Admission to Our Graduate Programs

The department offers the following graduate degree programs:

  • Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MS-CE)
  • Master of Construction Management (MCM-CMGT) (totally online)
  • Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering (MENG-CE)
  • PhD in Engineering with a concentration in Civil Engineering (PHD-ENG)

The Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering is a degree that is more practice- than research-oriented and does not require a thesis. The program provides students with advanced training in civil engineering practices, valuable management training, and emphasizes oral and written communication skills. 

Admission is based upon academic performance, professional background, career objectives, letters of recommendation, and test scores. 

UNM Graduate Studies Admissions Criteria and Information

Admissions Requirements – MSCE and MENG Programs:

Grade Point Average (GPA):  An undergraduate baccalaureate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) over the last two undergraduate years in science, math, and engineering courses.

GRE General Exam Scores:  A minimum combined score of 300 on the verbal and quantitative sections is required.  An official score report is required, sent directly from the testing center to UNM.

Language Skills for International Students:  International students must meet all UNM Graduate Admissions Requirements including tests for English proficiency.

Learn about our requirements for students without an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering:  MSCE and MENG.

Admissions Requirements – MCM Program: 

Grade Point Average (GPA):  An undergraduate baccalaureate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) for courses in the major field of study over the last two undergraduate years.

GRE General Exam or GMAT Scores:  A minimum combined score of 300 on the verbal and quantitative sections is required for the GRE.  A minimum score of 500 is required for the GMAT.  An official score report is required, sent directly from the testing center to UNM.

Language Skills for International Students:   International students must meet all UNM Graduate Admissions Requirements including tests for English proficiency.

All MCM applicants are expected to have college-level proficiency in English (reading and writing) and mathematics.

GMAT Guide for Online MBAs has information on preparing for the GMAT and scoring of the GMAT.

Admissions Requirements – PhD Program:

Generally admission to the Ph.D. program REQUIRES THAT THE APPLICANT HAS EARNED AN APPROPRIATE M.S. DEGREE, has all the items listed above for M.S. applicants, and has demonstrated a high potential for research.

Grade Point Average (GPA):  A minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) in the bachelor’s degree and master’s degree.

GRE General Exam Scores:  A minimum combined score of 300 on the verbal and quantitative sections is required.  An official score report is required, sent directly from the testing center to UNM.

Language Skills for International Students: International students must meet all UNM Graduate Admissions Requirements including tests for English proficiency.

Exceptional students may pursue a PhD without first earning an M.S.  This is accomplished by enrolling in the M.S. program first, then changing to a PhD program after the student has demonstrated outstanding potential for graduate studies and research. 

FOR ALL DEGREES, we require:

1) Three letters of recommendation which will be included as part of your online application.

2) Letter of intent that summarizes your qualifications, professional goals, and indicates the area of civil engineering which you want to pursue. You may refer to the guidelines for writing this letter. This letter can be uploaded to your online application.