Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Civil Engineering

The Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Civil Engineering program at the Whiting School of Engineering develops a sound understanding of the scientific principles upon which engineering research and practice are based. Different aspects of learning are integrated through classroom, laboratory instruction, and independent study experiences. Graduates of the program possess critical thinking skills, the ability for both independent and team problem-solving, and a sense of the excitement of engineering creativity and design.

Program Overview

The program combines fundamental training with real-world experience, educating leaders for tomorrow and providing the tools and perspectives for a lifetime of learning, opportunities, and professional advancement. Students build a knowledge base with coursework in systems, mechanics, structures, computational methods, and uncertainty quantification. They apply this knowledge in an internship program while networking with professional engineers and gaining valuable experience with industry.

Focus Areas

The Civil Engineering (MSE) program focuses on mechanics of materials, probabilistic methods, fire engineering, earthquake engineering, structural design, and infrastructure design for resilience.

Program Requirements

Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) students within the Civil Engineering program must take a total of eight courses that have been approved by the advisor. Seven courses must be technical, but courses may be requested for substitution at the advisors discretion. Four courses must be taken from civil and systems engineering.

Coursework-Only MSE Requirements

The most common path for MSE graduate students is to complete the degree through coursework alone. The requirements include:

• A minimum of 8 courses at the 600-level or above
• 4 courses from civil and systems engineering
• 7 technical courses
• Required courses: two semesters of CaSE graduate seminar courses, Academic Ethics short course, and Responsible Conduct of Research short course
• Acceptable grades: B- and above, with only one course allowed with a grade lower than B-
• Completion of the degree in one year, with the student enrolling in 4 courses per semester

MSE with Thesis Requirements

The MSE with thesis option is primarily intended for students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. after completion of the MSE. The requirements include:

• A minimum of 7 courses at the 600-level or above
• 4 courses from civil and systems engineering
• 6 technical courses
• Required courses: research course with the research advisor, two semesters of CaSE graduate seminar courses, Academic Ethics short course, and Responsible Conduct of Research short course
• Acceptable grades: B- and above, with only one course allowed with a grade lower than B-
• Final essay approved by the research advisor and one additional reader
• Research presentation in a public forum

Combined Bachelors/Masters Program

All Combined Bachelors/Masters students must meet the requirements stipulated above for the respective MSE program, with the exception that one course from JHU undergraduate studies used for the BS degree at the 400-level or above may be accepted toward the course requirements.

Admissions Requirements

The requirements for admissions include:

• Online application
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• CV/Resume
• Transcripts
• TOEFL/IELTS scores or English Language Proficiency Test Waiver (for international students)
• Application fee (currently $0)
• Optional: GRE scores, personal statement, and sample of work

Notes

• Students are expected to maintain a GPA of 2.3 each semester or will be placed on probation.
• The GPA is an unofficial internal GPA calculated by the department using a consistent rubric, and there is no official GPA on the university transcript for WSE graduate students.
• Required seminars and short courses are less than 3 credits each and are not counted towards minimum course requirements.