University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines advanced coursework, qualifying examinations and an original research dissertation under faculty supervision. Students follow a programme of study tailored to their chosen speciality, typically drawing on coursework in research methods, advanced numerical methods, experimental techniques and elective topics aligned with the research focus.

• Core and advanced coursework – topics commonly include advanced structural analysis and dynamics; geotechnical engineering and soil-structure interaction; hydrology and hydraulics; environmental and water-quality engineering; transportation systems and planning; construction engineering and management; and materials science for infrastructure.
• Research seminars and methods – coursework and seminars on research design, data analysis, computational modelling, laboratory methods and ethics in research.
• Qualifying examination – a written and/or oral exam that assesses mastery of fundamentals and readiness to pursue dissertation research.
• Doctoral research – independent, original research culminating in a dissertation. Research topics reflect department strengths and may involve laboratory experiments, field work, computational modelling, remote sensing or interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Teaching and professional development – many candidates gain experience through teaching assistantships, workshops on grant writing, and opportunities to present at conferences.

Research areas represented in the department commonly include structural engineering, concrete and construction materials, geotechnical engineering, pavement and transportation engineering, water resources and environmental engineering, and infrastructure resilience. Students have access to campus laboratories and collaborative projects with regional agencies and industry partners.

Entry requirements

• Academic background – a relevant master’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field is normally expected. Exceptional applicants holding a strong bachelor’s degree with significant research experience may also be considered.
• Transcripts and GPA – official academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance in undergraduate and graduate studies; departments typically look for evidence of preparedness for graduate-level research.
• Research statement – a statement of research interests that outlines proposed research directions, relevant experience and fit with departmental expertise.
• References – academic and/or professional references that can attest to the applicant’s research potential and technical competence.
• English language proficiency – for applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required through recognised tests or demonstrated equivalent qualifications.
• Additional materials – a curriculum vitae and examples of prior research (such as publications, technical reports or a master’s thesis) are recommended. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where relevant to the department’s assessment.
• Funding and assistantships – many admitted students are supported by research or teaching assistantships or fellowships; applicants are encouraged to discuss funding opportunities with potential faculty supervisors during the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Civil Engineering pursue careers across academia, government and industry. Typical pathways include:

• Academia and research – faculty positions, postdoctoral research and leadership of university research groups.
• Government and public agencies – technical leadership and policy roles in departments of transportation, environmental protection agencies, water resources management and infrastructure planning bodies.
• Private sector and consulting – senior technical specialist, research and development roles in engineering consultancies, construction firms, materials manufacturers and infrastructure asset managers.
• Industry research laboratories – R&D positions addressing materials, structural systems, water treatment technologies, and resilient infrastructure solutions.
• International and non-profit organisations – roles in infrastructure development, disaster mitigation and sustainable development projects.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a research-intensive environment with close faculty supervision and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, earth sciences and environmental research centres. The department’s scale supports personalised mentoring and a collaborative cohort, while campus laboratories and partnerships with regional agencies provide practical and field-based research opportunities.

Students benefit from a range of funding possibilities through research assistantships and fellowships and gain professional experience via teaching assignments and industry-engaged projects. The programme’s emphasis on applied and theoretical research prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, government and industry focused on resilient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.