Clarkson University

What you'll study

The programme combines core civil engineering topics with construction-focused courses to develop technical, managerial and digital skills needed for modern project delivery. Students study structural and geotechnical concepts as they apply to construction, develop competence in construction materials and methods, and learn project planning, cost control and contractual principles.

• Core technical modules – advanced structural analysis and design, geotechnical fundamentals for construction, construction materials and durability.
• Construction management modules – construction project management, estimating and cost control, scheduling and CPM/PERT methods, construction law and contracts.
• Digital and technical applications – building information modelling (BIM) for construction, construction surveying and measurement, construction automation and emerging technologies.
• Safety, sustainability and quality – construction safety management, sustainable construction practices and quality control/assurance.
• Research or project experience – options typically include a thesis, a supervised research project or a substantial professional practicum/capstone project with industry partners.

Course delivery emphasises applied laboratory work, industry-relevant software and collaborative design–build style projects. Electives allow tailoring to areas such as heavy civil infrastructure, building systems, or construction technology and innovation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, architectural engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, coursework in mathematics and engineering fundamentals, and relevant practical experience.

• Official transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals.
• Current résumé/CV detailing engineering or construction experience, if any.
• References or letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS) and provide any credential evaluations requested.

Some applicants without directly aligned degrees may be admitted with prerequisite coursework in structural analysis, mechanics and materials. Graduate admissions may also consider professional experience in lieu of some academic preparation. Specific minimum GPA and test-score requirements are set by the university and reviewed as part of each application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of technical and managerial roles across the construction and infrastructure sectors. Typical job titles include:

• Construction manager or project manager
• Project engineer and site engineer
• Estimator and cost engineer
• Scheduling/planning engineer
• Quality, safety and commissioning engineer
• Construction consultant or claims analyst
• Specialist roles in BIM management, construction technology and prefabrication

Graduates work for general contractors, specialty contractors, design–build firms, engineering consultancies, infrastructure agencies and construction technology companies. The degree also provides a pathway to doctoral study for those interested in academic or advanced research careers.

Why study at Clarkson University

Clarkson University emphasises applied engineering education with close ties to industry and research. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on laboratory facilities and faculty engaged in research on construction materials, structural systems and digital construction methods. Clarkson’s campus culture supports interdisciplinary collaboration with other engineering and technology programmes, and students frequently gain practical experience through internships, capstone projects and partnerships with regional and national construction firms.

The programme’s focus on combining foundational engineering principles with construction management and digital tools prepares graduates to take on leadership roles in delivering safer, more efficient and more sustainable built environments.