Program Description
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering degree is designed for students who have an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering or another closely related engineering degree. Graduate work and research in civil engineering reflect the very broad nature of the field, which encompasses the design, construction, and enhancement of the infrastructure of society.
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) degree is designed for students who have an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering or another closely related engineering degree. Graduate work and research in civil engineering reflects the very broad nature of the field, which encompasses the design, construction, and enhancement of the infrastructure of society. The program includes course work in structural analysis and design, geotechnical engineering and foundations, transportation planning and operations, traffic engineering, construction engineering, and water resources engineering.
Faculty research interests include geotechnical studies of subsurface conditions, soil testing “superpave” mix design, intelligent transportation systems, traffic safety, structural dynamics, nonlinear structural analysis and software development, reinforced concrete, construction engineering, hydraulic modeling, coastal ocean modeling, stormwater management, and watershed management. Students completing the program find positions in consulting firms, construction, and construction-related industries, in city, county, state, and federal government agencies, and academic institutions.
This program has potential ties to professional licensure or certification in the field. For more information on how this program may prepare you in that regard, please visit https://apq.ucf.edu/files/Licensure-Disclosure-CECS-Civil-Engineering-MSCE-June2020.pdf.
Please Note: Civil Engineering MSCE may be completed fully online,although not all elective options or program prerequisites may be offered online. Newly admitted students choosing to complete this program exclusively via UCF online classes may enroll with a reduction in campus-based fees.
International students (F or J visa) are required to enroll in a full-time course load of 9 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters. Only 3 of the 9 credit hours may be taken in a completely online format. For a detailed listing of enrollment requirements for international students, please visit http://global.ucf.edu/. If you have questions, please consult UCF Global at 407-823-2337.
UCF is not authorized to provide online courses or instruction to students in some states. Refer to State Restrictions for current information.
Curriculum
The Civil Engineering MSCE program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, and both thesis and nonthesis options are available. The thesis option requires 24 credit hours of formal graduate-level course work and 6 credit hours of thesis. The nonthesis option requires 30 hours of formal course work and completion of a culminating experience. For nonthesis MS students, the culminating experience is submission of a portfolio that satisfies program requirements. It is strongly suggested that part-time students pursue the nonthesis option.
Total Credit Hours Required: 30 Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Bachelor’s Degree
Students must develop an individual plan of study with a faculty adviser by their second semester of study. At least one-half of the required credits must be taken at the 6000 level.
Research studies are required in one or more courses. The research study and report will focus on reviewing and analyzing contemporary research in a student’s particular specialization within the profession in order to help students acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to research-based best practices in that specialization area. In addition, students may engage in directed independent studies, directed research or a research report during their studies. Courses with asterisks represent those with specific independent learning experiences, and all nonthesis students must choose at least one course with an asterisk.
Application Requirements
For information on general UCF graduate admissions requirements that apply to all prospective students, please visit the Admissions section of the Graduate Catalog. Applicants must apply online. All requested materials must be submitted by the established deadline.
In addition to the general UCF graduate application requirements , applicants to this program must provide:
- One official transcript (in a sealed envelope) from each college/university attended.
- A Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering or another closely related engineering degree.
- Résumé.
- Statement of educational, research, and professional career objectives.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Applicants applying to this program who have attended a college/university outside the United States must provide a course-by-course credential evaluation with GPA calculation. Credential evaluations are accepted from World Education Services (WES) or Josef Silny and Associates, Inc. only.
Faculty members may choose to conduct face-to-face or telephone interviews before accepting an applicant into their research program.
The GRE is not required, however, taking the GRE is highly recommended for students wishing to pursue a thesis. In order to be considered for any fellowships, a GRE score is required.
Financials
Graduate students may receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, tuition support, or loans. For more information, see the College of Graduate Studies Funding website, which describes the types of financial assistance available at UCF and provides general guidance in planning your graduate finances. The Financial Information section of the Graduate Catalog is another key resource.
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