ONLINE CIVIL ENGINEERING BACHELOR DEGREE

Civil engineering is considered the oldest engineering discipline. And it is undoubtedly one of the most important engineering disciplines. Civil engineers are critical for society as a whole. We need these highly skilled professionals for operations, scaling, new growth, and change.

Professional civil engineers are always in demand, especially in a country the size of the United States. Thus, a civil engineering degree can provide a great return on investment (ROI) post-graduation.

Advanced education in civil engineering is essential for managing more complex project requirements. So the best civil engineering schools provide a broad range of learning opportunities and plenty of options. These include concentrations, minors, certificates, or alternate engineering courses. This allows students to supplement their core courses with other engineering knowledge.

Earning a civil engineering degree online offers many benefits. Students can hold down a job and attend to other life obligations and still have time for a civil engineering degree. This is true whether a potential student is seeking a bachelor’s or an advanced degree. Additionally, earning an online civil engineering degree allows you to study from anywhere in the world. Sometimes, you don’t even need to work on a set schedule. For example, asynchronous programs enable students to study wherever and whenever it is convenient. 

Methodology

This ranking list covers colleges offering any level of online civil engineering degrees. It includes programs from the bachelor’s to doctoral levels. And we even discuss certificates in this post. These schools were chosen based on several factors, including:

• The number of options for online civil engineering programs, including concentrations 

• The number of degree study levels (e.g., bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate)

• Whether the online civil engineering options are fully online or offered in a hybrid/partial format

• Whether the civil engineering programs allow for schedule flexibility (asynchronous or asynchronous online courses)

• Cost of tuition

After compiling our list of programs, we decided to order the rankings based on graduate tuition costs per academic year. That’s because the majority of schools on this list offer graduate programs rather than undergrad programs. Therefore, by using graduate tuition, we can use the final factor (cost) to arrange these programs by affordability.

With that, here is OCP’s list of the top civil engineering schools with online degree programs. All are accredited online civil engineering degrees. Note that all tuition rates are for in-state/ resident students unless explicitly stated. The costs for out-of-state students may differ. All figures come from NCES College Navigator. 

Civil Engineering Best Colleges

1. Mississippi State University

Coming in first on the best online civil engineering degrees is Mississippi State University. MSU has the most graduate-level options on our list. The school has both online Master’s and Doctorate programs for environmental and civil engineering. MSU has the cheapest online civil engineering degree programs on our list. Plus, each of the M.S. and Ph.D. programs has seven civil engineering-related specializations. These include:

1. Construction Management
2. Construction Materials
3. Environmental
4. Geotechnical
5. Structural
6. Transportation
7. Water Resources

In all, students have a total of 14 online civil engineering options. This arrangement provides graduate students with a breadth of focus. And it gives them the option of continuing to doctorate studies to supplement their master’s degrees. Thesis and non-thesis options are available. Some of the courses in the online engineering programs may include:

• Occup Safety Engineering 
• Analysis of Hazardous Processes and Materials
• Engineering Chemistry 
• Water & Wastewater Engineering 
• Soil Behavior 
• Slopes & Embankments 
• Theoretical Soil Mechanics 
• Pavement Rehabilitation 
• Advanced Pavement Materials 
• Matrix Struct Analysis 
• Steel Structures 
• Concrete Structures 
• Traffic Engineering
• Freight Transport System Analysis 
• Traffic Flow Theory
• Public Transportation
• Hydrology 
• Hydroenvironmental Analysis 
• Construction Management

Online delivery of the degree program content varies. Students will use Canvas and Engage to access materials for the civil engineering degree online. The MSCE requires 30 credit hours for the Thesis option and 33 for the non-Thesis option. The Ph.D. credit requirement is 18 credit hours of coursework and 20 plus credit hours for research. The requirements may vary for students taking both the M.S. and Ph.D.

Established in 1878, MSU is a public institution based in Mississippi State, Mississippi. It is designated as a VHRA (Very High Research Activity) university by the Carnegie Foundation. The university offers civil engineering programs from bachelor’s degree to doctorate programs. This includes master’s degrees in seven engineering majors and nearly as many Ph.D. programs. Some of the programs include:

• Civil Engineering
• Computational Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• General Master’s of Engineering Engineering

Some or all of these may have online options. And all of the programs are offered through the Bagley College of Engineering. The college has earned accolades in U.S. News and World Report for online graduate engineering programs. In addition, MSU has earned rankings from Forbes and Washington Monthly.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Related: Exploring Types of Online Engineering Degrees

2. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

NCSU at Raleigh offers an online Master of Civil Engineering (MCE) degree program. This degree program is identical to the one offered on campus, and there are five concentrations:

1. Construction Engineering and Management
2. Geotechnical
3. Structures and Mechanics
4. Transportation Systems
5. Water Resources

Eligible students require a bachelor’s degree in any engineering topic. So you don’t necessarily need a civil engineering bachelor’s degree to be eligible. No residency or thesis is required for this civil engineering degree online. And you need 30 credit hours of coursework to complete the degree program. Some students may not need a GRE score. Check with admissions for details.

North Carolina State University was established in 1887. It’s a public university based in Raleigh and part of the NCSU system. It has online bachelor’s degree and graduate civil engineering degree programs and even some post-bach certificate programs. 

NCSU’s College of Engineering has spent millions on improvements and research over the years. The engineering department collectively offers a total of 15 areas of study. Some of these areas include:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Networking
• Environmental Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Integrated Manufacturing Systems Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Nanoengineering
• Nuclear Engineering 

In all, there are 18 master’s in engineering programs that can be completed online at NCSU. There’s even an online engineering bachelor of science degree program with three concentrations. 

