If you plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering abroad, you will benefit from it in multiple ways. Civil engineering is one of the oldest disciplines and a popular study-abroad choice for international students. Civil engineering degrees are available at all levels of study, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels, in universities worldwide. To help you earn the perfect degree in this field, we have compiled a list of the best countries for international students to earn an MS in Civil Engineering.
18 Top Countries To Study MS In Civil Engineering Abroad
The top 18 countries for studying a Master’s in Civil Engineering are Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, Germany, UK, India, Japan, China, France, Italy, Netherlands, Australia, USA, Singapore, Belgium, Malaysia, Turkey, Hungary and Ireland. These countries are home to world-renowned programmes, attracting international students from across the globe. They provide outstanding educational opportunities and a wide selection of courses.
United Kingdom
Average Tuition Fees – £22,750 to £36,950 per year
The United Kingdom’s booming economy and cultural variety attract students from all over the world. It is considered one of the best countries for an MS in Civil Engineering due to its quality education, top-notch facilities, and friendly and welcoming environment. Under civil engineering, you can pursue degrees in Construction Engineering, Structural Engineering, and Transport Engineering.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Imperial College of London | #6 |
| The University of Cambridge | #2 |
| The University of Oxford | #3 |
| UCL (University College London) | #9 |
| The University of Manchester | #32 |
Visa Requirements
For Indian students eyeing career openings in the UK, the Tier 4 (General) and Skilled Worker visas reign supreme. These visas cater to students or skilled professionals, allowing them to study and temporarily work in the UK for up to 2 years.
To qualify, you’ll need to meet several criteria:
- Be an Indian citizen
- Fall between 16-30 years of age
- Possess an eligible qualification
- Have a minimum savings of INR 2.67L
- Be childless
The USA
Average Tuition Fees – $40,000 to $60,000 per year
US civil engineering jobs are projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, on par with the national average. Moreover, the field anticipates over 25,000 annual openings in the coming decade. This rising demand stems from America’s ageing infrastructure, necessitating civil engineers to oversee construction, repairs, and upgrades for bridges, roads, dams, airports, and other critical structures.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking |
| University of Michigan | #33 |
| Purdue University | #99 |
| University of California Berkeley | #10 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | #1 |
| California Institute of Technology | #15 |
Visa Requirements
For Indian professionals eyeing career openings in the USA, grasping visa requirements is paramount. The H-1B visa, tailored for skilled workers, reigns as the most common pathway for temporary employment stateside. Beyond the H-1B realm, other viable visa options include:
- F-1 Visa Optional Practical Training (OPT): Granting international students who’ve completed US studies a chance to gain practical work experience.
- J-1 Visa: Facilitating exchange visitors, typically for academic or research pursuits.
- O-1 Visa: Reserved for individuals boasting extraordinary talents in their field.
Bear in mind that specific visa demands and processes may fluctuate. Consulting the U.S. Department of State or an immigration counsel is advisable to ensure adherence to the latest regulations and identify the most suitable visa avenue for your career ambitions.
Ireland
Average Tuition Fees – €10,000 to €25,000
Ireland’s cultural diversity and status as home to many multinational companies make it a popular destination for international students. Few European countries have such a significant diaspora, and Ireland welcomes anyone looking to embrace their Irishness. Even without familial ties, Ireland offers a rich connection to culture, tradition, history, and the joy of life. Below, we’ve listed some of the top master’s programmes in civil engineering in Ireland for your review.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Trinity College, Dublin | #81 |
| University College, Dublin | #171 |
| National University of Ireland, Galway | #269 |
| University of Limerick | #426 |
| Maynooth University | #801-1000 |
Visa Requirements
There are three major student visa types for international students studying in Ireland.
- C-type study visa: This visa is generally provided when your study is less than three months, i.e., 90 days.
- D-type study visa (the most common type of student visa): This type of visa is provided for international students whose educational course is over three months.
- Re-entry/Multiple Entry: You can file for a multiple entry visa if you have previously held single entry cards and have complied with their requirements. With a multiple-entrance passport, you can visit Ireland more than once while it’s still in effect.
Canada
Average Tuition Fees – CAD24,000 – CAD40,000 per year
A master’s in civil engineering in Canada is an excellent choice for international students studying civil engineering overseas. It is well-known for its outstanding educational system, world-class research facilities, and friendly atmosphere for international students, which makes it one of the best countries for an MS in Civil Engineering. Furthermore, many Canadian universities provide scholarships and bursaries to overseas students to help them defray tuition costs. International students may acquire essential skills and knowledge while experiencing a new culture and growing their network by studying civil engineering in Canada.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| University of Toronto | #21 |
| McGill University | #30 |
| University of British Columbia | #34 |
| University of Alberta | #111 |
| University of Waterloo | #112 |
Visa Requirements
For Indian students setting their sights on Canada, a study permit and either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) are needed before entering the country. The study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that grants foreign nationals the green light to pursue their academic endeavours at designated learning institutions (DLIs) within Canada’s borders.
