Cost & earnings at University of Missouri-Kansas City What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Civil Engineering graduates earn a median $71,015 Across 209 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Master’s in Civil Engineering at the University of Missouri–Kansas City is a graduate programme designed for students seeking advanced technical knowledge and professional skills across core civil engineering disciplines. It suits recent engineering graduates and practising engineers who want to specialise, prepare for licensure, or pursue research and leadership roles in infrastructure design, construction and management.
The programme offers a combination of advanced coursework and research or project work across the major civil engineering sub-disciplines. Typical subject areas include structural analysis and design, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering and planning, water resources and environmental engineering, construction engineering and management, and materials and concrete technology.
Students can usually choose between thesis (research) and non‑thesis (coursework or project) options. Core modules often cover advanced mechanics of materials, finite element methods, reinforced concrete and steel design, foundation engineering, highway engineering, hydraulics and hydrology, and construction project management. Elective modules allow deeper focus on topics such as seismic design, pavement engineering, environmental modelling, stormwater management, or sustainable infrastructure. Research students work with faculty on experimental, computational or applied projects; coursework students complete advanced-level design projects or capstone courses.
Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Typical requirements include a satisfactory undergraduate academic record and transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate prerequisite knowledge in core undergraduate civil engineering topics if their prior degree is in a related field. Admission committees commonly consider graduate test scores where required by departmental policy. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.
Graduates enter a range of roles in the private and public sectors. Common career paths include civil engineer, structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, transportation planner or engineer, water resources engineer, construction manager, and pavement engineer. Graduates also work in consulting firms, construction and contracting companies, municipal and state agencies (including transportation and public works departments), utilities, and research organisations.
The master’s can support progression to professional engineer (PE) licensure where applicable, technical leadership roles, or further academic study such as a PhD. Project-based and research experience gained during the programme improves prospects for specialised roles in design, analysis, modelling, testing and project delivery.
UMKC’s engineering programmes combine applied research with strong regional industry connections. Students benefit from faculty who are active in research and consultancy across structural, geotechnical, transportation and water-resource areas, and from hands‑on access to departmental laboratories for materials testing, structural experiments and hydraulics modelling.
The university’s location in the Kansas City metropolitan area provides opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with local engineering firms, municipal agencies and state transportation authorities. Flexible scheduling and both research and professional options make the programme suitable for full‑time students and working professionals seeking evening or part‑time study. Assistantships and research positions are available for qualified students through faculty-led projects and centres affiliated with the school.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.