Florida State University

What you'll study

The programme offers advanced study in major civil engineering areas including structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental and water resources engineering, and construction engineering and management. Students choose between a thesis (research) option and a non-thesis (coursework) option; both emphasise rigorous analytical skills, numerical methods, and contemporary engineering practice.

• Core and elective coursework: Advanced structural analysis and design, finite element methods, soil mechanics and foundation engineering, transportation systems analysis, hydraulics and hydrology, environmental engineering processes, and construction project management.
• Specialist modules: Bridge and seismic design, pavement materials and design, geotechnical site characterisation, water resources modelling, sustainable infrastructure, and computational methods in engineering.
• Research and design: Thesis students undertake an original research project under faculty supervision; non-thesis students complete a combination of advanced coursework and a capstone design or practicum project.
• Laboratory and practical experience: Hands-on lab work in structural testing, geotechnical centrifuge and soil laboratories, materials testing, and water quality/ hydraulics facilities. Computational coursework uses industry-standard software and modelling tools.
• Seminars and professional development: Department seminars, presentation workshops, and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on funded research projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Typical application materials include official academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives, letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae or résumé.

• Academic background: A demonstrated foundation in mathematics, mechanics, fluid mechanics, and fundamental civil engineering courses is expected.
• Standardised tests: The programme may consider standardised test scores where relevant, but applicants should check the department's current guidelines on test requirements.
• English language proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or alternative evidence as specified by the university.
• Professional experience: Relevant work experience or internships can strengthen an application, particularly for the non-thesis option or for candidates without a civil engineering undergraduate degree.

Career prospects

Graduates find roles across consulting firms, design and construction companies, transportation agencies, environmental and water resources organisations, and government regulatory bodies. The degree prepares students for technical specialist roles, project leadership, research positions, and progression toward professional engineer licensure.

• Structural engineer, bridge and infrastructure designer
• Geotechnical engineer or site investigation specialist
• Transportation planner and traffic systems engineer
• Water resources and environmental engineer
• Construction manager and project engineer
• Research engineer or doctoral study leading to academia
• Positions in public agencies and consulting related to resilience, sustainability and infrastructure policy

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers a mix of strong faculty expertise, active research programmes, and well-equipped laboratories that support both applied and theoretical work. The department emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration across fields such as materials science, coastal engineering, and transportation systems, providing opportunities to work on funded research projects and industry partnerships.

• Research strengths: Access to research groups and centres working on structural testing, geotechnical investigations, water resources modelling, and sustainable infrastructure.
• Facilities: Modern laboratories and computational resources enable experimental testing and sophisticated numerical simulation.
• Professional development: Coursework and departmental support aligned with preparation for professional engineering licensure and industry certifications.
• Location and connections: Proximity to state agencies and regional engineering firms offers internship and employment links, as well as opportunities to engage with public-sector projects.
• Student support: Graduate mentoring, seminar series, and collaboration with faculty on publications and conferences help students build a competitive professional profile.