The school has been nationally ranked in the top ten online engineering programs by U.S. News & World Report. They are also #2 in diversity for a non-HBCU college. In addition, the school itself has earned rankings from Forbes, Washington Monthly, and others.

These civil engineering degree online programs are identical to those offered on campus. However, instead of a set schedule, civil engineering students can choose when and how they want to study. This allows working professionals to meet their current career and personal obligations. 

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

3. Ohio University

Ohio University offers a 100% online Master of Science in Civil Engineering program. There are four areas of concentration to select from:

1. Construction Engineering and Management
2. Environmental Engineering
3. Structural Engineering
4. Transportation Engineering

No GMAT/ GRE is required for otherwise qualified MSCE grad students. And the program can be completed in as few as five semesters. Credit requirements for graduation vary by the concentration selected. There are also bachelor of science and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering degree programs available. However, they are not offered online. Some of the online civil engineering courses in this M.S. program include:

• Engineering Writing
• Project Management
• Principles of Pavement Design
• Environmental Analysis of Transportation Systems
• Heavy Construction Managemen
• Project Development, Contracts, and Law
• Construction Planning and Scheduling
• Open Channel Hydraulics
• Chemical Fate and Transport
• Environmental Analysis of Transportation Systems
• Applied Civil Engineering Statistics
• Advanced Steel Design
• Structural Reliability
• Prestressed Concrete Design
• Computer-Aided Structural Design
• Timber Design
• Bridge Engineering
• Masonry Design
• Traffic Impact Studies
• Transportation Planning Fundamentals

Established in 1804, the college is part of the University System of Ohio. It’s a public university based in Athens. The school offers a range of programs from the associate’s through doctorate levels. Plus, they offer certificates. The Russ College of Engineering offers 18 programs in engineering. Some of the topics include:

• Aviation Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Energy Engineering
• Engineering Technology and Management
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering

The college has been ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs for Grad Engineering. Princeton Review also ranked O.U. as a Best College. O.U. notable alumni include Nobel Prize winners and Pulitzer Prize winners. 

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

4. Iowa State University

Iowa State University offers two online Master’s in Civil Engineering. Both the Master of Science and the Master of Engineering emphasize construction. Each requires a minimum of 30 credits. The programs are recognized by The Associated General Contractors of America. Only five engineering schools have had this honor.

Classes are available online through video streaming. Students preferring a coursework-only option should take the Master of Engineering program. Civil engineering students interested in coursework combined with a project should take the M.S. program. The master’s programs focus on management techniques, construction operations, and construction methods. Some of the required online civil engineering courses include:

• Advanced Construction Special Topics: LEED for New Construction 
• Construction Finance & Business Management 
• Construction: Planning & Scheduling 
• Disaster and Climate Resilience
• Applied Foundation Engineering
• Dynamics of Soils and Foundations 

There is no online degree civil engineering bachelor degree. Instead, there is an on-campus Bachelor of Science and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering degrees are also offered. In addition, civil engineering students can combine the bachelor of science program with an M.S. degree through the Concurrent bachelor of science/MS Program.

ISU was founded in 1858. It is a public university based in Ames, Iowa. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Plus, they feature various certificate programs. The College of Engineering offers programs through the following ten departments: 

• Aerospace Engineering
• Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
• Chemical and Biological Engineering
• Civil, Construction, and Environmental
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Software Engineering

Excluding concentrations, there are 12 undergrad engineering degrees. And there are 16 master’s engineering programs. Eleven of those programs are distance programs. Additionally, the school offers 12 Ph.D. engineering degree programs. Finally, the school has nine graduate certificate programs, many online. Iowa State has received recognition from U.S. News & World Report and several other publications.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

5. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University (ODU) is one of only two colleges in the country with an online bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. This degree is a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology (BSET) with a major in Civil Engineering Technology. Students can choose from three concentrations for this civil engineering bachelor’s degree online. These include Construction Management, Structural Design, and Site Development. Some of the required courses include:

• Structural Analysis
• Soils & Foundations
• Fluid Mechanics
• Sustainable Building Practices
• Reinforced Concrete Design
• Structural Steel Design
• Energy and the Environment
• Engineering Economics
• Engineering Technology
• Project Management

Graduate students will be eligible to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. The exam is the first step to getting a professional engineer license in Virginia and several other states. 

Students seeking an online minor in civil engineering may be in luck. The school offers an online Civil Engineering Technology – Construction option. ODU also offers an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) – Coastal Engineering Focus. An online certificate for the focus area is also available to non-degree students.

ODU was established in 1930 and is a public university based in Norfolk, Virginia. Its academic offerings include bachelor’s to doctorate degrees and graduate certificates. The Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology offers over 36 engineering degree options. These are at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels. And some programs are available online. The civil engineering online bachelor degree is one of only a few in the nation. Bachelor’s engineering programs are accredited by ABET. And the school offers both Engineering and Engineering Technology options. Master’s disciplines include:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Engineering Management 
• Environmental
• Mechanical Engineering
• Systems Engineering

Some of these programs may have Master of Science and Master of Engineering tracks. Doctorate engineering programs may be available in Ph.D. and DEng (Doctorate of Engineering) tracks. Additionally, some of the engineering programs are included in Victory Media as Military Friendly Schools Gold Award Winners.

