In this article, we profile the 30 most affordable master’s in civil engineering online programs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), civil engineers earn a top wage while working in a steady, favorable field. In fact, the job outlook for civil engineers over the next decade promises to be stable. But to be qualified for a job as a civil engineer, one must acquire the proper education. In most leadership positions, a graduate degree is required. Working students will enjoy access to online master’s in civil engineering programs, which are now available from some of the nation’s top schools.

30 Affordable Online Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Programs Methodology

We reviewed approximately 65 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered master’s in civil engineering online programs, or closely related degrees. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordability (graduate tuition/fees of less than $30,000 per year). We then listed our selected programs according to raw affordability.

Below are the resulting selections for our 30 most affordable master’s in civil engineering online programs.

#30 – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Online Master’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering

Worcester, Massachusetts

Website

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
WPI offers both civil and environmental engineering online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $28,248

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers a master’s in civil engineering online that prepares students to handle large-scale and complex projects from inception to completion. The program allows students to choose from a major in construction management or environmental engineering, depending on their career path and aspirations. The construction management major teaches students the skills and knowledge to oversee design and construction processes, including legal issues, material acquisition, labor, capital management, risk mitigation, and more. The environmental program covers advanced water quality concepts such as water analysis, hydraulics, resource management, and water flow. Admission requires students to have a related undergraduate degree. Worcester Tech is ranked #64 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#29 – University of Pittsburgh

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Website

University of Pittsburgh - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
University of Pittsburgh’s online civil engineering programs rank among the best.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,480

The University of Pittsburgh offers one of the top-ranked online civil engineering programs through its Swanson Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. The curriculum is designed to build off the student’s already deep technical background so as to improve their technical and industrial knowledge on managing complex construction projects. The program prides itself on flexibility and options. Students can choose to join a live lecture online or view pre-recorded lectures, depending on their preferred learning style and schedule. The University of Pittsburgh ranks in several (9) U.S. News and World Report categories, including #57 in national universities and #18 in top public schools.

#28 – New Jersey Institute of Technology

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Newark, New Jersey

Website

New Jersey Institute of Technology - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Costs less than $24,000 per year! NJIT’s online master’s in civil engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,828

New Jersey Institute of Technology offers an online master’s in civil engineering with the option to choose a concentration in one of three specialties, including structural design and construction, transportation, and construction management. Students earning the degree have gone on to top engineering positions such as structural engineers, architectural and engineering managers, urban planners, and lead civil engineers. In addition to the engineering curriculum, students also engage with content across disciplines that help them perform better on the job. These courses include topics in management science, organizational behavior, legal issues in engineering, and leadership. NJIT ranks in seven total U.S. News and World Report categories, such as #97 in national universities and #41 in best value schools.

#27 – Michigan Technological University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Houghton, Michigan

Website

Michigan Technological University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
30-credit online master’s in civil engineering program! Michigan Tech!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,759

Michigan Technological University offers one of the most affordable online civil engineering programs in the online education space. The program focuses on creating and maintaining sustainable structures through sound design principles. All classes are based on advanced structural engineering theory, structural analysis, and material dynamics. The 30-credit program costs nothing to apply to and can be completed entirely online without ever visiting campus. The institution specializes in both online delivery and engineering disciplines. These core skill-sets make the program an excellent option for working professionals seeking rigor and flexibility. The program ranks in eight U.S. News and World Report categories such as #58 in best online graduate engineering programs.

#26 – Norwich University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Northfield, Vermont

Website

Norwich University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
No GRE or GMAT scores required! Norwich University’s master’s in civil engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,554

Designed for current engineers, Norwich University’s master’s in civil engineering online ranks as one of the most affordable programs of its kind. The curriculum combines deep engineering analysis along with advanced theories in management and leadership. Concentrations in construction management, geotechnical engineering, environmental/water resources engineering, and structural engineering are available. The average time to completion is just 18 months and requires just a single one-week residency on campus as part of a culminating experience. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and a 2.75 minimum GPA. Norwich University is ranked #66 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#25 – University of Virginia

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Charlottesville, Virginia

Website

University of Virginia - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
A top-ranked online master’s in civil engineering! University of Virginia.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,528

The University of Virginia offers an online master’s in civil engineering through its Department of Engineering Systems and Environment. Students can select one of four specialties that align well with the civil engineering field: environmental and water resources engineering, structural engineering, transportation engineering, and infrastructures systems engineering. The 30-credit program allows students to transfer in up to 15 credits from approved institutions and departments. The University of Virginia has an outstanding academic reputation and ranks in a total of 14 U.S. News and World Report categories including #4 in top public schools and #4 in best online master’s in civil engineering programs.

