University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The MEng/MS in Civil Engineering at UMass Amherst offers advanced coursework and research across the principal subfields of civil engineering, including structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, environmental and water resources engineering, transportation systems, construction engineering and management, and materials. Students typically follow either a thesis (MS) route with a strong research component or a coursework/project (MEng or non-thesis MS) route focused on professional practice.

• Core and advanced modules: advanced structural analysis and design, finite element methods, earthquake engineering, geotechnical design, foundation engineering, soil mechanics, environmental engineering processes, water quality and treatment, hydrology and hydraulic modelling, transportation planning and systems, pavement design, construction engineering and project management, and advanced materials.
• Computational and laboratory work: numerical methods for engineers, programming for analysis, laboratory courses in materials testing, soils and geotechnical testing, hydraulics and fluvial processes, and hands-on experimental work consistent with a chosen specialism.
• Research and project components: thesis research supervised by departmental faculty for students on the MS track; for non-thesis students, a substantial design project or professional practicum is usually required. Students also participate in departmental seminars and may undertake independent study under faculty mentorship.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: access to cross-campus collaborations with related disciplines (e.g., environmental science, mechanical engineering, computer science) and engagement with research centres and industry partners for applied projects and internships.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognised institution. Typical qualifications include a strong academic record with significant core engineering coursework in mathematics, mechanics, structural analysis, materials, and fluids.

• Academic transcripts: official transcripts showing degree and coursework.
• Supporting documents: a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, a current CV or résumé, and two to three academic or professional references.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English; evidence may be provided by recognised tests or equivalent qualifications accepted by the university.
• Standardised tests: some applicants may submit GRE scores where relevant or if recommended; requirements vary by applicant background and programme route.
• Additional considerations: relevant professional experience, a demonstrated interest in research (for thesis applicants), and alignment with faculty research interests strengthen an application. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; selection is competitive and holistic.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master's programme in civil engineering from UMass Amherst move into technical and leadership roles across public agencies, consulting firms, construction and infrastructure companies, and research organisations. The degree prepares you for:

• structural engineer or design engineer roles in building and bridge design
• geotechnical engineer positions focusing on site investigation, foundations and slope stability
• water resources and environmental engineer roles in stormwater management, water treatment and watershed modelling
• transportation engineer or planner roles in highway, transit, and traffic systems
• construction engineering and project management positions overseeing delivery of infrastructure projects
• materials and pavement engineer roles in research and quality assurance
• research scientist or doctoral study for those pursuing academia or advanced R&D

Alumni typically advance to professional engineer registration, technical leadership, advisory roles in government and industry, or continue to doctoral programmes in engineering.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering combines a broad portfolio of research strengths with practical, hands-on training. The College of Engineering supports interdisciplinary collaboration, and students benefit from active research groups and laboratory facilities aligned with civil engineering practice and innovation.

• Faculty and research: faculty members maintain active research programmes across structures, geotechnics, water and environmental systems, transportation, materials and construction — providing opportunities for thesis research and industry-relevant projects.
• Facilities and resources: access to departmental laboratories, computing resources, and experimental facilities that support advanced testing and numerical simulation work.
• Funding and professional development: opportunities for graduate teaching and research assistantships, plus career services and industry engagement that help with internships and job placement.
• Community and location: a collaborative campus culture and connections across the wider Five College region that broaden academic collaboration and professional networks.

Overall, the programme aims to produce engineers who are technically competent, research-capable, and ready to meet contemporary infrastructure and environmental challenges.