Students in the Certificate Program gain an opportunity to focus on a specific application area of civil engineering, and usually find that several introductory graduate courses are among their selections. To maintain a balance of theory and practice, engineers from industry participate in teaching and supervising the senior design projects. Non-certificate students may elect a broad study of civil engineering. These students must also take a design course and a senior design project and elect six civil engineering electives from any area of interest. In all cases, students are assigned faculty advisors who help guide the student to pursue a coherent program best meeting their needs.
Students also benefit from a high level of interaction with quality classmates.
Throughout the undergraduate program, students are exposed to professional activities through visits by lecturers and mentors from industry. Two national civil engineering societies maintain student chapters at the University of Pittsburgh. The American Society of Civil Engineers student chapter has been active in the organization of undergraduate programs and other student leadership roles. A special sophomore seminar is offered to introduce students to the many facets of civil engineering. Chi Epsilon, the Civil Engineering honor society, also conducts seminars and supports tutoring services.