Civil Engineering, MS

Program Description

The Department of Civil Engineering offers graduate programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Within these degrees, there are six primary emphasis areas: Applied Fluid Mechanics, Construction Engineering and Management, Construction Materials, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering and Transportation Systems.

The Master of Science degree program is open to all individuals who have a four-year Baccalaureate degree. A degree in engineering is not required for admission, but most entering students have an undergraduate Civil Engineering degree.

There are two options available for students pursuing a Master of Science degree. The student may prepare a research thesis or may take additional courses in lieu of completing a thesis.

Combined BS/MS in Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering undergraduates at Clemson may begin a graduate degree program while completing the Bachelor of Science degree. Eligible students can apply nine credits of coursework to satisfy the requirements of both their undergraduate and future graduate degrees. Application details are available in the undergraduate catalog and on the Civil Engineering website.

Summary of Degree Requirements

Thesis Option

The thesis option requires the preparation of a research thesis that is a part of the total credit hours required for the degree. Students intending to pursue a doctoral degree usually choose the thesis option. Completion of a research thesis is excellent preparation for the research necessary for a doctorate if a student is inclined to pursue that degree in the future. This Master’s thesis option degree program includes a minimum of 24 hours of graduate credit and a minimum of six hours of Master’s thesis research (CE 8910 ).

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option does not require the preparation of a research thesis but does require completion of additional coursework. This degree option provides the student with additional directed study through coursework. Normally students pursuing the non-thesis option do not pursue a doctorate. This Master’s non-thesis option degree program includes a minimum of 30 hours of graduate credit, none of which may be Master’s Thesis research (CE 8910).