Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

Civil engineering stands as a cornerstone of infrastructure and development, shaping the environments in which we live, work, and play. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering not only opens doors to a diverse array of career paths but also empowers students with the skills to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from sustainable urban development to resilient infrastructure.

Those considering a career in the civil engineering field should explore the details around earning a civil engineering bachelor’s degree, including its curriculum, career opportunities, and the positive impact that graduates can make in their communities and beyond.

What Is a Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

A civil engineering bachelor’s degree is a comprehensive, typically four-year undergraduate program designed to equip students with fundamental engineering principles and the technical skills necessary to design, construct, and maintain the infrastructure that supports modern society. This degree, typically structured as a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, covers a broad spectrum of topics, including structural engineering, environmental engineering, water resources management, and transportation engineering.

Students in this program learn through a blend of theoretical coursework and hands-on experiences, such as lab sessions, fieldwork, and cooperative educational opportunities. The curriculum is designed to challenge students to think critically about real-world problems, applying mathematical and scientific principles to develop efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions.

By the end of the program, graduates are not only ready to enter the professional world but also to pursue licensure as professional engineers, setting the stage for a career that makes a tangible difference in the world around them.

Benefits of a Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

A civil engineering bachelor’s degree offers numerous benefits. The field of civil engineering is in high demand, providing excellent job stability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of civil engineers is projected to grow 5% between 2022 and 2032, which is above the average for all jobs.

As a civil engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects in various settings. This can include construction, geotechnical work, structural design, and transportation projects. This exposure to different areas of civil engineering will help you develop versatile skills that are transferable across many industries.

On a personal level, civil engineering jobs offer a sense of fulfillment because the work you do contributes to society. As a civil engineer, you will be responsible for building roads, bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure projects that improve people’s lives.

What Is the Main Focus of a Civil Engineer?

Civil engineers have a holistic approach to their work. They recognize the importance of understanding various disciplines and their interactions. By having this broad perspective, civil engineers can ensure the success of projects as the field moves into the future.

Civil engineers are involved in designing, constructing, maintaining, and operating infrastructures. They also prioritize public and environmental health while upgrading neglected structures and systems. Civil engineering encompasses the natural and constructed environment, with an emphasis on sustainability.

In addition, civil engineers study atmospheric and energy sciences. They analyze climate, air pollution, and weather, and explore renewable energy systems. This research includes examining renewable resources such as wind, hydropower, and solar energy, as well as studying the effects of alternative fuels on air pollution.

What Types of Degrees in Civil Engineering Are There?

Universities offer many types of engineering degrees, including civil engineering degrees. Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), Master of Engineering (MEng), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs focused on civil engineering provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for careers in civil engineering or advanced study in the field.

What are the Prerequisites for a Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

Prerequisites for a civil engineering bachelor’s degree can vary among schools. Typically, universities offering civil engineering programs require students to complete courses in subjects such as English composition, physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and introductory engineering in the first two years. This foundation is then followed by more advanced engineering courses in subjects like mechanics, hydraulics, and environmental engineering.

It is important to meet all the prerequisite requirements and achieve acceptable grades in math, physics, chemistry, and engineering courses in order to obtain a civil engineering bachelor’s degree.

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering Full Program Overview

A typical curriculum for a B.S. in civil engineering spans four years. Full-time students who successfully complete their coursework can expect to graduate in this timeframe.

Civil Engineering Degree Requirements

To earn your bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, you must complete a four-year program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The program usually requires about 130 to 140 credits, including liberal arts and humanities courses.

The engineering courses within the program cover various disciplines, including mathematics, statistics, engineering mechanics and systems, fluid dynamics, hydraulics and hydrology, structural design, geotechnical engineering, construction, environmental engineering, civil engineering materials, and transportation engineering.

After completing your bachelor’s degree, you will need to obtain licensure in your state. This typically involves passing a licensure examination and gaining several years of experience in the field.

You also have the option to pursue further studies in civil engineering through a master’s or doctorate program.

Civil Engineering Classes

Here is a sample curriculum:

Freshman Year

Chemistry
Introduction to Civil and Environmental Engineering
Introduction to Applied Computing
Mathematics (Calculus)
Physics
Reading and Composition
Free Electives

Sophomore Year

Basic Science Elective
Introduction to Solid Mechanics
Structure and Properties of Civil Engineering Materials
Engineering Data Analysis
Engineering Science and Sustainability Elective
Mathematics (Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Differential Equations)
Physics
Humanities/Social Studies
Free Electives

Junior Year

Elementary Fluid Mechanics
Mechanics of Structures
Elective Core Courses
Engineering Science Elective
Humanities/Social Studies

Senior Year

The Art and Science of Civil and Environmental Engineering Practice
Design Elective
Engineering Electives
Humanities/Social Studies
Free Electives

How Long Does It Take To Become a Civil Engineer?