Australia
Average Tuition Fees – AUD 39,456 – AUD 53,500
Australia has engineering associations that support professional development for engineers. The premier body – the Engineers Australia Association, provides networking, training and accreditation opportunities. Specialised groups like the Institution of Civil Engineers also have Australian branches offering discipline-specific resources and support.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| University of Technology Sydney | #90 |
| University of Adelaide | #89 |
| University in Queensland | #43 |
| University of New South Wales | #19 |
| University of Melbourne | #114 |
Visa Requirements
Obtaining the Subclass 500 student visa is a must for Indian students aiming to pursue a Master’s in Civil Engineering on Australian shores. This document grants international students the ability to begin full-time studies in Australia for up to 5 years of academic adventure.
New Zealand
Average Tuition Fees – NZD 10,000 – NZD 40,000 per year
New Zealand is one of the top five international destinations for higher education, especially in civil engineering. It is a popular choice among international students offering integrated Construction and Structural engineering courses.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| The University of Canterbury | #256 |
| Auckland University of Technology | #407 |
| The University of Auckland | #68 |
| Massey University | #239 |
| Otago Polytechnic | #206 |
Visa Requirements
The Fee Paying Student Visa is meant for students who want to engage in full-time studies for up to 4 years while permitting part-time employment of up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Along with this visa, working full-time during scheduled breaks is also an option. Additionally, this visa extends an invitation to your partner and dependent children to join you on your Kiwi adventure, provided they meet the requirements.
Switzerland
Average Tuition Fees – 3-13,000 CHF
Switzerland, nestled high up in the Alps and bordering Germany, presents a promising opportunity for those seeking engineering jobs abroad. Renowned for its neutrality and exceptional wealth, this country has thrived through its remarkable achievements in innovative engineering. With a strong emphasis on scientific research and manufacturing, Switzerland’s economy flourishes, making it an attractive destination for mechanical and chemical engineers aiming to explore career prospects in this tranquil European nation.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland | – |
| The University of Applied Sciences Zurich | #1401 |
| ETH Zurich | #7 |
| University of Bern | #126 |
| University of Lausanne | #220 |
Visa Requirements
The long-term D-Visa is meant for students enrolling in complete degree programmes like bachelor’s, master’s or PhD at recognised Swiss universities and colleges. The visa validity matches the length of your chosen course – usually 1 to 4 years for undergraduate degrees and 2 to 6 years for graduate programmes.
Germany
Average Tuition Fees – €10,000 – €40,000 per year
Studying in Germany has a lot of benefits for international students. Not only is the country known for providing extremely affordable education for international students, but it also hosts some of the top universities with both English-taught courses and courses taught in the local language. Moreover, you will have plenty of places to explore and things to do in the country, and your chances of finding a job after graduation are also high.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Technical University of Munich | #37 |
| The University of Stuttgart | #312 |
| Dresden University of Technology | #246 |
| University of Hannover | #481 |
| RWTH Aachen University | #106 |
Visa Requirements
A German Student Visa is necessary for all international students who wish to study in Germany. The visa grants you the right to remain in Germany for your course. A German Student Visa is relatively inexpensive, but it requires you to go through some bureaucratic hurdles before it can be granted. It could also require a visit to your German consulate.
It’s important to understand that there are three types of student visas:
- The main German Student Visa (Visum Zur Studienzwecken) is for those who have already been accepted onto a university course
- Language Course Visa for those accepted onto a language preparatory course that lasts between three months and one year
- Student Applicant Visa (Visum Zur Studienbewerbung) is for those who haven’t chosen their course yet or are still awaiting acceptance.
India
Average Tuition Fees – INR 25,000 to INR 3,00,000.
