Program Overview

Civil & Environmental Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy in Civil and Environmental Engineering is a research-based program that focuses on developing innovations for a cleaner environment, more reliable infrastructure, and a safer, more sustainable world.

About the Program

Civil and environmental engineers are in demand and work on a wide variety of projects, including transportation systems, schools and office buildings, bridges, dams, and industrial plants. The program prepares students to pursue a career in academia, industry, government, construction, and private-consulting organizations.

What to Expect

The PhD program can be completed in about three to five years. Students work alongside faculty members who are experts in the fields of engineering mechanics, environmental engineering, infrastructure performance and reliability, geotechnical engineering, and structural engineering. There are tremendous opportunities to conduct interdisciplinary research, and half of the graduates become faculty members at top universities.

Beyond the Classroom

The department features two new research labs focused on structural engineering and geotechnical engineering, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in these fields. A new concrete research laboratory is being built, and the environmental engineering research laboratory is being renovated to provide students with ample opportunities to engage in research.

By the Numbers

• $44M: research, training, and grant revenue to the engineering school in fiscal year 2020
• 3-5 years: duration to complete the program
• 20,000: engineering alumni living and working in more than 70 countries
• 50%: percentage of PhD graduates who become professors

Admission Requirements

The application process requires:

• Online application, including a statement of purpose
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Unofficial transcripts
• Current resume/CV
• Two letters of recommendation
• Test scores for GRE
• International applicants: Results of TOEFL or IELTS