Coastal Engineering Certificate Online

  • Graduate Certificate in Coastal Engineering
  • Batten College of Engineering & Technology
  • Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering

By successfully completing this certificate, you'll demonstrate a basic understanding of the physical sciences, engineering, economics, environmental, institutional-political-social, and aesthetic constraints that influence all coastal engineering design.

You'll learn alongside Master of Science and Ph.D. students in the four courses required to complete this certificate.

This certificate may also provide the necessary credentials for continuing education by state licensing boards and professional organizations.

Thinking about a master's degree? The four courses in this certificate can be applied towards ODU's master's program in Civil Engineering with a focus in Coastal Engineering.

Indicates a required field












    • 12 credit hours (four courses):
      • Introduction to Coastal Engineering
      • Dredging and Beach Engineering
      • Coastal Hydrodynamics and Sediment Processes
      • Design of Coastal Structures
  • Participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

  • An academic certificate in coastal engineering can open new career opportunities in areas such as:

    • Research, education and teaching
    • Consulting engineering
    • Instrumentation development
    • Project management
    • Membership on coastal zone management teams
    • Federal, state or city government 
    • Permit review, dredging or surveying
  • In-state Virginia Residents
    $620 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $642 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2024 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

  • To take courses in this certificate, you must be admitted to ODU as a non-degree graduate student. An undergraduate degree from an accredited university in engineering or oceanographic sciences is preferred. Experienced professionals in the Coastal Engineering field are welcome to apply.

    If you are an international student interested in taking this program online from your home country, please contact the ODU International Admission Office for assistance.