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Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering graduates can be found in responsible engineering and administrative positions in industry and government. Some become consultants in planning, design or construction of engineering projects or in specialized fields where the application of research to the solution of practical problems is important. The professional practice of a civil engineer includes the conception, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of private and public projects.

The Master of Engineering (MEng) degree is primarily intended for those seeking to enhance their depth and breadth of engineering knowledge beyond the bachelor's level and who will subsequently be involved in day-to-day design activities. Credit for the degree comes from a combination of coursework (seven courses) plus a design project and seminar. Students are required to give an oral presentation of their project results. MEng program can be completed on a part-time basis.

The Master of Applied Science (MASc) degree is generally more appropriate for students interested in pursuing a career in research and development. The program of study consists of 4 courses, a seminar, and a research thesis. The thesis results must be summarized and defended in an oral presentation. In most cases, full-time students complete all the requirements for a Master's degree in 16 to 24 months.

The most extensive exposure to research is provided through the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. Students accepted to the PhD program normally have an MASc degree indicating "excellent" knowledge and research ability. The major study requirement is a thesis based on original research, the results of which are given in written thesis and defended in an oral examination. The thesis work is complemented by a minimum of four courses and a seminar. Candidates must pass a written and oral Comprehensive Examination following completion of their coursework. The university requires at least two years (24 months) of full-time attendance.  

Length of programs

  • MEng - typical time to complete is 2 years
  • MASc - typical time to complete is 2 years
  • PhD - typical time to complete is 3-4 years

Course work

Courses are available in some of the following areas:

  • Transportation
  • Hydrotechnical Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering
  • Materials and Structural Engineering

Research areas and collaboration

The department of Civil and Resource Engineering has a firmly established record of collaboration with industry and government, as well as participation in national research programs. All faculty members supervise graduate students while actively pursuing leading-edge research opportunities and providing technical expertise to industry projects. In response to these needs, the department has created a diverse and flexible graduate program allowing students to be exposed to the wide variety of specialization within Civil Engineering.

Independent centers/groups that are affiliated with the department include, the Centre for and the Intelligent Sensing and Innovative Structures Group. These groups seek to address real problems encountered in Atlantic Canada and beyond, and to ensure that our region benefits from the latest in engineering technology, without degrading the environment. The department also collaborates with the Bedford Institute of Oceanography in the areas of marine geotechnics and coastal engineering.

Learn more about our research areas: