Getting a master’s degree can strengthen your civil engineering knowledge and set you apart from other engineers. It is the best way to get promoted and be hired by big companies. If you want to attend graduate school but don’t want to compromise time for your current job, the best online civil engineering master’s degrees are a practical option.
If you’ve decided to enroll in graduate school, this guide will help you find the best online Master’s Degrees in Civil Engineering. In this article, we’ll provide you with information on tuition costs, program options, and civil engineering master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Online?
You can get online civil engineering master’s degrees in many reputable universities and colleges. Some of the best schools include Stanford University, Columbia University, and University of North Dakota. John Hopkins University and University of Washington are also excellent options.
What Schools Offer the Best Civil Engineering Master’s Degrees?
- Stanford University
- University of North Dakota
- Columbia University
- University of Washington
- Johns Hopkins University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering require that you have an undergraduate degree in the same or related field. Related degrees include construction, architecture, engineering, and math degrees.
If your degree is not related to civil engineering but you still want to pursue a civil engineering master’s program, you will be required to take additional courses to complete the necessary educational background.
Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
- At least 3.0 GPA
- Undergraduate transcript
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
How to Get a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Online
You get a civil engineering master’s degree online by completing all the graduation requirements. On average this consists of 30 to 45 credit hours over a two-year timeframe. Students will need to complete core courses, specialization courses, and general education courses while maintaining a minimum GPA. In most cases, there is a capstone project or thesis that is required to graduate.
Civil Engineering Degree Requirements
- Maintain a minimum GPA (varies by school)
- Complete core credits
- Complete elective credits
- Complete specialization credits
- Complete capstone or thesis project
Best Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn University | Master of Civil Engineering | Southern Association Of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC) |
| Columbia University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Kansas State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Kennesaw State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Southern Association Of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC) |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Southern Association Of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC) |
| Stanford University | Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) |
| University of Illinois | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| University of North Dakota | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| University of Washington | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
Best Schools for Civil Engineering: Top Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
We have listed some of the best and most reputable schools where you can get a fully online master’s degree. Below we present an overview of each school’s engineering programs to help you decide which ones to consider applying for.
What Is an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
An online civil engineering master’s degree is a graduate credential earned through the completion of 30 to 45 credits, completed throughout a two-year program. Civil engineering students will gain additional knowledge and training during the program to advance in careers as civil engineering professionals.
Civil engineering graduate students will have learned about advanced principles of engineering, fluid mechanics, and reinforced concrete design. Additionally, they will know about solid waste management and risk assessment and be able to work in construction management, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, or structural engineering.
Online vs In-Person Civil Engineering Master’s Degrees
Choosing a learning format can be difficult, there are benefits to both online and in-person civil engineering master’s degrees. An online master’s degree program offers you a flexible schedule, a more cost-efficient program, and a chance to work with professionals all around the world. On the other hand, an in-person program gives you access to resources, face-to-face advising, and the chance to build hands-on experience.
When you are researching your civil engineering master’s degree program be sure to pick a learning format that is best suited for you. Below we’ve broken down the top five benefits of each format to aid you with making the best choice.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering
- Flexible schedule. Online master’s degree programs tend to have schedules that are suited for working professionals. Online learners can use the part-time option and complete the program self-paced over a longer period.
- Connect with professionals. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with other working professionals in your field from various locations, both locally and internationally.
- Digital advantage. Online learning allows you to learn, be resourceful, and maximize digital tools. You’ll also be working with the most updated engineering programs which will give you a competitive edge.
- Equally reputable. Online master’s degrees are widely accepted and hold the same reputation as on-campus programs. Schools and companies are now recognizing the advantages and convenience online learning has brought to working professionals, allowing them to upskill without compromising job and family time.
- Cheaper learning costs. On-campus programs are usually more expensive. An online master’s degree programs are a more affordable option and won’t require extra costs such as housing, books, and travel expenses. All resources are accessible online.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering
- Hands-on skills building. In-person programs give civil engineering graduate students more in-depth hands-on skills and experience. They also have access to labs and workshops that distance learners do not.
- Communication skills. Students get a chance to interact with fellow professionals and professors. They will learn to develop a professional dialogue that will be used in the industry as they gain professional experience.
- Fewer distractions. On-campus classes and lectures are designated learning spaces that are free from distractions. This is beneficial for students who have a hard time staying focused or get easily distracted.
- Libraries and amenities. When you are on campus, you gain access to inclusive student amenities such as libraries and laboratories that make your educational experience more profound.
- Face-to-face advising. Online correspondence with faculty and advisors can get tedious and time-consuming. In-person programs give you direct access to the faculty and academic advisors who can help you stay on track, give advice, and provide necessary assistance.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Civil Engineering?
You can get a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA) in Civil Engineering. An MA will provide students with a more specific skillset with a dedicated specialization which will give them an advantage in the field. Whereas, an MS is for students looking to expand on what was taught in an undergraduate engineering degree at a more scientific level.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Civil Engineering?
