MSc in Civil Engineering

The Master of Science (MSc.) program in Civil Engineering at Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology (DUET), Gazipur, is a postgraduate academic initiative designed to foster advanced knowledge, research competency, and professional excellence in the field of civil engineering. Anchored in a rigorous academic and research framework, this program aims to produce highly skilled engineers, researchers, and future leaders capable of addressing the complex infrastructural and environmental challenges of the 21st century. It integrates theoretical learning, experimental research, and applied engineering practices in a multidisciplinary environment that supports both national development priorities and global engineering standards.

The MSc. in Civil Engineering at DUET is a one-and-a-half to five-year program that allows both full-time and part-time enrollment, making it flexible and accessible to working professionals and recent graduates alike. The program is structured to include coursework and a significant research thesis, totaling 36 credit hours. Students begin with advanced coursework tailored to their field of interest, followed by independent research under the guidance of experienced faculty members. This dual focus ensures that graduates not only deepen their technical knowledge but also develop the capacity to conduct original research and solve real-world engineering problems.

The program offers specializations in several core and emerging areas of civil engineering, including Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Climate Change Engineering. Each of these divisions provides a range of core and elective courses designed to give students an in-depth understanding of their chosen field. For example, students in the Structural Engineering division may study advanced topics such as finite element analysis, earthquake-resistant design, and high-performance concrete technologies, while those in the Environmental Engineering track might explore water and wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and air pollution control.

One of the program's defining features is its strong emphasis on research that is aligned with national priorities and global development goals, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students are encouraged to engage in research that addresses critical challenges such as infrastructure resilience, environmental sustainability, urban transportation planning, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction. Topics like soil-structure interaction, flood risk management, traffic simulation, groundwater modeling, and sustainable construction materials are commonly pursued, reflecting the program’s relevance to both academic and applied contexts in Bangladesh and beyond.

To support its academic and research objectives, the Department of Civil Engineering at DUET offers state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers. These include the Mechanics of Solids Laboratory, Concrete Laboratory, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, and Hydraulic Engineering Laboratory. The department also houses a well-equipped GIS and Remote Sensing Center, which supports spatial data analysis and environmental monitoring. These facilities enable students to conduct high-quality empirical research and engage in hands-on experimentation using modern testing and analytical equipment. Moreover, access to the university’s central library and digital resources further supports the scholarly activities of postgraduate students.

The academic environment at DUET is further enriched by a highly qualified faculty with extensive teaching, research, and industry experience. Many faculty members are actively involved in consultancy projects and technical collaborations with government agencies and private sector stakeholders, particularly in areas such as structural design, water and sanitation systems, environmental impact assessment, and infrastructure planning. This close interaction with real-world engineering practices allows students to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications and enhances their understanding of the profession’s evolving demands.

In addition to technical training, the program emphasizes the development of research methodology, academic writing, and project management skills. Students are required to participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and symposiums, where they present their research findings and receive critical feedback from peers and faculty. They are also encouraged to publish their work in national and international peer-reviewed journals, thereby contributing to the broader body of engineering knowledge.