UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is proud to announce the launch of its new Master of Science (MS) in Civil Engineering program at the Civil and Mechanical Engineering Department, designed to prepare the next generation of engineers with the advanced expertise and leadership skills required to address pressing infrastructure and sustainability challenges.

“The launch of SUNY Poly’s MS in Civil Engineering program reflects our commitment to preparing engineers who can rise to today’s most urgent challenges, from infrastructure modernization to climate resilience. Our graduates will be uniquely equipped to lead in this vital field,” said Dr. Abdullah Eroglu, Dean of the College of Engineering.

Civil engineering is more than just bridges and buildings—it is the foundation of modern society. As one of the oldest and most impactful engineering disciplines, it spans critical fields such as structural, geotechnical, transportation, environmental, construction, and water resources engineering. Today, the profession is rapidly evolving, integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to solve global challenges. With aging infrastructure across the United States and the historic $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill driving investment, demand for highly skilled civil engineers is at an all-time high.

“This program is designed with flexibility and depth, offering students not only strong technical foundations but also opportunities to specialize and innovate. Whether through research or applied projects, they will graduate with skills directly aligned to industry needs,” said Dr. Zhanjie Li, Chair for the Civil and Mechanical Engineering Department and Professor of Civil Engineering.

Flexible, Specialized Program Options
The new 30-credit MS in Civil Engineering offers both full-time and part-time options, accommodating working professionals, recent graduates, and international students. Students may choose between:
•    Thesis Track – including a 9-credit master’s thesis, offering the opportunity to conduct original research in a specialized area of civil engineering.
•    Non-Thesis Track – including a 3-credit master’s project or an additional course, enabling students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

Both tracks include core foundation courses, engineering electives, and general electives, with the non-thesis option culminating in a comprehensive exam.

Students can tailor their education through eight specialization areas: Structural Engineering; Sustainability and Smart Infrastructure; Geotechnical Engineering; Engineering Mechanics; Environmental Engineering; Water Resources Engineering; Construction Engineering; and Transportation Engineering.

Industry Partner Perspectives

“The Master of Science program in Civil Engineering is an exciting addition to the SUNY Poly curriculum,” said New York State Department of Transportation Regional Director Linda A. Lubey, P.E. “This program allows current NYSDOT Engineers to work while obtaining an advanced degree and strengthens our industry by delivering a highly skilled and specialized workforce.”

“The Mohawk Valley is experiencing unprecedented growth, and with planned expansion in advanced manufacturing and other key sectors across New York, we need to invest not only in physical infrastructure but also in the talent that will build our region, our state, and our nation. Forward-thinking academic programs, like the new MS in Civil Engineering at SUNY Poly, are a critical part of meeting this need and preparing the workforce of the future," said Michael Frame, Executive Vice President of MACNY, The Manufacturers Association.

Applications are currently being accepted now for the Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 semesters. Ideal applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. To apply, visit connect.sunypoly.edu/portal/gr_app. The application fee is waived for military veterans, active-duty service members, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and their spouses and dependents; SUNY Poly alumni; current matriculated students; and graduates of the EOP, HEOP, and SEEK opportunity programs.