Becoming a civil engineer involves completing a four-year, accredited bachelor’s degree, passing the licensure examination, and gaining several years of experience to earn your state’s engineering license.

If you decide to pursue further education in the field, the time required will vary. Earning a master’s degree typically takes two years of full-time study. A doctorate program can take four to six years of full-time study, depending on the program and your chosen pace. A doctorate opens up opportunities for university-level teaching and high-level consulting roles.

Can I Get a Civil Engineering Bachelor Degree Online?

Although online schools offer BS degrees in engineering, they might not provide the necessary laboratory and field classes required for civil engineering. When considering an online degree, it’s important to carefully review the course requirements before making a decision.

Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering: What’s the Difference?

When considering a career in engineering, many prospective students find themselves weighing the differences between civil and mechanical engineering. Both disciplines are pillars of the engineering field but focus on distinct areas that cater to different interests and career paths.

A bachelor’s in civil engineering is primarily concerned with the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, dams, and buildings. It emphasizes understanding materials, geology, and the environmental impact of projects, preparing students to address the needs of public infrastructure and urban planning.

On the other hand, a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering revolves around the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. This can range from small components like sensors and switches to large systems such as aircraft engines or industrial machinery. Mechanical engineering students dive deep into principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and robotics, equipping them with the versatility to work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy.

While both degrees require a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, mechanical engineering tends to have a greater focus on moving parts and systems, whereas civil engineering is more concerned with static structures and their environmental context.

Typical Civil Engineering Jobs

Civil engineers can focus on various infrastructure systems in areas including the following:

Structural engineers specialize in the design and analysis of buildings and bridges
Geotechnical engineers design and build tunnels, pipelines, and foundations.
Environmental engineers analyze and solve problems related to air and water quality and the management of waste and hazardous materials.
Water resources engineers work on improving water sources through hydrology, meteorology, and fluid dynamics.
Construction engineers manage projects for erecting buildings, digging tunnels, and laying roads.
Transportation engineers design, construct, and maintain highways, railways, airfields, and ports.

Civil engineers can find employment with nongovernmental organizations, private companies, government agencies, research laboratories, or educational institutions. While master’s degree graduates can contribute to research through projects or assignments, research in this field is primarily conducted by those with a PhD.

Typical Civil Engineer Salary

According to the BLS, civil engineers earn competitive salaries. In 2023, the median annual salary for civil engineers was $95,890. The lowest 10% earned about $63,220, while the highest 10% earned about $150,640. This data includes civil engineers specializing in various fields, including construction, geotechnical, structural, and transportation engineering.

How to Become a Civil Engineer

Becoming a civil engineer involves a combination of education, skill development, and licensing that culminates in a career dedicated to designing and managing construction projects that are vital to the infrastructure of society. From entry-level education to advanced opportunities, the journey to becoming a civil engineer is structured to build both the theoretical knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in this dynamic field.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

To become a civil engineer, you must start by earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related specialty from an ABET-accredited institution. This undergraduate program introduces students to the essentials of civil engineering, including courses in mathematics, statistics, physics, project management, and specific engineering principles such as structural analysis, fluid dynamics, engineering mechanics, and environmental engineering. Many programs also incorporate hands-on learning through laboratory classes, field projects, and internships.

These experiences are crucial for understanding real-world applications of civil engineering and for meeting the educational requirements to qualify to become a licensed professional engineer.

Gain Professional Licensure

If you want to work on public-facing projects after you’ve obtained your bachelor’s degree, you must typically obtain a license as a professional engineer (PE) in the state where you wish to work.

This involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination, which is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), and gaining several years of experience in the field. The FE exam is essential for those looking to lead engineering teams, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public.

Pursue Advanced Civil Engineering Education Opportunities

A master’s or doctorate degree in civil engineering will further enhance your career prospects, opening up opportunities for management roles, teaching positions in universities and colleges, and high-level consulting positions.

A Master of Science in Civil Engineering degree allows professionals to focus on a particular area of interest such as structural, water resources, environmental, or transportation engineering. These advanced programs often emphasize research, advanced design principles, and management skills, providing an edge in the job market and the necessary qualifications for higher-level positions.

