Civil Engineering Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Engineering – Civil Engineering Specialization or Master of Science (M.S.) in Civil Engineering

How to Apply

Before applying to the degree program, it is strongly recommended that you contact the program coordinator well in advance of the application deadline to understand and fulfill all requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Master of Engineering

  • B.S. in engineering (no exceptions allowed)
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate degree from a regionally-accredited institution (exceptions may be made for students who are applying through Track II Admission).
  • GRE scores are not required.

Master of Science

  • B.S. in engineering (no exceptions allowed)
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate degree from a regionally-accredited institution (exceptions may be made for students who are applying through Track II Admission).
  • GRE scores are required.

Note that meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on a number of factors, including prior academic and professional experience and the personal statement.

Before your application for graduate study is considered, all application materials must be received by the department.

Step 1 – Apply Online

  • Complete the online graduate application and pay the $50 nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online).
    • M.E.
      Select "Engineering (Civil Engineering) ME - Distance" when choosing the program of study.
    • M.S.
      Select "Engineering (Civil Engineering) MS - Distance" when choosing the program of study.

Step 2 – Submit Application Materials

Gather all of the following materials and submit to the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering:

  • Professional resume or vita
    You may include this in the online application process, email it as an attachment to lalburn@engr.colostate.edu, or submit a paper copy.
  • Statement of purpose
    The statement of purpose is typically 1-2 pages and briefly describes your background, educational goals, research interests, and why you would be a good fit in the program.

    You may include this in the online application process, email it as an attachment to lalburn@engr.colostate.edu, or submit a paper copy.
  • Official transcript
    Include one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from every institution attended, whether or not you received a degree from those institutions. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be submitted in a sealed university envelope.
  • Three letters of recommendation
    It is recommended that letters come from faculty, supervisors or others who can accurately speak to your skills as an engineer, scientist, researcher, and student.

    Important: Letters may be mailed or emailed as an attachment to lalburn@engr.colostate.edu, but must come directly from the recommender.

Master of Science applicants only

  • GRE General Test
    Submit official GRE General Test scores through the Educational Testing Service. Select institution code 4075. Scores are typically received by the University four to six weeks after your testing date.

International applicants only

International applicants must include the following items in addition to those listed above:

  • Official transcript translations
    If transcripts are in a language other than English, ensure official copies include a certified translation into English.
  • TOEFL scores
    • Submit official TOEFL scores directly from ETS. Photocopies are not accepted.
    • The ETS institution code for CSU is 4075.
    • It generally takes 3-6 weeks for ETS to send the scores to CSU, so allow plenty of time.
    • The minimum score for applicants is 80 on the internet-based test (550 on the paper-based test or 6.5 on the IELTS).
    Generally, applicants may be exempted from the TOEFL or IELTS requirement if the official language of your country is English or if you have recently earned a degree at an American university. If you have questions about whether you qualify for this exemption, contact the Graduate School.

Sending application materials

Any materials that cannot be submitted online should be sent to the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering address below. Please send all your materials to the department, and they will forward materials appropriately:

Graduate Admissions
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
ATTN: Laurie Alburn
Colorado State University
1372 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1372

Application Deadlines

Students may be admitted for the Fall or Spring semester. Summer admission is not available.

Fall semester April 1
Spring semester September 1

Additional Information