Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
Engineers Shape Our World
The Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis combines the resources of a major research university with the support of a close-knit community. Within the Herff College of Engineering, students gain hands-on experience, work alongside expert faculty, and tackle real-world challenges—from building resilient infrastructure to protecting the environment. Our graduates emerge as skilled leaders ready to design, build, and improve the systems that shape our world. Join our Tiger family and help create a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future.
Why Choose Civil,Construction, or Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis?
The Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis is well known for its top-notch academic program, cutting-edge and community-based research, and welcoming environment. In the UofM CE program, students have it all – a comprehensive learning experience in a large urban university and a small, close-knit community in the Herff College of Civil,Construction, & Enviromental Engineering and the CE major. Our highly respected faculty engages students not just in their courses but also in their research – even at the undergraduate level! Through the CE program, students develop valuable skills that improve life in our communities by:
- Environmental Engineering
- Earthquake Engineering - designing bridges and buildings to withstand earthquakes;
- Protecting our drinking water supply
- Transportation Engineering: Facilitating the safe and efficient transport of goods throughout the country
- Reducing pollution in our streams and rivers
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Transportation Engineering: Designing sustainable roads and bridges and buildings for the future
- Construction Engineering: Lead, supervise, and manage the construction of a wide variety of projects in the built environment, including both renovations and new construction.
Learn more about our program from our students and graduates and why you should consider joining our Tiger family!
Undergraduate Degrees
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Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.)
Provides a strong foundation in structural, environmental, geotechnical, and transportation engineering. - Accelerated B.S./M.S. in Civil Engineering (Five-Year Program)
Allows high-achieving students to complete both undergraduate and graduate degrees efficiently.
Graduate Degrees
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Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S.C.E.)
A 30-hour graduate program offering advanced study and research in seven optional concentrations:
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Agricultural Engineering
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Engineering Seismology
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Environmental Engineering
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Geotechnical Engineering
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Structural Engineering
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Transportation Engineering
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Water Resources Engineerin
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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Engineering — Civil Engineering Concentration
Designed for students pursuing advanced research, teaching, or leadership roles in academia and industry
Professional Certificates
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Construction Management Certificate
A fully online program designed for working professionals to strengthen management and leadership skills in construction, project supervision, and infrastructure development.
Achievements & Department Statistics
Student & Club Success
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TSITE Traffic Bowl Champions — University of Memphis Civil Engineering students earned first place at the statewide TSITE Traffic Bowl competition.
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ASCE Student Chapter Wins First Place — The UofM ASCE Student Chapter took first place at the Tennessee Engineering Conference for excellence in design, leadership, and community engagement.
Rankings & Recognition
Research & Academic Excellence
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The department has the largest research expenditure in the Herff College of Engineering and supports both MS and PhD students.
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The department achieved over $100 million in research awards in FY 2024, double the amount from FY22.
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The undergraduate program is ABET-accredited, which provides students with small class sizes and full-time faculty instruction.
Graduate Outcomes & Impact
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Median early-career salary: $64,780 for graduates with a B.S. in Civil Engineering.
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Total Publications: 30,987 | Total Citations: 904,117
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Engineering Publications: 11,802 | Citations: 336,037
First Day of Class — Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Spring Break 2026 —
Final Exams —
Spring 2026 Commencement —
Discovering the Future of Engineering at UofM
Explore the exciting world of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis! Our department is shaping the future through cutting-edge research, hands-on learning, and impactful community projects. From earthquake-resistant structures to sustainable transportation and environmental protection, our faculty and students are tackling real-world challenges. Watch our video to hear firsthand experiences from our students and graduates and learn why UofM is the perfect place to launch your engineering career. Join our Tiger family and be part of the next generation of innovators!
Civil, Construction, Environmental Engineering News
Inaugural Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament
Tuesday, August 26 | Hosted by the Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Memphis
The department hosted it's first???ever alumni & friends golf tournament—which brought together graduates, industry partners, faculty, staff and students! Thanks to the leadership of our board and alumni, the generous support of our sponsors, and the enthusiasm of our participants and volunteers, the day was filled with connection, support and fun.
Highlights
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Over 100 participants came out for the tournament, sharing stories, networking and supporting our students.
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More than 26 sponsors stepped up to support the event—enabling us to invest more in student activities, scholarships and departmental initiatives.
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Special recognition goes to the core leadership team whose work made it happen: Zack Daniel, Matthew J. McBride, David K. Oppong, EI, and Justin Avent.
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A heartfelt shout-out to our student volunteers, whose energy, professionalism and support kept the day running smoothly. Your contribution made a difference.
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We also want to offer deep gratitude to all our sponsors, participants, alumni and friends for supporting our department and our students.
