Program Overview

Civil Engineering is the discipline that consists of the design, construction, and maintenance of constructed and natural infrastructure. Civil engineers apply their knowledge of mathematics and physical sciences to develop ways to efficiently utilize natural resources and the forces of nature to improve the well-being of humanity and to protect the environment. First and foremost, Civil Engineering is a people serving profession. Civil Engineers are responsible for all civil infrastructure systems including water supply and treatment facilities, landfills, highways, bridges, rail lines, dams, and telecommunication services. The work of Civil Engineers results in improved public health and quality of life, while still recognizing the importance of natural systems. Civil Engineers have a direct and immediate impact on our society and our ability to create a sustainable civilization.

Transportation Engineering
The Transportation Program is on the cutting edge of transportation technology, with multi-modal research and instruction covering such wide-ranging issues as transportation safety, intelligent transportation systems, human factors, freight movement, travel demand management, and traveler information centers. The multidisciplinary approach provides flexibility in designing both coursework and research activities, addressing a wide array of student desires and interests. The on-campus Transportation Center works with state, federal, and industrial agencies to promote research and education, and currently consists of four major research programs: the UMTC/Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Cooperative Transportation Research Program; the Regional Traveler Information Center (RTIC); the Baystate Roads Program (Local Technical Assistance Program); the Massachusetts Technical Assistance Program (MTAP); the UMass Traffic Research Safety Program (UMassSafe); and the USDOT University Transportation Center Initiative. A personalized approach to mentoring ensures that graduate students have a broad understanding of the technical and social elements of transportation and are well-prepared to pursue academic, research, government, or consulting careers.