It is better to get a Master of Arts in Civil Engineering. The Master of Arts provides students with the opportunity to hone their skills throughout the program and have a dedicated specialization. They will be able to work directly in the field and have a competitive advantage in specialized areas such as earthquake engineering and marine geotechnical engineering.
How Much Does a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Cost?
A civil engineering master’s degree costs an average of $19,792, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The cost may vary depending on your plan of study, school search, and state. If you choose a public institution, the average tuition cost is $12,410 and for private institutions, the cost is $26,597.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Online?
It takes about two years to get a civil engineering master’s degree, depending on the number of credit hours you enroll in per semester. You will need around 30 to 45 credit hours to complete the entire academic program. Additionally, you will need to complete your capstone or thesis project during this period to graduate.
Are Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degrees Respected?
Yes, online master’s degrees are very much respected, as long as the school is an accredited institution. They are even more respected if the degree is from a prestigious college or university. A postgraduate degree shows ample experience, dedication, and knowledge of the subject, which are factors employers are looking for when hiring.
Is Civil Engineering Hard to Learn Online?
Civil engineering isn’t hard to learn online. An online civil engineering program is set up to best serve distance learners. However, it requires a strong foundation in math, technical and science-related subjects. Compared to other engineering degrees such as biomedical, chemical, and aerospace engineering, the curricula of civil engineering is easier.
Civil Engineering Bootcamp vs Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
It is better to get an online civil engineering master’s degree. A master’s degree is a significant credential that puts you at a top tier of education in the field of civil engineering. It will open a variety of career paths and give you the technical and practical skills that employers are looking for. However, to help you make an informed choice we have created a list of the top five benefits of a civil engineering bootcamp vs an online civil engineering master’s degree, below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree
- A more significant credential. If you’re planning to have a long, stable, and progressive civil engineering career, a master’s degree is a credential that has more weight compared to a bootcamp. A master’s degree provides room for advancement whereas a bootcamp may not.
- More diverse learning. A master’s degree will cover numerous areas of engineering and can help broaden your knowledge. Bootcamp modules and curricula usually cover only one or two aspects of civil engineering topics to provide focused and intensive learning.
- Flexibility in workload. A master’s degree gives you full control of your workload, allowing you to enroll in minimum or maximum credit hours per semester. Classes are also scheduled beyond work hours and during weekends so you can attend classes without compromise.
- Learn with fellow professionals. When you enroll in a master’s degree program, you will meet fellow professionals in the same industry. You can expand your professional network as well as inspire each other to learn, graduate, and start successful careers.
- Eligibility for higher studies. When you choose a master’s degree over a bootcamp, you can advance your learning and credentials with a PhD. Graduate studies give you an advantage over other employees in terms of salaries and promotions.
Top 5 Benefits of a Civil Engineering Bootcamp
- Shorter program period. When you enroll in a bootcamp you can finish the program within a few weeks or months and learn a new skill. If your goal is to find a job or learn a quick skill, a bootcamp is the ideal choice.
- More affordable. A bootcamp is relatively more affordable when compared to a master’s degree. Bootcamps can cost thousands of dollars but it is a good personal investment for a skillset that can be completed in a short period.
- Career guidance. Bootcamps offer career guidance services that can help you from writing a winning resume to guiding you through job interviews. This unique service sometimes comes inclusive in bootcamp training courses.
- Focused learning. Bootcamp curricula are streamlined and focus on one or two specific areas of learning and skills building. This allows them to provide students with an intensive hands-on learning experience.
- Less strict requirements. Bootcamps can accommodate a wider variety of students because they have more lenient requirements. For instance, working professionals who haven’t attended college can still be accommodated in a bootcamp provided they meet all the other requirements.
Why You Should Get a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Online
You should get a civil engineering master’s degree online because it is flexible, more affordable, and allows you the chance to meet professionals from all around the world. It will give you all the required skills, knowledge, and experience you need to successfully manage your career.
You’ll have the chance to learn specialized areas and continue your education with a doctorate.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Civil Engineering?
During a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering program, students will take many core and specialized classes. Some courses in the civil engineering field include advanced soil mechanics, supply chain management, and mechanics of materials. You’ll also learn about hazardous waste management and advanced mechanics. Below you’ll find the course name and a detailed description of what kind of topics are covered in each course.
Mechanics of Materials
This subject discusses what happens to solid objects when subjected to stress and strain. Points covered include tensor notation, thermal stresses, energy methods, and curved beams. Students will learn about how breaking points, deformation, and object deterioration can be applied to mechanical engineering.
Advanced Soil Mechanics
This is a study of the physical properties of soil and how it is utilized in construction and other industrial and engineering uses. It covers the nature of the soil, its classification, seepage, and hydraulic connectivity.
Hazardous Waste Management
This subject introduces the proper management, disposal, and handling of hazardous waste. Some waste materials include various cleaning materials, brake fluids, antifreeze, and batteries. Students learn about storage, regulations, environmental audits, and physical-chemical treatments.