Sponser List: Revival Restore, Flintco, Turner Construction, W&T Contracting Corporation, Black & Veatch, LDA Engineering, Gresham Smith, Gephart Electric, SITECH Tri-Rivers, Allworld Project Management, Allen and Hoshall, Guthrie & Sons, Rose Construction, Ensafe, Fisher & Arnold, Thompson Machinery Escrow, Kimley Horn, DuroTerra
Dr. Shahram Pezeshk and Students Present Research at Seismological Society of America Annual Conference
St. Louis, Missouri | April 2025
Dr. Shahram Pezeshk, professor of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis, attended the 2025 Seismological Society of America (SSA) Annual Conference in St. Louis.
He was joined by postdoctoral researcher Dr. Mehran Davatgari and Ph.D. students Najme
Alidadi and Shima Pakniat, who each presented original research during the event.
Together, the team delivered two oral presentations and two poster sessions, highlighting
innovative developments in earthquake engineering and seismic modeling.
Dr. Pezeshk also organized a technical session on “Ground Motion Models for Coastal Plain,” underscoring the department’s leadership in advancing earthquake resilience in the Central and Eastern United States. Both Alidadi and Pakniat were awarded travel scholarships in recognition of their academic excellence and research contributions.
“Our team’s participation in the SSA conference demonstrates the University of Memphis’s growing impact in seismic hazard research,” said Dr. Pezeshk. “By integrating new data and advanced modeling techniques, we’re helping improve earthquake preparedness and infrastructure safety across the Mid-South and beyond.”
Dr. Pezeshk’s research continues to gain national recognition, including the adoption of his work on long-period transition in response spectra by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE 7-22) — the national building code for design loads and standards. His ongoing projects are supported by agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA).
Dr. Sabyasachee Mishra Recognized for Excellenece at UofM Basketball Game 
Dr. Sabyasachee Mishra, Director of C-TIER at the University of Memphis, was recently honored through the Ascend to Excellence program at a Memphis Tigers basketball game (2/23/2025). Recognized by the university president, Dr. Mishra’s contributions to transportation research and innovation continue to advance mobility solutions and infrastructure development at the national level. His leadership in the field underscores the department’s commitment to research-driven solutions that enhance road safety, transit efficiency, and urban development. The recognition at the FedExForum highlights the impact of UofM faculty members in shaping the future through engineering research and community engagement. Congratulations to Dr. Mishra on this well-deserved honor!
Tornado Alley is Shifting – Is the Mid-South Ready?
As tornado activity expands into the Mid-South, cities must prepare for new risks. Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, Chair of the Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis, recently discussed this issue on FOX13 Memphis, highlighting the growing threat and the importance of resilience planning.
What’s Changing? Tornadoes are moving beyond traditional hotspots.
Why It Matters: Cities must adapt to growing storm threats.
What’s Next? Engineering solutions can help protect lives and infrastructure.
NSF Grant Awarded to Support STEM Scholarships & Outreach 
The University of Memphis Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering Department is excited to announce that Dr. Stephanie Ivey has been awarded a prestigious NSF grant to expand STEM education through scholarships, mentorship, and outreach. This initiative will provide financial support and networking opportunities to help students thrive in STEM fields.
As part of the NSF S-STEM program, the grant focuses on increasing student retention and graduation rates, ensuring that those with financial need have access to the resources necessary for success. By strengthening STEM identity and fostering career development, this initiative supports the next generation of scientists and engineers.
This grant is part of a broader effort to enhance STEM education and workforce development in Tennessee. Congressman Steve Cohen praised the funding as a significant step in expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in science and technology. Learn more about how this grant will support students at the University of Memphis.
NSF CAREER Award Advances Microplastic Pollution Research 
The Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis has received a $537,625 NSF CAREER Award to support groundbreaking research on microplastic pollution and its effects on soil hydrology. This funding will enhance the Microplastic Research Laboratory, allowing for deeper exploration of how microplastics impact soil-water-plant dynamics and environmental sustainability.The project is led by Dr. Farhad Jazaei, assistant professor in the Department of Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering. His research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind microplastic pollution in soil and develop strategies to mitigate its environmental impact. In addition to advancing scientific knowledge, the grant will provide hands-on researchopportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, preparing them to tackle critical environmental challenges."This grant is a game-changer for my Microplastic Research Laboratory," said Dr. Jazaei. "With student engagement, we have the potential to make real breakthroughs in understanding and addressing this growing environmental issue."
