Graduate Students With a Degree Outside of Engineering
We weclome students with a wide range of backgrounds who are interested in pursuing graduate studies in engineering at Carnegie Mellon.
While engineering backgrounds are frequently represented among our program applicants, we also regularly admit students with undergraduate degrees in mathematics and science. This is not an exhaustive list, but includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Mechanics
- Physics
An outline of the math and science background expected for all entering students:
| 1 Semester | General Chemistry |
| 2 Semesters | Calculus |
| 1 Semester | Differential Equations |
| 2 Semesters | Physics |
| 1 Semester | Biology (or other science) |
| 1 Semester |
Probability and Statistics; |
| 1 Semester | Computer Programming, Applications or Tools |
Make-Up Requirements for MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering
To pursue the standard MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering degree, it is necessary to fulfill the requirement of completing four fundamental undergraduate engineering courses in addition to the courses specified for the graduate degree.
These makeup requirements are designed to ensure that you possess the essential foundation for advanced engineering studies at the graduate level. Your faculty advisor may consider substituting equivalent or closely related courses on a case-by-case basis.
Please note that the undergraduate makeup courses should be completed in addition to the minimum graduate unit requirements of your enrolled program.
Required Makeup Courses for students with a degree outside of engineering:
| 12-320 |
Engineering Mechanics |
| 12-335 |
Soil Mechanics |
| 12-355 |
Fluid Mechanics |
| 12-411 |
Project Management Construction |
Additional Degree Options
We provide alternative degree options that do not have undergraduate makeup requirements. However, some of these programs may still require additional coursework to ensure students have the appropriate background knowledge for specific graduate courses.
These degree options are as follows:
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering oversees the administration of these interdisciplinary degree programs. Each program can typically be completed within three semesters or fewer, depending on the amount of required or desired undergraduate coursework. With guidance from your advisor, you have the freedom to select your courses; however, your curriculum must be approved by the CEE Department Head.