Civil Engineering (PhD)

The Doctorate of Philosophy in Civil Engineering program is a 53-credit-hour plus dissertation degree program.

The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Ph.D. in Civil Engineering program is designed to provide a comprehensive and advanced education in civil engineering. 

1. Coursework:
   • Students must complete graduate-level courses in their chosen area of specialization, such as structural engineering, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, or transportation engineering.
   • Courses are selected in consultation with an academic advisor to ensure both depth and breadth of knowledge.
2. Comprehensive Examination:
   • Upon completion of the required coursework, students must pass a comprehensive examination.
   • The exam tests the student's comprehensive knowledge in specified areas of study and includes both written and oral components.
3. Dissertation:
   • After passing the comprehensive examination, students must develop and present a dissertation proposal that must be approved by the department, school, and the Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies.
   • The dissertation involves original research and is conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
   • Upon completion, the student must defend the dissertation in an oral examination before a committee.
4. Additional Requirements:
   • Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout their coursework.
   • The program also includes the possibility of taking courses outside the department to complement the student's research interests.

$1,850 / credit hour

More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.