phd civil engineering admission 2023

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Ph.D. Program

The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) program is an intensive research where each student plans an individualized course of study with the assistance of a special committee made up of faculty members representing major and minor areas of study.

Candidates for the Ph.D. degree are expected to demonstrate mastery of knowledge in a specific subject area in Civil and Environmental engineering and to synthesize and create new knowledge, making original and substantial contributions to their discipline in a timely fashion. Please see the  Assessment page  for further details. Program standards are set by the Graduate School and can be found within the Code of Legislation.

The application requirements, tuition rates, and deadline for the Ph.D. programs are listed on the Graduate School's website . We will start to accept applications for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 term in September. Applicants applying for Spring 2024 may be deferred to the Fall 2024 term.  Connect with us  to receive more information about future application deadlines.

Research Areas

Research in Civil & Environmental Engineering covers an extremely broad range of topics.

Environmental Fluid Mechanics and Hydrology M.S. & Ph.D.

Environmental processes m.s. & ph.d., environmental and water resource engineering m.s. & ph.d..

• Complex Systems Engineering M.S. & Ph.D.

Structural Engineering (Ph.D. only)

• Transportation Systems Engineering M.S. & Ph.D
• Financial Aid

All Ph.D. students are fully funded (tuition, stipend, and health insurance). The funding comes from a variety of sources including graduate research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and external and internal fellowships. All students are encouraged to apply for external fellowships where eligible . For policy and tax information, please visit the Graduate School financial aid page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

CEE FAQ Graduate School admissions FAQ Office of Global Learning (for international students) FAQ  

• Civil and Environmental Graduate Field Handbook

This handbook is intended as a guide for current and prospective CEE graduate students to map the procedures and forms necessary for successful completion of graduate research degree requirements. 

• Cornell Engineering Ph.D. Resources

Testimonial by

Engineers solve the world's most pressing problems and make an impact on people's life. It was my dream to contribute to the solution of the environmental problems all over the world, so I opted to become an environmental engineer as I entered college

Transportation Systems Engineering M.S. & Ph.D.

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Phd program.

Civil & Environmental Engineering

Possibilities Engineered

At the forefront of engineering research, our institution is dedicated to impactful, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research. We take pride in our transformative approach, led by a world-class faculty recognized for their leadership and groundbreaking research contributions. Immerse yourself in our vibrant community, where you'll engage in cutting-edge research and join a world-renowned institution reimagining civil and environmental engineering.

Guided by Expertise: Your Faculty Mentor and Research Advisor

During your admission, you will be paired with a faculty mentor who aligns with your research interests and will serve as your research advisor throughout your doctoral journey. You have the option to indicate a preferred advisor during the application process. 

Welcome to the CEE PhD Graduate Program at CMU, where you can be part of redefining the future of engineering.

Take Your Next Step

Elevate your career prospects with our graduate program. Click 'Apply Now' to get started.

If you have questions about our programs we're here to have a one-on-one chat with you. Just click the meeting links below and set up a meeting that suits you best.

MS Program               PhD Program

If you prefer to send an email: Graduate Admissions Office -  [email protected] .

Informational Session: Graduate Program

Our live-streamed sessions offer an excellent opportunity to address any queries you might have concerning our graduate programs. REGISTER HERE

Research Pathways

Intelligence, engineered systems, and society (iess).

The Intelligent Engineered Systems and Society (IESS) research group empowers you to tackle global challenges like climate change and urbanization through intelligent infrastructure systems. As a doctoral student, you gain skills to help influence policy and develop equitable solutions, immersed in cutting-edge civil and environmental engineering research that addresses these challenges head-on, preparing you for impactful careers.

IESS PhD Program Information

Climate Resilient Environmental Systems and Technologies (CREST)

The Climate Resilient Environmental Systems and Technologies (CREST) research program shapes aspiring engineers to lead in sustainable environmental solutions. With a focus on climate adaptation, water systems, and innovative technologies, our interdisciplinary approach equips you with expertise in cutting-edge methods like data analytics, AI, and risk assessment.

As a graduate, you become part of developing real-world solutions for environmental engineering's future amidst the challenges of a changing climate.

CREST PhD Program Information

Sustainable Energy and Transportation Systems (SETS)

The Sustainable Energy and Transportation Systems (SETS) PhD program molds the next generation of engineers into adept researchers through transformative education and pioneering research. Anchored in smart mobility and advanced energy systems, our interdisciplinary curriculum equips students with cross-cutting methodologies for innovative energy and transportation infrastructure solutions.

As you complete your doctoral research, you'll emerge as a forward-thinking engineer, empowered to lead sustainability and resilience efforts across the evolving energy and transportation landscape, leaving a lasting impact in both private and public sectors.

SETS PhD Program Information

Mechanics, Chemistry, and Materials (MCM)

The Mechanics, Chemistry, and Materials (MCM) PhD program leads interdisciplinary exploration in civil and environmental engineering. Our accomplished researchers specialize in mechanics, chemistry, and materials, leveraging classical and quantum mechanics to address challenges through innovative modeling techniques, bench experiments, and fieldwork.

