering, offered by the University of Oklahoma Campus from its Norman campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in civil engineering draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in civil engineering. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on prior civil engineering experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Oklahoma at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,583
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,242
- In-State$4,788
- Out-of-state$20,169
- In-State$6,583
- Out-of-state$21,242
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled28,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Iowa State University
- Ames, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in civil engineering can earn their degree from Iowa State University, located in Ames. The master of science or master of engineering in civil engineering helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in civil engineering or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Iowa State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,758
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,720
- In-State$8,042
- Out-of-state$23,230
- In-State$9,758
- Out-of-state$24,720
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled33,372
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Houston
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in civil engineering, offered by the University of Houston ranks as a top program. The master of science in civil engineering helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in civil engineering. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on prior civil engineering experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Houston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,370
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,746
- In-State$8,219
- Out-of-state$20,747
- In-State$8,370
- Out-of-state$17,746
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled46,148
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in civil engineering at North Carolina State University, located in Raleigh, offers high academic quality. The master of civil engineering program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores civil engineering research and methodologies. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in civil engineering.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
North Carolina State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
- In-State$6,535
- Out-of-state$26,654
- In-State$9,095
- Out-of-state$26,421
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled36,304
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Auburn University, located in Auburn, Alabama, enrolls master's students in its online civil engineering program. The master of civil engineering emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in civil engineering or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Auburn University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master of Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,828
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,484
- In-State$9,816
- Out-of-state$29,448
- In-State$9,828
- Out-of-state$29,484
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled30,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Ohio University-Main Campus
- Athens, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in civil engineering, offered by Ohio University from its Athens campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in civil engineering builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on civil engineering. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in civil engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Ohio University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,444
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,436
- In-State$12,612
- Out-of-state$22,406
- In-State$9,444
- Out-of-state$17,436
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled27,367
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
The University of South Carolina
- Columbia, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Columbia, the University of South Carolina offers an online master's in civil engineering. The master of science in civil engineering program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program builds on prior civil engineering experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of South Carolina at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
- In-State$12,288
- Out-of-state$33,528
- In-State$13,737
- Out-of-state$29,760
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled35,364
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online civil engineering degree can enroll in the master's program at Southern Methodist University, located in Dallas, Texas. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in civil engineering program. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of civil engineering. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in civil engineering before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Southern Methodist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 47%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $40,896
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $40,896
- In-State$50,200
- Out-of-state$50,200
- In-State$40,896
- Out-of-state$40,896
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate47%
- Students Enrolled11,824
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Kansas State University
- Manhattan, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Manhattan, Kansas, Kansas State University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online civil engineering program. The master's in civil engineering builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores civil engineering research and methodologies. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in civil engineering.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Kansas State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 95%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Master's in Civil Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,212
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,050
- In-State$9,735
- Out-of-state$25,251
- In-State$10,212
- Out-of-state$23,050
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled21,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Masters in Civil Engineering
2022
Online Master’s in Civil Engineering Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following schools based on the quality of their programs and the selection of courses provided. We also considered school awards, rankings, and reputations.
What Is Civil Engineering?
Civil engineering dates back to ancient cultures. Civil engineers design and build the infrastructure projects that societies need to function. They construct roads, design buildings, and maintain dams and water supply systems.
Within civil engineering, professionals can build careers planning public works projects, researching and designing projects, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of projects. After learning the needs of a community through research, civil engineers create the infrastructure to meet those needs.
Civil engineers need several key attributes to succeed in their profession, including strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. Civil engineers must think creatively about how to design and construct projects. Many roles also require leadership skills, which civil engineers can strengthen through a master’s program.
The field of civil engineering encompasses several subfields, including structural engineering, which is the creation of buildings and bridges. Specialists in transportation engineering design roads, transit systems, and airports. Civil engineers who specialize in public works design the water supply systems and sewage systems that keep cities running.
A master’s in civil engineering helps professionals specialize their skills and advance their careers.
What Is a Master’s in Civil Engineering Degree?
A master’s in civil engineering provides graduate-level training in civil engineering, engineering management, and engineering research methods. Civil engineering programs build on the foundational training of an undergraduate engineering degree to provide advanced knowledge and skills in the field. Graduate students in civil engineering take courses in advanced structural engineering, environmental engineering, and engineering leadership.
Civil engineering graduate students often focus their coursework by selecting a concentration. Most civil engineering master’s programs require an undergraduate degree in engineering or a related field for admission. Earning an online civil engineering degree typically takes two years for full-time students. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time enrollment, which can affect program length.
After completing a master’s in civil engineering online, engineers can advance their careers by pursuing management-level roles as engineering managers or public works directors.
