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Structural Engineering, MS

Seattle University's Master of Science in Structural Engineering provides in-depth training in structural design and analysis. The program's distinctive emphasis on professional and technical skills provides the preparation you need for an in-demand career focused on improving our built environment.

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About this Program

We are in the process of reviewing the program and its curriculum. During this review period, admissions into the Master of Science in Structural Engineering program for future terms have been suspended.

Gain In-Demand Skills with a Master’s in Structural Engineering

The Pacific Northwest has seen rapid construction growth in recent decades, increasing the demand for structural engineers with advanced technical and professional skills. Seattle University's Master of Science in Structural Engineering (MSST) provides in-depth training in structural design and analysis, immersing students in the methods, technologies and practices required to succeed at today's leading structural engineering firms.

In addition to technical training, the structural engineering curriculum also emphasizes professional skill development with courses in engineering ethics, communication and project management. Our unique, professionally focused program helps you cultivate the enhanced knowledge base you need to take the next step in your career. 

Designed with Industry Professionals, for Industry Professionals

Our structural engineering graduate degree has been developed collaboratively between Seattle University faculty in our Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and our Industry Advisory Board, ensuring that the knowledge and skills you gain are highly relevant and applicable to current industry needs. 

In addition to informing our curriculum, the Industry Advisory Board serves as a valuable networking resource for Seattle University students. It provides opportunities for our students to learn from leaders at the top structural engineering firms and public-sector institutions in the Seattle region. 

Graduate Structural Engineering Degree at a Glance

Learn more about the MS in Structural Engineering curriculum, courses and learning outcomes below.

Students in Seattle University's MSST program graduate with a strong understanding of structural engineering through courses in seismic analysis and design, advanced steel and concrete design, mass timber design, masonry design, advanced structural analysis and more.

Beyond advanced technical training, as a graduate of SU, you'll stand out from your peers with professional skills in areas such as project management, communication and engineering ethics.

Features of the MS in Structural Engineering program include:

  • Nine technical skills courses and three professional skills courses
  • Part-time enrollment option suitable for working professionals
  • Program completion in as little as six academic quarters
  • Individual course enrollment to meet professional development hours (PDHs) for PE licensure or renewal, rather than joining the full MS program
  • Optional practical training (OPT) and curricular practical training (CPT) opportunities for international students

At the time of graduation, students from Seattle University's Master of Science in Structural Engineering program will be able to:

  • Apply principles of engineering mechanics and use appropriate tools to solve problems in structural engineering.
  • Design and evaluate structural components and systems to meet the desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, constructability and sustainability.
  • Plan, compose and integrate verbal, written and graphical communication to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Function effectively as a member of an engineering team.
  • Discuss professional responsibility in light of social context of engineering problems.

What You’ll Learn

Explore the classes you’ll take as a student here.

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Over 10% Of Our Student Body

Are international students

45%

Women

Our average of women STEM students nearly doubles the national average of only 23%.

18

Average Class Size

Personalized learning, all courses faculty-taught.

Virtual Information Sessions

Have questions about Seattle University's Master of Science in Structural Engineering? Attend a one-hour virtual information session to learn more about graduate programs in the College of Science and Engineering, meet a knowledgeable admissions representative, and get answers to your questions about the program, the application process and more.

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Engineered for Your Success

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Courses for Technical Skill Formation

Our program provides 36 credit hours of advanced engineering coursework on structural design and analysis. For example, students in CEEGR 5250 - Seismic Design of Structures, explore concepts such as reinforced concrete moment-resisting frames, concrete shear walls, coupling beams, ASCE41 modeling and acceptance criteria, strut-and-tie method, steel moment-resisting frames and steel brace frames. 

Additional courses include earthquake dynamics of structures, mass timber design, prestressed concrete design, finite element analysis and more.

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Small Class Sizes, Big Industry Connections

Seattle University prides itself on small class sizes and direct faculty instruction—in fact, 100 percent of our structural engineering courses are taught by faculty members, not teaching assistants. Most faculty members are licensed Professional Engineers who bring their real-world experience into the classroom, meaning you'll benefit from their professional insights and industry connections as you prepare to take the next step in your career. 

11:1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

SU's 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures you'll benefit from personal instruction and in-depth mentorship from our experienced faculty.

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Community Mindset

At Seattle University, you'll have the opportunity to learn in one of the most diverse independent universities in the Northwest. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we'll help you connect with your engineering faculty and colleagues for a stronger career network and a sense of community and support.

Our Jesuit and Catholic values are reflected both in and outside the classroom, with an educational approach that encourages you to consider an ethical, socially responsible and justice-oriented mindset as it relates to your coursework and to your career. Learn more about the College of Science and Engineering's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We've got answers! Find responses to common questions about the structural engineering program, admissions requirements and more.

From Our Alumni

Dikshit Goel, '24

“The approach of the program inspires us to choose both research and practice alike, and ultimately it comes down to our choice. I am inspired to look more into timber design which has vast sustainable potential for buildings and affordable housing, but also similarly inclined to work in industry by practicing Infrastructure or residential design. Finally, we have to learn to work with people, and the program prepares you with management level exposure.”

MS in Structural Engineering

Featured Faculty

Get in Touch

We’re here to help. For information about the MS in Structural Engineering program at Seattle University, contact:

Graduate Admissions