This program equips you to comprehend material behaviors, optimize them for diverse applications, and contribute to sustainable advancements in civil and environmental engineering while addressing contemporary issues.

MCM PhD Program Information

Program Structure

Direct entry and advanced entry, direct entry.

Direct entry PhD students holding an undergraduate engineering or related technical field degree from an accredited institution can apply directly for the program. Direct entry students can complete the requirements for the MS degree before beginning PhD studies.

Advanced Entry 

If you already hold a master’s degree in engineering or a related technical field, you may enter the program as an advanced entry student and begin your PhD studies immediately.

PhD Research Assistantships

When you join the CEE PhD Graduate Program at CMU, you're not just pursuing a doctoral degree but stepping into a world of unparalleled support.

Tuition Coverage : Your academic path begins with the assurance of full tuition coverage.

Generous Stipends : Besides tuition, we provide a generous living stipend that supports your daily life and allows you to focus on your studies.

Unique Opportunities : Our program offers you the chance to secure a research assistantship—an opportunity that covers your tuition and provides a stipend for your living expenses. Rest assured that all applicants are automatically considered for this assistantship, which can extend for up to five years, contingent upon your satisfactory progress toward degree completion.

As a part of this assistantship, you'll dedicate approximately 20 hours per week to teaching and research activities. This hands-on experience is integral to your graduate education.

Beyond assistantships, many of our international and US students have achieved distinction by securing prestigious fellowships from various organizations. Your journey with us opens doors to these opportunities.

Learn About External Funding Opportunities

CMU Rales Fellow Program

The CMU Rales Fellows Program eliminates financial obstacles for underrepresented STEM leaders, inspiring progress and enabling over 80 annual fellows in advanced STEM education through partnerships like the Ron Brown Scholar Program and the National GEM Consortium.

More Information

• The College of Engineering

Application Timeline & Deadlines

Main navigation, proposed start quarter: autumn 2025.

Proposed start quarter: Autumn 2024

Decisions are based on a comprehensive evaluation of each applicant’s file. PhD admission decisions are typically available by early March and MS admission decisions are typically available by early April. All applicants will be notified via email of admissions decisions.

Deferral Requests

Admitted students are expected to enroll in the program in September of the year they are admitted. Deferral requests from admitted students will be reviewed by the admissions committee on a case-by-case basis. The maximum length of an admissions deferral granted by Stanford is one year. Typically, deferral requests are only approved for military, medical, visa, or education-related purposes.

Decision Feedback

Feedback is not available to applicants denied admission. We recognize that you devote a great deal of time and effort to your application, and may wish to discuss it with a member of our admissions committee or a faculty member. Regrettably, we are unable to provide individual feedback to any applicant.

College of Engineering

Civil Engineering (Ph.D.)

Civil Engineering

Doctor of philosophy, department of  civil and environmental engineering, program details.

• Application process

The Ph.D. program focuses on research, and typically involves at least 3 years of study beyond the M.S. Applications are due December 31 for study that begins the following Fall (end of August).

• Program overview (Office of Registrar)
• Course descriptions (Office of Registrar)

Graduate Handbook   

Current MSU students

Future students

Michigan State University uses a decentralized admissions process for graduate studies. Visit the College of Engineering graduate admissions page for details on the overall process.

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering accepts graduate applications during both the fall and spring semesters. For applicants desiring full consideration for financial support, the application deadlines are December 31st for the subsequent fall semester and September 30th for the subsequent spring semester. For fall semester, applicants are notified of admission and financial support decisions in early March, with acceptance of financial support due by April 15th. Spring semester admission decisions are made in early November, with financial support limited based upon the availability of graduate research assistant positions on a per-faculty basis. Students may defer enrollment by a maximum of one year.

Department Ph.D. admission standards are:

• A GPA of at least 3.5 (out of 4.0) or equivalent in an M.S. degree program in civil and/or environmental engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum GRE scores of 160 for the quantitative section, 150 for the verbal section, and 3.0 for the analytical writing section.
• Letters of recommendation showing clear indication that the applicant has the potential for success as an independent researcher.
• For international applicants, a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL (19 in each category except writing which is 22) or 6.5 on the IELTS 6.5.

Admission to graduate programs in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is open to all candidates on the basis of academic preparation and ability, and, in the case of the Ph.D. program, the availability of funding. The applicants must complete the Online Application for Admission to Graduate Study, submit it with a credit card number or by electronic check or money order to cover the application fee (domestic = $65.00; international = $75.00). Only complete applications will be reviewed, which requires submission of the following items:

• A curriculum vitae (CV).
• A personal statement that articulates the applicant’s professional development goals, including details of the areas of research interest and/or specific faculty with whom the applicant is interested in working.
• Three letters of recommendation. In the Online Application, enter the contact information for each reference, including their e-mail address.
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required for all applicants. GRE test scores must be provided directly by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
• For international applicants, test scores from the exam for English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are required. Scores must be sent to MSU directly by the testing agency. Results are generally not required for international applicants who have graduated from a US university or are from universities where English is the language of instruction.
• Two official copies of transcripts from all previous universities attended (undergraduate and graduate), as well as proof of diploma (graduate certificate) in an unopened sealed university envelope by the university. International students’ transcripts must be in the original language and in English, if applicable.