Some individuals may also choose to pursue professional certifications, including American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) certification in a field such as coastal engineering, port engineering, or geotechnical engineering.

These advanced opportunities not only enhance expertise but also expand career prospects in both the public and private sectors.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Civil Engineer?

The total cost of becoming a civil engineer includes tuition for the bachelor’s degree, the fee for the FE exam, and associated costs like travel and accommodation.

The average tuition for a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering can vary significantly based on several factors including whether the institution is public or private, and whether the student is paying in-state or out-of-state tuition rates.

Public universities:
- In-state tuition: For students attending as in-state residents, the average annual tuition can range from approximately $8,000 to $12,000.
- Out-of-state tuition: Out-of-state students at public universities can expect to pay significantly more, with averages ranging from about $20,000 to $35,000 per year.
Private universities:
- Private universities typically do not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition. The average annual tuition for private institutions offering a degree in civil engineering tends to be higher, ranging from about $20,000 to $50,000 or more.

According to the NCEES, the cost of taking the FE examination is $350 for members and $450 for nonmembers. Travel to the testing center and accommodation, if needed, can add an estimated additional $500 to $1,000. If you choose to invest in a review course, that could cost another $500 to $1,000.

How to Choose the Best School for Your Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering?

When selecting a program for your bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, consider important factors like accreditation, school ranking, reputation, location, and cost. Accreditation by ABET ensures quality and industry recognition for the program.

Look for schools with reputable civil engineering programs, as well as a strong demand for civil engineers in the surrounding area. Consider the availability of internships, job experiences, and other hands-on opportunities. Cost is also a crucial factor, so explore tuition rates, scholarship options, and financial aid opportunities.

Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Aid for Civil Engineering Students

Navigating the financial aspect of earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is crucial for many students. Thankfully, a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are available specifically tailored to aspiring civil engineers.

Scholarships: Numerous organizations offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as membership in an underrepresented group or interest in a particular area of civil engineering. For example, the ASCE provides several scholarships for undergraduate civil engineering students. Students are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to increase their chances of receiving awards.
Grants: Unlike scholarships, grants are typically need-based and do not require repayment. Federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant, can be particularly helpful. Students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal and state grants.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships and grants, students can explore federal student loans, which often offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Work-study programs may also be available to help students earn money to pay for their education while gaining relevant experience.

Tips for Applying to Online Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering Programs

Applying to an online bachelor’s in civil engineering program requires careful consideration and preparation. Here are some tips to help prospective students through the application process:

Research Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by a reputable agency, such as ABET. Accreditation confirms that the program meets certain educational standards essential for a career in civil engineering.
Understand Program Requirements: Each program may have different prerequisites and admission requirements. Some might require specific high school coursework or a minimum GPA. Understanding these requirements in advance can help candidates prepare their applications accordingly.
Gather Materials Early: Be proactive about gathering necessary materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. If the program requires an admissions essay or personal statement, start drafting early to refine your message and convey your passion for civil engineering.
Check for Special Requirements: Some online programs might require occasional on-campus attendance or specific equipment/software. Verify these requirements beforehand to ensure you can meet them.
Seek Advice: Don’t hesitate to contact the admissions office for guidance. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and any potential interviews or additional requirements.

By following these tips, prospective students can streamline their application process and increase their chances of gaining admission into a reputable online civil engineering program.

Resources: Civil Engineering Professional Organizations

Joining professional organizations can provide significant benefits for civil engineers. These organizations offer career resources, research opportunities, databases, publications, conferences, and networking opportunities.

The ASCE is a prominent global organization with over 150,000 professionals representing 177 countries. They provide various resources to support civil engineers at all stages of their careers. Other notable professional organizations include the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE).

Regardless of your stage in the field, there are numerous resources available to support your career as a civil engineer. With a civil engineering degree, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to society throughout your professional journey.

Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ

Are Civil Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees Available Entirely Online?

Yes, there are fully online civil engineering bachelor’s degree programs available, which are designed to provide the same rigorous education as their on-campus counterparts. However, some may require occasional in-person attendance for labs or exams.

Can I Become a Civil Engineer with a Bachelor’s Degree?

Yes, you can become a civil engineer with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. This degree typically meets the educational requirements for entry-level positions and is a fundamental step toward obtaining licensure as a professional engineer.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering?

With a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, you can work in various sectors such as construction, transportation, environmental consultancy, and urban planning. Roles might include designing infrastructure projects, overseeing construction sites, or ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.