The online Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering with an Emphasis in Civil Engineering from UGA’s College of Engineering equips students like you with the advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience you need to lead infrastructure and construction projects in this quickly evolving industry. Designed for working professionals, the 33-credit, non-thesis degree is delivered in a flexible online format—offering one course every eight weeks with asynchronous learning that fits into your schedule.
The program emphasizes real-world application through project-based instruction, interactive studio courses, and collaboration with faculty and practicing industry professionals. You’ll work through real case studies in areas such as structural and geotechnical engineering, construction management, and infrastructure design—all while developing leadership, problem-solving, and computational modeling skills.
What can I do with a Master’s in Civil Engineering?
Graduates of UGA’s online M.S. in Civil Engineering program advance into roles such as Project Manager, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager, Civil Engineering Consultant, Bridge Engineer, or Infrastructure Design Specialist. The project-based curriculum prepares you for leadership in both public and private sectors of engineering.
Is UGA’s M.S. in Civil Engineering fully online?
Yes. The degree is delivered entirely online, including project-based studio courses and peer collaboration. Courses are asynchronous and structured in 8-week blocks, making it manageable for professionals working full-time.
How long does it take to complete the online civil engineering program?
The program requires 33 credit hours and is typically completed in two years. Students take one course at a time in an accelerated block format, with summer courses available to maintain momentum.
What will I learn in the online civil engineering master’s program?
You’ll gain advanced training in:
Construction and project management
Structural and foundation engineering
GIS applications in civil engineering
Solid mechanics and material forensics
Artificial intelligence in civil infrastructure
Computational modeling and design studios
Courses are designed to mirror real-world challenges and include industry-expert input.
Do I need a civil engineering degree to apply?
Applicants should hold a B.S. or M.S. in engineering or a related field. A degree from an ABET-accredited program is preferred. Applicants with a PE or SE license or DOT experience are considered strong candidates. Those from non-engineering backgrounds may be asked to complete additional preparatory coursework.
What are the admissions requirements for the online M.S. in Civil Engineering?
Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Résumé or CV
Statement of purpose
At least one letter of recommendation
Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
No GRE required (optional)
International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.
You’ll receive the same degree as on-campus students, taught by the same expert faculty, with no notation that the program was completed online. Studio courses connect you directly with seasoned engineers, and the flexible, asynchronous format allows you to continue working while earning your degree.
Is there a demand for civil engineers with advanced degrees?
Yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineering is expected to grow steadily due to infrastructure investment and innovation. A graduate degree helps professionals stand out for senior, technical, and leadership roles in the field.
Accreditations
The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. The University of Georgia also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Georgia may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Testimonials
My experience with UGA’s graduate program was truly transformative. The curriculum was rigorous enough to be challenging and provided me with knowledge that was relevant to my field of study as a transportation engineer. The staff and faculty provided great mentorship, guidance, and opportunities. I was connected to several professionals, and my peers in the program also provided a sense of community that fostered collaboration and growth. UGA’s program not only prepared me for my technical skills but also equipped me with practical skills and knowledge to navigate the workforce. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity and the lasting impact it has had on my professional journey.
Angela Nguyen, ’20, P.E., Transportation Engineer II (Bridge and Roadway), at Pond and Company
Upon completing my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Georgia, I, like many others, had to make a choice between diving directly into the professional world or continuing my education. I can confidently say that deciding to stay at UGA and study for my Master’s degree in Engineering was one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences I have had so far. I had the pleasure of working under the guidance of Dr. Chorzepa. Apart from her knowledge and expertise, Dr. Chorzepa’s defining quality in my opinion is that she truly cares about her students and their success. I would not be where I am today if not for UGA’s Master’s program and Dr. Chorzepa.
