Ph.D. in Civil Engineering

Program Overview

Rowan University's Ph.D. in Civil Engineering equips professionals with advanced knowledge in civil engineering principles, research, and technical writing. The flexible curriculum allows students to tailor their education while ensuring proficiency in core areas. The program emphasizes mentorship, hands-on experience, and research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, and industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Rowan University is designed for professionals, scholars, and researchers in academia, government, and industry seeking expertise in civil engineering. The flexible multidisciplinary structure allows students to tailor their education while ensuring proficiency in civil engineering principles, research, technical writing, and advanced mathematics. This program aligns with other major research universities, enabling continuous curriculum improvements in the constantly evolving civil engineering field.

Objectives:

• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced mathematics, civil engineering principles, and a range of technical subjects to prepare them for complex real-world challenges in civil engineering.

Outline:

Required Courses (21 Semester Hours):

• Graduate Civil and Environmental Engineering Courses (500 and above): 15 S.H.
• Graduate-Level Writing Course (500): 3 S.H.
• Graduate-Level Math Course (500): 3 S.H.

Graduate Elective Courses (15 Semester Hours):

• Courses tailored to individual student interests and career goals.

Research Courses (36 Semester Hours):

• ENGR 01799 Doctoral Research and Dissertation: 3/6/9 S.H.
(total of 36 S.H. required)

Program Structure:

• Students must complete 72 semester hours of graduate-level coursework (or 42 semester hours if they possess a master's degree in a related field).
• The curriculum includes coursework, a Qualifier Exam, research requirements, a dissertation, and a dissertation defense.
• Coursework covers technical writing, advanced mathematics, civil engineering principles, and elective courses.
• Research requirements involve developing and executing original research, leading to a dissertation that addresses a novel problem with real-world implications.
• Students must pass a written Qualifier Exam within the first four semesters of study.
• Ph.D. Candidacy Exam (Proposal Examination): Students must pass within 18 months of completing their Qualifier Exam.
The exam assesses the originality, importance, and technical merits of the student's dissertation topic.

Assessment:

• Student progress is assessed through coursework, research, and exams.
• Coursework is graded on a traditional letter grade system.
• Research progress is evaluated through meetings with advisors and dissertation committees, as well as participation in the departmental seminar program.
• The Qualifier Exam, Candidacy Exam, and Dissertation Defense are used to evaluate students' knowledge, research skills, and ability to communicate their findings.

Teaching:

• The program emphasizes mentorship and hands-on experience.
• Students work closely with faculty advisors and research teams.
• The program encourages students to participate in research conferences and publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and industry collaborations.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for careers in various sectors, including academia, government agencies, engineering firms, and research and development organizations.
• Potential roles include:
• University professor
• Research scientist
• Senior engineer
• Technical consultant
• Project manager