The need for advanced degrees in civil and environmental engineering is both regional and global.
UMassD's Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering provides professionals with the skills needed to handle today's challenges, with opportunities to specialize in:
structural and geotechnical engineering
environmental and water resources engineering
transportation engineering
Through faculty consulting and student projects, the civil and environmental engineering program has forged strong bonds in southeastern Massachusetts, one of the state's fastest-growing regions. The program:
contributes to the growth of regional industries, businesses, and governmental agencies
addresses problems related to development and infrastructure
provides an accessible source of graduate education for the region's engineering employees
Faculty also address environmental problems that impact economic development, including:
water quality and quantity issues
lake eutrophication
hazardous waste handling
preservation of the ecological health of the bays
industrial wastewater treatment
solid waste handling
leachate collection and treatment
The program offers:
small classes
close contact with faculty who have a diverse set of research interests and industry experiences
access to well-supported research facilities
state-of-the-art computational and experimental research facilities
opportunities for full-time or part-time study
convenient class schedule for students who are employed
Program objectives
Program objectives include:
enhancing the knowledge of professional practicing civil and environmental engineers so that they are equipped to handle the complex problems of today
providing graduates with the skills, experience, and confidence to solve problems not yet encountered
Graduates will have the ability to:
apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze and interpret data
design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs
function as a team member
identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
communicate effectively
act as a leader and direct civil engineering projects
Graduates will also possess:
knowledge of contemporary issues and professional culture in their areas of specialization
understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
Research areas
Civil & Environmental Engineering Department faculty are active in funded research activities, providing opportunities to support graduate students in conducting world-class research in areas such as:
hydrology
water resources engineering
transportation materials and systems
water and wastewater treatment
hazardous waste decontamination
geotechnical design and geoenvironmental engineering
structural materials and mechanics
Assistantship opportunities
A limited number of assistantships are available on a competitive basis. This award is subject to the work needs of the position and department, your satisfactory performance of duties, your academic record, and availability of funds, and may be subject to change.
Optional Practical Training Extension for STEM Students (STEM OPT)
International (F-1) students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). To learn about the eligibility criteria and detailed steps to apply, please review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and USCIS resources. F-1 students must consult with the ISSC to apply for STEM OPT.
UMassD advantages
Research facilities: The department maintains geotechnical, environmental, fluid mechanics, mechanics of materials, and transportation laboratories for research and educational purposes.
The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, in nearby Fall River, MA, offers transportation materials and environmental laboratories assigned to departmental faculty members.
UMassD College of Engineering Points of Distinction
ABET Accredited
Nationally recognized research institution
Voted best Engineering program in 2021 by U.S. News & World Report
97% of graduates from the College of Engineering are either employed or enrolled in further education. Graduates have gone on to work at Google, Amazon, Dell, Raytheon, Hyundai, Apple; and one alumni is a NASA astronaut.
