Geotechnical Engineering

Specialization Code
CEGTE
Interdepartmental Program
No
Resilient buildings and bridges. Safer roads. Sustainable materials. Innovative construction. Clean drinking water. Intelligent infrastructure. Every aspect of the Iowa State University Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering is focused on a better quality of life for Iowa, our nation and our world.
CCEE landing girl In Lab

Collaborate closely with distinguished faculty on cutting-edge studies in infrastructure resilience, smart cities, sustainable construction practices, and environmental impact assessment. Gain practical experience through hands-on projects, fieldwork, and internships with industry leaders. Whether your goals involve designing resilient bridges, improving urban transportation systems, or enhancing environmental sustainability, Iowa State equips you with the knowledge and skills to innovate and address global infrastructure challenges.


Degrees Offered: 

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Online Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Civil Engineering Materials (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Construction Engineering and Management (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Environmental Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Geotechnical Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Intelligent Infrastructure Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Structural Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Transportation Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)
515-294-8212

Dawn Miller

ccee-grad-inquiry@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

First consideration for assistantship: Dec.15 for the following Fall (August) start. August 1 for following Spring (January) start. Only complete applications will be considered (see required docs above). Applications for Master of Engineering or any self-funded or sponsored applicants for MS or PHD are considered on a rolling basis.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 553
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 82
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 55
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
shafei@iastate.edu
Certificate Director
shafei@iastate.edu
Program Staff
millerdm@iastate.edu
runyan@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
smadi@iastate.edu
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