AREAS OF STUDY
Villanova’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) program offers these areas of study:
Students interested in Geotechnical Engineering develop interdisciplinary programs that combine geotechnical courses with courses in other areas, including transportation, water resources, environmental and structural engineering. A personalized plan of study is developed in consultation with the student’s advisor. Students interested in research work alongside faculty in state-of-the art laboratories.
Structural Engineering students pursue advanced study in structural design, analysis, mechanics and other related topics. The curriculum offers a balance of theory and application, with emphasis placed on modern structural design codes and practical applications. A typical plan of study includes four required core courses (CEE 7412, 8434, 8435, 8437) with the remaining courses selected based on the student’s interests and long-term goals. Students engaged in research on a thesis-track work alongside faculty in the Richard K. Faris ’69 CE, ’70 MSCE Structural Engineering Teaching and Research Laboratory.
Transportation Engineering students learn how to design, plan, manage and analyze various transportation systems across a wide spectrum. The program emphasizes the development of advanced knowledge and skills related to big data analysis, system operation and safety, infrastructure design, and multi-modal urban planning that are essential for both public and private sectors. Students may also engage in research activities on a thesis-track through work with faculty members from diverse backgrounds and research interests.
In addition to advanced coursework in water resources, students interested in this field often supplement their study with courses in environmental and geotechnical engineering. Villanova University is nationally recognized for its Water Resources Engineering program, which provides access to cutting edge research and collaborative opportunities in the Villanova Center for Resilient Water Systems, which includes the Villanova Urban Stormwater Partnership and the campus's Green Infrastructure Stormwater Research Park. Distinguished leadership includes VCRWS and VUSP Director Dr. Robert Traver, a sought-after stormwater expert and former president of the American Academy of Water Resources Engineers.
Students pursuing advanced degrees in Environmental Engineering may specialize in areas including traditional water and wastewater treatment, advanced treatment technologies for legacy and emerging contaminants, wastewater reuse, waste to energy technologies, environmental sustainability, and soil/groundwater remediation. Students who are interested in research have access to laboratories equipped with the latest analytical equipment such as GC-MS and HPLC. There are research opportunities in emerging research areas of mitigating the formation of disinfection by-products for the provision of safe drinking water and advanced nutrient removal.
STUDENT PERSPECTIVES
“I worked closely with Villanova's faculty on sponsored research projects addressing practical engineering challenges that have been adopted by industry practitioners. My professors cared deeply about my success, encouraged me to pursue my PhD, and were excellent mentors when I later applied for faculty positions in higher education.”
Matt Bandelt, PhD, Associate Chair for Graduate Studies, Dept. of Civil & Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology
“I formed close relationships with my professors. The faculty genuinely want to see you succeed. If it were not for them, I would not have ended up in a job that I am excited to go to each and every day.”
Teresa Lord, Project Engineer, Pennoni
“The classes I have taken at Villanova have been extremely beneficial in helping advance my career. The program has rounded out my education and provided better context for the work I do on a daily basis.”
Chris Slick, Structural Engineer, RS Mowery