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

6. Kansas State University

Kansas State University (K-State) offers an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. It’s designed specifically for those who already have a bachelor’s in civil engineering. The program is ideal for working professionals since it is highly flexible. No campus presence is required until the end of the program. And this is only take part in an oral examination. Thirty graduate credits are required for completion. And the cost for this graduate program is $800.30 per credit hour. There are several concentrations so students can focus on their particular area of interest:

• Environmental
• Geotechnical
• Structural
• Transportation
• Water Resources

The curriculum varies depending on the concentration you choose. However, some of the required courses may include:

• Environmental Chemistry 
• Advanced Soil Mechanics 
• Advanced Reinforced Concrete Theory 
• Numerical and Analytic Techniques for Engineers 
• Economics of Design & Construction 
• Pavement Design
• Shear Strength and Slope Stability of Soils 

K-State is a public university established in 1863 in Manhatten, Kansas. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. Plus, students can pursue graduate certificate programs and doctorates. 

The College of Engineering (CoE) offers some online undergrad courses in engineering. However, they do not have an online bachelor’s degree program. In total, the CoE offers nine master’s degrees across various engineering disciplines. These include:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering 
• Electrical and Computer Engineering 
• Industrial Engineering 
• Mechanical Engineering 
• Nuclear Engineering 
• Software Engineering Engineering 
• Engineering Management

The school also offers two grad certificates and an undergrad minor. Besides Civil Engineering, some of these engineering programs may have online education options. An Operations Research master’s degree is also available. It is not strictly engineering-focused, but it is geared towards the general discipline. 

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Related: What Can I Do With a Doctoral Degree in Engineering Management?

7. Missouri University of Science and Technology

 Missouri University of Science and Technology has an online Master’s in Civil Engineering program. Plus, they offer an option for an online doctorate in civil engineering. Missouri S&T’s graduate program in civil engineering has several study areas, including:

• Environmental
• Structural
• Geotechnical
• Water Resources
• Construction E

Graduate courses are live-streamed over the Internet and archived for later reference. Grad students use a learning management system and live collaboration software. Credit requirements for the master’s program are 30 credit hours, and there is no thesis. Students interested in a Ph.D. or Doctor of Engineering are considered on a case-by-case basis. There are also five distance graduate certificate programs. None require a GRE. Completing any of them with a B grade or higher qualifies students to apply for the MSCE without a GRE score.

MST is a public university based in Rolla, Missouri. Established in 1870, it is part of the University of Missouri System. The school offers bachelor’s to doctorate programs. Plus, they have pre-and post-baccalaureate certificate programs. The College of Engineering and Computing offers master’s degrees in thirteen study areas. Each of them also has a distance option. Some of these areas include:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Engineering Management
• Explosives Engineering
• Geotechnics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Systems Engineering

The school has earned a #3 ranking by USA Today for Best Engineering College. It was also ranked #2 for Most Value Added Public University by Brookings Institution. Additionally, MST ranked #5 for Best Return on Investment by Payscale.com.

The online engineering programs at MST are military-friendly. Students in the military qualify for tuition discounts, and there is a Student Veterans Resource Center on campus. Online students are encouraged to take advantage of all the services offered at MST.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

8. University of Florida

University of Florida (UF) offers an online Master’s in Civil Engineering (CE) through their EDGE program. This program provides course content as streaming video (amongst other options) through Canvas. Students take ten courses and can complete the program within two years or longer, with no minimum courses required per semester. However, you need at least 30 credit hours to complete the program. Some of the online courses include:

• Foundations of Machine Learning
• Computer Communications
• Entrepreneurship for Engineers
• Engineering Innovation
• Seepage in Soils
• Foundation Design
• Dynamics of Soils and Foundations
• Public Works Management
• Construction Planning and Scheduling
• Advance Transportation Systems Analysis
• Traffic Flow Theory
• Traffic Engineering
• Advanced Urban Stormwater Design
• Applied Probability Methods in Engineering
• Wetland Hydrology
• Fundamentals of Engineering Project Management
• Robust Control of Aerospace Vehicles
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Project Management
• Structural Mechanics

There is a choice between a Master of Science and a Master of Engineering program. In addition, online concentrations may be available. A bachelor’s and a doctorate in Civil Engineering are also available. However, these are only delivered on campus. 

UF is a public university established in 1853. It is part of the State University System of Florida, based in Gainesville. The school offers associate through doctorate civil engineering degrees and both undergrad and graduate certificate programs. UF has engineering programs in 13 disciplines: 

• Aerospace Engineering
• Agricultural and Biological Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Coastal and Oceanographic Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Sciences Engineering
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering Sciences

The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering is a top-ranked engineering college. And it has been ranked #1 in Florida by U.S. News & World Report. It is also nationally ranked for the most engineering PhDs awarded to Hispanic and African American students. This two-year civil engineering degree online is a great bargain at only $10,770 per academic year.

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

9. Colorado State University-Fort Collins

School Profile

Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers an online Master of Engineering with Civil Engineering Specialization. And they also have an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering with 10 areas of study. With these programs, there is a strong emphasis on water resource management.

The first requires 30 credits, while the latter requires 32 credits. On-campus, students can also pursue a Ph.D. in civil engineering. Like the MS, it has 10 areas of study. Areas of study for both programs include:

• Environmental
• Geoenvironmental
• Geotechnical
• Groundwater
• Hydraulic Engineering/Stream Restoration/River Mechanics
• Hydrologic Science
• Irrigation and Drainage
• Structural Engineering and Structural Mechanics
• Water Resources Planning and Management
• Wind Engineering and Fluid Mechanics

CSU is a public university established in 1870. Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, the school is part of the Colorado State University System. Students can choose from bachelor’s through doctorate degrees. Post-bachelor’s certificates are also available. The Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering offers the following on-campus engineering programs. 