#24 – University of Washington

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Seattle, Washington

Website

University of Washington - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Finish in 2-3 years! UW’s master’s in civil engineering online!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,293

Brought to you by the Department of Professional and Continuing Education, the University of Washington offers an online master’s in civil engineering combining engineering principles with leadership and management concepts needed to manage large scale engineering projects. The program is 100% online and can be completed in 2-3 years with part-time enrollment. With a focus on construction engineering, graduates are well-positioned for top positions in the industry needing capable leaders with a deep understanding of civil engineering and construction. Ranked in a total of 22 U.S. News and World Report categories, the University of Washington is #22 in top public schools.

#23 – Michigan State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

East Lansing, Michigan

Website

Michigan State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked by U.S. News! Michigan State’s online master’s in civil engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,858

Michigan State University offers a master’s in civil engineering online focused on transportation engineering and structural engineering. The program has two specialties: pavement engineering and transportation engineering. The program is taught and led by the same faculty members who teach and direct the on-campus engineering programs at Michigan State. Coursework focuses on topics such as geometric design and highways, statistical and econometric analysis, and traffic safety. The program is delivered entirely online with no campus residential requirements. Michigan State University is ranked in several U.S. News and World Report categories, including #84 in national universities and #34 in top public schools.

#22 – University of Illinois

Online Master’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering

Urbana, Illinois

Website

University of Illinois - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Study civil and environmental engineering online at University of Illinois.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,083

Through the Grainger College of Engineering, the University of Illinois is offering an online master’s in civil engineering that requires 36 credits to complete in a total of five years time. The department offers specialties in several sub-fields including, but not limited to, construction management, energy-water-environmental sustainability, societal risk and hazard mitigation, and water resources engineering and science. Up to 12 hours of credit can be transferred into the program upon approval. Ranked in a total of 27 U.S. News and World Report categories, the University of Illinois comes in at #48 in national universities and #14 in top public schools.

#21 – University of Colorado

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Boulder, Colorado

Website

University of Colorado - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Designed for working professionals! University of Colorado’s master’s in civil engineering online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,556

Ranked as one of the most affordable online civil engineering programs, the University of Colorado at Boulder has a long history of preparing graduates for top engineering careers. The program focuses on geomatics and geographic information systems, which is a cutting-edge field in the growing geospatial field. Upon completing the program, graduates are well prepared for a career in the public sector or in the industry. The 30-credit program includes nine courses and an advanced master’s report. It is designed for working professionals seeking balance between their careers and graduate school coursework. The University of Colorado ranks #104 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#20 – University of Louisville

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Louisville, Kentucky

Website

University of Louisville - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
No GRE for admission to University of Louisville’s master’s in civil engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,196

The University of Louisville offers an online master’s in civil engineering designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Through the J.B. Speed School of Engineering, the 30-credit program is taught by the same faculty that teach on campus and prepares graduates for advanced careers in civil engineering. Students can complete the program in just one year and begin benefiting from their new degree right away. Courses may include advanced traffic operations, environmental analysis of transportation systems, and transportation planning and urban development. Candidates must submit transcripts showing a 2.75 GPA with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. No GRE is required to apply. Louisville ranks #192 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#19 – Old Dominion University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Norfolk, Virginia

Website

Old Dominion University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked and accredited! ODU’s online master’s in civil engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,128

Old Dominion University offers a master’s in civil engineering online for working professionals that possess a bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering. Students can choose from thesis, project, or coursework options, depending on their preference. The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at ODU is known for preparing excellent civil engineers for leadership positions where deep knowledge of engineering and quality leadership skills are needed to get the project completed on time and on budget. Courses may include aquatic chemistry in environmental engineering, physicochemical treatment processes, and water quality management. Old Dominion ranks in five U.S. News and World Report categories, including #128 in top public schools.

