From dams and levees to bases, airfields, and environmental restoration projects, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plays a central role in strengthening the nation’s security and resilience. But as the challenges of tomorrow grow more complex – whether in climate change, cybersecurity, or advanced systems integration – engineers need the tools and training to keep pace.
That’s where Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering (MAGE) at the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland steps in. For over 30 years, MAGE has offered flexible part-time and full-time graduate programs for early career, working engineers and technical professionals that combine advanced engineering expertise with real-world application. For professionals in the federal workforce – including those serving with the Army Corps – a MAGE degree provides knowledge that can be applied immediately to mission-critical projects, without pausing your career or your service.
Programs with Mission Impact MAGE’s coursework-based Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) and Graduate Certificate in Engineering (GCEN) programs provide advanced skills for engineers leading large-scale federal and defense efforts. Top areas of interest for Army Corps professionals include:
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Andrea Teresa Cabrera Tapia Master of Engineering alumna. THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY PHOTO Civil & Environmental Engineering: Advance infrastructure design, sustainability, and water resources management.
- Systems Engineering: Lead complex projects with precision and cross-disciplinary insight.
- Cybersecurity: Protect mission-critical systems and information in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
- Project Management: Deliver federal programs on time, on budget, and with measurable results.
- Reliability Engineering: Ensure essential infrastructure and systems perform when they’re needed most.
Programs are offered in flexible formats– online or in person at the University of Maryland campus in College Park, Maryland – so engineers can pursue their degree while continuing to serve the Corps’ mission.
Why Engineers Choose Maryland
At MAGE, excellence goes beyond the classroom.
- Expert Faculty: Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise from government, defense, and industry. Students learn directly from leaders shaping today’s engineering challenges.
- Relevant Coursework: Programs are designed for immediate application – what you learn today can be applied tomorrow on the job. Coursework emphasizes problem-solving, systems thinking, and the latest tools used across the profession.
- Personalized Support: From academic advising to career guidance, MAGE ensures working professionals receive the support they need to succeed – whether studying online or on campus.
The combination of world-class faculty, applied learning, and comprehensive student support has made MAGE one of the nation’s most respected graduate engineering programs.
Proven. Respected. Ranked.
MAGE’s graduate engineering programs are consistently recognized among the nation’s best. According to U.S. News & World Report (2025):
- #9 – Best Online Master’s in Engineering Programs
- #17 – Best Online Master’s in Engineering Programs for Veterans
For Army Corps engineers looking to expand their expertise with a credential that carries national recognition, MAGE delivers both prestige and practical value.
Support for Military and Veteran Engineers
At MAGE, we are proud to serve those who serve. Over 100 active duty service and members and veterans have earned graduate engineering degrees through our programs in the last few years.
The University of Maryland offers robust support for military-connected students, including:
- GI Bill & Yellow Ribbon Program eligibility for tuition
- Veteran Student Life & Veterans Center for community and support
- Engineering Veteran Student Committee
- TerpVets Tutoring and dedicated counseling services
- Veteran-focused career and networking events
- Veteran-centered campus events and programs, including Adventure Programming
- Third Party Billing Office to simplify VA benefits administration
As Lt. Cmdr. Jerry Pittman, Jr., USN, a recent MAGE graduate, puts it: “Flexibility in virtual or in-person learning each semester. GI Bill covers tuition costs. Maryland – and the Clark School specifically – is a prestigious engineering school.”
Whether you’re advancing within the Corps or preparing for a transition to civilian leadership, MAGE programs empower you to build the engineering skills to shape the world you defended.
Engineer with Purpose. Learn with Maryland.
- Just minutes from Washington, D.C.
- Fully online and part-time options available
- No GRE required to apply
Ready to take the next step in your career?
Visit mage.umd.edu to learn more.
