Civil and Environmental Engineering (Thesis)

Develop advanced technical expertise and gain research experience in designing, analyzing and improving infrastructure and environmental systems with a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering (Thesis) from Colorado School of Mines. This program is designed for you if you want to solve complex engineering problems that affect communities, industry and the built environment.

At Mines, you will strengthen skills in analysis, modeling, design and applied research – all essential capabilities for civil and environmental engineers as industries and public agencies manage aging infrastructure, growing resource demands and increasingly complex regulatory and technical requirements. Engineers who can evaluate systems holistically and apply rigorous engineering methods are in high demand.

What sets Mines apart is its applied, problem-solving focus. The thesis requirement allows you to conduct original research, work closely with Mines faculty and contribute new knowledge to the field. You will graduate with experience that reflects professional engineering practice and positions you for technical leadership, advanced design roles or doctoral study.

Program Detail

The masters thesis in civil and environmental engineering combines advanced coursework with independent research. You'll take graduate-level courses aligned with your technical interests and research goals, selecting one of three emphasis areas:

Geotechnical engineering:

• Gain specialized knowledge in the engineering properties and behavior of natural and engineered geomaterials, as well as the design and construction of foundations, earth dams and levees, retaining walls, embankments and underground infrastructure.

Structural engineering:

• Focus on natural and engineered structures and their behavior under environmental loading, learning to conduct analyses of engineered materials and design structures for civil systems, whether that’s bridges, buildings, tunnels, highways, dams or numerous other structures.

Environmental and Water Engineering:

• Hone system design skills needed to solve challenges in the application of environmental processes in natural and engineered systems, including water resource engineering, water and wastewater treatment, environmental microbiology, mining treatment processes, and more. This track is ideal for students looking to work as professional environmental engineers.

A defining component of the program is the thesis. You will partner with a faculty advisor to identify a research problem, conduct analytical, experimental or computational work and present your findings in a written thesis and oral defense. Research topics often address real engineering challenges faced by industry and public agencies.