Program Overview

Online M.S. in Civil Engineering

The online M.S. in Civil Engineering from Michigan State University is a 100% online program that combines flexible learning with the resources of an R1 research institution. This degree provides students with the skills to design and maintain infrastructure while advancing toward professional engineering licensure.

Program Format

• 100% Online: The program is designed for working professionals and can be completed in 1-2 years.
• 10 Total Courses: The program consists of 30 credit hours, with each course providing 3 hours of instruction time per week.
• Top 29 Public University: Michigan State University is ranked among the top 29 public universities in the country.

Tuition Cost

• The tuition cost for the program is $29,850.

Upcoming Start Information

• Start Date: May 11, 2026
• Application Deadline: April 11, 2026
• Time to Completion: Flexible, with students able to complete the program in 1-2 years.

Civil Engineering Program Overview

The online M.S. in Civil Engineering provides students with the skills to tackle complex infrastructure projects. The program is built for busy professionals and equips students with design methods and materials expertise to overcome engineering challenges. Guided by faculty with industry experience, students master data-driven strategies to design functional, sustainable, and safe infrastructure.

Master's in Civil Engineering at a Glance

• Industry-standard software
• Statistical modeling and econometric analysis
• Quantitative research
• R programming and data science

Focus Areas

The degree can be customized to fit career goals, with focus areas in:

• Pavement Engineering
  • Courses include Pavement Rehabilitation, Engineering Management of Pavement Network, and Bituminous Materials.
• Transportation Engineering
  • Courses include Highway Design, Principles of Traffic Engineering, and Highway and Traffic Safety.
• Structural Engineering
  • Courses include Advanced Steel Design, Advanced Concrete Design, and Bridge Engineering.

Achieve Your Career Goals with Professional Licensure

The program is designed to meet the academic requirements for becoming a professional engineer (PE). Students graduate with the advanced knowledge needed to pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, a crucial step toward licensure.

MSU Civil Engineering Faculty

The online civil engineering instructors are the same experts who teach on campus. As active researchers and practitioners, the faculty bring professional knowledge to the classroom and continually update curricula to incorporate current best practices and industry-standard software.

Career Outlook for the M.S. in Civil Engineering

• 6% Employment Growth: Employment of civil engineers is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033.
• Median Annual Pay: $99,590 as of 2024.
• Top Employers: Graduates work at top organizations, including AECOM, DLZ Corporation, and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Admission Summary

• Step 1: Complete the online application
• Step 2: Submit documents, including official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and academic and personal statements.
• Step 3: Application fee, $75 domestic and international.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Course delivery format and program structure: The program takes place 100% online, with coursework primarily asynchronous and live sessions via Zoom.
• Course length: On average, courses last 15 weeks, with 3 hours of instruction time per week.
• Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Transportation Engineer, Environmental Engineer, and Construction Manager.
• Financial aid: Available, with graduate students able to apply for federal aid by submitting the FAFSA.