Graduates can also enter doctoral programs. Some of the top civil engineering schools offer an academic track specifically for master’s students planning to earn a Ph.D. in engineering. During the master’s degree, students take additional research courses and participate in research projects. A doctorate in engineering prepares learners for academic and research positions.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Civil Engineering Degree?
Many civil engineering professionals earn a master’s degree to broaden their career prospects. Employers often prefer candidates with a master’s degree for positions that require supervisory responsibilities, such as engineering manager or city engineer. A master’s degree also helps civil engineers stand out on the job market and increase their earning potential.
During a civil engineering master’s degree, graduate students can gain advanced training in fields like environmental engineering, construction engineering, and structural engineering. Many programs also offer graduate-level coursework in geotechnical engineering, hydrology, transportation engineering, and sustainable infrastructure engineering.
After completing an online civil engineering degree, master’s students can pursue civil engineering jobs with additional responsibilities, such as civil engineering manager, public works director, or city manager. Earning a master’s degree in civil engineering also prepares graduates for doctoral programs in engineering. A doctorate in engineering leads to opportunities in academia and research.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master’s in Civil Engineering Program?
During a master’s degree in civil engineering, learners study topics like environmental engineering, hydrology and water resources engineering, and structural engineering.
Many programs let civil engineering students customize the curriculum by choosing graduate electives or a concentration. By taking specialized electives or choosing a concentration, graduate students position themselves for specific civil engineering jobs. With a concentration in engineering management, for example, graduate students can take specialized classes in management and leadership skills for engineering professionals. Similarly, a public works concentration offers focused coursework in infrastructure and public works projects.
Civil Engineering Concentrations
Master’s in Civil Engineering Curriculum
- Computing Systems: Civil engineers often rely on software and computing systems when designing building projects. This course provides advanced training in computing systems used in civil engineering, including tools like computer-aided design and geographical information systems. Graduate students learn to solve civil engineering problems by using computation and design software.
- Structural Engineering and Mechanics: In structural engineering and mechanics courses, learners study structural analysis, structural stability, and the dynamics of structures. Students also explore composite materials, computational methods, and structural synthesis. The course provides foundational training in structural design, earthquake engineering, and structural mechanics.
- Transportation Engineering: Graduate courses in transportation engineering examine the design, construction, and repair of transportation infrastructure. Coursework may emphasize transportation planning, traffic engineering, and transportation operations. Graduate students also learn about highway design, multi-modal transportation systems, and transportation standards and regulations.
- Engineering Leadership: In this course, students explore the business and management skills needed for leadership roles in the field. The course may cover public versus private sector engineering roles, legal responsibilities, and client relations.
- Research Methods: In research methods courses, graduate students learn about core research approaches and their applications in the civil engineering field. Coursework may cover mathematical modeling, post-optimization analysis, and decomposition methods. Students build on the research skills learned during an undergraduate engineering program to conduct graduate-level research projects.
Civil Engineering Jobs
A master’s in civil engineering degree prepares graduates for advanced roles in the engineering field, including as engineering managers. Many civil engineering jobs require a master’s degree for supervisory responsibilities. Public works directors and city engineers often hold a graduate degree in civil engineering. Civil engineers with a master’s degree also stand out on the job market and earn higher salaries than civil engineers with only a bachelor’s degree.
Some careers in the field may require specialized coursework or professional certifications.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers design, construct, and supervise infrastructure projects and other civil engineering projects. They analyze survey reports, plans, and data to design projects such as roads, buildings, and bridges. While overseeing civil engineering projects, they must consider government regulations, environmental hazards, and construction costs.
While a bachelor’s degree is the entry-level educational requirement for civil engineering jobs, usually only professionals with a master’s degree and a license qualify for senior positions like construction supervisor, public works director, city engineer, or city manager.
Median Annual Salary: $86,640
Projected Growth Rate: 6%
Engineering Managers
Engineering managers plan and direct operations in an engineering company or department. They oversee the design of new projects, evaluate the need for equipment and staff, and manage project budgets. In addition to supervising engineers, engineering managers also monitor the accuracy of the work and make sure engineers use sound methods. They set schedules, hire employees, and assign work to staff members.
Civil engineering managers oversee public works projects, including infrastructure. They may also manage engineering projects for private organizations. While a bachelor’s degree meets the entry-level educational requirement, many engineering managers hold a master’s degree.
Median Annual Salary: $140,760
Projected Growth Rate: 3%
Architectural Managers
Architectural managers oversee daily operations and long-term planning in architectural companies. They create plans for new designs, determine staff and equipment needs for projects, and manage budgets. Architectural managers also solve problems that arise during construction and coordinate with other managers to complete complex projects.
Architectural managers need a background in architecture or engineering. While most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree and some work experience, some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in architecture or civil engineering.
Median Annual Salary: $140,760<
Projected Growth Rate: 3%
