M.S. Civil Engineering

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

The University of Akron (UA) offers a variety of scholarships to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to help alleviate the cost of tuition and support academic excellence. 

Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships at UA are automatically considered for all incoming first-year students. These awards are based on a comprehensive review of the applicant’s academic transcripts, curriculum, and cumulative GPA. 

Williams Honors College Scholarships|: First-year, transfer, and continuing students who meet specific academic qualifications can apply for the Williams Honors College Scholarships. These scholarships range from $1,500 to $2,000 and require an application to the Williams Honors College, including an interview. 

Provost’s Scholarships for Transfer Students: These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, are available to students transferring from another regionally accredited college or university. Transfer students are automatically considered for these awards upon applying for admission​.

International Student Scholarship Opportunities: International students can also benefit from various specific scholarships offered by different departments and programs within the university. For instance, the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences offers numerous scholarships for students pursuing majors within their disciplines. These range from awards for academic merit to those supporting specific fields of study​​.

Graduate Assistantships: For graduate international students, UA offers numerous assistantships that provide stipends and tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable work experience while funding their education. 

Graduates of The University of Akron's M.S. in Civil Engineering program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in the field of civil engineering, which encompasses infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and urban planning. The program's comprehensive curriculum, emphasis on research, and industry engagement equip students with the skills needed to excel in both public and private sectors.

Infrastructure Development: Civil engineers play a vital role in infrastructure development, designing, constructing, and maintaining essential infrastructure systems such as bridges, highways, airports, and water supply networks. Graduates may work for government agencies, consulting firms, or construction companies in roles such as structural engineer, transportation engineer, geotechnical engineer, or project manager, overseeing infrastructure projects from planning to completion.

Environmental Engineering and Sustainability: With a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, civil engineers contribute to projects aimed at protecting natural resources, improving air and water quality, and implementing sustainable practices in construction and infrastructure. Graduates may specialize in environmental engineering, focusing on water resources management, wastewater treatment, environmental remediation, and sustainable urban development.

Urban Planning and Development: Civil engineers play a critical role in urban planning and development, designing efficient transportation systems, sustainable buildings, and resilient infrastructure to accommodate growing urban populations. Graduates may work as urban planners, city engineers, or development managers, collaborating with architects, policymakers, and community stakeholders to shape urban landscapes and improve quality of life in cities.

Construction Management: Civil engineering graduates with expertise in construction management oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of construction projects. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Roles may include construction project manager, site engineer, or construction estimator, working for construction firms, real estate developers, or government agencies.

Consulting and Engineering Services: Many civil engineering graduates pursue careers in consulting firms or engineering services companies, providing expertise in infrastructure design, environmental impact assessments, and project management. Consultants offer solutions to optimize project performance, reduce environmental impact, and enhance community resilience. Engineering services may involve designing customized solutions for transportation, water management, or urban infrastructure projects.

Government and Public Sector: Civil engineers are employed by government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels to oversee public infrastructure projects, enforce building codes, and develop urban planning policies. Graduates may work as civil engineers for departments of transportation, public works agencies, environmental protection agencies, or regulatory bodies, contributing to public safety, infrastructure resilience, and sustainable development initiatives.

Research and Academia: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in academia or research institutions, where they conduct innovative research in civil engineering disciplines. They may work as faculty members, research scientists, or postdoctoral fellows, advancing knowledge in areas such as structural engineering, materials science, transportation planning, or environmental modeling. Academic roles involve teaching, mentoring students, and publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.