In South Asia, India stands out as a significant emerging country. With a population of nearly 1.3 billion, engineers from various backgrounds are highly sought after to enhance India’s economic strength and global competitiveness. Whether you seek opportunities in civil engineering to contribute to the country’s infrastructure or in biomedical engineering to develop life-saving medicines, India offers abundant engineering jobs for international aspirants.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| IIT Madras | #285 |
| IIT Bombay | #45 |
| IIT Delhi | #197 |
| IIT Roorkee | #369 |
| IIT Kanpur | #93 |
Japan
Average Tuition Fees – 10,00,000 Japanese yen to 17,00,000 Japanese yen
Another top country for engineering jobs abroad is Japan, a nation that has been at the forefront of global technology and industry for many years. As one of the world’s wealthiest countries, Japan boasts a remarkable national infrastructure, including a highly efficient high-speed railway system that spans the entire nation with unrivalled punctuality. Whether you specialise in mechanical, electrical, biomedical, or chemical engineering, Japan offers abundant opportunities for engineers from diverse backgrounds to thrive.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| University of Tokyo | #28 |
| Kyoto University | #46 |
| Kyushu University | #164 |
| Nagoya University | #176 |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | #91 |
Visa Requirements
Japan offers student visas for long-term international students. If you want to pursue higher degree courses, you must reserve admission at a Japanese university and apply for a study visa. While Japan has a visa exemption policy for short-term visits, students must obtain a study visa for graduate or postgraduate programmes.
Singapore
Average Tuition Fees – SGD 17800
Singapore has become a top study-abroad destination for those pursuing careers in civil engineering. The Lion City draws numerous international students each year with its renowned engineering universities and rich cultural heritage. Industrialisation and globalisation have fueled a growing demand for engineers in almost every business sector.
| Name Of The University | Ranking 2024 |
| Nanyang Technological University | #26 |
| National University of Singapore | #19 (Times Higher Education) |
| Singapore University of Technology and Design | #429 |
Visa Requirements
A student visa is called a student pass, and universities are known as Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL). If you’re an international student planning to attend an academic programme for more than 30 days, you need to apply for a student pass. You can submit your application through the Student’s Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR) system, which is the official registration platform.
France
Average Tuition Fees – €601 – €2,770
France is renowned for its architectural marvels and has become a top destination for Indians seeking overseas jobs in civil engineering. The country’s emphasis on renewable energy projects and sustainable development allows civil engineers in France to work on advanced projects. You can be hired for green infrastructure projects and high-speed rail networks.
| Name Of The University | Ranking 2024 |
| IMT Nord Europe | #23 (Times Higher Education) |
| ESTP Paris | #401-500 (Times Higher Education) |
| Centrale Nantes | #63 (Times Higher Education) |
| Universite de Nantes | #771-780 (QS Ranking 2024) |
| École Polytechnique | #61 (QS Ranking 2024) |
Visa Requirements
France offers three types of visas for students enrolling in master’s and other courses.
- Short-Stay Visa: Issued for courses lasting less than 90 days.
- Temporary Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS): For courses or training periods of up to 3 to 6 months.
- Long Stay Visa (Student Visa): For courses over six months. This visa acts as a residence permit and is issued for programmes like bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and work in France. It can be extended as needed.
Netherlands
Average Tuition Fees – €16,000 – €20,560
Civil engineering programmes are accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), an independent body assessing the quality of higher education in the Netherlands. Graduates of civil engineering in the Netherlands are sought after, with prospects in infrastructure, water management, renewable energy, and sustainable design. The country’s diverse environment, quality education, and strong industry ties make it an appealing choice for international students pursuing a civil engineering career.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| University of Twente | #210 |
| University of Amsterdam | #53 |
| Leiden University | #126 |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | #124 |
| Delft University of Technology | #47 |
Visa Requirements
You cannot directly apply for a Netherlands Student Visa. Instead, your educational institution will handle the application process on your behalf. You’ll require a temporary Dutch residence permit to study in the Netherlands. Additionally, in certain instances, you may need to apply for an MVV (long-stay visa), permitting you to reside in the Netherlands while awaiting your Dutch residence permit.
Italy
Average Tuition Fees – €888 – €3,800
Italy is renowned for its exceptional quality of education. Civil Engineering programmes at Italian universities meet global standards, ensuring high-quality education and training. These universities offer numerous opportunities for involvement in innovative research projects focusing on advanced Civil Engineering areas like sustainable construction, Geotechnics and fortifying buildings against natural disasters.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Polytechnic University of Milan | #123 |
| University of Naples | #335 |
| Sapienza University | #134 |
| Polytechnic University of Turin | #252 |
| University of Padua | #219 |
Visa Requirements
In Italy, there are two types of student visas, depending on the duration of your study programme:
- Visa type C: This is a short-stay or travel visa valid for one or more entries and lasting no more than 90 days.
- Visa type D: This long-stay visa is valid for more than 90 days.