Transcripts and certificates should be sent to:

Michigan State University Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering 428 South Shaw Lane Room 3546 Engineering Building East Lansing, Michigan, USA 48824

Civil Engineering Profession

Civil engineering is the design and maintenance of public works such as roads, bridges, water and energy systems as well as public facilities like ports, railways and airports. (American Society of Civil Engineers)

Civil engineers perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures, and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems. Includes architectural, structural, traffic, ocean, and geotechnical engineers. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/civil-engineers.htm )

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Academics   /   Graduate Study Admissions

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers only fall admissions. There are, therefore, no admissions for winter, spring, or summer quarters. The reason for that is that sequentially offered courses start in the fall of each academic year, and it is advantageous to be present for the beginning of the sequence. In addition, all financial support packages begin in the fall quarter.

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Preliminary Notes

Application website, application materials, special notes for international applicants.

• Students should indicate their chosen program of study on the application form.
• Students who are completing or who have earned BS or BA degrees, and whose ultimate degree objective is a PhD, can apply for the PhD program without having first completed a MS degree.
• Students who are unsure about their ultimate degree objective should apply for the PhD program, and indicate on their application if they are willing to consider the MS program if not admitted to the PhD program.
• The Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering will not require nor use GRE exam results for 2024 PhD & MS admission

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Prospective graduate students apply through ApplyWeb . The application website opens in September.

To apply to the MS in project management, please visit the MPM website . Please note: This program uses a different application.

• International and USA PhD applicants should have their completed online application and application fee electronically submitted no later than December 15, 2023.
• The Civil and Environmental Engineering MS program has rolling admission, although we recommend applicants complete and submit their application by April 15th, 2024. MS decisions will begin being released at the end of April. You will receive notification of your admission decision approximately thirty days after submission if received after April. The hard deadline for electronic submission of completed MS applications and application fees is June 30, 2024.

1. Transcript : Applicants to Northwestern University will no longer be required to mail paper copies of their transcripts during the application process. Instead, applicants will be required to upload scanned versions of their unofficial transcripts during the online application process through ApplyWeb.

Only if the applicant is admitted and decides to enroll will the student then need to submit one copy of an official transcript from every higher education institution attended. These paper copies are to be mailed directly to:

The Graduate School Admissions Office 633 Clark Street Room 1-502 Evanston, IL 60208-1113

(International students see Special Notes below.)

2. Letters of Recommendation : A minimum of two recommendation letters are required. All letters of recommendation must be submitted electronically by your recommenders. In the online application process, you will provide the email addresses of your recommenders. Your recommended will then be contacted by the ApplyWeb online application system through the email address you provide on the application.

If the individual writing your letter of recommendation does not have access to submit electronically, contact department office.

3. Academic Statement :

4. Statement of Purpose : The statement should be approximately one to two pages single-spaced. In your statement be as specific as possible about the direction of your career, qualifications, research interests, and why you are choosing Northwestern.

5. TOEFL/IELTS Scores : Required for international students who did not complete a degree from an institution where the language of instruction is English. To be considered valid for Fall 2024 admissions, scores must be no older than September, 2022. Students are asked to also upload the TOEFL/IELTS test report during the online application process. Minimum score requirements are listed below.

You may also request that your scores be electronically submitted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to Northwestern University's Institution Code 1565 and Department Code 01.

6. Resume : It is highly recommended to submit a resume with the ApplyWeb application.

7. Writing Samples : We encourage students to provide abstracts from their papers or articles as a way of broadening the scope of their applications. 

1. Transcripts : Your academic records should provide a listing, year-by-year, of all post-secondary courses taken and the grade or marks received for each one. It is helpful to have the grading scale of the institution and your rank in class when such information is available. Secondary school scores are not needed.

To be considered, all non-English documents must be accompanied by official English translations. The Graduate School accepts translations from the institution issuing the transcript, American Translators Association (ATA) certified translators, or from your consulate. You may find an ATA translator at the following website . Plain translations, notarized translations, and translations completed by someone other than a certified translator are not acceptable.

2. Internet-based TOEFL : To meet the admission requirement, a PhD applicant should score 90 or higher. MS applicants should score 85 or higher.

3. Computer-based TOEFL : To meet the admission requirement, a PhD applicant should score 233 or higher. MS applicants should score 213 or higher.

4. Paper-based TOEFL : To meet the admission requirement, a PhD applicant should score 577 or higher. MS applicants should score 550 or higher.

5. The IELTS exam : To meet the admission requirement, both MS and PhD applicants should score 7 or higher. 

Students are asked to also upload the IELTS test report during the online application process. If you do not have a score report at the time you are ready to submit your application, please immediately send a copy of your score report to [email protected] when you do receive it.

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