| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-12-15 | - |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares students for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government. It offers advanced coursework and research opportunities in various specializations, including construction engineering, environmental engineering, and transportation engineering. The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and creative research skills, and graduates are highly sought after in a wide range of careers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison aims to develop leaders in education, industry, and government, equipping them with advanced skills to address societal challenges. It offers a comprehensive curriculum in the field, allowing students to specialize in specific areas of interest. The program emphasizes the acquisition of integrated teamwork abilities, communication, leadership, entrepreneurship, and creative research skills.
Outline:
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Ph.D. program provides advanced coursework and research opportunities in various areas of specialization, including:
- Construction Engineering and Management: covers areas such as construction labor productivity management, lean project delivery systems, risk management, computer applications in construction, and change management.
- Environmental Engineering: focuses on water supply, water quality, water treatment, wastewater treatment, solid and hazardous waste management, air pollution, biotechnology, and alternative energy.
- Geo and Pavement Engineering: emphasizes geotechnical and geological engineering, pavement materials and design, asphalt binders and mixtures, geosynthetics, in-situ testing, and engineering geophysics.
- Structural Engineering: addresses behavior, analysis, and design of reinforced/prestressed concrete, steel, and wood structures, as well as design for earthquake and wind loading, and seismic rehabilitation.
- Transportation Engineering: covers highway and traffic engineering, intelligent transportation systems, connected and automated vehicles, transportation planning, freight and infrastructure management, transportation safety, user comprehension and behavior, driving and micro-simulation, and big data.
- Water Resources/Environmental Fluid Mechanics: encompasses analysis, measurement, and modeling of currents, flows, and waves in natural and constructed systems; surface and groundwater hydrology; hydraulic engineering; coastal engineering; sedimentation and transport processes; infrastructure impacts of extreme weather events; and hydroecology and stream restoration.
Assessment:
- Doctoral students are required to complete a qualifying exam after their first year to demonstrate sufficient knowledge and skills in their major field of study.
- A comprehensive preliminary/oral examination is conducted after the completion of 32 credits and a doctoral minor.
- Students must deposit their doctoral dissertation with the Graduate School as a final requirement.
Teaching:
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Ph.D. program at UW-Madison offers face-to-face classes, providing a traditional in-person learning experience. The program emphasizes collaboration, teamwork, and interdisciplinary research, encouraging students to work alongside faculty and researchers.
Careers:
Graduates of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Ph.D. program are highly sought after in academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations. Potential career paths include:
- University Professors and Researchers
- Civil, Environmental, and Structural Engineers
- Environmental Consultants
- Water Resource Managers
- Construction Project Managers
- Transportation Planners and Engineers
- Policy Analysts
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
A minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours (approximately two years of work) is required for domestic applicants. A strong academic performance comparable to an average of B or above grades for all undergraduate course work is required for international applicants. A bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program or from a recognized international institution is recommended.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements.