1. Ten on-campus undergrad engineering majors
2. Eight master’s engineering majors
3. Six Ph.D. engineering majors 

The master’s majors are available primarily as Master’s of Engineering. However, a few also offer a Master of Science track. A few of these include: include:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Management Engineering

The school’s Environmental Science and Engineering programs were ranked #7 worldwide by ARWU. Colorado State has also earned additional ranking spots from Forbes, Washington Monthly, Princeton Review, and others.

Online Civil Engineering Program Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

10. University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a Master of Science in Civil Engineering. There are also Bachelor of Science and Ph.D. Civil Engineering options. However, these are also only available on-campus. Students interested in the traditional bachelor of science can combine it with the M.S. as part of a dual degree option.

The MS has several concentrations, but not all are available online. The five remote concentrations include:

1. Geotechnology and Materials
2. Public Works
3. Climate Impacts
4. Environmental
5. Water Resources

UT is a public university established in 1784. UT Knoxville is the main campus of the University of Tennessee System. The school offers bachelor’s through doctorate programs and certificates. The Tickle College of Engineering offers multiple engineering programs across seven departments. Some of these engineering majors include:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Data Science and Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Science
• Industrial Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering

The school has been highly ranked in a long list of publications. These include Forbes, Washington Monthly, Princeton Review, and U.S. News & World Report. In addition, CEE students have access to nearly a dozen state-of-the-art research centers. A few of these include:

• Baker Center for Energy and Environmental Policy
• Center for Environmental Biotechnology
• Institute for a Secure and Sustainable Environment
• Tennessee Water Resources Research Institute
• Joint Institute for Biological Sciences
• National Transportation Research Center
• Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation
• Collaborative Sciences Center for Road Safety

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Online Colleges

11. University of Louisville

The University of Louisville offers a 100% online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. There are two focus areas: Public Works Engineering and Facilities Engineering. This MSCE requires 30 credits and has thesis and non-thesis options. In addition, students can apply up to six transfer credits. And students can complete the civil engineering online degree in as little as three semesters. Some of the courses include:

• Timber Design
• Bridge Design
• Traffic Engineering
• Geometric Highway Design
• GPS Theory and Application
• Masonry Design
• Construction Management
• Environmental Analysis of Transportation Systems
• Fundamentals of Prestressed Concrete
• Groundwater Hydrology
• Transportation Planning & Urban Development
• Airport Planning and Design
• Pavement Design
• Wetland Design Building Information Modeling
• Project Management

Additional civil engineering programs on-campus include a bachelor’s, master’s, and P.h.D. in civil engineering. The master’s can be combined with the bachelor of science in a five-year dual degree option.

UL is a public university established in 1798. Based in Louisville, the school offers degree programs ranging from the associate to doctorate levels. These are supplemented by both undergrad and graduate certificate programs. The J.B. Speed School of Engineering offers undergrad and graduate degree programs in six disciplines:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Computer Engineering and Computer Science
• Industrial Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

The bioengineering discipline also has bachelor of science and Master of Engineering options. The total tally of engineering degrees across all programs is 27. In addition, many of the graduate degrees can be taken with a bachelor of science in engineering as part of a dual degree program. All of the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in engineering are accredited by ABET. 

The school has ranked in U.S. News & World Report for Graduate Engineering Schools. And it also ranks high for specific graduate engineering programs. Additionally, UL has earned high rankings from Forbes, Washington Monthly, and others.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

12. University of South Carolina-Columbia

 University of South Carolina-Columbia (USC) offers two master’s degrees in civil engineering. They also have a CE doctorate. Most of the civil engineering courses for these programs are available through APOGEE. Some of these include:

• Principles of Municipal Solid Waste Engineering
• Air Pollution Control Engineering
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Theory
• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Ground Improvement Techniques
• Physico-chemical Properties of Soils
• Theory and Design of Plates and Shells
• Dynamics of Structures
• Repair and Retrofit of Structures
• Traffic Engineering
• Highway Design
• Transportation Systems Planning
• Computational Hydraulics
• Numerical Methods in Subsurface Hydrology
• Construction Management

The Master of Science consists of 24 credit hours of courses. Plus, students will have six credit hours of thesis preparation. For the Master of Engineering, the credit breakdown is similar. However, students complete a six-credit project instead of a Thesis. 

The credit requirements for the Ph.D. program depend on whether a student has a master’s degree or not. The credit requirements for the Ph.D. program depend on whether a student has an MS/ ME or not. Additionally, the Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering focuses primarily on research. 

The main campus of the University of South Carolina System, USC (est. 1801), USC is a public university based in Columbia, South Carolina. Established in 1801, it is the main campus of the USC System. The school offers degrees for undergraduate and graduate students. Plus, they have post-baccalaureate certificate programs. The College of Engineering and Computing consists of six departments. And there are several engineering study areas. A few of these study areas include:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Management
• Entrepreneurial Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering
• Software Engineering

The college was ranked #36 in a U.S. News & World Report list of top Online Graduate Engineering Programs. The university also has a lengthy list of rankings from Forbes, Princeton Review, and more.

Aspiring civil engineers at USC enjoy small class sizes and high-quality research programs. Admission is competitive. Decisions are based on letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and the quality of previous academic work. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

13. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois offers an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. There are currently nine specialty options in this degree program: 

1. Construction Management
2. Energy-Water-Environment Sustainability Program
3. Geotechnical Engineering
4. Infrastructure
5. Societal Risk Management
6. Structural Engineering
7. Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Systems
8. Transportation Engineering
9. Water Resources Engineering and Science

No thesis is required, and coursework totals 36 credits. Students have five years to complete the program. The school also offers blended approaches. These involve students taking a combination of courses online and on campus. Students should contact the online program coordinator to discuss this hybrid option. 

