AREAS OF STUDY
¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥â€™s Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) program offers these areas of study:
Students interested in Geotechnical Engineering develop interdisciplinary programs that combine geotechnical courses with courses in other areas, including transportation, water resources, environmental and structural engineering. A personalized plan of study is developed in consultation with the student’s advisor. Students interested in research work alongside faculty in state-of-the art laboratories.
Structural Engineering students pursue advanced study in structural design, analysis, mechanics and other related topics. The curriculum offers a balance of theory and application, with emphasis placed on modern structural design codes and practical applications. A typical plan of study includes four required core courses (CEE 7412, 8434, 8435, 8437) with the remaining courses selected based on the student’s interests and long-term goals. Students engaged in research on a thesis-track work alongside faculty in the Richard K. Faris ’69 CE, ’70 MSCE Structural Engineering Teaching and Research Laboratory.
Transportation Engineering students learn how to design, plan, manage and analyze various transportation systems across a wide spectrum. The program emphasizes the development of advanced knowledge and skills related to big data analysis, system operation and safety, infrastructure design, and multi-modal urban planning that are essential for both public and private sectors. Students may also engage in research activities on a thesis-track through work with faculty members from diverse backgrounds and research interests.
In addition to advanced coursework in water resources, students interested in this field often supplement their study with courses in environmental and geotechnical engineering. ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ University is nationally recognized for its Water Resources Engineering program, which provides access to cutting edge research and collaborative opportunities in the ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ Center for Resilient Water Systems, which includes the ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ Urban Stormwater Partnership and the campus's Green Infrastructure Stormwater Research Park. Distinguished leadership includes VCRWS and VUSP Director Dr. Robert Traver, a sought-after stormwater expert and former president of the American Academy of Water Resources Engineers.
Students pursuing advanced degrees in Environmental Engineering may specialize in areas including traditional water and wastewater treatment, advanced treatment technologies for legacy and emerging contaminants, wastewater reuse, waste to energy technologies, environmental sustainability, and soil/groundwater remediation. Students who are interested in research have access to laboratories equipped with the latest analytical equipment such as GC-MS and HPLC. There are research opportunities in emerging research areas of and advanced nutrient removal.