They meet the challenges of pollution, deteriorating infrastructure, traffic congestion, energy needs, floods, earthquakes, urban redevelopment and community planning. The opportunity for creativity is unlimited. The civil engineering program at UAF began in 1922, had its first graduate in 1931 and since has graduated more than 600 men and women. Many of these graduates work in Alaska's cities, towns and villages in a wide range of responsible positions. More than 60 percent of Alaska's professional engineers practice in civil engineering.
Civil engineers continue to provide a significant contribution to society.
The UAF civil engineering program has been accredited since 1940 and presently by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. All engineering programs in the department give special attention to problems of northern regions. In addition to general civil engineering courses, specialties are available in transportation, geotechnical, structures, water resources, hydrology and environmental studies. These courses emphasize principles of analysis, planning and engineering design in northern regions. A master's degree program can include courses in environmental quality engineering, engineering management and other areas.