Note that the on-campus version of the CM-track can be combined with a Master of Architecture program. Alternately, a Certificate in Environmental and Civil Engineering is available. This also has four specialized areas of focus.

The school was established in 1867 and is part of the UI System. This public university is based in Champaign, Illinois. UI offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs. Additionally, they have post-master’s certificate programs. The College of Engineering offers engineering degrees in various areas: 

• Agricultural and Biological Engineering
• Bioengineering
• Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computational Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Physics
• Financial Engineering
• Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Sciences and Engineering
• Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering
• Railway Engineering
• Systems Engineering and Design

The college has 13 bachelor’s engineering degrees. Plus, there are ten traditional thesis-based master’s degrees. Ten Ph.D. engineering degrees are also available. A selection of dual-degree options is available as well. This allows students to combine earning a bachelor of science and MS in engineering in less time. 

The College of Engineering has received top rankings over the years. The graduate programs have ranked #2 in US News & World Report. The school has also been highly rated by Time magazine, Forbes, and Washington Monthly.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

14. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

The University of Washington offers a Master of Science in Civil Engineering program. This excellent program is entirely online and has four concentrations. These include:

1. Master’s in Energy Infrastructure
2. Master’s in Construction Engineering
3. Master’s in Supply Chain Transportation and Logistics
4. Master’s in Sustainable Transportation

The programs take two to three years part-time or nine months to two years full-time. More MSCE concentrations are only available on-campus. The degrees require 42 credits for any of the concentrations.

Other Civil Engineering degrees at the college include a Bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D. Both are traditional on-campus-only programs.

UW was established in 1861 and is a public university based in Seattle, Washington. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and several types of doctorate programs. They also have some post-masters certificates. The College of Engineering provides engineering programs through several schools and departments. This includes the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering. 

Collectively, there are 37 degree programs in engineering at the college. A few of the collective study areas include:

• Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
• Applied Bioengineering
• Bioengineering
• Bioresource Science and Engineering 
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental and Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Human-Centered Design and Engineering
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Bioengineering

Scholarships and financial aid are available. In addition, some of the engineering programs are funded through stipends and other assistance. U.S. News & World Report has included some UW CE programs at #16 in the country. UW has additional rankings from several publications, including Washington Monthly and others. 

The online programs at UW are designed with working professionals in mind. Students can pursue their specialized areas of interest on their own schedule. This allows them to earn a civil engineering degree from anywhere in the world. And they can complete their coursework whenever it is convenient. 

The coursework closely mirrors the on-campus programs. Students get plenty of interaction with their professors and classmates online. And the courses are taught by the same esteemed faculty members that teach on campus. They are also open to all graduate students as electives. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

15. Norwich University

Norwich University (NU) offers an online Master of Civil Engineering degree. There are four concentrations: 

1. Construction Management
2. Environmental/Water Resources Engineering
3. Geotechnical Engineering
4. Structural Engineering

To graduate, students must complete 36 credits, which takes about 18 months on average. Classes are limited to 15 students and delivered through an e-learning system. The program covers structural and environmental systems. Plus, it covers management issues inherent to projects. A residency week requires students to come to campus. During this week, students will present a portfolio of design and management projects.

Norwich University is a private nonprofit college established in 1881. Based in Northfield, Vermont, programs include bachelor’s and master’s degree options. Plus, some post-bachelor certificates are offered. 

Norwich is the oldest senior military college of six and is considered the “Birthplace of ROTC .”It is designated a Military Friendly School by Victory Media. It also claims to be the first private college to teach civil engineering in the United States. The CE programs have been highly ranked by US News & World Report in past years. Some of the courses students can expect to take may include:

• Engineering Mathematics
• Project Management Techniques, Tools, and Practices
• Classical, Matrix, and Dynamic Analysis of Structures 
• Design of Steel and Timber Structures
• Design of Reinforced and Prestressed/Precast Concrete Structures 
• Physiochemical and Biological Processes in Water and Wastewater Treatment 
• Stormwater Management and GIS Applications for Water Resources 
• Groundwater Flow and Waste Containment 
• Contracts and Insurance 
• Project Finance and Accounting 
• Intermediate Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering
• Earthquake Engineering and Soil Stabilization
• Computational Modeling in Geotechnical Engineering
• Engineering Analysis Techniques
• Engineering Mechanics
• Hydraulics for Environmental Engineers 
• Engineering Analysis Techniques
• Construction Management

Students can start the program with no GMAT or GRE requirements. But they must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher. Incoming students can transfer up to 12 credits, and there are two start dates each year. A number of scholarships for prospective civil engineers are available. However, students may also be eligible for financial aid and other discounts. 

The Master of Civil Engineering program was designed by the same esteemed faculty who developed the on-campus programs. And students will earn the same degree as if they had taken the program on campus. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

See Also: Top 20 Affordable Small Private Schools

16. Villanova University

Villanova University offers both M.S. and Ph.D. engineering programs. Each of these programs has four areas of concentration:

1. Geotechnical Engineering
2. Structural Engineering
3. Transportation Engineering
4. Environment and Water Resources Engineering

The MS also has a fifth interdisciplinary option. This option allows students to combine two concentrations. This amounts to nine graduate-level civil engineering programs. Villanova states that the majority of courses are available online. Yet, some students may need to attend on-campus classes from time to time. 

The program is highly flexible, and there are several formats. For example, students can attend school at night to balance work and family obligations. However, they can also participate via the E-learning program synchronously. This allows them to take online classes in real-time. Additionally, students can work asynchronously. This will enable them to listen to lectures and recorded materials when it is convenient for them. 

