StudyQA — Master: Civil Engineering — University of Delaware

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The Bachelor of Civil Engineering at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the field of civil engineering, preparing them for diverse careers in designing, constructing, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports our society. The program combines foundational coursework in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles with specialized classes in structural engineering, transportation, water resources, environmental engineering, and construction management. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, design projects, and internships, which develop their problem-solving skills and practical knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable development practices, innovative materials, and modern construction technologies to ensure graduates are equipped to address the challenges of urbanization, climate change, and infrastructure resilience. Faculty members are active researchers and industry professionals who mentor students and provide real-world insights. The program also includes opportunities for undergraduate research, participation in professional organizations, and study abroad programs that broaden global perspectives. Graduates of the Civil Engineering program at the University of Delaware are well-prepared for professional licensure, advanced study, or immediate employment in sectors such as consulting engineering, public works, construction, transportation, and environmental management. With state-of-the-art laboratories, dedicated faculty, and a supportive academic community, the program aims to develop innovative engineers capable of designing sustainable infrastructure solutions that improve quality of life and foster community development.

Master's Degrees - Thesis Option

The master's program with thesis requires 30 credit hours including 24 graduate course credits and 6 credits for the master's thesis. The Department Graduate Committee must approve each student's program.

The 24-credit course program of each student must include the following:

At least one course each in mathematics and in engineering sciences.
At least 9 credits of courses in the chosen concentration (required courses for each concentration area are attached).

The student should consult his/her advisor in selecting courses to fit these requirements. Petitions for required course substitutions may be made via the advisor to the Department Graduate Committee. A maximum of 9 credits is transferable to the University of Delaware toward any master's degree.

Seminars

All thesis graduate students are required to attend departmental or college seminars (CIEG 865) each semester in their fields of study. Students are expected to make presentations at these seminars.

Master's Degrees - Non-Thesis Option

Within the MCE and MAS degree programs, non-thesis options are available for students concentrating their studies in the areas of Civil Infrastructure Systems, Coastal Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Water Resources Engineering. The objective of the non-thesis master’s program is to provide an opportunity for students, who do not have the need to develop research skills, to obtain a master’s degree with a quality and depth of study comparable to the master’s degree with thesis. Through coursework (30 credits), students develop their engineering skills and obtain a state-of-the-art background within the chosen area of study. Students electing the non-thesis option are not eligible for financial support from the University.

Master's Degree Requirements (Ocean Engineering)

The Master of Ocean Engineering degree program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours. This includes a thesis describing independent research. Students may earn up to six credits for the thesis.

Required courses are as follows:

MAST691/CIEG639 (Ocean Fluid Dynamics)
MAST882 (Physical Ocean Science and Engineering Seminar) or CIEG865 (Civil Engineering Seminar)
MEEG690 (Intermediate Engineering Mathematics)
MAST693 (Waves in the Marine Environment) or CIEG672 (Water Wave Mechanics)

Additional courses typically include at least 6 credits at the 800 level and at least 9 credits of graduate courses. The student's advisor approves the course curriculum. Petitions for required course substitutions may be made via the advisor to the program director. A maximum of 9 graduate course credits from other universities may be applied toward the Master's degree.

Concentrations

Students in all departmental graduate degree programs may elect to choose a concentration area of study. Concentrations are available in Civil Infrastructure Systems, Coastal Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, and Water Resources Engineering. Students must meet the concentration requirements detailed in the following sections, in addition to meeting their general degree requirements. Study in two or more related concentrations is allowed. Concentrations are voluntary, and students selecting multidisciplinary or other specialized studies need not declare a concentration.

Civil Infrastructure Systems
Coastal Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Geotechnical Engineering
Structural Engineering
Transportation Engineering
Water Resources Engineering

Applicants to a University of Delaware graduate program must possess (or be in the final year of completing) a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree.
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