Initiating the process well before your planned entry date to Italy is crucial, as processing times can be lengthy. It’s advisable to contact your nearest Italian embassy or consulate to schedule a visa appointment promptly upon receiving your admission letter from the Italian institution, as appointment availability may be limited.
Belgium
Average Tuition Fees – €2,782 – €3,000 per year
Belgium is an excellent destination for civil engineering studies and career opportunities. The country has top civil engineering programmes at KU Leuven, Ghent University and the University of Liège. Belgium’s strategic location at the heart of Europe and its well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal place to gain hands-on experience in various civil engineering projects. The country has a robust construction industry, providing ample internship and job prospects for civil engineering graduates.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Ghent University | #28 |
| University of Antwerp | #46 |
| Vrije Universiteit Brussel | #164 |
| University of Liège | #176 |
| Université Libre de Bruxelles | #91 |
Visa Requirements
The student visa in Belgium is known as a visa Type D. It costs around €200 to cover administrative and processing fees. This type of visa has the same effect as a residence card and allows free movement within the Schengen Area.
Malaysia
Average Tuition Fees – RM30,000 to RM50,000 per year
Malaysia is an attractive option for pursuing civil engineering studies and career opportunities. The country has several well-established universities offering comprehensive civil engineering programmes, including Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Universiti Malaya, and Universiti Sains Malaysia. Malaysia’s rapid infrastructure development and construction boom have created a high demand for skilled civil engineers, making it an ideal place to gain practical experience.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Universiti Malaya | #28 |
| Universiti Putra Malaysia | #46 |
| Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia | #164 |
| Universiti Sains Malaysia | #176 |
| Tunku Abdul Rahman University | #91 |
Visa Requirements
All foreigners planning to study at any educational level in Malaysia must apply for a Student Pass from the Department of Immigration Malaysia.
Turkey
Average Tuition Fees – $1,350 and $ 12,100
Turkey presents an excellent destination for civil engineering studies and career prospects. The country is home to several renowned universities offering high-quality civil engineering programmes, such as Istanbul Technical University, Middle East Technical University and Bogazici University. You can participate in mega-projects like the Istanbul Airport and urban renewal initiatives.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Hacettepe University | #28 |
| Istanbul University | #46 |
| Boğaziçi University | #164 |
| Middle East Technical University | #176 |
| Sabancı University | #91 |
Visa Requirements
A student visa for Turkey is an official permit allowing you to enter the country to pursue education at Turkish universities. This visa enables international students to study in Turkey by applying for a temporary residence permit. However, with a student visa, you cannot seek employment, start your own business, or use it for tourism. Turkish study visas are exclusively granted to those intending to intern or enrol in an educational institution, school, college, or university to continue their education.
Hungary
Average Tuition Fees – up to €5,000 per year
Hungary is an attractive option for pursuing civil engineering studies and career opportunities. The country has several well-regarded universities offering comprehensive civil engineering programmes, including the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, renowned for its engineering programmes. Hungary’s strategic location in Central Europe and its ongoing infrastructure development projects, such as the Budapest Metro expansion and highway construction, provide valuable hands-on learning experiences for civil engineering students.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Budapest University of Technology and Economics | #28 |
| Eötvös Loránd University | #46 |
| Óbuda University | #164 |
| Sopron University | #176 |
| University of Debrecen | #91 |
Visa Requirements
Students in Hungary for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit (also called a student visa). To do so, students must complete the visa application process in their country and obtain a D-type single-entry visa before departing for Hungary.
China
Average Tuition Fees – 35,000 RMB per year for 2 or 3 years
On its path to becoming the world’s largest economy, China owes much of its rapid development to its skilled engineering workforce. The government’s substantial investments in infrastructure, science, and technology and its commitment to globalise make China highly appreciative of foreign workers. Consequently, engineering jobs are abundant across all sectors, offering ample opportunities for professionals in the field.
| Name Of The University | QS Ranking 2024 |
| Tongji University | |
| Tsinghua University | |
| Southeast University – China | |
| Central South University | |
| Shanghai Jiao Tong University |
Visa Requirements
The X1 visa is frequently used for bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph. D. students because these programmes last longer than 180 days. With the X1 visa, you can stay in China for up to five years and travel throughout China.
Documents Required For MS In Civil Engineering Applications
While the documents vary from university to university and country to country, the following are the essential documents required for pursuing an MS in Civil Engineering abroad:
- Entrance exams like the GRE and GMAT, as specified by the university
- English Proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
- CV/Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Any other course-specific or university-specific documents
Average Salary Of Civil Engineers Abroad
Civil engineering emerges as a lucrative field, with the average salary of its professionals varying based on experience, job role and location. For Indian students pursuing a Master’s in Civil Engineering abroad, the earning potential holds a distinct advantage over their counterparts in the homeland.
