Online Education for Working Professionals
Learn the advanced structural engineering tools necessary for analysis of large and
inherently-complex structures.
Utilize advanced techniques to evaluate structures.
Advanced analysis is necessary for structures that are complex, exhibit finite deformations,
are loaded beyond their first yield point, or experience dynamic loads. This certificate
covers skills in determining the response to load effects due to dead, live, and environmental
loads applied to the structure. The dynamic response of single- and multi-degree structures
is explored using exact analytical and numerical methods. Gain analysis skills for
career advancement as a structural engineer in the technical track at larger engineering
firms. The average structural engineer salary is $83,015 per year (Payscale).
Figures from Payscale accessed May 2026.
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How to Apply
3 courses in 3 semesters.
| Length |
3 courses in 2-3 semesters |
| Effort |
3 hours per credit per week |
| Each course |
3 credits |
| Total credits |
9 |
| Course type |
Online or on-campus |
| Modality |
Watch class recordings on demand |
| Cost |
Based on credits and course type |
| Already enrolled? |
Speak with your advisor |
Curriculum
Progress quickly with a compact curriculum. Work with the program advisor to select
courses that fit your interests and prerequisite skills.
Prerequisites
Check your preparation. Students without civil, structural, or related degree should
have taken CEE 3202 or equivalent.
CEE 3202 - Structural Analysis
Introduction to structural concepts and techniques for analyzing trusses, determinate and indeterminate beams, and frame structures. Apply concepts from statics and mechanics of materials to determine internal forces and deflections of structural members and systems, including loads and load paths.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): (ENG 2120 or MEEM 2150 or ME 2150) and (MA 2320(C) or MA 2321(C) or MA 2330(C))
Required Courses
Take a 3-credit required course.
CEE 5203 - Matrix Structural Analysis
Analysis of trusses and frames by the direct stiffness method. Use of a typical commercial computer code is stressed as a tool for complex structures. Introduces three-dimensional structures.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 3202
Electives
Take 6 credits of elective courses. Students who have already taken the required course
CEE 5203, or its equivalent, may take 9 credits from the elective course list to complete
the certificate requirements.
CEE 5201 - Advanced Structural Analysis
The study of nonlinear structural analysis techniques, especially energy methods, applied to elastic buckling analysis, large deflections of beams, second-order effects in frames, and plastic analysis of steel structures.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 4201 or CEE 5203
CEE 5202 - Finite Element Analysis
Introduction to the use of finite element methods in structural analysis. Covers the finite element formulation, 1- and 2-D elements, including isoparametric elements, axisymmetric analysis, plate and shell elements, dynamics, buckling, and nonlinear analysis.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 4201 or CEE 5203
CEE 5241 - Structural Dynamics
Free and forced vibration of undamped and damped single degree of freedom systems. Seismic design using the equivalent lateral force method. Introduction to multi-degree of freedom systems and transmissibility.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 4201(C) or CEE 5203(C)
Typical Schedule
The minimum completion time is three semesters. Here is a typical schedule.
- Fall:
CEE 5203
- Spring:
CEE 5201 or CEE 5202
- Summer:
CEE 5241
Application Process and Admissions Requirements
Applications are reviewed on an individual basis using a holistic approach. Fill out
our free graduate application online to apply to any of our programs. Official transcripts and scores are not required
for the initial application, although you will need to upload them later.
Graduate School Admissions Process
Applying to the Graduate School is free (no application fees) and fast (no official transcripts, test scores, or letters needed to start). The application
process involves three easy steps.
See Admissions Steps
Graduate School Requirements
To be considered for admission to the Graduate School as a degree- or certificate-seeking student, you need to:
- have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution, and
- be prepared for advanced study in your chosen field, as demonstrated by your previous
degree and your scholastic record.
See additional application requirements, including required materials:
Program Specific Requirements
Program Specific
- Admitted applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0
scale
- GMAT/GRE: Not required
- Preferred major: Civil, environmental or related degree
International Students
- TOEFL scores as of January 21, 2026: Recommended Score of 4.5
- For tests taken before January 21, 2026: Recommended Score of 79 iBT
- IELTS: Recommended Overall Band Score of 6.5
Admissions Decisions
Made on a rolling basis.
Prospective Students
- Prospective students and non-degree seeking students interested in obtaining a graduate
certificate must apply to the certificate program using the online application.
- Accelerated certificate options exist for current Michigan Tech undergraduate students in good standing and have
achieved at least junior-level standing or recent bachelor’s graduates of Michigan
Tech (less than two years).
- The number of credits earned prior to admission that can be counted are restricted.
Current Graduate Students
- Current Michigan Tech graduate students who are in a degree program do not need to formally apply. Current students must still submit the appropriate degree schedule in order to complete the certificate.
International Student Requirements
International Students must apply and be accepted into a degree-granting program in order to earn a graduate certificate. A non-refundable $10 processing fee per application is required.
See International Applicants
Interested in taking a single, online course? Enroll as a non-degree seeking student.
Upon completion of the certificate, students will be able to:
Apply advanced structural analysis skills for linear and nonlinear structural behaviors
under static and dynamic loads using both numerical and closed-form analysis types.
Michigan Tech was founded in 1885.
The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and widely respected
by fast-paced industries, including automotive development, infrastructure, manufacturing,
and aerospace. Michigan Tech graduates deliver on rapid innovation and front-line
research, leaning into any challenge with confidence.
The College of Engineering fosters excellence in education and research.
We set out as the Michigan Mining School in 1885 to train mining engineers to better
operate copper mines. Today, more than 60 percent of Michigan Tech students are enrolled
in our 17 undergraduate and 29 graduate engineering programs across nine departments.
Our students and curriculum embrace the spirit of hard work and fortitude our founders
once had. Our online graduate courses are the same, robust classes taken by our doctorate
and masters candidates, taught directly by highly regarded faculty, with outstanding
support from staff. We invite working professionals to join these courses, bring their
own experience and challenges as part of the discussion. Leverage the national reputation
of Michigan Tech to advance your career in tech leadership.
