4+1 Degree in Civil Engineering
Combined Bachelor's and Master's of Science in Civil Engineering
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Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program Overview
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.
Purdue University Northwest’s combined Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) and Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) program allows outstanding undergraduate students to expand their studies by completing both degrees at an accelerated pace.
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!
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program Curriculum
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sample Courses
- CE 42900 – Senior Engineering Design I
- CE 43900 – Senior Engineering Design II
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).
Sample Courses
- CE 32300 – Soil Engineering
- CE 34200 – Engineering Hydrology and Hydraulics
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program 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.
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program 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
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program Career Paths
Civil engineers work in a variety of industries and roles, including:
- Project management
- Field works
Consulting - Research
- Computer aided design
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program 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
Civil Engineering 4+1 Degree Program 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
PNW prepared me not only for my doctoral studies but also for my future career in the industry. I developed research skills and improved my ability to solve realistic problems that are faced by engineers and managers in the industry.
Meet the Faculty
Bruce W. Berdanier, Ph.D., PE, PS
Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences | Acting Director of the School of Engineering
I am currently the Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences at Purdue University Northwest.
Veera Gnaneswar Gude, Ph.D., P.E., BCEE, D.WRE, F.ASCE, F.EWRI
NiSource-Meyer Charitable Foundation Professor of Energy and the Environment | Director, PNW Water Institute
Veera Gnaneswar Gude is NiSource-Meyer Charitable Foundation Professor of Energy and the Environment and Director of Purdue University Northwest Water Institute (PWI). He is a professional engineer and a board-certified environmental engineer.
Subbarao Venkata Majety, Ph.D.
Lecturer and Director of Design Studio, School of Engineering
Subbarao Venkata Majety is a lecturer and director of Design Studio, School of Engineering at Purdue University Northwest.
Chair of Mathematics and Statistics | Interim Chair of Mechanical and Civil Engineering
Nicoleta Tarfulea is a Professor of Mathematics in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Associate Professor of Civil Engineering
Wubeshet Woldemariam is an assistant professor of civil engineering in the mechanical and civil engineering department. His research and teaching focus on transportation and infrastructure planning.
Earn a Combined Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Civil Engineering at PNW
Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or grad@pnw.edu to see how PNW’s flexible programs can meet your needs.
