Program Overview
The master’s in civil engineering at the University of Kansas offers an opportunity to deepen your expertise in the field of civil engineering through advanced coursework and applied learning. Designed for engineers seeking leadership roles or specialized technical knowledge, this program prepares graduates to address complex infrastructure challenges across transportation systems, structural design, environmental systems, and geotechnical applications. Whether you are advancing your career or preparing for doctoral study, the master’s in civil engineering provides the academic rigor and flexibility needed to meet your goals.
Students may pursue the degree through two pathways: a course-based option emphasizing professional practice or a thesis-based option focused on original research. Both pathways within this civil engineering master’s degree allow students to tailor their studies across key civil engineering focus areas, including structural engineering, transportation engineering, geotechnical engineering, and environmental and water resources engineering. The thesis track is particularly well suited for those interested in research-intensive roles or future Ph.D. study, while the course-based path supports professionals seeking career advancement through applied expertise.
In addition to the on-campus experience in Lawrence, KU offers an online option for the master’s in civil engineering designed for working professionals who require flexibility. The online MS in civil engineering delivers the same high-quality curriculum as the residential program, allowing students to complete coursework remotely while maintaining professional responsibilities. Courses are taught by the same faculty and emphasize practical application, advanced technical content, and real-world problem-solving.
The online format provides asynchronous learning opportunities, enabling students to access lectures and assignments on a flexible schedule. This modality makes the civil engineering master’s degree accessible to engineers across the region and nationally who are seeking to expand their expertise without relocating.
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Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Civil Engineering, MCE/MSKU School of Engineering
The Masters in Civil Engineering is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.Master’s in Civil Engineering Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the master’s in civil engineering, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge in core civil engineering disciplines, including structural, geotechnical, transportation, and environmental systems.
- Apply advanced principles of engineering design, analysis, and modeling to solve complex and open-ended civil engineering problems.
- Design and conduct research or applied projects using appropriate methodologies, analytical tools, and professional standards.
- Communicate technical information effectively through written reports, presentations, and professional documentation.
- Evaluate and integrate contemporary engineering practices, ethical considerations, and sustainability principles into civil engineering solutions.
What Careers Are Possible with a Master’s in Civil Engineering?
Graduates of the master’s in civil engineering program at KU pursue advanced roles across public and private sectors. The program prepares students for leadership and specialized technical positions within consulting firms, construction companies, transportation agencies, and environmental organizations. With advanced training from this Master of Science in Civil Engineering, graduates are competitive for a range of high-impact roles.
Common career titles include:
- Structural Engineer
- Transportation Engineer
- Environmental Engineer
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Project Manager
- Infrastructure Consultant
According to Lightcast, employment for professionals with graduate training in civil engineering is projected to grow approximately 7% over the next decade. Median civil engineering salary levels for individuals with advanced degrees approach $120,000 per year, reflecting strong demand for experienced engineers in infrastructure, transportation, and environmental systems. These data underscore the long-term value of civil engineering master’s programs for professionals seeking advancement in competitive markets.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition rates for graduate students, along with several financial aid options, including fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid & Scholarships.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the master’s in civil engineering program at the University of Kansas, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field from an accredited institution
- GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate coursework
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all institutions previously attended
- GRE Scores: GRE scores are optional, but strongly recommended as some funding opportunities require a score
- Letters of Recommendation: Two or more letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your qualifications for graduate study in civil engineering
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose: A personal statement outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the master’s program
For full admission details, please visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students enrolled in the master’s in civil engineering benefit from close collaboration with faculty engaged in funded research and applied industry partnerships. Thesis students conduct independent research under faculty supervision, contributing to advancements in structural systems, transportation modeling, environmental sustainability, and geotechnical analysis.
Students in the course-based Master of Science in Civil Engineering participate in project-based learning and case studies that mirror real-world engineering challenges. Both on-campus and online students in the MS in civil engineering interact with faculty and peers through collaborative assignments, discussions, and professional development opportunities.
The online master’s in civil engineering is structured to support working professionals. With flexible scheduling and asynchronous coursework, online students can engage fully in graduate-level study while maintaining employment. Faculty accessibility, applied assignments, and peer collaboration ensure that online learners receive a comparable academic experience to residential students.
Master’s in Civil Engineering Sample Courses
The master’s in civil engineering curriculum provides advanced technical depth while allowing specialization. Sample courses may include:
- Structural Engineering Design
- Advanced Geotechnical Engineering
- Traffic Engineering and Transportation Systems
- Environmental Engineering Systems
- Advanced Hydrology and Hydraulics
- Earthquake Engineering and Seismic Design
Course offerings support both thesis and course-based options within the civil engineering master’s degree, equipping graduates with the analytical and design skills necessary for advanced civil engineering jobs in both public and private sectors.
For additional details, please refer to the KU Catalog:
Master’s in Civil Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
- Spring Admission: October 2 (priority deadline). January 6 (final deadline).
- Summer Admission: December 3 (priority deadline). May 1 (final deadline).
- Fall Admission: December 3 (priority deadline). August 13 (final deadline).
The priority deadlines are for full consideration for fellowships, scholarships and research/teaching assistantships. Applications submitted after these deadlines will be considered for funding on a case-by-case basis.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The degree requires 30 credit hours and may be completed in as few as 1–2 years full-time or 3–5 years part-time.
What thesis or project options exist?
Students may include up to 6 credit hours of thesis work or a 3‑credit research project as part of the program.