Online Master of Science in Civil Engineering
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Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Online
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) degree is designed for professionals with a bachelor’s in civil engineering who want to stay on top of industry advancement and take the next step in their career.
UofL's online master's in Civil Engineering program delivers an innovative curriculum taught by award-winning faculty that provides the knowledge and training you need to move forward in your career as a civil engineer.
Learn about the latest industry trends and gain the technical knowledge needed for you to stand out and stay competitive in a demanding marketplace.
US News & World Report Recognition
The online Master of Science in Civil Engineering is offered through the J.B. Speed School of Engineering at the University of Louisville. UofL’s School of Engineering has been consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report for its graduate engineering programs, academic excellence and student support.
UofL's Online MS in Civil Engineering
100% Online, No GRE Required - Apply Today and Start Building Your Career Upward!
Master of Science in Civil Engineering
100% Online
The big picture
Civil infrastructure is evolving rapidly, from resilient transportation systems to sustainable water resource management and advanced structural design. Engineers who want to lead complex projects, influence public safety and advance into senior technical roles need more than experience. They need deeper expertise.
The online master of science in civil engineering at UofL equips working professionals in Kentucky, in the U.S. and across the globe with advanced analytical skills, specialization options and practical knowledge aligned with today’s infrastructure demands. Whether your focus is structural engineering, transportation systems, geotechnical engineering or water resources, this program is designed to elevate your technical authority and career trajectory.
Online MS in civil engineering degree highlights
- Join a degree program trusted by employers and featuring courses that reflect changes and advancements in the field
- Choose a focus area: structural engineering, transportation engineering, water resources or geotechnical engineering
- Study advanced topics including finite element analysis, hydrology, prestressed concrete design and intelligent transportation systems
- Study software and tools that are vital in real job situations
- Move successfully through the program with a dedicated advisor to assist you from enrollment through graduation
- Complete 30 credit hours with thesis or non-thesis options
- Graduate prepared for senior engineering roles, project leadership and technical specialization; work with UofL’s career service center for any job-related needs
Online graduate certificates in civil engineering
Want to test the waters first? Start with a certificate program, gain momentum and move into the master’s program with ease.
- Graduate certificate in structural engineering (12 credit hours)
- Graduate certificate in transportation engineering (12 credit hours)
"As we continue to see an increase in the standards and requirements for professional licensure, the online Master’s in Civil Engineering is one of the advanced degrees that [engineers] will have to have. I want students to walk out and be prepared for those professional examinations that they have to go through as part of a civil engineering career."
Michael Shelley, professor
Civil Engineering, online MSCE
Ready to build a blueprint for your civil engineering career? Let’s get you started today!
How to apply to UofL’s online master’s in civil engineering?
Check out the typical application deadlines for the online MSCE degree at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| November 15 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply for the Online MSCE
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
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What admissions requirements are for the online MS in civil engineering?
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Required application packet materials include:
- transcript showing a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or equivalent
- two letters of recommendation
*Your application portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online MSCE for international applicants
The master of science in civil engineering online program is open to international students. If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to review these additional admission requirements for international students.
- International students will not be issued a U.S. visa, since there are no campus attendance requirements.
All courses in the program are taught 100% online, allowing you to attain the entire degree from the comfort of your home and at any time convenient for you, regardless of your current location, anywhere in the world.
Online MSCE for students with previous college credit
You may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate coursework from an accredited university, pending department approval. See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors through an information request.
How much does it cost to earn an online MSCE degree?
Academic Year Tuition
$850 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What will you learn in the online master's of science in civil engineering?
The MS in civil engineering curriculum builds advanced analytical, design and problem-solving skills across key infrastructure disciplines. Students engage in specialized coursework such as prestressed concrete design, advanced mechanics of solids, traffic engineering, groundwater hydrology and wetland design. Whether pursuing a thesis or non-thesis option, you will deepen your technical expertise while applying engineering principles to real-world infrastructure challenges.
Online Courses
The MS in civil engineering degree at UofL is a 30-credit hour program with different focus options including structural engineering, geotechnical engineering (not available online), transportation engineering and water resources.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
To optimize the mix of courses in your program, contact your advisor each semester prior to registration.
See other available courses in the graduate certificate programs, also available 100% online:
- Graduate Certificate in Structural Engineering (12 credit hours)
- Graduate Certificate in Transportation Engineering (12 credit hours)
Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What can you do with a master's in civil engineering?
Highly educated civil engineers are prepared to address contemporary issues such as increasing urbanization and aging infrastructure with confidence and expertise. Not only will you have a more well-rounded and expanded understanding of key civil engineering areas, but you’ll be prepared to step into management roles, standout in a competitive job market and increase your potential earnings. While a master’s degree isn’t necessary to pursue a career as a civil engineer, it does give you a leg up in the industry.
According to Lightcast occupation outlook data, on average, jobs in the civil engineering field are projected to grow 6% between 2025 and 2033, with 31,938 annual job postings. The median salary for civil engineering jobs is nearly $119,100 (Lightcast.io).
Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
Career options after graduation include managing, supervising or leading civil engineering teams and projects, as well as pursuing roles that include:
- Structural Engineer
- Surveyor
- Water Resource Engineer
- Transportation Analyst
- Project Engineer
- Land Development Engineer
- and more.
Many graduates of our program have stepped into key roles within their organization and put their knowledge to work immediately after completing the program.
As infrastructure investment and modernization continue nationwide, demand for highly skilled civil engineers remains strong. An advanced degree can strengthen your competitive advantage, expand your earning potential and position you for licensure advancement and leadership responsibility.
Take the step today to pave the way for your career growth in civil engineering.
What does your support network look like?
Success in a technical graduate program requires more than strong coursework – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, MS in civil engineering students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Charlie Nattrass | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Leigh Ann Elles | Assistant Director of Graduate Programs | leigh.elles@louisville.edu |
502.852.4415
|
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Dr. Zhihui Sun | Department Chair, Program Director | z.sun@louisville.edu | 502.852.4583 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What else should I know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission, internship process and options or how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
Is this program ABET-accredited?
No, typically bachelor's in engineering programs are ABET-accredited while master's in engineering degrees are typically not ABET-accredited. The University of Louisville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). SACSCOC is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Can I earn the online M.S. in Civil Engineering degree and one of the Graduate Certificates at the same time?
Yes! You can work toward earning both your M.S. in Civil Engineering and either the Graduate Certificate in Structural Engineering or Transportation Engineering at the same time. If you let the academic adviser know when making the degree plan, you can finish both programs within 10 classes.
Can I receive credit for graduate courses completed at another institution?
Once admitted, students may request department permission to transfer up to six (6) credit hours from an accredited graduate program. Only courses that have not counted towards another degree program will be considered. See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.
What bachelor’s degrees, other than engineering, are acceptable for admission in the MS Civil Engineering program?
Students must have a bachelor's in civil engineering. Similar degrees and professional experience in concrete design may, on a case-by-case basis, be accepted for admission. International students must have the equivalent of a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
Are GRE scores required for admission?
No! There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission into the online master's in civil engineering at UofL.
Are scholarships available for the MSCE program?
No, at this time there are no scholarships available. However, some employers may provide tuition support through employer reimbursement programs.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