#18 – Louisiana State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Website

Louisiana State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
LSU’s online master’s in civil engineering costs $13,000 per year.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,035

LSU offers one of the cheapest online master’s in civil engineering programs where students are equipped to be leaders among civil engineering professionals. The program is designed for working engineers needing flexibility that allows them to keep up with the demands of their current careers while working towards a more prosperous and fulfilling future through the completion of a master’s degree. Students without a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering are allowed to enroll in the program while completing a series of leveling-up courses. GRE scores are waived for those with at least three years of civil engineering experience. LSU ranks #72 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.

#17 – Colorado State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Fort Collins, Colorado

Website

Colorado State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
A top online master’s in civil engineering program! CSU!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,871

Colorado State University ranks as one of our most affordable online civil engineering programs due to its value-based tuition and return on investment. The program confers an MS in Civil Engineering with a specialty in water-based infrastructure or a general master’s degree. There is no thesis or final examination required, as the degree is a coursework-only master’s. Coursework may include advanced biological wastewater processing, civil engineering project management, GIS and civil and environmental engineering, and water resources planning and management. Ranking in a total of nine U.S. News and World Report categories including #37 in best online master’s in engineering degrees, CSU is committed to preparing quality leaders in the field.

#16 – University of Wisconsin

Online Master’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering

Madison, Wisconsin

Website

University of Wisconsin - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked by U.S. News! University of Wisconsin’s master’s in civil engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,180

The University of Wisconsin offers an online master’s in civil engineering best suited for recent engineering graduates or mid-career engineers seeking advanced roles and responsibilities. The coursework may be online, but it certainly maintains a high level of interaction between peers and professors. Students learn in an active manner through discourse that keeps them mentally engaged and critically thinking through the advanced engineering concepts being taught and discussed. The courses are conveniently scheduled for working professionals who desire rigor and need flexibility in order to pursue a graduate degree without sacrificing their current careers. The institution is highly ranked in several U.S. News and World Report categories, including #46 in national universities and #11 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#15 – University of North Dakota

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Website

University of North Dakota - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Earn a civil engineering online degree in just 1-2 years at UND.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,058

The University of North Dakota offers a master’s in civil engineering online that ranks #15 on our list of most affordable. Students can choose to earn a master of science in civil engineering (M.S.) or a master’s of engineering (M.Eng.) The M.S. is designed to prepare students for careers in research, practice, and Ph.D. studies. The M.Eng. is course-based and does not require a thesis, while emphasizing the practical application of engineering principles on the job. Students can complete either program within 1-2 years. UND ranks #263 in national universities and #70 in best online master’s in engineering programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#14 – Missouri University of Science and Technology

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Rolla, Missouri

Website

Missouri University S&T - 30 Most Affordable Master's in Civil Engineering Online Programs 2020
Missouri University S&T offers a top-ranked master’s in civil engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,806

Ranking as one of our most affordable online civil engineering programs, Missouri University of Science and Technology has been a leader in developing outstanding civil engineering leaders for decades. Students can choose from a wide selection of sub-fields, including environmental engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, water resources engineering, and construction engineering. In addition to the core curriculum, these specialties allow the graduate true expertise in high-demand field. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 3.0 minimum GPA, and GRE composite score of at least 300. Students with non-engineering bachelor’s may be required to take additional coursework. Missouri S&T ranks #5 in best online master’s in engineering management programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#13 – North Carolina State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Raleigh, North Carolina

Website

North Carolina State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
NC State’s master’s in civil engineering online program waives the GRE for qualifying students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,673

North Carolina State University offers a master’s in civil engineering online for those with an undergraduate degree in engineering that are interested in pursuing an advanced degree to be used towards advanced career opportunities in the engineering field. Areas of concentration include construction engineering; environmental, water resources and coastal engineering; geotechnical/geoenvironmental engineering; structures and mechanics; transportation materials; and transportation systems. Prerequisites for admission include a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a 3.0 minimum GPA. The GRE is waived for those with an undergraduate engineering degree from a U.S. institution. NC State ranks #7 in best online master’s in engineering programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#12 – Auburn University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Auburn, Alabama

Website

Auburn University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Auburn University ranks among the top institutions for master’s in civil engineering online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,504

Through its College of Engineering, Auburn University offers a master’s in civil engineering online that prepares graduates for advanced careers in civil engineering that require advanced training and knowledge. Students who possess a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or its equivalent from an accredited institution are eligible to apply. The GRE and three letters of recommendation are required to apply. Courses may include biological principles of environmental engineering, chemical principles of environmental engineering, and numerical solutions for hydro-environmental applications. Auburn University ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories including #23 in best online master’s in engineering programs and #4 in best online master’s in civil engineering programs.

