M.S. Structural Engineering
The M.S. in Structural Engineering program at CSUN is designed for students with a background in civil engineering or a related field who wish to advance their knowledge and skills in the design, analysis, and construction of complex structures. Our comprehensive curriculum, offered through three flexible degree plans (Thesis, Project, or Comprehensive Exam), combines advanced coursework with hands-on research and project work, preparing you for leadership roles in the industry. With experienced faculty, strong industry partnerships, and a supportive learning environment, our program provides the tools and resources you need to succeed in this rewarding field.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students receiving a Master of Science in Structural Engineering will be able to:
- Demonstrate extensive mastery of the subject matter in structural engineering at a deeper theoretical and applied level beyond the fundamental knowledge gained in the undergraduate course sequence.
- Apply principles of engineering mechanics and use appropriate tools to solve complex structural engineering problems.
- Design and evaluate structural components and systems to meet the desired needs.
- Plan, compose and integrate verbal, written and graphical communication to technical and nontechnical audiences.
Degree Requirements
Students entering the program are expected to have completed Soil Mechanics (CE 426) and Structures I (CE 335), Reinforced Concrete Design (CE 438) and Structural Steel Design (CE 439). Admitted students who have not completed such courses as part of an undergraduate program must satisfactorily complete them prior to continuing in the program. These courses cannot be applied toward the formal degree program of study.
This program is intended primarily for students holding a B.S. in Civil Engineering or in a closely related field. Prospective students whose undergraduate degree is not in a closely related field should contact the Department in order to discuss additional prerequisite courses with a faculty advisor.
The total number of 400-level units in the formal program of study for students pursuing the Thesis, Project or Comprehensive Examination Plans may not exceed 9 units.
All successful applicants must also meet the following requirements before they can enroll.
- Satisfaction of all requirements for admission to the University (see Catalog section regarding Graduate Programs).
- A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or in an allied field with some equivalency to Engineering, from an accredited university or college.
- Approval by the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the Department.
- Satisfaction of University requirements for Classified status (See Catalog section regarding Graduate Programs).
- Completion of all requirements noted on individual admissions documents.
- Submit tentative program of study to the CEAM graduate coordinator.
- Approval by the Department Graduate Coordinator.
- Satisfaction of University requirements for the M.S. Degree (see Catalog section regarding Graduate Programs).
- Completion of 30 units under the Thesis, Project or Comprehensive Examination Plan
- 24 units of coursework applicable to the M.S. degree, of which at least 17 units are in required courses at the 500-level or above.
- An additional 6 units of CE698 (Thesis) and successful defense of thesis.
- 27 units of coursework applicable to the M.S. degree, of which at least 17 units are in required courses at the 500-level or above.
- An additional 3 units of CE698 (Graduate Project) culminating in a comprehensive report.
- 27 units of coursework applicable to the M.S. degree, of which at least 17 units are in required courses at the 500-level or above.
- An additional 3 units of CE697 Directed Comprehensive Studies.
Read M.S. in Structural Engineering Program Requirements
Required Courses
AM 509 Methods of Applied Mechanics (3)
CE 537 Timber and Masonry Design (4)
CE 638 Advanced Reinforced Concrete Design (3)
CE 641 Earthquake Engineering (3)
CE 642/L Finite Element Analysis and Lab (3/1)
Remaining courses MUST BE selected from the following list to complete the required units consistent with the culminating experience selected.
AM 410 Vibration Analysis (3)
CE 526 Geotechnical Foundation Design (3)
CE 536/L Structures II and Lab (3/1)
CE 636 Structural Dynamics (3)
CE 639 Advanced Structural Steel Design (3)
CE 640 Advanced Analysis Methods (3)
CE 648 Prestressed Concrete Design (3)
Note: If additional units are required to complete the degree as a consequence of taking some of the above courses in a undergraduate program, other courses can be selected with the approval of the graduate coordinator. If AM 410 and CE 536/L or equivalent were completed as part of an undergraduate degree program, additional units must be included in the graduate program. Please consult with the graduate coordinator.
Total Units Required for the M.S. Degree: 30