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Civil Engineering, 4+1 Program

Bachelor/Master of Science in Civil Engineering

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Program Intro

Bridges, roads, roofs, airports: Wherever you go, you’ll see the work of civil engineers. We design, build, and maintain the foundation and infrastructure for our world, from interstate highways, suspension bridges, high-rise buildings, and energy systems to seaports, airports and community centers.

Department of Mechanical and Civil Engineering

If you’re a hard-working, dedicated engineering student who has decided to pursue graduate study, we offer an option that makes the best use of your time and schedule.

The 4+1 combined option means you will receive both your bachelor’s AND master’s degrees in just five years.

That means you can save a whole year of studying and paying tuition and be that much closer to your next big step: starting your career!

Curriculum Overview

This 4+1 combined Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) and Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) program enables you to earn both degrees in five years instead of the six that are required to complete these degrees separately.

As a 4+1 student, you’ll broaden your studies at an accelerated pace, improve your career prospects and gain a competitive advantage in a dynamic field.

Build a foundation of engineering knowledge with mechanics and calculus courses.

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Sample Courses

  • MA 16300 – Integrated Calculus Analysis Geometry I
  • MA 16400 – Integrated Calculus Analysis Geometry II
  • PHYS 15200 – Mechanics

 

Expand your knowledge through courses in multivariate calculus, statics and materials used in the civil engineering discipline.

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Sample Courses

  • MA 26100 – Multivariate Calculus
  • CE 0400 – Civil Engineering Materials
  • CE 27101 – Basic Mechanics I (Statics)

Dive into structural analysis, environmental engineering and hydrology.

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Sample Courses

  • CE 33400 – Structural Analysis I
  • CE 35400 – Introduction to Environmental Engineering
  • CE 34200 – Engineer Hydrology and Hydraulics

Engage in a hands-on project in a two-semester capstone experience; take nine hours of graduate classes toward your MSE degree. In year five, you can choose the non-thesis option (21 credit hours of classes) or to complete a thesis (with nine hours of thesis-focused classes and 12 additional credit hours).

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Sample Courses

  • CE 42900 – Senior Engineering Design I
  • CE 43900 – Senior Engineering Design II

Highlights

The combined program allows you to use nine credits of graduate level courses (approved by a graduate advisor or the graduate committee of the MCE department) to satisfy both the BS and MS graduation requirements.

This reduces the number of required credits for the combined BSCE+MSE degree to 143, making it possible for you to complete both degrees in five years.

A lion sculpture on PNW's campus PNW graduates at commencement

Outcomes

As a graduate of this program, you’ll become a competent and engaged professional in the field of civil engineering, who can:

  • Continue developing professionally
  • Demonstrate teamwork and leadership skills
  • Contribute meaningfully to your profession
  • Recognize the societal, ethical and global impact of your work

Beyond the Classroom

We encourage you to get involved in activities like:

  • American Society of Civil Engineers
  • Society of Women Engineers
  • Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers

 

Career Paths

Civil engineers work in a variety of industries and roles, including:

  • Project management
  • Field works
    Consulting
  • Research
  • Computer aided design

 

Employers

Our alumni work with some of the most innovative organizations across the region and around the world, including:

  • ArcelorMittal Steel
  • BP
  • Caterpillar
  • NIPSCO
  • NIES Engineering
  • INDOT

Meet the Faculty

Wubeshet Woldemariam

Wubeshet Woldemariam, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Civil Engineering

Wubeshet Woldemariam is an associate professor of civil engineering in the mechanical and civil engineering department. His research and teaching focus on transportation and infrastructure planning.

A PNW Student in the Classroom

Take the Next Step

See how a PNW degree opens doors, from corporate boardrooms to non-profit leadership.

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