Victor Lopez, ’18, Senior Staff Engineer
The MS program provided me with the opportunity to seamlessly continue my education and gain real-world experience in my field of study, while completing my undergraduate degree. The knowledge and problem-solving skills I acquired during my time in the program were invaluable as I transitioned into my post-graduate career. Professors, such as Dr. Chorzepa, served not only as mentors in the classroom but also as hands-on guides throughout my MS program.
Adara Dodson, ’19, Structural Engineering Designer II
Applicants holding a B.S. or an M.S. in engineering from an ABET-accredited (or equivalent) program or a B.S. or an M.S. in a related field from an accredited institution are invited to apply for admission. Those already holding a PE or an SE designation are considered highly qualified. DOT engineers are welcome.
Students with degrees in non-engineering disciplines may be asked to take additional selected coursework to adequately prepare them for their studies.
No GRE is required, although it is encouraged. The existing requirements for consideration for admission to the College of Engineering’s graduate programs are listed below:
Admission Requirements
Completion of a B.S. with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0) from an ABET-accredited program or program in a related field.
Online Master of Science (M.S.) in Civil and Environmental Engineering – Emphasis in Civil Engineering Application Checklist
Application – Submit the Graduate School Admissions online. Application fee: $75 Domestic/$100 International.
Select Campus – Online
Select Intended Program – MS, Civil and Environmental Engineering [MS_CEEN_NT_O]
Select Intended Emphasis – Civil Engineering
Select Intended Term – Fall
Résumé or curriculum vita – Submit online to the Graduate School.
Statement of Purpose – Submit a one to two-page statement of purpose online to the Graduate School. The statement of intent should clarify the candidate’s relevant background, interests, and goals in relation to the program.
Transcripts – Submit unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended as part of the online application. Send official transcripts after you are offered admission.
Letters of Recommendation – Submit at least one letter of recommendation online to graduate school. Letters should be from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s scholarly ability and potential for success in a graduate program.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Applicants
Fall Deadline: July 1
Spring Deadline: November 15
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
International Applicants
Fall: April 15
Spring: October 15
TOEFL: Foreign applicants will also need to score a minimum of 20 points each on the Speaking and Writing sections of the TOEFL with an overall minimum score of 80. Test scores must be within 5 years from the date of application.
Cost
Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates and student fees may change each year.
Based on the 2024-25 credit-hour cost, a person who had completed this program at the recommended pace would have paid $29,271 in tuition. Reference this sheetto identify the current credit hour rate for your program of interest.
Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs for the Online Master of Science in Civil Engineering program.
Military Assistance
Active-duty military, veterans, and military families should visit Veterans Educational Benefits to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.
Curriculum
This non-thesis, project-based M.S. degree in Civil Engineering requires a minimum of 33 semester hours in the Program of Study.
The online curriculum will consist of 10 classes, each offered in 8-week blocks, including studio courses that involve seasoned civil engineers and facilitate group work with real-world case studies. This allows remote learners the chance to network and learn from both their peers and experienced professionals.
Growing up, nothing fascinated Jidong Yang more than how things were built. It began when he learned about the Great Pyramid of Giza. He marveled at how such a large structure was built with so little technology.
“I was so curious about the process, and it sort of became my motivation,” said Yang, associate professor in the University of Georgia’s College of Engineering and instructor in the online M.S in Civil Engineering. “I began to look at structures and wonder how they were built.”
A team led by Xiaoming Zhai, an associate professor in the UGA Mary Frances Early College of Education and instructor in the online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Science Education program, has been awarded a $10 million grant from the Institute of Education Sciences to establish a research and development center that will provide national leadership on best practices for using generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in schools, strengthening competence in GenAI in middle school science classrooms.
Bjorn Birgisson, professor in the online M.S. in Civil Engineering program, chair of the UGA College of Engineering’s School of Environmental, Civil, Agricultural and Mechanical Engineering and founding executive director of the Georgia Network for Electric Mobility (GNEM), has been named the inaugural holder of the Georgia Power…
If you have any questions please email us atonline@uga.edu.
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