#11 – Kansas State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Manhattan, Kansas

Website

Kansas State University - 30 Most Affordable Master's in Civil Engineering online programs 2020
Affordability! KSU’s online master’s in civil engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,277

The College of Engineering and Kansas State University offers an online master’s in civil engineering designed for current engineers with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. The entire program is delivered online aside from one visit to campus at the end of the degree to complete an oral examination. The online delivery is a popular option for busy working professionals with demanding careers. The Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) to confer the master’s degree upon completion of all requirements. Kansas State ranks #38 in best online master’s in engineering programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#10 – Northern Arizona University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Flagstaff, Arizona

Website

Northern Arizona University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
A top ranked civil engineering program! Northern Arizona University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,121

Breaking into the top 10, Northern Arizona University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in civil engineering that prepares students to tackle complex issues in infrastructure, water security, renewable energy, and transportation efficiency. Graduates have gone on to work in several areas, including all levels of government, NGOs, engineering firms, consultancies, and much more. The program is designed for those already working as a licensed civil engineer that are seeking additional career opportunities through obtaining a master’s degree. Candidates must have a bachelor’s in science in engineering or have completed the required prerequisites. The minimum GPA is 2.5. In addition, no GRE test scores are required to apply.

#9 – Iowa State University

Online Master’s in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering

Ames, Iowa

Website

Iowa State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Iowa State’s master’s in civil engineering online program also focuses on construction and environmental engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,990

Iowa State University offers one of the most affordable online civil engineering programs in the country. In addition to low-cost tuition, the program does not require any travel or residencies, which further saves on costly travel expenses. The asynchronous delivery means students can work on coursework whenever their schedule allows. The curriculum blends technical knowledge and expertise in civil engineering along with the managerial skills needed to lead engineering projects. Courses may include advanced building construction costs, construction project engineering and management, and methods for data-driven computational engineering research. ISU ranks in 15 total U.S. News and World Report categories, including #121 in national universities.

#8 – University of Idaho

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Moscow, Idaho

Website

University of Idaho - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Non-thesis options! University of Idaho’s online master’s in civil engineering degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,876

Offering one of the cheapest online master’s in civil engineering, the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Idaho prepares students for leadership positions in the industry. Students can choose from several specialties, such as environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulics and water resources engineering, and structural engineering and structural mechanics. Candidates should have a bachelor’s in civil or environmental engineering, although applicants with a degree in another engineering discipline may be accepted. The non-thesis program consists of 33 credits and completion of a technical paper in lieu of a thesis. The University of Idaho ranks #89 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – Ohio University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Athens, Ohio

Website

Ohio University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked and affordable! Ohio University’s master’s in civil engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,720

Ranked as one of the most affordable online civil engineering programs in higher education, Ohio University prepares graduates for a wide range of civil engineering careers through the completion of a rigorous curriculum. The program is delivered entirely online and requires no campus visits. In addition, students can graduate in as little as five semesters. Concentrations in construction engineering and management, environmental engineering, structural engineering, and transportation engineering are available. There are three ways to qualify for the program based on academic background and years of experience in the engineering field. Ohio University ranks #92 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.

#6 – University of Houston

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Houston, Texas

Website

University of Houston - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Offering a 31-hour master’s in civil engineering online program! University of Houston.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,372

Ranked as our sixth cheapest online master’s in civil engineering, the University of Houston’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering provides working professionals the opportunity to earn a master’s degree without sacrificing their careers. The program’s curriculum is available online and only requires students to come to campus for a brief orientation and exams. The 31-hour program can be completed in just two years and features courses such as advanced steel design, hydrodynamics of offshore structures, introduction to dynamics of structures, and mass transfer in environmental systems. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Houston #60 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#5 – Mississippi State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Mississippi State, Mississippi

Website

Mississippi State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Less than $9,000 per year! Mississippi State University’s master’s in civil engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,910

Through its James Worth Bagley College of Engineering, Mississippi State University offers the fifth cheapest online master’s in civil engineering. The program prepares students for top positions in the civil engineering field through the completion of specialties such as structures, geotechnical, water resources, transportation, construction materials, and environmental engineering. Candidates have both depth and breadth of knowledge needed to face complex issues related to civil engineering as well as the management and leadership skills to complete projects on time and on budget. Mississippi State University ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories, including #43 in best online master’s in engineering programs.

