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Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics MS Bridge Program FAQ

The Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Bridge Program is an exciting initiative designed to empower highly talented students who might not have an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering, setting them on the pathway to success in the Master of Science in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics (CEEM).  The Bridge Program provides a clear and structured avenue for students eager to enrich their civil engineering knowledge before diving into the MS curriculum.  With the right preparation, these students, who bring a vibrant array of academic and professional experiences, can not only excel but also make invaluable contributions to the program.  By offering a comprehensive, full-time preparatory experience, the CEEM Bridge Program boosts students' confidence, enhances their capabilities and readiness, and broadens the range of perspectives within the MS cohort.  This variety fosters a more dynamic and enriching learning environment, encourages innovative problem-solving by blending different perspectives, and prepares graduates to work effectively in a global society.  It enhances collaborative learning, broadens the scope of educational discussions, and helps build a network of professionals with varied insights and expertise, ultimately benefiting both the students and the field of civil engineering.

It is expected that qualified students will have taken college mathematics courses including Linear Algebra (MATH UN2010) as well as a programming course in Python or MATLAB (ENGI E1006).

  • For whom has the CEEM Bridge Program been designed? What sort of background is appropriate?

    The Bridge Program is designed to attract top candidates who have undergraduate degrees in engineering disciplines other than civil engineering or degrees in scientific or quantitative fields such as Mathematics, Economics, Data Science, Statistics, Business/Finance, Urban Planning, Architecture, or other relevant fields providing they can demonstrate a sufficient quantitative background.  Qualified applicants are expected to have completed college-level mathematics courses including Linear Algebra (MATH UN2010), as well as a programming course in Python or MATLAB (ENGI E1006).  However, these courses can be taken as part of the Bridge Program, if needed.

  • What is the curriculum of the CEEM Bridge Program?

    A student who is admitted to the Master of Science program in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics without an undergraduate degree in civil engineering will be required to take additional courses before taking the courses required for the MS degree. 

    The CEEM Bridge Program consists of up to 7 courses detailed below. Some requirements may be waived based on your performance (B or better) in equivalent courses taken previously. The requirements are:

    • MATH UN201 Linear Algebra (3)
    • ENGI E1006 Python (3)
    • ENME E3105 Mechanics (4)
    • ENME E3113 Mechanics of Solids (3)
    • ENME E3161 Fluid Mechanics (4)
    • CIEN E3141 Soil Mechanics (4)
    • CIEN E3125 Structural Design (3)
  • I’ve previously taken similar courses to the CEEM Bridge Program; can certain course be waived?

    Yes, it may be possible to waive some of the requirements based on previous courses you have taken. A minimum grade of B is required. Once admitted, you will be able to consult with the CEEM Bridge Program Advisor, providing the course description and syllabus for review.

  • Is the CEEM Bridge Program a full-time or part-time program?

    The CEEM Bridge Program is an in-person, full-time program within the Masters of Science in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics program. The CEEM Bridge curriculum must be completed in addition to the 30 credits of the CEEM MS program. The CEEM Bridge Program can be completed in as little as 1 semester.

  • How long is the CEEM Bridge Program?

    The CEEM Bridge program is an in-person, full-time curriculum that can be completed in as few as 1 semester before embarking on the Masters of Science requirements in the second semester. A sample program is presented below:

    Fall (15 credits)Spring (12-15 credits)

    ENME E3105 Mechanics (4)

    ENME E3113 Mechanics of Solids (3)

    ENME E3161 Fluid Mechanics (4)

    CIEN E3141 Soil Mechanics (4)

    CIEN E3125 Structural Design (3)

    MATH UN201 Linear Algebra (if needed, 3)

    ENGI E1006 Python (if needed, 3)

    Masters level classes (9-12 credits)

  • How do I apply to the CEEM Bridge Program?

    Students should apply to the CEEM MS Program here (link) as any other student. If deficiencies in academic background are noted, admitted students will be notified which courses in the CEEM Bridge curriculum they will need to take.

  • How do I transition into the MS program after completing the Bridge curriculum?

    There is no need to transition from the CEEM Bridge program to the MS program. Students apply directly to the CEEM MS program. If deficiencies in academic background are noted, admitted students are notified which courses in the CEEM Bridge curriculum they will need to take.

  • When is the CEEM Bridge Program application deadline?

    The priority deadline for complete applications is February 15th. In order to be considered complete for review, your application should be submitted, and all materials should be received (including letters of reference).