Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering program at San Francisco State University provides hands-on experience in advanced civil engineering, with core coursework in earthquake and structural engineering. Electives allow students to tailor their studies, while a culminating research project or thesis enhances practical skills and research knowledge. The flexible, non-sequential structure accommodates working engineers seeking career advancement through evening courses.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) at San Francisco State University provides students with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and gain hands-on experience in modern civil engineering. The program offers core courses in civil, structural, and earthquake engineering to broaden students' perspectives. Students can also select courses aligned with their career interests. A culminating experience, either an applied research project or thesis, allows students to practice their knowledge and gain research experience. The non-sequential structure of the program allows students to take courses in their areas of interest without committing to a long series of courses. The 30-unit degree prepares students to write technical research papers, collaborate on group projects, enter Ph.D. programs, and complete lab or practicum requirements as needed. Evening course schedules are designed for working engineers.
Outline:
- Required Courses (9 units):
- ENGR 833: Principles of Earthquake Engineering (3 units)
- ENGR 836: Structural Design for Earthquakes (3 units)
- ENGR 839: Advanced Topics in Civil Engineering (3 units)
- Engineering Electives (15-18 units):
- Students may use up to 3 units of non-engineering courses with the approval of the graduate coordinator. These courses can be graduate or upper-division courses in science, mathematics, social science, or business.
- Units may be selected from the following courses on advisement:
- ENGR 425: Reinforced Concrete Structures (3 units)
- ENGR 426: Steel Structures (3 units)
- ENGR 427: Wood Structures (3 units)
- ENGR 431: Foundation Engineering (3 units)
- ENGR 461: Structural Dynamics (3 units)
- ENGR 826: Seismic Hazard Analysis (3 units)
- ENGR 827: Structural Design for Fire Safety (3 units)
- ENGR 828: Seismic Isolation and Energy Dissipation (3 units)
- ENGR 829: Advanced Topics in Structural Engineering (3 units)
- ENGR 831: Advanced Concrete Structures (3 units)
- ENGR 832: Advanced Topics in Seismic Design (3 units)
- ENGR 835: Advanced Steel Structures (3 units)
- ENGR 837: Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering (3 units)
- ENGR 838: Smart Structures Technology (3 units)
- ENGR 899: Independent Study (1-3 units)
- A program cannot contain more than 9 units of courses with a course number below 700.
- Some upper-division engineering courses may also be used as electives if not used in the undergraduate degree program and approved by the Graduate Coordinator.
- Culminating Experience (3-6 units):
- Option A:
- ENGR 897 & ENGR 898: Research and Master's Thesis (6 units)
- A thesis may not be started until completion of 12 units of graduate coursework and ENGR 897.
- Option B:
- ENGR 895: Applied Research Project (3 units)
- A project may not be started until completion of 12 units of graduate coursework.
Careers:
The program prepares students for career advancement in their profession.
Other:
The aggregate of courses that comprise the core of the MSCE program is designed to give students a broad foundation in general areas of engineering project management and engineering communications, and in Structural/Earthquake Engineering.
San Francisco State University
Overview:
San Francisco State University (SF State) is a public university located in San Francisco, California. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system, the largest system of higher education in the country. SF State is known for its diverse and inclusive community, offering a wide range of academic programs and a strong commitment to social justice.
Services Offered:
The university provides a variety of services to support student success, including:
Academic advising:
Students receive guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Student support services:
SF State offers resources for students facing academic challenges, personal difficulties, or financial hardship.Career services:
The university provides assistance with resume writing, job searching, and career development.Health and wellness services:
Students have access to counseling, health care, and other wellness resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
SF State offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can:
Engage in student organizations:
There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities to join, catering to diverse interests.Participate in cultural events:
The university hosts a variety of events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.Explore the Bay Area:
SF State's location in the heart of the Bay Area provides easy access to cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment venues.Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and inclusive community:
SF State prides itself on its welcoming and diverse student body, fostering a sense of belonging for all.Strong academic programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on social justice and real-world application.Location in the Bay Area:
SF State's location provides access to a vibrant and dynamic city, offering opportunities for internships, networking, and career development.Commitment to social justice:
SF State is dedicated to promoting social justice and equity, providing students with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.Academic Programs:
SF State offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Visual and performing arts, literature, history, philosophy, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and more.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and more.Science and Technology:
Biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and more.Education:
Teacher preparation, educational leadership, and more.Other:
SF State has a strong athletic program, competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The university also has a strong commitment to international education and exchange, offering opportunities for students to study abroad and participate in global learning experiences.
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 for the last 60 units of the applicant's study is required.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's previous academic work or professional accomplishments are required.
- **Non-Engineering or Other Engineering-Major Applicant holding a B.S.
- Degree:
- B.S. graduates from non-engineering programs or from other engineering majors than civil may be admitted as conditional graduate students.
- Applicants must have a record well above the university admission requirements and be able to demonstrate their potential in Civil Engineering.
- Conditional graduate students can apply for advancement to classified graduate status after satisfying minimum prerequisites.
- No conditional admissions are issued to international students with a B.S. degree in a major other than civil engineering.
- Applicants with a GPA Deficiency: An applicant with a GPA higher than 2.8 but less than 3.0 can fill out a University waiver form and submit it with the other Engineering Requirements.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 550 for paper-based and 80 for internet-based TOEFL (Institution code - 4683) is required for applicants with mainly non-English preparatory education.
- IELTS: Alternatively, a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 is acceptable.
- PTE Academic: A PTE Academic score of 65 is also accepted.
