Seattle University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with a capstone or research option so students can tailor study to professional or academic goals. Core themes typically include structural analysis and design, geotechnical engineering, hydraulics and hydrology, transportation systems, environmental engineering, and construction materials and methods.

• Structural engineering: modules on advanced steel and concrete design, seismic design, and finite element analysis.
• Geotechnical engineering: soil mechanics, foundation engineering, slope stability and ground improvement techniques.
• Transportation engineering: transportation planning, highway design, traffic modelling and pavement design.
• Water resources and environmental engineering: hydrology and hydraulics, water quality, stormwater management and sustainable infrastructure.
• Construction and materials: construction management fundamentals, concrete and asphalt materials, durability and performance of infrastructure.
• Methods and tools: applied numerical methods, finite element software, laboratory testing and field investigation techniques.

Students typically choose between a thesis or non‑thesis (project/capstone) pathway. The thesis route emphasises original research and is suitable for those considering doctoral study, while the project capstone or coursework route focuses on applied problem solving and practice.

Entry requirements

• An accredited undergraduate degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Applicants with degrees in other quantitative fields may be considered if they have completed appropriate prerequisite coursework.
• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in core engineering, mathematics and science subjects. Specific GPA expectations are set by the university and considered within the context of the applicant's profile.
• A statement of purpose describing academic interests, career objectives and areas of specialisation within civil engineering.
• Letters of recommendation from academic referees or professional supervisors who can attest to the applicant's potential for graduate study.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae outlining relevant academic, research and professional experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, via recognised tests or previously completed degrees taught in English, according to university policy.
• The university may request prerequisite coursework (for example in statics, dynamics, strength of materials, calculus and differential equations) if the applicant's background is not in civil engineering.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Science in Civil Engineering go on to roles across the public and private sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Structural or design engineer in consulting firms and engineering departments.
• Geotechnical engineer working on foundations, tunnelling and ground improvement projects.
• Transportation engineer or planner for local authorities, metropolitan agencies and consultancy practices.
• Water resources and environmental engineer focused on stormwater, wastewater and sustainable urban drainage systems.
• Construction engineer or project manager overseeing complex infrastructure delivery.
• Technical specialist roles in materials testing, pavement engineering or seismic resilience.
• Further academic study leading to doctoral research and teaching careers.

The programme's balance of theory, applied projects and industry engagement is designed to help graduates obtain professional licensure and to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams on real‑world infrastructure challenges.

Why study at Seattle University

• Industry connections: Seattle's active construction, transportation and infrastructure sectors provide access to employers, internships and project partnerships across regional agencies and private firms.
• Applied, small‑group teaching: the university emphasises close faculty mentoring, laboratory work and project‑based learning that link technical skills with practical application.
• Location advantages: proximity to major engineering employers, ports, and transportation authorities offers practical exposure to urban infrastructure and innovative engineering practice.
• Ethical and sustainable focus: as a Jesuit university, Seattle University integrates ethical responsibility, community engagement and sustainability into engineering education and project work.
• Research and facilities: students have access to structural and materials testing facilities, computational resources and opportunities to collaborate on faculty research and industry projects.