Environmental and Water Resources Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering at the American University of Beirut is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. This program integrates fundamental principles of engineering, environmental science, and water resources management to prepare graduates for careers that contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection. Throughout the course of study, students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers topics such as fluid mechanics, hydrology, water and wastewater treatment, environmental systems analysis, pollution control, renewable energy, geographic information systems (GIS), and environmental policy and regulation. The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning through laboratory work, design projects, and field studies, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems effectively. Students are encouraged to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as a commitment to ethical and professional standards in engineering practice. The curriculum is designed to foster innovation and adaptability, preparing graduates to work in various sectors, including government agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations, and industry. Modern facilities and laboratories provide an ideal environment for experimentation and research. Additionally, the program promotes collaboration with industry partners and offers opportunities for internships and cooperative education experiences that enhance employability and professional growth. Graduates of the Environmental and Water Resources Engineering program at AUB will be well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable management of water and environmental resources, develop innovative solutions to complex environmental issues, and pursue advanced studies or research in related fields. The program’s multidisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence ensure that students are prepared to become future leaders in environmental engineering and water resources management both locally and globally.

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers two graduate programs leading to the ME degree:

• Thesis Program

• Non-Thesis Program

Thesis Program Requirements

In order to fulfill the graduation requirements in the CE Thesis Program, a student must complete a minimum of 24 credit hours of graduate courses and a thesis based on independent research, equivalent to at least six credit hours. The required course work is distributed as follows: • A minimum of two core graduate courses (6 credit hours) in the area of specialty • A minimum of two graduate elective courses (6 credit hours) in the area of specialty.   A minimum of two graduate courses (6 credit hours) in the minor area • A maximum of two graduate elective courses (6 credit hours) in a related field in engineering or science (Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Economics) • Comprehensive Exam (CIVE 799T) • Seminar course (CIVE 600B) The courses that fall in the elective category must be pre-approved by the department. Up to two senior level civil engineering courses (CIVE 600 series), taken at the undergraduate level, can be counted towards the Master degree.

Non-Thesis Program Requirements

In order to fulfill the graduation requirements in the Non-Thesis Program, a student must complete a minimum of 33 credit hours of graduate courses. The required course work is distributed as follows: • A minimum of three core graduate courses (9 credit hours) in the area of specialty • A minimum of three graduate elective courses (9 credit hours) in the area of specialty • A minimum of three graduate courses (9 credit hours) in the minor area • A maximum of two graduate elective courses (6 credit hours) in a related field in engineering or science (Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Economics) • Comprehensive Exam (CIVE 799T) • Seminar course (CIVE 600B) The courses that fall in the elective category must be pre-approved by the department. Up to three senior level civil engineering courses (CIVE 600 series), taken at the undergraduate level, can be counted towards the Master degree. 

To be eligible for admission to the graduate program a student must hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. Students with a bachelor degree in majors other than Civil Engineering must fulfill the prerequisite course requirements as set by the department. Students must also satisfy the requirements of the University and the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture for admission to graduate study, as specified in the relevant sections of this catalogue. Bachelor of Engineering holders from a 5-year equivalent engineering program may obtain a waiver for 9 credits of relevant graduate level courses from their BE degree as long as they maintain a minimum grade of 80 or its equivalent in each of these courses. Bachelor of Science holders must complete an additional 18 credits of engineering courses prior to enrollment in the Masters program and must achieve an average of at least 80 percent in these courses. No credit toward the graduate degree is given for these courses. A minimum of one calendar year of residence is required for graduation. The student must also satisfy all relevant FEA and AUB requirements.

The FEA offers three types of financial assistance to the most qualified applicants to its graduate programs: fellowships, graduate research assistantships (GRA), and graduate teaching assistantships (GA). The students who receive financial support are expected to maintain a high level of academic performance, satisfactory progress toward a degree, and a satisfactory performance of the work assignments associated with the aid. 

Fellowships, GRAs, and GAs, covering tuition and stipends are available for students at the graduate level in return for assisting faculty members in teaching and/or research for a specified number of hours per week in an academic department. Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic record and the needs of the relevant department. 

The Environmental and Water Resources Engineering program at the American University of Beirut is designed to prepare students to address critical challenges related to environmental sustainability and water management. The curriculum integrates fundamental engineering principles with specialized coursework in water resources, environmental systems, sustainability practices, and pollutant control. Students gain comprehensive knowledge in hydrology, hydraulics, water treatment, wastewater management, air quality, and environmental risk assessment. The program emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work, design projects, and internships, fostering hands-on experience in solving real-world environmental issues.

Faculty members are experts in their areas, conducting research that influences the development of innovative solutions for water scarcity, pollution mitigation, and environmental protection. The program aims to equip graduates with the technical expertise and ethical understanding needed to pursue careers in government agencies, consulting firms, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations focused on environmental and water resource challenges. Courses are complemented by workshops, seminars, and collaborations with industry partners to ensure students are up-to-date with current trends, technologies, and policies. The program also encourages undergraduate research, providing opportunities for students to contribute to impactful projects.

Students are taught to apply engineering principles to design sustainable water supply and treatment systems, manage environmental hazards, and develop policies for resource conservation. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining civil engineering, environmental science, and social sciences to promote sustainable development goals. Graduates are prepared to participate actively in efforts to improve water quality, manage water resources efficiently, and minimize environmental impacts of urbanization and industrialization. Overall, the program strives to produce socially responsible engineers and environmental scientists who can lead efforts in promoting environmental resilience and water sustainability in Lebanon and the broader region.