According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for civil engineers in India is around INR 7L. However, their brethren working in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany can command significantly heftier paychecks.
In the USA, for instance, the average salary for civil engineers soars to around INR 85L per annum, a staggering figure more than 12 times higher than the average Indian salary.
This stark contrast shows the significant earning potential awaiting civil engineers abroad, solidifying the pursuit of a Master’s in Civil Engineering overseas as an intelligent investment for Indian students.
The table below highlights the average annual salary which you can expect in all of the countries we’ve listed above:
| Country | Average Annual Salary |
| UK | £38,447 /yr |
| USA | $90,942 per year |
| Canada | $86,884 per year |
| Australia | $114,919 per year |
| New Zealand | NZ$114,000 / year |
| Switzerland | CHF 118,802 a year |
| India | ₹34,167 per month |
| Japan | ¥341,4392 per year |
| China | CNY 306,990 a year |
| Germany | €65,000 per year |
Types of MS Civil Engineering Degrees
Deciding on a civil engineering programme may seem overwhelming since different universities offer different courses. Moreover, the best countries for an MS in Civil Engineering offer diverse degrees and programmes based on the industry & market. However, on a general note, the following are the top types of civil engineering degrees offered by universities abroad –
- Structural engineering
- Architectural engineering
- Transportation engineering
- Geotechnical engineering
- Environmental engineering
- Hydraulic engineering
- Quantity Surveying
- Construction management
- Town planning
About the Civil Engineering MS Course
Although most Civil Engineering programmes have compulsory modules, some offer optional or elective courses to help you tailor your degree. Most undergraduate programmes are three or four years long, with the option of a year abroad or in placement. Workshops, group work, and hands-on practical work will be used as learning techniques. Tests, presentations, seminars, and tutorials are all part of the programme, and you’ll be evaluated through exams, presentations, coursework, and a final-year dissertation or project.
Programmes
Some of the best countries for an MS in Civil Engineering include the following programmes in addition to unique or specialised programmes for specific universities –
- Foundation Design
- Transportation Safety
- Physical Hydrology
- Pipe System Engineering
- Constructional Engineering
- Structural Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Transportation Materials
Why Study Civil Engineering Abroad?
Studying civil engineering overseas can offer unique academic, personal, and professional experiences to help you excel in your future career. The following are some of the reasons why studying in one of the best countries for an MS in Civil Engineering will be valuable for you:
- Experience Different Teaching Techniques: Studying civil engineering abroad allows you to benefit from professors and educators who use various teaching methods, which may help you broaden your knowledge and critical thinking abilities.
- Cultural Immersion: Studying abroad helps you learn about and experience diverse cultures. This can aid your knowledge of the social and cultural elements that may impact civil engineering practices and projects in various parts of the world.
- Access to Specialised Programmes: Some universities or institutions may offer specialised civil engineering programmes or new avenues unavailable in your country. Studying abroad can provide you with access to these unique opportunities and specialised expertise in a specific area of civil engineering.
- Career Opportunities: Studying civil engineering overseas can improve your employment prospects by exposing you to worldwide engineering methods and expanding your network of professional contacts.
FAQs
1. Which country is best for MS in civil engineering?
The US, UK, Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, France, and Germany are some countries.
2. Which country has the highest demand for civil engineers?
As we all know, civil engineering is one of the oldest professions in the world. The need for civil engineers is expanding daily. Countries like Canada, Australia, France, Germany, and more have a high demand for civil engineering graduates.
3. Is it worth doing an MS in civil engineering abroad?
The average income for civil engineers with master’s degrees is often greater than those with bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, it is anticipated that there will be a steady increase in the need for master’s-level civil engineers in the upcoming years.
4. Which university is best for MS in Civil Engineering?
Some top universities to pursue an MS in Civil Engineering would be Imperial College London, MIT, University of Technology Sydney, University of British Columbia, Trinity College Dublin, and more.
5. Which country is best for Civil Engineering?
The best countries for civil engineering are the US, the UK, Australia, and Singapore. These countries are renowned for offering highly respected and top-ranked civil engineering programmes, making them popular destinations for international students seeking quality education in this field.
6. Which country is best for engineering abroad?
Canada, the US, the UK, and Germany are known for being the best countries for engineering. Students from all around the world come to these countries every year to pursue engineering.
Thank you for reading this blog post about the 5 Best Countries For an MS In Civil Engineering in 2024-25.
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