The programs are unique in that you can combine any of the formats to suit your schedule. Or, you can earn your civil engineering graduate degree 100 percent online. The choice is yours. 

Aspiring civil engineers can complete the MSCE program in three years by attending part-time. A bachelor of science/MS 4+1 dual degree in civil engineering is also available. However, students must attend the bachelor’s level courses on campus. 

Villanova was established in 1842 in Villanova, Pennsylvania. This private nonprofit institution offers degrees from associate to doctorate. And they also have some certificate programs. In addition, the College of Engineering has a considerable breadth of engineering program options. These options cover a total of eight disciplines at the master’s and doctorate levels:

• Biochemical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Sustainable Engineering
• Environmental and Water Resources Engineering

There are five engineering programs at the bachelor’s level. Plus, there are several graduate engineering certificates. Online options are available for all the non-CE graduate engineering programs as well. All of the undergrad programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. 

The school has been ranked on the list of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs. Villanova has also ranked in various lists from Financial Times, Princeton Review, and others. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Related: What is the difference between a computer science and a software engineering degree?

17. New Jersey Institute of Technology

New Jersey Institute of Technology offers an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This program has three 15-credit specialty options to choose from: 

1. Construction Management
2. Transportation
3. Structural Design and Construction

The program requires the completion of 30 credits, which can be earned in as little as 19 months. Alternately, you can choose one of the two 12-credit online grad certificate programs. These are Construction Management and Project Management. NJIT also has a Bachelor of Science and a PhD in civil engineering. However, both of these are on-campus only.

Some of the courses for the online MS in Civil Engineering include:

• Introduction to Soil Behavior
• Civil Construction Methods
• Remote Sensing of Environment
• Design of Masonry and Timber Structures
• Geometric Design of Transportation Facilities
• Design and Construction of Asphalt Pavements
• Geographic Information System
• Research Methods in Remote Sensing
• Geospatial Data Applications
• Construction Management
• Project Planning and Control
• Underground Construction
• Infrastructure and Facilities Remediation
• Construction Cost Estimating
• Historic Preservation
• Applied Hydrogeology
• Open Channel Flow
• Hydrology
• Coastal Engineering
• Construction Management

New Jersey Institute of Technology is a public university founded in 1881. Based in Newark, the school offers degree programs from the bachelor’s to doctorate levels. And some post-baccalaureate certificate programs are also available. The Newark College of Engineering offers engineering programs across six departments: 

1. Biomedical Engineering
2. Chemical, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Engineering
3. Civil and Environmental Engineering
4. Electrical and Computer Engineering
5. Engineering Technology
6. Mechanical and Industrial Engineering

These departments collectively offer over 30 programs for prospective civil engineers. The college has appeared in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Grad Schools in Engineering. NJIT also appears on several Princeton Review rankings. Other ranking lists include: Forbes, Washington Monthly, and several others.

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

18. Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University offers an online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This program consists of 10 courses and 30 credit hours. No on-campus presence or thesis is required. However, a thesis option is available. 

Students can select one of two areas of emphasis. These include Structural Engineering or Transportation Systems Management. In addition, a dual degree option with an MBA (44 extra credits) is available. Although the latter is primarily on-campus. A Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering are also offered through traditional on-campus delivery.

SMU is a private nonprofit school established in 1911. Based in Dallas, Texas, it is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Degree programs available range from bachelor’s to doctorate. And some post-bachelor’s and post-master’s certificate programs are offered too. The Bobby B. Lyle School of Engineering provides other online engineering degree programs in five study areas: 

• Computer Science and Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Management, Information, and Systems
• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Multidisciplinary Studies

Each study area may have more than one degree program at each level. For example, several grad study areas offer one or more MS tracks. Plus, they may have at least a Ph.D. and select Doctor of Engineering tracks. Ambitious students may be interested in some of the school’s dual degree programs. The university ranks high in publications like Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and others.

The online programs are designed specifically for working professionals with busy schedules. Students can take classes remotely or come in for evening sessions. The programs are extremely flexible. However, students are expected to complete the coursework within the provided deadlines. The content for the remote programs is identical to what is taught on campus. And students will receive the same degree no matter which format they choose. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

19. Clarkson University

Clarkson University offers an M.S. and a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering. These programs have online, hybrid, and onsite options. The MS requires a thesis and takes 18-24 months. The Ph.D. requires a thesis and a total of 90 credits. Concentrations include:

1. Environmental Engineering
2. Geotechnical Engineering
3. Structural and Materials Engineering
4. Water Resources Engineering
5. Construction Engineering Management

Clarkson University is a private nonprofit established in 1896. Based in Potsdam, New York, the school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degree programs. The Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering has programs in several disciplines. Some of these include:

• Power Engineering
• Environmental Science and Engineering
• Engineering Science
• Engineering and Management Systems
• Electrical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Civil and Environmental Engineering 

The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits the programs. USA Today has previously ranked the college in the top 10 American engineering colleges. And U.S. News & World Report has also ranked its Civil and Environmental Engineering programs at the top. The university has also received rankings from Washington Monthly, Princeton Review, and others.

