Civil Engineering

The Civil Engineering program at Johns Hopkins University is designed to prepare students to become innovative leaders and problem-solvers in the field of infrastructure development and management. This rigorous interdisciplinary program combines fundamental principles of engineering, physics, and mathematics with practical applications in designing, constructing, and maintaining vital structures such as bridges, buildings, transportation systems, and water resources. Students will gain a strong foundation in structural analysis, material science, environmental engineering, and geotechnical engineering, equipping them with the skills to address complex challenges encountered in urban development and sustainable infrastructure projects. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, computer-aided design, and real-world projects, fostering critical thinking and collaboration among students. Opportunities for research engagement are abundant, allowing undergraduates to work alongside faculty on groundbreaking projects in sustainable construction, resilient infrastructure, and innovative materials. The program also integrates emerging technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), automation, and sensor networks, preparing students for the evolving landscape of civil engineering. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue professional licensure, advanced graduate studies, or careers in construction management, infrastructure planning, environmental consultancy, and public works. Johns Hopkins’ emphasis on interdisciplinary research and global perspective ensures that students are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible leaders committed to creating sustainable and resilient urban environments worldwide. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, experiential learning, and professional development, the Civil Engineering program at Johns Hopkins University aims to cultivate skilled engineers capable of addressing pressing infrastructural challenges and improving quality of life across communities around the globe.

After admission to the M.S.E. program, students must successfully complete one of two requirements in order to obtain the M.S.E. degree: either the 10 courses (course-only) option, or the 8 courses and a final M.S.E. Essay and Defense option.  All courses must be 300-level or above, with a maximum of two (2) courses at the 300-level. With approval from the academic advisor, one of the 10 courses required for the M.S.E. degree may be a course at the 300-level or above from the Center for Leadership Education. Academic advisors, in consultation with the faculty in the Civil Engineering Department, will determine whether the 8 or 10 courses leading to this degree are appropriate and if they have been completed satisfactorily. No more than one course with a grade lower than a B- may be counted toward the course requirement. Typically the M.S.E. degree requires one to two years to complete, if the student is making steady progress. In some cases, the degree may take longer.

The M.S.E. Essay must be approved by the student’s faculty advisor and one reader, who will typically be a full-time Johns Hopkins Civil Engineering faculty member. Any external reader must be approved by the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department.  M.S.E. students are expected to give a presentation to the department regarding their thesis research.  This requirement can be waived in extraordinary circumstances with approval of the Department Chair.

• Letters of Recommendation (3),
• GRE,
• TOEFL/IELTS,
• Statement of Purpose,
• Transcripts

Scholarships

A limited amount of financial assistance is available to Civil Engineering graduate students is available in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and partial or complete tuition fellowships, including fellowships from the Joseph Meyerhoff Scholarship Fund, the Richard D. Hickman Endowment, and the Hoomes Rich Graduate Fellowship.  Fellowships and Assistantships are awarded on a competitive basis and continued support is subject to the student’s performance and future availability of research or teaching assistantship funds.

The Civil Engineering program at Johns Hopkins University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the field of civil engineering. The program emphasizes the development of foundational knowledge in subjects such as structural analysis, construction materials, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, and environmental engineering. Students have the opportunity to engage in rigorous coursework that combines theoretical principles with practical applications, fostering skills essential for designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects. The curriculum integrates hands-on learning experiences through laboratories, project-based assignments, and collaborative research initiatives, enabling students to apply concepts in real-world scenarios. Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to explore innovative solutions at the intersection of engineering, technology, and sustainability. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and societal impacts of engineering projects, preparing graduates to become responsible professionals in their field. Opportunities for internships and cooperative education are often available, providing students with valuable industry exposure and networking connections. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners dedicated to mentorship and advancing the field through cutting-edge research. Graduates of the Civil Engineering program at Johns Hopkins are equipped with the technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and ethical awareness necessary to excel in various sectors, including construction, consulting, government agencies, and academia. The program aims to produce competent engineers capable of addressing modern infrastructure challenges sustainably and innovatively, contributing positively to society and the environment.