Advanced Mechanics
This subject teaches the analysis of materials and structures using physics principles. Students will learn about projectile, circular, and gravitational motion. They will also learn about various mechanical systems and how to assess and differentiate between them.
Supply Chain Management
This is the study of a systems approach to managing materials, suppliers, the flow of information, and the movement of supplies from factories up to customers. It covers business transactions, processes, logistics functions, and the technology involved in these processes.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
Civil engineers who finish their master’s degree may move on to get a PhD. They may also choose to continue studying and take the professional license examination and become a professional engineer (PE). They can pursue a higher management position or even start their own company.
Related Online Civil Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
Some of the best things to look for in a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering are the school’s accreditation, the graduation rate, and the school acceptance rate. Some other things to keep an eye on are tuition and curriculum. Below is a guideline to help you make informed and better decisions when choosing the right school for civil engineering programs.
School Accreditation
The most important thing to inquire about and research is the school’s accreditation. An accredited school means they underwent a thorough evaluation to ensure their teaching methods meet the minimum education quality standards.
Graduation Rate
This is the measure of the school’s success rate in guiding its students towards graduation. It measures the school curricula’ efficacy and capability to guide students towards success. A high graduation rate is a good measurement of a school’s competence and academic excellence.
School’s Acceptance Rate
Schools will usually aim for a low acceptance rate because it means they stick to a higher standard of student processing. Prospective students go through a stringent screening process before admission. It ensures quality standards of education and that they produce exceptional students after graduation.
Tuition Payment Options
All schools provide some sort of financial options and support for students who need assistance in paying their tuition fees. Some of the financial support options include financial grants, scholarships, federal aid, and discounts for residents of the state. Check to see what options are available for your situation.
Program Curriculum
It’s important to know what topics, classes, and specialization options are available for your program. Looking at a curriculum is a fast and effective way to make sure that everything you’re looking for in the program is covered. Be sure to choose a program that suits your planned career path.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
The most affordable civil engineering master’s degree is from Kennesaw State University. The average cost is $383 per credit hour. The online civil engineering master’s degree tuition will cost a total of $11,490 for the full 30-credit program.
Can I Get a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a civil engineering master’s degree for free. You can apply for grants and scholarships which will lessen the cost. You can also look for federal funding which is offered to qualified students if the program is from an ABET-accredited program.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
Jobs related to civil engineering are promising and the job outlook continues to have a steady increase until the year 2030. In this section, we will cover the best civil engineering master’s degree jobs, salaries, and highest paying states to help you pursue a future career.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a civil engineering master’s degree. Your online program will have given you high credentials and advantage over other applicants when applying for positions. Additionally, you can aim for positions with bigger salaries or corporations that provide generous benefits.
What’s the Average Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Salary?
The average online civil engineering master’s degree salary is $75,000 annually, according to PayScale. Your annual salary may vary depending on certain factors such as experience, state, and level of education.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
There are various industry options for civil engineering graduates. The job opportunities will depend on their chosen specialization, some of which include urban and regional planners, surveyors, and environmental engineers. You can even become a project manager for construction sites.
Civil Engineering Degree Jobs
- Construction Manager
- Environmental Engineer
- Urban and Regional Planner
- Surveyor
- Civil Engineering Technologist and Technician
Potential Careers With an Online Civil Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree?
You can make anywhere between $58,000 and $98,000 with an online civil engineering master’s degree. Your salary will depend on the job requirements, experience, and determination to succeed. Below we’ve listed some of the highest-paying jobs along with their descriptions, salaries, and job outlook.
Highest-Paying Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Construction Managers | $98,890 |
| Environmental Engineers | $96, 820 |
| Urban and Regional Planners | $78,500 |
| Surveyors | $61,600 |
| Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $58,320 |
Best Jobs for Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online civil engineering master’s degree grades are construction manager, environmental engineer, and urban and regional planner. Other great prospects include surveyors and civil engineering technologists and technicians.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online civil engineering master’s degree is worth it for current civil engineers who want to have a long-term and fruitful career in the construction field. You can have job stability, a high salary, and the opportunity to work and advance in many different fields in civil engineering.
Additional Reading About Civil Engineering
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Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree FAQ
A Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering can broaden your career choices and specialization in the field of civil engineering. You can become a professional engineer by taking up specializations such as design engineering, urban planning, transportation engineering, architecture, or structural engineering.
Yes, civil engineering is a good career for the future. Civil engineers will always be needed in countries with a healthy and progressive economy because there are always housing and infrastructure projects to build. The job outlook for civil engineers is eight percent in the US, a steady growth that is seen until the year 2030.
Civil engineers can be rich as they earn a fairly decent salary, above the usual average, even for positions such as surveyors and technicians. They can be richer if they get promoted to a managerial position with the help of advanced degree programs, or start their own company and win the bid for big construction projects.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projection is around 25,000 civil engineering job openings each year. The growing population and growing economy mean more infrastructure building, maintenance, and renewable energy projects.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
