COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering at University of Colorado Denver is a 30-credit graduate program designed primarily for students with non-engineering undergraduate backgrounds who want to build applied expertise in civil engineering through an interdisciplinary and professionally oriented curriculum. The degree requires a total of 27 credit hours of coursework plus 3 credit hours dedicated to a master’s report, which focuses on applied problem-solving and integration of learned concepts. Within the program, students must complete at least 15 credit hours of civil engineering coursework, including the master’s report requirement, to ensure a strong foundation in core engineering principles and practices. The remaining 15 credit hours may be taken in related disciplines outside the civil engineering department, subject to advisor approval, allowing students to customize their studies based on their specific interests and career goals. This flexible structure supports interdisciplinary learning by enabling students to combine civil engineering concepts with complementary fields such as environmental systems, transportation planning, construction management, geotechnical studies, and other related technical areas. The program emphasizes practical application of engineering knowledge, making it well-suited for working professionals who want to advance their careers or transition into the engineering field without completing a traditional undergraduate engineering degree. Through this blend of core coursework, elective flexibility, and a culminating master’s report, students develop both theoretical understanding and applied problem-solving skills relevant to real-world infrastructure and development challenges. Overall, the degree is structured to prepare graduates for professional advancement in civil engineering by combining foundational training, interdisciplinary coursework, and applied research experience in a flexible and career-focused format.