Graduate Certificate in Railroad and Transit Engineering

Railroad activity in the United States is flourishing, with expansion across the industry – in freight, passenger (inter-urban and commuter), transit, and emerging high-speed rail. With increased activity comes the need for highly trained professionals to ensure operating safety, efficiency, and cost-effective use of resources. Yet many of the most experienced engineers and supervisors are retiring, leaving a gap in knowledge, experience and capability. This certificate program can help fill that need, as indicated by a market research study conducted in 2013 by the Education Advisory Board, which noted that “Completion of several courses in railroad engineering adequately prepares students to compete for employment in the rail transportation industry.” This graduate certificate is also designed for engineering professionals working in the area of railroad engineering or for those desiring to expand their knowledge of railroad engineering and related engineering disciplines, to thereby become viable candidates for advancement in the railroad industry.

Graduate Certificate in Railroad and Transit Engineering

Required Courses:

• CIEG 614 – Railroad Geotechnical Engineering (3cr.)
• CIEG 617 – Introduction to Railroad Safety and Derailment Engineering (3cr.)
• CIEG 618 – Railroad Engineering (3cr.)

Faculty:

Allan M. Zarembski – Railroad and transit engineering, risk management, track component failure and degradation analysis, track inspection technology, safety and derailment prevention

Joseph Palese – Railroad engineering, risk management, track component failure and degradation analysis, track inspection technology, safety and derailment prevention

Program Website

Admissions Requirements

Matriculated graduate students in civil or mechanical engineering are eligible to pursue the Graduate Certificate in Railroad Engineering, using their elective course options to focus on the field and earn the certificate. Students should discuss this with their faculty advisor and notify their department’s Graduate or Undergraduate Academic Advisor.