Admission to the master’s programs requires a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. The degree may also be in a related engineering discipline. No minimum GPA is required. However, applicants should be able to demonstrate a history of academic achievement. Ph.D. candidates must have an M.S. degree in civil engineering or related engineering discipline. Students will also need a statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation. Courses for the M.S. program may include:

• Environmental Chemistry 
• Chemodynamics 
• Advanced Soil Mechanics 
• Advanced Fluid Mechanics 
• Introduction to the Finite Element Method 
• Theory of Elasticity 
• Continuum Mechanics 
• Experimental Methods in Structures 
• Fracture Mechanics of Concrete Structures 
• Computational Methods of Structural Analysis 
• Analysis of Advanced Composite Structures 
• Introduction to Finite Element Method 
• Cement Chemistry 
• Watershed Analysis 
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Construction Management

There are a limited number of scholarships available. Most are associated with assistantships or the completion of a master’s thesis. Financial aid may also be available. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

20. Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University in the City of New York offers a fully online Master of Science in Civil Engineering. In addition, two other online engineering programs are available:

Construction Engineering and Management

MS in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics

A few of the required courses for these programs include:

• Elastic and Plastic Analysis of Structures 
• Uncertainty & Risk in Infrastructure Systems 
• Managing Engineering & Construction Processes 
• Finite Element Analysis 
• Prevention & Resolution of Construction Disputes
• Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering 
• Advanced Soil Mechanics 
• Theory of Vibrations
• Mechanics of Fracture & Fatigue 
• Advanced Mechanics 
• Advanced Mechanics of Solids 
• Advanced Heat Transfer 

The degrees are fully online and require 30 credits. Students will need to meet minimum GRE scores for admission. There are also two 12-credit certificate programs online. These do not require a GRE score. These programs have 13 areas of concentration or combinations. A few of these include:

• Acoustics
• Computational Mechanics
• Continuum Mechanics
• Earthquake Engineering
• Experimental Mechanics
• Finite Element Methods
• Fluid Mechanics
• Hydrogeology
• Soil Mechanics
• Structures
• Vibrations and Dynamics

Columbia is a private nonprofit based in New York City. Established in 1754, it is one of the oldest institutions in this ranking and the state. And this school counts itself among the prestigious Ivy League. It offers bachelor’s to doctorate degrees and certificate programs. The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science offers several engineering degrees. Students can access them through the following nine departments: 

• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
• Earth and Environmental Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering

Most engineering disciplines with master’s degrees have an online option. The same is also true for the Ph.D. programs. Columbia has a long list of rankings earned from publications like Forbes, Washington Monthly, and others.

The school has rolling admissions, meaning there are no hard deadlines. However, students are advised to submit their paperwork at least ten weeks before enrollment. Online students at Columbia are encouraged to visit the campus. And they may participate in the school’s many activities and experiences. However, students must meet all immunization requirements and get permission before their visit. 

Online Civil Engineering Degree Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How To Choose the Right Civil Engineering College

Choosing the best civil engineering program for you is a big decision. There are many factors to consider. But they usually boil down to you. What are your goals? What area of civil engineering are you interested in? Do you want to attend a bachelor’s degree civil engineering program close to home, or would you prefer to go to an engineering school in another state?

When you start your college search for the best online bachelor’s degree (or graduate degree) civil engineering program, you’ll want to do your homework. There are a few essential things you should look for in a civil engineering college or university.

What To Look For in Civil Engineering Programs

Tuition Costs

Is the civil engineering program one that you can afford? Don’t forget to factor in fees and associated costs. Online bachelor’s degree (and graduate) programs can vary widely in terms of tuition.

Financial Aid

Does the college have any scholarships or grants for its civil engineering programs? Is the program that interests you eligible for federal financial aid?

Location

If you plan to attend school on campus, do you want an easy commute? Or would you prefer to complete your civil engineering program in another state? There are civil engineering programs all over America. What geographic location interests you the most?

Accreditation

Are the civil engineering programs you are considering accredited? Most employers will not consider applicants who are not from accredited schools. Therefore, be sure your civil engineering program is accredited. 

Campus Amenities

If you plan to attend a civil engineering program on campus, what does the school offer in terms of amenities? Are there other elective programs that interest you? Are there any sports teams or clubs you would join? What about housing and meal plans? Will they adequately meet your needs?

Online Options

Many schools offer hybrid options for their civil engineering programs. Does the school you want to attend offer online classes? Do you need the flexibility of a civil engineer degree online? How many online civil engineering programs does the school offer?

Results

Does the college have a history of graduating successful civil engineers? Where do these civil engineers work now? Are they successful civil engineers in their fields? Did these civil engineers find careers that met their original goals?

Career Services

Does the school offer job placement services or support to aspiring civil engineers? Do the civil engineering programs have fellowships, internships, or externships? Are there opportunities to work with other civil engineers to explore new research areas? Does the school have partnerships with major engineering firms? Can you expect to become a civil engineer at one of these companies upon graduation?

Concentrations

Does the civil engineering program you are considering have any concentrations? For example, some civil engineers want to work in structural mechanics. Other civil engineers want to specialize in civil infrastructure. Does the school only offer a general civil engineering program? Or do they have specific civil engineering programs that appeal to you?

Skills Needed To Pursue a Career in Civil Engineering

To become a civil engineer, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. You can also gain entrance to the field with a related bachelor’s degree in engineering or civil engineering specialty. However, earning a civil engineering bachelor’s degree is the first step to becoming a professional civil engineer. 

But what makes a great civil engineer? Beyond what you learn in a civil engineering program, what skills do you need to become the best civil engineer you can be? Online civil engineering programs can be helpful, but you need some specific traits as well.

Qualities of Good Civil Engineers

Leadership

Civil engineers are professionals that take the ultimate responsibility for various projects. They often guide other workers in implementing plans. So successful civil engineers should be able to lead and motivate others. 

Decisionmaking 

There are a lot of decisions to be made by civil engineers. First, they need to balance multiple objectives constantly. For example, a civil engineer must determine whether safety concerns make a project too difficult. Or whether the costs involved will see a project through. Civil engineers constantly make choices, so they need to be practical and decisive. 

