The University of Kentucky Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering has launched a fully online Master of Science in civil engineering, providing working engineers with a flexible opportunity to advance their technical expertise and prepare for leadership and specialized roles in the profession.
Civil engineers today are addressing increasingly complex challenges — from aging infrastructure and transportation systems to resilient communities, sustainable development and the design of the systems that will support future generations. The online Master of Science in civil engineering is designed to help professionals develop the advanced knowledge and decision-making skills needed to meet those challenges.
Designed for civil engineers at all stages in life, the 30 credit-hour program allows students to earn a graduate degree while continuing their careers. The online format provides flexibility for students balancing professional responsibilities with graduate education, while a single online tuition rate applies regardless of where students live.
“This program is especially valuable for working professionals who want to enhance their knowledge, strengthen their credentials and position themselves for career advancement without stepping away from their current responsibilities,” said Sebastian Bryson, chair of the Department of Civil Engineering. “It is also an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and practicing engineers seeking the flexibility to pursue an advanced degree on a full-time or part-time basis.”
The curriculum emphasizes real-world application and equips students with the ability to specialize in areas of interest such as structural, transportation and geotechnical engineering, in addition to construction management, infrastructure design, water resources and other related areas.
The coursework also incorporates data-driven decision-making, advanced modeling and sustainable engineering practices to help students address challenges facing modern communities.
“The University of Kentucky’s fully online Master of Science in civil engineering program provides students with a flexible, high-quality graduate education that can be completed from anywhere,” Bryson said. “Designed to meet the needs of today’s learners, the program allows students to advance their technical expertise, explore specialized areas of civil engineering and earn a respected graduate degree while balancing professional and personal commitments.”
Whether seeking to advance into leadership, develop deeper technical expertise or prepare for new opportunities, the online master’s program at the Pigman College of Engineering provides a pathway for continued professional development while allowing civil engineers to remain engaged in their careers. Applications are now open for interested candidates.
Admission Criteria
Applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale from an ABET/EAC-accredited or equivalent Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering.
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
Applicants who have been awarded bachelor’s degrees in fields other than civil engineering, such as physical sciences, should contact Mei Chen, director of graduate studies in the Department of Civil Engineering, for consultation prior to application.
Application Requirements
Deadlines
Spring 2027: Application due by Dec. 11
Fall 2027: Application due by July 23
