University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

The programme offers flexible pathways including a research-based master's (thesis) and a professionally oriented, course-based master's. Core study areas cover structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, water resources and environmental engineering, transportation engineering, construction engineering and materials and pavement engineering.

• Typical modules and courses: advanced structural analysis and design, reinforced and prestressed concrete, steel design, foundation engineering, soil mechanics and geotechnical design, hydrology and hydraulic systems, water and wastewater treatment processes, pavement design and rehabilitation, transportation planning and traffic engineering, construction management and project delivery, and advanced materials for infrastructure.
• Research and practical components: thesis-track students undertake independent research under faculty supervision and present a written thesis; course-track students complete a programme of advanced technical courses and may undertake a major project or practicum. Many students also gain hands-on experience in well-equipped structural, geotechnical, environmental and materials laboratories and participate in field work and industry collaboration.
• Structure: the research route emphasises original investigation and typically combines coursework with a supervised thesis. The course-based route is structured around advanced taught courses and often includes a design or professional project.
• Specialist research themes: students can pursue topics such as resilient infrastructure, sustainable water management, cold-region engineering, earthquake and wind-resistant design, advanced construction materials, transportation systems and asset management, and geotechnical risk and ground improvement.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a four-year bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognised institution, with a strong academic record. Equivalent qualifications from related science or technical programmes may be considered where the applicant has relevant experience or bridging preparation.

• Academic documents: official transcripts and degree documentation are required. Research-route applicants typically submit a brief research statement or proposal outlining proposed areas of study and potential supervisors.
• Supporting materials: CV, letters of reference (usually two), and a personal statement describing academic and professional objectives are commonly requested.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through recognised tests (for example IELTS or TOEFL) or provide evidence of prior education in English, in line with university requirements.
• Supervision and funding: acceptance to the thesis route often depends on the availability of an appropriate faculty supervisor and, where applicable, research funding. Course-based applicants are evaluated on academic record and professional preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of careers in the public and private sectors. The programme prepares students for roles that require advanced technical expertise, leadership in large projects, and the ability to manage complex infrastructure challenges.

• Design and consulting engineering positions (structural, geotechnical, transportation, environmental)
• Construction management and project delivery roles on major infrastructure projects
• Asset management, infrastructure planning and municipal engineering with government and utilities
• Specialist roles in materials testing, pavement engineering and coastal or cold-regions engineering
• Research and development positions in industry or national laboratories and further academic study (PhD) leading to careers in research and teaching

Why study at University of New Brunswick

UNB's Faculty of Engineering offers a supportive research environment with close supervision from faculty whose expertise spans core civil engineering disciplines and emerging areas such as sustainable infrastructure and resilience. Graduate students benefit from access to well-equipped laboratories, field-testing facilities and opportunities to collaborate with regional industry and government on applied projects.

• Flexible programme routes to suit both practising professionals and research-oriented students
• Strong emphasis on hands-on laboratory work, field studies and industry-relevant projects
• Opportunities for research assistantships, teaching assistantships and external partnerships that can support professional development and funding
• Located in Fredericton with links to regional infrastructure stakeholders, offering pathways into local, national and international civil engineering careers