Learn more about the research and the NSF CAREER Award:
University of Memphis Research Impact
NSF Award Details
NIH Grant Supports Development of Wearable Health Monitoring Device
The University of Memphis has been awarded a prestigious NIH Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant to support the development of an innovative wearable device that monitors environmental exposure and respiratory response. This cutting-edge technology is designed to assist patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by providing real-time health data.The project is led by Dr. Maryam Karimi, associate professor in the School of Public Health at UAB, and Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, chair and professor in the Department of Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering. Their research integrates environmental health and engineering to create a device that enhances patient monitoring and management.This award marks a significant step forward in leveraging technology for public health solutions. Read more about how this research is shaping the future of respiratory health here.
Learn more about this research and its impact on respiratory health: NIH Grant for Innovative Wearable Health Monitoring Device
UofM ASCE Student Chapter Wins First Place at Tennessee Engineers’ Conference
The University of Memphis ASCE Student Chapter has achieved an outstanding accomplishment, securing first place in the student competition
at the Tennessee Engineers’ Conference. This recognition highlights the hard work,
technical expertise, and leadership of our students in advancing the field of Civil,Construction,
& Environmental Engineering.
Congratulations to Connor Caskey, Anna Nguyen, and James Hudson for their exceptional performance. Their success is a testament to the strength of our Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering program and the dedication of our students. A special thank you to Dr. Roger Meier, ASCE Student Chapter faculty advisor, for his invaluable mentorship and support in guiding the team.
The ASCE Student Chapter provides students with hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and professional development to prepare them for careers in engineering. To learn more about ASCE Memphis and its impact on the profession, visit the ASCE Memphis Section. Students interested in joining the award-winning UofM ASCE Chapter can sign up here.
Advancing Transportation Research & Innovation
Dr. Sabya Mishra, Director of C-TIER, is leading groundbreaking research in mobility, transit solutions, and traffic safety, securing major grants to improve transportation infrastructure. His work focuses on public transit innovation, freight mobility, and safety initiatives to reduce impaired and distracted driving.
Major Grants & Research Initiatives
NSF CIVIC Grant – Developing Rural transit Solutions for Blue Oval City
NSF IUCRC CEAT Grant – 1) Advancing electrified and automated trucking for sustainable logisticsTennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) Grant – 2) Researching alcohol-impaired and distracted driving solutions Tennessee Economic & Community Development (TN-ECD) Grant – 3) Connecting underserved communities to job opportunities USDOT Freight Truck Trajectory Data Initiative – Establishing a national freight mobility database.
Advancing Urban Flood Resilience
Leveraging Geospatial Data to Improve Flood Response Predictions
Dr. Claudio I. Meier has received a $249,680 USGS grant to enhance the Hydrologic-Connectivity-Based Index of Urbanization (HCIU), refining how urbanization impacts flood response. This research will develop new metrics, test hydrologic trends, and streamline StreamStats for broader application. The findings will contribute to improved watershed modeling, regional planning, and water quality assessments.
Learn more: New Concepts & Tools for Increasing Urban Flood Resilience
Enhancing Stormwater Management Through Hydrologic Innovation
Hydrodisconnection Framework for Stormwater InterventionsDr. Claudio I. Meier has secured a $300,000 grant from the Tennessee Department of Environmental and Conservation – State Revolving Funds to develop a strategic framework for optimizing stormwater control measures (SCMs) in urban watersheds. This research leverages the Hydrologic-Connectivity-Based Index of Urbanization (HCIU) to prioritize SCM placement, reducing hydrologic impacts and enhancing flood resilience.
The project will assess candidate SCM locations in the Nonconnah Creek watershed, Shelby County, Tennessee, using a spatially explicit, hydrologically informed approach to improve water management. The findings will aid in stormwater planning, urban flood mitigation, and long-term sustainability efforts.
UofM Awarded $963,237 USDA Grant to Strengthen Urban Agriculture
The University of Memphis has been awarded a $963,237 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to advance urban agriculture and improve community food access. The project is led by Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, Chair of the Department of Civil Construction,& Environmental Engineering at UofM, in collaboration with Dr. Maryam Karimi of the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Key objectives include:
- Assessing urban agriculture markets to determine food production potential.
- Utilizing technology to identify viable agricultural sites and monitor food system efficiency.
- Strengthening community networks by fostering partnerships among farmers, policymakers, and local organizations.
- Developing policies that promote equitable and sustainable urban food systems.
Building a Sustainable Urban Food System
This initiative aims to enhance local food networks by identifying optimal urban agricultural sites, improving food accessibility, and developing policies to support sustainable, community-driven agriculture. The project will utilize geospatial data, drone and satellite imagery, and economic assessments to better integrate urban farming into local economies. By combining research, policy development, and community engagement, this effort will drive economic growth, enhance food security, and create lasting opportunities for urban farmers and local food producers.