#4 – University of Central Florida

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Orlando, Florida

Website

University of Central Florida - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked as a best value school! University of Central Florida offers online civil engineering programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,872

The University of Central Florida offers one of the cheapest online master’s in civil engineering through its College of Engineering and Computer Science. The curriculum focuses on transportation systems and prepares graduates to tackle complex issues related to transportation safety, infrastructure, efficiency, and environmental impact. Graduates exit the program prepared to plan, design, and build various systems of travel. The 30-credit program is delivered entirely online, making it one of the best options for busy working professionals needing to balance career and academics. UCF has a long history of delivering top online programs and is ranked in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories, such as #16 in most innovative and #154 in best value.

#3 – University of Arkansas

Online Master’s in Engineering

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Website

University of Arkansas - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
University of Arkansas offers one of the most affordable online master’s in civil engineering programs on our list.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,841

Ranked as our third cheapest online master’s in civil engineering, the University of Arkansas prepares students for advanced careers in the industry. The program touches on topics in multiple engineering types, including civil, computer, electrical, industrial, and more. The program also imbues students with leadership and management skills and concepts needed to manage large scale, complex projects. Admission requirements include a bachelor of science in engineering from an ABET accredited program and a 3.0 minimum GPA. Applicants with a 2.5-2.99 GPA will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The institution ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories including #72 in top public schools and #46 in best online master’s in engineering.

#2 – Texas Tech University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Lubbock, Texas

Website

Texas Tech University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
Ranked and affordable! Texas Tech’s online master’s in civil engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,181

Offered by the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering, Texas Tech University’s online master’s in civil engineering focuses on sub-principles of civil engineering such as environmental engineering, structural engineering, transportation engineering, water resources, and construction engineering. Students choose a focus area and are well-positioned for top engineering jobs upon graduation. The convenient online course delivery means current engineers can balance their demanding careers while pursuing graduate school. There is no need to sacrifice the present for a better future. Texas Tech University ranks in five U.S. News and World Report categories including #105 in top public schools and #19 in top online master’s in engineering programs.

#1 – Kennesaw State University

Online Master’s in Civil Engineering

Kennesaw, Georgia

Website

Kennesaw State University - 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Civil Engineering Online Programs of 2020
#1 most affordable master’s in civil engineering online program! Kennesaw State University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,334

Kennesaw State University offers a master’s in civil engineering online that ranks number one on our list of most affordable online civil engineering programs. The program is specifically geared towards professionals working in the engineering field who desire a rigorous curriculum that’s also flexible. Students can choose from three concentrations including structural and geotechnical engineering, transportation and pavement engineering, and environmental engineering and water resources. Each concentration has a thesis or course-only option. Students with a non-engineering background may be admitted on a provisional basis. Kennesaw State University ranks in seven U.S. News and World Report categories, including #72 in most innovative and #293 in national universities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master’s in civil engineering online degree?

A master’s in civil engineering can open up several career pathways in the industry due to a specialized knowledge of infrastructure. The main role of a civil engineer is to oversee and engage in the design, oversight, and operation, and maintenance of infrastructure projects for both the public and private sectors. These projects include roads, bridges, water systems, tunnels, airports, and the like.

The job is very complex and involves a lot of moving parts, including safety and environmental impact analysis, government regulations, financial considerations, and more. Those with a master’s degree in civil engineering often hold supervisory roles amidst the many layers in the industry, from site supervisor all the way up to city manager.

Most civil engineers specialize in one area of infrastructure:

Construction engineers oversee construction sites and ensure the smooth operation through project management of sub-contractors in an effort to make sure the project is completed in a safe manner.

Geotechnical engineers are experts at analyzing the foundational elements of structures built such as streets, dams, buildings, and tunnels and how they coalesce with the earth.

