Master’s in Structural Engineering

A graduate degree program from the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science at Lehigh University

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Engineer Structures Built to Last

From bridges and skyscrapers to resilient infrastructure and earthquake-resistant buildings, structural engineers shape our built environment. Lehigh’s master’s in Structural Engineering program — offering both an M.S. and a design-focused M.Eng. — prepares graduates to lead at the highest levels within the field.

Through a rigorous curriculum, students develop the theoretical grounding and practical design skills needed to work with large-scale structural systems, with a focus on performance, sustainability, and public safety. Research areas provide exposure to the field’s most pressing challenges, including advanced structural materials, infrastructure hazard mitigation, intelligent infrastructure systems, and measurement and evaluation of new and in-service structures.

The M.Eng. offers a distinctive emphasis on hands-on group and individual design projects, while both degrees provide an individualized, small-classroom experience with thesis and project-based options.

Ready to leave your mark on the built world? Request more information to learn how Lehigh’s Structural Engineering graduate degrees can advance your career.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Supporting Positive Student Outcomes

Committed to Your Success

With personalized graduate career resources

R1 Research Resources

With small school appeal

42% Growth

In engineering research since 2021

A Global Network of 88,000 Alumni

Actively engaged across all industry sectors

Supporting Positive Student Outcomes
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Industries

Graduates of the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science’s structural engineering master’s program frequently join the following industries:

  • Building, bridge, and heavy civil desig
  • Construction
  • Construction Management
  • Consulting
  • Engineering
  • Services
  • Structural analysis

Employers

Top employers of program alumni include:

  • AECOM
  • DeSimone Consulting Engineers
  • HNTB
  • Jacobs
  • O’Donnell & Naccarato
  • Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger (SGH)
  • Stantec
  • Thornton Tomasetti
  • Walter P Moore
  • Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.
  • WSP
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Why Lehigh?

At Lehigh, you’ll find the right balance of academic rigor, personal support, and practical experience that sets our master’s program in structural engineering apart. With us, you’ll benefit from:

A Campus Designed for Focus and Opportunity

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, our beautiful, serene campus provides the ideal setting to step away from daily distractions and fully commit to your studies. Located just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia, students benefit from both a peaceful environment and access to major business hubs. With the Lehigh Valley’s own rapid growth and strong university connections to leading companies, you truly get the best of both worlds.

Our Status as an R1 Research Institution

As one of just 187 R1 research universities in the nation, Lehigh offers graduate students the opportunity to engage in meaningful, high-impact research guided by expert faculty.

A Close-Knit Community

Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a team focused on your career development mean you won’t just be another face in the crowd. You’ll form strong connections with professors, advisors, and peers who are invested in your success.

Learning With Real-World Impact

This program prepares graduates to make a lasting impact in their careers. Our dedicated faculty serve as mentors, career coaches, and research partners. Lehigh’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering research is supported by a wide array of public and private sponsors, including the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Technology Alliance and the National Science Foundation.

Structural Engineering Master’s Program Admissions Requirements

Wondering how to apply? Here’s what you need to know:

Application Deadlines

For the MS program, applications are accepted on a rolling basis with the following deadlines:

  • December 15 for a spring start
  • July 15 for a fall start

The 10-month M.Eng. program starts mid-summer, with an application deadline of May 18.

What You Need to Apply

  • Completed online application
  • $50 non-refundable application fee
  • Official transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application review)
  • At least two letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Demonstrated English proficiency (required for international applicants)

FAQs

When is the final deadline to apply?

Final application deadlines for the MS program depend on when you plan to start. For a spring start, applications must be received by December 15. If you aim to begin in the fall, your application is due by July 15.

For the M.Eng. program, which starts in the summer, applications must be received by May 18.

When do classes start?

The first day of class for the fall 2026 semester is Monday, August 24. Spring 2027 classes begin on January 25. The 10-month M.Eng. program starts on Monday, July 6, 2026.

What format is the program offered in?

The Structural Engineering Master’s program is offered on-campus and online. Both full-time and part-time options are available.

What prerequisites need to be met to apply?

To be eligible for the program, applicants must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field.

How long does the degree take to complete?

It typically takes students 3–4 academic semesters (or 1.5–2 years) to complete the program.

Are scholarships available?

Master's students may be eligible for partial merit-based or alumni tuition scholarships.