2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Jun 30, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Civil Engineering (M.S.)

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus


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Program Coordinator/Contact

Nadim Wehbe, Department Head
Guanghui Hua, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Crothers Engineering Hall 310, 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.

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.

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.

Student Learning Outcomes


Upon graduation, students should be able to:

  1. Apply principles of engineering analysis and design to solve problems in civil engineering.
  2. Design and evaluate civil engineering systems to meet desired needs within realistic constraints.
  3. Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.
  4. Assess and reflect personal values in relation to ethical dilemmas within the civil engineering profession.
  5. One of the following
    • Carry out an engineering research project and provide written documentation in the form of a thesis. (Option A)
    • Develop an engineering design and provide written documentation in the form of a design paper. (Option B)
    • Provide written documentation in the form of a learning portfolio detailing how you have met 1, 2, and 3. (Option C)

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


Select one of the following options


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: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Accelerated Master’s Program


The accelerated master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to twelve (12) graduate level credits may apply to the undergraduate degree as major requirements or electives with approval from the student’s academic advisor, department head/school director, and college dean. 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 .

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