These engineers assume the responsibility of protecting the quality of life on our planet. Civil engineering means accepting difficult science and engineering assignments, accepting the professional responsibility to make things better and working with people in all parts of the world. The satisfaction comes when you successfully measure up to the challenge. The final two years develop the expertise in civil engineering analysis and design that is needed to be successful in the practicing profession. The major technical areas are enviromental engineering, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, transportation engineering and water resources engineering.
Senior students participate in design projects that require team-building and management skills.
The design projects stimulate actual civil engineering assignments and introduce the students to professional practice. Since most civil engineering projects involve working with people, it is essential that peers and the general public clearly understand verbal and written communications and the goals, objectives, and benefits of a project. Required courses in the humanities and social sciences broaden the educational background. A construction management degree may be earned in conjunction with a civil engineering degree. Because certain advanced civil engineering courses require prerequisite courses not incorporated in the construction management curriculum, students who elect this option should first complete requirements for the civil engineering degree.