Last Updated on July 30, 2023
Civil engineering is the oldest branch of engineering. It covers various disciplines like building construction, structural design, hydraulic engineering, municipal and environmental engineering among others. Being a highly sought-after discipline, the civil engineers are well-compensated professionals. It also involve several activities like research and development of new techniques; land planning; site development; designing/designing complex constructions etc.
Collegelearners Website will provide information you are looking for on Master’s In Civil Engineering For Non Engineers, Overview of Master’s In Civil Engineering For Non Engineers and Requirements for Master’s In Civil Engineering For Non Engineers.
A Master’s Degree In Civil Engineering For Non Engineers means a 2 year course designed to teach you the knowledge and skills needed to excel as a civil engineer without having a previous degree in engineering. This is one of the rare instances where a graduate can take on majors tasks, specifically those that are commonly performed by graduates from bachelor’s programs.
Overview of Master’s Degree in Engineering for Non-Engineers
While there aren’t master’s degree programs designed specifically for students without an undergraduate engineering background, programs in almost any specialty admit non-engineers provided they complete an extensive list of prerequisite courses. Alternatively, aspiring engineering graduate students can apply to bridge programs that provide a foundational course of study in math, science, and physics in addition to introductory engineering courses in their specialty. Students who complete this coursework can transition into a school’s engineering master’s degree program.
Explore the different options non-engineers have for entering a master’s degree program in engineering. Find out the admittance requirements and the career options after earning a master’s degree.View Schools
How to Earn a Master’s in Engineering as a Non-Engineering Graduate
While there aren’t master’s degree programs designed specifically for students without an undergraduate engineering background, programs in almost any specialty admit non-engineers provided they complete an extensive list of prerequisite courses. Alternatively, aspiring engineering graduate students can apply to bridge programs that provide a foundational course of study in math, science, and physics in addition to introductory engineering courses in their specialty. Students who complete this coursework can transition into a school’s engineering master’s degree program.
Admissions Requirements for Non-Engineers
Regardless of whether students pursue an engineering bridge program or apply directly to a master’s degree program, candidates will need a bachelor’s degree. Bridge programs might require some familiarity with calculus or programming, but the prerequisites for an engineering master’s degree are much more extensive.
Many master’s degree programs require students to have taken courses in calculus I, II, and III in addition to physics and differential equations, as these courses provide the foundation needed for the program. Additional prerequisites vary depending on the specialty and could include courses in computer programming, fluid mechanics, mechanics, and electronics. Some engineering programs in civil or environmental engineering also require students to have an undergraduate degree in such areas as biology, chemistry, and physics. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 may be required as well. Other requirements include letters of recommendation, a written statement of purpose, official transcripts, and resume.
Master’s in Civil Engineering Salary and Job Outlook
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers analyze maps and survey reports to plan and design infrastructure projects for both public and private sectors. They also handle documentation for project permits and examine test results on construction materials and sites. Civil engineers spend most of their time in an office working on their designs, but they also visit construction sites to check on a project’s progress.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers usually work in offices designing mechanical devices that can range from generators and turbines to refrigeration systems and elevators. They also visit worksites to oversee the manufacture these products and are in charge of solving problems related to mechanical devices in buildings and infrastructure projects.
Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Electrical and electronics engineers largely work for telecommunications companies, engineering firms, and the manufacturing industry. They are in charge of designing and developing electronic equipment and software products in addition to supervising the manufacturing and testing of these products to ensure quality and efficiency. Since they mostly do research and design, electrical and electronics engineers generally work in an office setting.
Computer Hardware Engineers
Computer hardware engineers design and test computer hardware systems used in a wide range of products, tasks that also require them to collaborate with software engineers. They also modify existing computer systems and oversee their manufacture.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial engineers work in various sectors, such as manufacturing, healthcare systems, and private firms, reviewing information like production schedules and product specifications to create more efficient control systems. They also develop and enact procedures for quality control. Industrial engineers either work in offices or worksites depending on the tasks at hand.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers conducting research to develop new processes in manufacturing, develop safety protocols, and conduct production tests. They also do research in other fields, such as biotechnology and life sciences. Chemical engineers can also be known as process engineers specializing in a specific process, such as polymerization and oxidation, or focus on an area like nanomaterials.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers are responsible for creating the biomedical equipment used in healthcare industries. They usually work in research and development designing instruments and software as well as developing new procedures. Biomedical engineers typically work for manufacturing companies, research facilities, and postsecondary institutions.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers typically work hand in hand with other experts in solving environmental problems, such as pollution. They prepare environmental reports as well as provide technical support on construction projects and environmental remediation efforts.
| ENGINEERING FIELD | MEDIAN SALARY (2019) | JOB OUTLOOK (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | $87,060 | 6% |
| Mechanical Engineer | $88,430 | 4% |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineer | $101,250 | 2% |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | $117,220 | 6% |
| Industrial Engineer | $88,020 | 8% |
| Chemical Engineer | $108,770 | 6% |
| Biomedical Engineer | $91,410 | 4% |
| Environmental Engineer | $88,860 | 5% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Master’s degree programs in engineering are available to non-engineers who have completed prerequisite math, science, and engineering coursework, whether on their own or through a bridge program. Once admitted, students can earn a master’s degree in preparation for careers in specialties that include environmental, civil, and computer engineering.
Master’s in Civil Engineering Degrees
Civil Engineers work hard, using complex mathematical principles to determine the feasibility of structural plans. Much more than builders, civil engineers conceive, design, build, supervise, operate, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems in both the public and private sectors.
These folks work on creating everything from tunnels and bridges, to airports and water supply systems. Civil engineers must also know how to think ahead and investigate potential underlying problems when working on structural projects.
Top 10 Best Master’s in Civil Engineering Degrees
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA |
| 2 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, GA |
| 3 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL |
| 4 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA |
| 5 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX |
| 6 | Purdue University | Hammond, IN |
| 7 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Cambridge, MA |
| 8 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA |
| 9 | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI |
| 10 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA |
What kind of Civil Engineering degree should you get
As the demand for civil engineers continues to rise, more and more programs are popping up. It can be difficult to decide what kind of degree you should get–should you earn a degree online? Or on-campus? If you’re considering an online program, we’ve got you covered. In fact, College Choice has ranked the Best Online Master’s in Civil Engineering Degrees we know what quality online programs are made up of.
However, if you’re looking for a hands-on civil engineering program where you’ll work directly with your peers and professors, we’ve nailed down the 25 Best Master’s in Civil Engineering degrees for you below.
How much money do people make with a Civil Engineering degree?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a civil engineer is upwards of $83,000 per year. In fact, it’s one of the highest paying careers for college graduates. Of course, the more advanced training you have in the field, the higher earning potential you’ll have going forward.
Luckily, the employment outlook is also very strong for civil engineers; in fact, employment is expected to grow 11% from now to 2026. This is because our roads, buildings, bridges, etc., are continuing to age over time. Civil engineers are needed for their expertise in repairing, upgrading, and strengthening all types of aging structures.
