Civil Engineering (MS) at University of Louisville

Civil engineers build our physical world - roads and buildings, bridges and tunnels, airports and subway systems, water and sewage systems. They may specialize in foundation analysis, building and structural inspection, surveying and municipal planning.

Civil engineers design a better world in which to live. They design, build, and maintain our nation’s infrastructure including: roads and bridges; buildings and foundations; water supply and waste-water facilities; stormwater management systems; and environmental protection facilities.

The mission of the civil engineering program is to prepare students for professional engineering and management positions in all phases of civil engineering projects. The program provides a broad educational background with a foundation in basic engineering and business principles. These basic skills are complemented by advanced topics in engineering design, management, finance, computer applications, and real world civil engineering experiences throughout the baccalaureate degree program. The civil engineering program at WKU focuses on construction, geotechnical engineering, construction materials, structures, surveying, and hydrology.

The teaching philosophy of this program focuses on project-based learning. This is achieved by placing competent, practicing engineers in the classroom as professors, engaging students in the practice of civil engineering through hands-on class projects, and involving students in faculty consulting and applied research activities. Real engineering projects often serve as class projects. Project sites and professional engineering and construction management firm offices often serve as classrooms.