Master of Engineering (MEng)
The MEng program is a non-thesis, course-based professional program designed for students who would like to further their studies in Civil Engineering without pursuing research. The program requires completion of at least 30 credits of coursework beyond the Bachelor’s degree level. In addition to the 30 credits of required coursework, some specialty groups may require a project to be completed in partial fulfillment of the degree requirements.
Master of Applied Science (MASc)
The thesis-based MASc is a traditional research-based degree taken over two years of full-time study. The program includes a total of 18 credits (or more) of coursework and the completion of a thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. The MASc is the recommended course of study for students who are interested in eventually pursuing a PhD.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The thesis-based PhD is an advanced research-based degree. The program normally takes five years of full-time study to complete and includes 30 credits of coursework, the completion of comprehensive examinations in the candidate’s major and minor fields, and the completion of a dissertation under the supervision of a faculty member. It is normal department practice to initially register students into the MASc program, and to transfer them to the PhD program upon completion of the MASc (or earlier if recommended by the supervising faculty member).
Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL)
Beyond the MEng, MASc, and PhD programs, the Department also participates in two Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) programs offered by the Faculty of Applied Science.
The MEL offers one-year, non-thesis professional degree programs for practicing professionals who want to excel in their careers, broaden their technical perspectives and gain new business and leadership skills. These programs combine cross-disciplinary technical instruction and personal leadership development offered by UBC’s Faculty of Applied Science and the Sauder School of Business. Civil Engineering offers one MEL program, Urban Systems: Infrastructure for Resilient Cities (offered jointly with the School of Community and Regional Planning). Find more information at mel.ubc.ca.