Structural engineers assist with the design and assessment of structures from buildings to runways to ensure their durability and longevity.

Transportation engineers work on transportation projects from individual streets to massive highway systems. They also work on projects like airports, harbors, and shipping ports.

How much money can I earn with a master’s in civil engineering online degree?

According to our data, taken from the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for civil engineers was $87,060 in May 2019. This median wage far exceeds the average salary of all occupations of $39,810 during the same time period. Given the technical expertise and knowledge required of civil engineering, the high rate of pay is not unexpected. As we look further at the data, it shows us the lowest 10% earn $55,380 and the highest 10% earn $144,560. Those with master’s degrees in civil engineering can expect to earn a higher rate of pay compared to others with a lower level of education, with all other factors being equal.

Civil engineers work in a variety of industries, which impacts the level of remuneration they receive. Data shows non-postal service civil engineers working for the United States federal government earn an average yearly salary of $95,380, the highest of any industry. Local government, excluding education and hospitals, pay the next highest salary of $93,880. Nonresidential building construction civil engineers earn the lowest average salary of $76,340. Mid- and late-career civil engineers with graduate degrees in the field can expect to earn even higher wages, given their advanced standing.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in civil engineering online degree?

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows an expected 6% rate of growth in civil engineering jobs from 2018-2028. This is slightly higher than the 5% rate of growth for all occupations during the same time period. All engineering jobs, including civil engineering, are expected to grow 5%.

While the rate of growth is average, the increase in demand comes from aging infrastructure that needs to be replaced or repaired. These new projects will need civil engineers to assist with the conception, design, planning, and execution of these new projects. Specifically, water and renewable energy projects are expected to experience the highest levels of demand, so civil engineers with knowledge in these sub-fields should experience better overall job prospects. Many graduate programs offer concentrations in water and aquatic engineering and renewable energy.

The importance of the work civil engineers do cannot be understated. Their knowledge helps keep many integral aspects of society safe. With that said, the somewhat tepid demand is driven by financial constraints at all levels of government that result in engineering projects being delayed or scrapped altogether. To improve individual job prospects, current and aspiring civil engineers should consider obtaining graduate education with specializations in high-demand sub-fields.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in civil engineering online degree?

As with other online graduate degrees, the amount of time it takes to complete a master’s in civil engineering vary, according to individual student and programmatic structure. The vast majority of programs take between 2-4 years to complete. There are also a number of accelerated programs that can be completed in 12-18 months. These types of programs are typically reserved for current engineers who are at the mid-point of their careers and need additional education and training to qualify for administrative and leadership positions within the field.

Online degrees are designed for the busy working professional who needs to juggle multiple commitments such as full-time work and family. Online master’s degrees in civil engineering are no different. Programs that allow part-time enrollment, or are built to be completed part-time, remain popular. These programs typically take 2-3 years to complete and allow the student to pursue their studies without interrupting their career.

Often times, programs use a unique structure where students take two courses in one semester, but never more than one at a time. Courses are designed to last eight weeks, which means students can take two courses per semester but never more than one at a time. It is important for candidates to find a program that matches up with their individual circumstances in terms of enrollment and timelines.

What are the admission requirements for master’s in civil engineering online programs?

Admission requirements for master’s in civil engineering online vary according to program intent and level of selectivity. Due to the technical nature of the civil engineering field, programs require either a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field. Related majors could be a different engineering discipline or mathematics. For programs that do not require an undergraduate degree in civil engineering or a related field, the candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree in any field along with several prerequisite courses.

Prerequisite courses vary depending on the program and sub-discipline but typically include sequence courses in calculus with analytical geometry, differential equations, and matrix-level algebra. In addition, there are also several yearlong sequence courses in the sciences, such as chemistry and physics. Other classes include statics, statistics, and introductory engineering courses. Many of these classes may be taken at community colleges.

Selective institutions will require the GRE as part of the application process. Generally, GRE scores do not need to exceed the 50th percentile mark in either the quantitative or verbal sections. The writing score typically has to be a minimum of a 3.0 out of 5. Many institutions waive the GRE if the candidate has 2-3 years of experience as a civil engineer. Less selective institutions will not require the GRE, or any other standardized test, as part of the application.

BCO Staff
June 2020

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This concludes our list of the 30 most affordable online civil engineering master’s degree programs.