2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Civil Engineering (M.S.)


Program Coordinator/Contact

Nadim Wehbe, Department Head
Suzette Burckhard, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Crothers Engineering Hall 120, Box 2219
605-688-5427

Program Information

The MSCE program offers courses, design, and research activities within Civil and Environmental Engineering that are related to structural, transportation, geotechnical, water resources, hydrology, hydraulics and environmental engineering, as well as engineering mechanics. Students can pursue an MS degree under a thesis, design paper, or coursework only option.

Program Educational Objectives

The Civil Engineering program at South Dakota State University is committed to preparing students to achieve the following educational objectives within five years beyond the baccalaureate degree.

  1. Graduates will have obtained professional licensure or specialized certification.
  2. Graduates will have engaged in professional development and life-long learning through earning advanced degrees, attending continuing education forums, or active participation in professional organizations.
  3. Graduates will have become actively involved in their profession, communities, and global society with a trajectory towards leadership positions.

Course Delivery Format

The program offers course, design, and research activities within Civil and Environmental Engineering that are related to structural, transportation, geotechnical, water resources, hydrology, hydraulics, and environmental engineering, as well as areas of engineering mechanics in classroom, laboratory, and field based settings.

Facilities and Services

The Civil and Environmental Engineering department is housed in Crothers Engineering Hal and maintains over 18,000 square feet of classroom and laboratory space dedicated to undergraduate instruction and research experience, as well as testing laboratories for research and sponsored projects.  This includes the Lohr Structures Lab, Fluid Mechanics Lab, HDR Environmental Lab, Geotechnical Lab, Concrete Lab, Structural Materials Lab, Bituminous Lab, Capstone Design Studio and Student Computer Lab

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The department provides outreach and services through the American Society of Civil Engineers Student Chapter Program.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Master of Science Option A - Thesis 30 Credit Hours
  Option B - Research/Design Paper 32 Credit Hours
  Option C - Coursework Only 35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements


Option A - Thesis


  • Credits: 1-9 (5 -10 credits required)
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering Electives
  • Supporting Electives

Option B - Research/Design Paper


Option C - Coursework Only


  • Civil and Environmental Engineering Electives
  • Supporting Electives

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Score of 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

Accelerated Master’s Program


The accelerated Master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to 12 credits applied to the undergraduate degree may be used to satisfy graduate credit. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements


Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .