Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
How can I apply for admission to the CEE Structural Engineering and Materials graduate program?
Please visit the Prospective Graduate Students page on the CEE website for information on how to apply to our graduate program. You can also send your full CV (Education, awards/honors, list of graduate courses, list of journal/ conference publications (if any), list of 3 professional references), BS and MS transcripts to marul@vt.edu. If shortlisted, further instructions will be emailed.
Do I need a GRE score?
GRE is NOT required for the application or to be considered for funding. Applicants are welcome to submit General GRE scores (Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing), if desired. Decisions to admit are based on a prospective student’s entire application package.
Can the TOEFL be waived (for international applicants)?
The TOEFL can only be waived by our Graduate School. Many circumstances are an automatic waiver such as students with a conferred degree from a U.S. institution. The IELTS test may substitute for the TOEFL. Email grads@vt.edu for more information.
What is the typical duration of PhD in the WERISE Lab?
The length of time required to complete a PhD can vary greatly, and is influenced by a variety of factors, both within and beyond the control of the student. On average, doctoral students in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering typically take around 4 years to complete their doctoral study.
I do not have an MS degree, can I still apply for a PhD position?
Usually, I prefer applicants with an MS degree for PhD positions. However, exceptionally talented students who possess undergraduate research experience at the university level may still apply even if they do not hold a Master's degree.
What kind of financial aid is available? Will the stipend cover my living expenses and tuition?
Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) and Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA) are available for students. Most assistantships also cover tuition payments related to the amount of hours you are contracted to work each week. A graduate student is considered full time in the department if you work 20 hours per week. For a full time assistant, the department would pay for the base in-state tuition amount, the technology fee, the library fee and the engineering fee in full. The stipend is generally sufficient to cover the living expenses (rent+other bills) of our students who adopt a typical "graduate student lifestyle".
Can I apply for an internship at the WERISE Lab?
Currently, I am not offering paid internships to non-VT students. However, self-funded and highly motivated students are always welcome to contact me.
I already have a PhD, can I apply for a postdoctoral position?
Currently, I am not hiring any postdoctoral candidates. Self-funded candidates can contact me with a research topic of mutual interest.
I am studying in a University outside USA, Can I be a visiting scholar at the WERISE Lab?
Potential visiting scholars can contact me with a research topic.