M.S in Civil Engineering

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Program Facts

College: Mayfield College of Engineering

Major: Master of Science in Civil Engineering

Degree Level: Master's

Delivery Format:
  • On-Campus
  • 100% Online
Campuses & Locations:

Credit Hours: 30

Duration: 2 Years

Tuition & Fees

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Accreditation

Students wearing safety glasses discuss a project together in an engineering lab.

Overview

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering at Tarleton State University is a 30 semester credit hour program that provides advanced study in civil engineering with an emphasis on specialized technical areas. The curriculum is structured to align with the graduate-level outcomes defined in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Body of Knowledge, ensuring coverage of critical knowledge domains in the discipline. Students complete a combination of core courses and electives that allow for focused study in areas such as structural engineering, transportation, geotechnical, water resources, and environmental systems. The program is designed to strengthen analytical, computational, and research skills, supporting the development of expertise in both fundamental and emerging aspects of civil engineering practice.

Program Benefits

  • Learn from faculty with both extensive research expertise and real-world industry experience in core civil engineering fields.
  • Opportunities to engage in applied research and advanced computational modeling addressing regional and national infrastructure challenges.
  • A flexible 30-SCH program structure that supports timely degree completion for both full-time students and working professionals.
  • Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, high-performance computing resources, and experimental facilities on campus.
  • Strong connections to Texas industry partners, government agencies, and professional organizations, fostering internships and career pathways.
  • Located within a growing engineering college at Tarleton State, providing a collaborative academic and research environment.

Courses

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More About the Program

Tarleton State University’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering is designed to prepare graduates to address the complex challenges facing modern infrastructure systems. The program combines advanced technical coursework with opportunities for applied research and real-world problem solving, allowing students to build expertise in specialized areas such as structural, geotechnical, water resources, transportation, and environmental engineering.

What sets Tarleton apart is its commitment to combining academic rigor with hands-on learning. Graduate students work closely with faculty who bring both research expertise and industry experience into the classroom. Many courses incorporate applied projects that connect students to regional and statewide infrastructure needs, while research opportunities provide experience with state-of-the-art computational modeling, experimental methods, and sustainability-focused engineering solutions.

Located in the heart of Texas, Tarleton offers strong connections to industry partners, government agencies, and professional organizations, creating pathways for internships, collaborative research, and career advancement. The program’s flexible design supports both full-time students and working professionals, ensuring that graduates are prepared to take leadership roles in engineering practice, research, and innovation.

Offered Concentrations

  • Thesis
  • Non-Thesis

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply advanced principles of structural, geotechnical, water resources, transportation, and environmental engineering to solve complex civil engineering problems.
  • Utilize computational modeling, simulation tools, and experimental methods to analyze and design infrastructure systems.
  • Conduct independent research, synthesize technical literature, and communicate findings effectively in professional and academic contexts.
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Career Outcomes

  • Structural Engineer – Design and analyze buildings, bridges, and other load-bearing structures to ensure safety and performance.
  • Geotechnical Engineer – Investigate soil and rock behavior to support foundations, slopes, tunnels, and earth-retaining structures.
  • Water Resources Engineer – Develop solutions for flood control, drainage, stormwater management, and sustainable water supply systems.
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Certification and Licensure Preparation

Professional Engineer

  • Professional Engineer (PE) Licensure – Provides advanced coursework and documented experience hours that contribute toward PE licensure eligibility.
Learn about Certification and Licensure

Admissions Requirements

  • Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 (on a 4-point scale), which is assessed based on either the overall undergraduate GPA or the GPA from the last 60 credit hours of coursework.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does it take to complete the program?

    The Master of Science in Civil Engineering is a 30-credit-hour program that can typically be completed in 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students, or longer for part-time students.

  • Can I work while completing the degree?

    Yes. The program is designed with flexibility to support both full-time students and working professionals. Evening and online course options may be available depending on the semester.

  • Do I need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering to apply?

    Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field. Students from other engineering or STEM backgrounds may be considered with prerequisite coursework.

  • Is a thesis required?

    Students may choose between a thesis option, which emphasizes research, and a non-thesis option, which focuses on advanced coursework.

  • Will this program help me become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE)?

    Yes. The program builds upon the knowledge required for the FE and PE exams and supports graduates in meeting education requirements for licensure.

  • What career paths are available after graduation?

    Graduates pursue careers in structural, geotechnical, transportation, water resources, environmental, and construction engineering, as well as consulting and research roles.