Mathematics

Civil engineers must be proficient in mathematics. And not just core math requirements, either. As a civil engineer, you should excel in advanced mathematics such as trigonometry, calculus, and other topics. Civil engineers should always be practicing and improving their math skills. If you hate math, becoming a civil engineer might not be the right career for you. 

Communication

Civil engineers often need to present plans or reports to groups of people. This requires them to speak calmly and clearly about any project. They should be natural at conversing with others in various settings. A good civil engineer can take highly technical and scientific knowledge and present it in an easy-to-understand way. In other words, a civil engineer with good communication skills can explain concepts, so they make sense to those who are not civil engineers. 

Problem-solving 

A civil engineer is usually involved in the highest level of any project. And complex projects always involve problems. Civil engineers will always encounter obstacles during the design, planning, construction, and other facets of a project. So they must be able to develop on-the-fly solutions without becoming frazzled. Civil engineers are experts in problem-solving and love to use this creative skill to help things run smoothly. 

Organizational Skills

Civil engineers are masters at handling many things at once. They may handle several tasks each day, such as:

• Sign documents and prepare paperwork
• Evaluate a current job site
• Conduct a feasibility study on another project
• Ensure other employees are on task
• Remain compliant with state and local regulations

It’s easy to see that civil engineers need to be excellent multitaskers. They should not get too overwhelmed with the many projects on their plate at once. Instead, a civil engineer must have the ability to maintain balance and take things in stride.

Careers With a Civil Engineering Degree Online

Online civil engineering degrees can lead to a wide array of careers. There are jobs available at all levels of experience in civil engineering. Many of these are high-demand jobs commanding excellent salaries. Even with just a bachelor’s degree. They are available in both the public and private sectors.

This section will discuss some civil engineering roles you can get at each degree level. This includes both civil engineering bachelor’s degree and master’s degree roles. Plus, we list some civil engineering careers to pursue with a Ph.D. in civil engineering. Salaries for the civil engineering careers listed below come from PayScale and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Related: Planning for Graduate School as an Undergrad

Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs

Students can earn a civil engineering bachelor’s degree in about four years in a traditional online program. However, occasionally, students can also get a civil engineering bachelor’s degree online. There are not many undergraduate online civil engineering degrees. However, those bachelor’s degree programs that are delivered online may allow students to complete their coursework independently. Time is on your side with online civil engineering bachelor’s degree programs. Students can earn a civil engineering bachelor’s degree in less time than they would in an on-campus program. 

At some schools, you can earn a dual degree in civil engineering. This allows students to simultaneously earn a civil engineering bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. These combined bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs can take up to five years.

Civil engineering bachelor’s degrees typically require 120 to 140 credits for completion. Bachelor’s degree classes cover the basics of civil engineering. This can include surveying, structure analysis, construction, and more. Civil engineering bachelor’s degree students will also focus on science and math coursework. They will usually take calculus, algebra, physics, and other STEM classes.

Students must generally show ACT or SAT scores to apply to a civil engineering bachelor’s degree program. Bachelor’s degree candidates may need to also show minimum GPA scores. Students pursuing civil engineering bachelor’s degree programs should use high school wisely. They are strongly advised to take advanced math courses while still in school. This will prepare them for the academic rigors of civil engineering bachelor’s degree programs in college. A civil engineering bachelor’s degree prepares students for many excellent roles in civil engineering.

Civil Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs

For those with a civil engineering bachelor’s degree, the next logical step is a master’s degree. A master’s degree in civil engineering can help students who want to advance in the field. Most master’s programs require between 30 to 40 credits. And generally, they take about two years to complete. Civil engineering graduate programs are available on campus or remotely. But unlike the bachelor’s degree programs, there are many more master’s online civil engineering degrees available. So finding a program that’s right for you shouldn’t be difficult. 

Graduate degrees in civil engineering can also help students gain promotions. And it demonstrates they are ready for more responsibility. It will also help you stand out from other applicants when looking for new positions. 

There are other benefits of a master’s in civil engineering besides higher earnings. Graduate degree students get to explore advanced topics in civil engineering. Gaining more knowledge in a field you are passionate about is one of the joys of education. Of course, this advanced degree isn’t necessary to practice civil engineering. However, it is undoubtedly worth it for those who love to learn. 

A master’s in civil engineering also lets you polish your professional skills. In addition, you’ll get a chance to network with other students and professionals in the field. This is true even for those enrolled in online degree programs. A graduate degree in civil engineering opens up many advanced roles in both the public and private sectors. 

Civil Engineering Doctoral Degree Jobs 

A doctoral degree in civil engineering is the highest academic level awarded to civil engineering students. These programs can take five or more years to complete. And they usually require at least 50 to 75 credits. Doctoral programs are research-focused. And generally, they culminate in a dissertation.  

With a Ph.D. in civil engineering, students usually have a good idea of what area of research they wish to pursue. And they will work with an advisor to devise a curriculum to fit within their area of interest. Typically, Ph.D. programs include advanced academics and electives during the first part of the program. Then, students will work on rigorous and demanding research projects during the second half. 

Depending on the school, some Ph.D. programs are more competitive than others. Students must demonstrate academic excellence and meet other challenging criteria to be accepted. 

A Ph.D. prepares students for some of the highest-paying civil engineering degree jobs. They will gain the necessary skills to pursue senior-level positions in civil engineering or related roles. With these online degree programs, students can also move into careers in research or academia.

This concludes our article on the best online civil engineering degrees.

OCP Staff