Idaho State University

What you'll study

The programme offers a combination of advanced coursework, laboratory and computational practice, and an independent research or capstone project. Students typically choose between a thesis-based Master of Science (research emphasis) and a non-thesis route that includes a substantial design project or additional coursework.

• Core and elective topics: Advanced Structural Analysis and Design, Steel and Reinforced Concrete Design, Geotechnical Engineering, Foundation Design, Transportation Engineering and Planning, Water Resources and Hydraulics, Environmental Engineering for Civil Engineers, Construction Management and Contracting.
• Computational and quantitative methods: Finite Element Methods, Structural Dynamics, Computational Hydraulics, Numerical Methods for Engineers, and use of industry software (for example: finite-element, GIS and hydraulic modelling packages).
• Research and professional skills: Research Methods and Experimental Design, Technical Communication, Project Management, and ethics and licensure preparation.
• Capstone options: Thesis (independent research under faculty supervision) or non-thesis project (applied design project or industry-collaborative study). Coursework-only pathways with a higher credit requirement are typically available for students focused on advanced practice.
• Laboratory and field experience: Hands-on laboratory work in materials, soils and hydraulics labs, field site investigations and opportunities to work on regional infrastructure projects or with state agencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a résumé or CV. Some applicants from adjacent disciplines may be admitted conditional on completing prerequisite undergraduate courses in core civil engineering subjects.

• Academic preparation: Undergraduate coursework in statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, structural analysis, soil mechanics and calculus-based mathematics is expected.
• Academic standing: Demonstrated satisfactory undergraduate performance in engineering coursework is required; specific GPA expectations are set by the department.
• English language proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional pathways.
• Additional requirements: Some applicants may be asked for a technical writing sample, portfolio of design work, or to meet with faculty for research alignment. GRE submission policies vary and may be optional—check the department for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in industry, government and research. The degree strengthens technical competency for roles requiring advanced analysis, design and project leadership, and supports progression toward professional licensure.

• Structural engineer or bridge engineer in consulting firms and contractors
• Geotechnical engineer for foundation and ground improvement work
• Transportation engineer and planner for highway authorities, transit agencies and consultancies
• Water resources and environmental engineer with utilities, engineering consultancies or regulatory bodies
• Construction manager or project engineer for infrastructure delivery
• Researcher or doctoral candidate in academia or national laboratories
• Engineer in public sector roles such as state departments of transportation, municipal public works and environmental agencies

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University’s civil engineering programme combines focused faculty mentoring with practical laboratory and field opportunities relevant to the region’s infrastructure needs. The department emphasises applied research and close collaboration with local and state agencies, offering students chances to work on real-world projects and to gain experience with both rural and urban engineering challenges.

• Faculty and research: Faculty conduct applied research across structural, geotechnical, transportation and water resources areas, and supervise thesis and project work that connects to regional infrastructure priorities.
• Facilities and labs: Access to materials, soils and hydraulics laboratories and computing resources supports experimental work and advanced modelling.
• Industry connections: Strong links with regional engineering firms, state agencies and contractors facilitate internships, project collaborations and employment pathways.
• Student support: Small cohort sizes enable personalised advising, graduate teaching/research assistantships, and preparation for professional licensure exams.