Civil Engineering Degrees
Civil Engineering is the discipline of engineering that covers the construction and design of roads, bridges, dams, utility networks, and other types of infrastructure. Civil engineers and the projects they oversee are an absolutely essential part of modern life and a degree in civil engineering prepares students for the varied challenges and opportunities of the field.
Civil engineering is closely tied to construction and environmental engineering, with substantial overlap between the fields.
Top Bachelor's Degree Programs in Civil Engineering
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colorado School of Mines | $19062 | 53% | 83% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 2 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | $9943 | 28% | 82% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 3 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $12682 | 21% | 90% | 69% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 4 | Missouri University of Science and Technology | $10575 | 79% | 66% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | San Jose State University | $7852 | 64% | 64% | 73% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 6 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | $7396 | 55% | 69% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | University of California-Berkeley | $14253 | 16% | 93% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 8 | New Jersey Institute of Technology | $17674 | 73% | 67% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 9 | Michigan Technological University | $17134 | 74% | 70% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | Texas A & M University-College Station | $11361 | 58% | 82% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 11 | North Dakota State University-Main Campus | $9619 | 94% | 60% | 90% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 12 | University of Maryland-College Park | $10779 | 44% | 87% | 66% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 13 | Oregon Institute of Technology | $10485 | 97% | 46% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | University of California-Davis | $14495 | 39% | 87% | 66% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 15 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | $11465 | 52% | 84% | 57% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 16 | Stevens Institute of Technology | $54014 | 40% | 85% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 17 | University of Florida | $6381 | 37% | 88% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 18 | University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown | $14156 | 79% | 57% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 19 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | $13691 | 70% | 86% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 20 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | $17935 | 24% | 95% | 57% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 21 | University of California-Los Angeles | $13240 | 12% | 92% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $11962 | 75% | 68% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 23 | The University of Texas at Austin | $10824 | 32% | 86% | 67% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 24 | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology | $10770 | 77% | 49% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 25 | California State University-Chico | $7806 | 72% | 67% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 26 | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | $49527 | 74% | 86% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 27 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | $10725 | 54% | 88% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 28 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | $7623 | 85% | 56% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 29 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $16540 | 23% | 93% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 30 | Citadel Military College of South Carolina | $12620 | 75% | 74% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 31 | George Mason University | $12564 | 87% | 71% | 74% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 32 | Purdue Global-Main Campus | $9992 | 60% | 82% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 33 | University at Buffalo | $10524 | 61% | 75% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 34 | Iowa State University | $9320 | 92% | 74% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 35 | California State University-Sacramento | $7368 | 82% | 55% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 36 | CUNY City College | $7340 | 46% | 56% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | Texas Tech University | $9300 | 69% | 61% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 38 | New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology | $8156 | 80% | 50% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 39 | University of Connecticut | $17226 | 49% | 84% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 40 | Ohio Northern University | $33440 | 70% | 77% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 41 | University of Houston | $9221 | 65% | 61% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 42 | San Francisco State University | $7266 | 67% | 57% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 43 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | $34970 | 69% | 73% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 44 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $9063 | 80% | 70% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 45 | Washington State University | $11841 | 76% | 60% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 46 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $15407 | 61% | 84% | 71% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 47 | University of Iowa | $9606 | 83% | 72% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 48 | University of Utah | $8615 | 62% | 70% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 49 | Oregon State University | $11715 | 82% | 67% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 50 | Rice University | $49112 | 9% | 93% | 69% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.
*Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
What Kinds of Civil Engineering Degrees Are There?
Civil engineering degrees exist at all levels, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees. Many universities also offer certificate programs for specialized study. Explore each of these degree options below.
Associate Degrees in Civil Engineering
There are a limited number of associate degrees in civil engineering, however, there are many in engineering. Associate in Engineering degrees are designed to provide the basic skills, training, and prerequisites for more intensive bachelor's level study. Offered by community and technical colleges, these degrees provide students with credits and courses that can be transferred to a bachelor's degree at a reduced cost. An associate degree also qualifies a student to work as a civil engineering technician, supporting the work of civil engineers.
Bachelor's Degrees in Civil Engineering
A Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering is generally a requirement for an entry-level position in civil engineering. The goal of a bachelor's degree program in civil engineering is to prepare students for careers as civil engineers by teaching them how to solve engineering problems through the application of science, mathematics, and engineering principles. Students study topics including hydraulics, structural design, physics, computer programming, and more. Within civil engineering programs, students may have the option of choosing a concentration or specialization to focus their studies on a particular area of interest, such as hydraulic engineering, structural engineering, or environmental engineering.
Most bachelor's degree programs in civil engineering begin students with a general first-year engineering curriculum. This is a basic introduction to the essential prerequisite skills for completing an engineering program, such as calculus, laboratory science courses, and communications courses. This is designed to give students an opportunity to experiment with different engineering disciplines prior to deciding on their field of study. Completion of this first-year curriculum with a satisfactory GPA is a requirement for further study within the program.
Master's Degrees in Civil Engineering
A Master of Science in Civil Engineering degree is the next level of study open to students after completing their bachelor's degrees. Lasting 1.5 to 2 years these programs offer more in-depth and rigorous training to build on the skills learned in a bachelor's program. They typically require students to select a specific track or concentration in order to focus their studies effectively. Students may have the opportunity to pursue their own individual research by completing a master's thesis. Some programs offer students the opportunity to fund their graduate studies through research or teaching assistantships.
Doctoral Degrees in Civil Engineering
Doctoral degrees in civil engineering may be either Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Engineering Science degrees. These degrees are designed for students who already possess a master's degree or substantial experience in the field. They emphasize research and professional development, as students are required to complete a research dissertation as well as coursework within their specialization of choice. A Ph.D. in civil engineering can open up career opportunities in research, academia, and higher levels of engineering management.
Certificates in Civil Engineering
Certificates in civil engineering are generally designed for active professionals in the field. These programs allow civil engineers to keep up to date with ongoing developments in the field, or to develop more specialized skills in a particular aspect of the field. These can include programs like Graduate Certificate in Structural Engineering, a Graduate Certificate in Geotechnical Engineering, or a Graduate Certificate in Performance Based Earthquake Engineering. Certificate programs in civil engineering exist in both on-campus and online formats.
Civil Engineering Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
Civil engineering is a broad and complex field, so most civil engineering bachelor's programs offer a variety of concentrations to allow students to specialize and tailor their education to suit their interests and career goals. Explore common degree concentrations below:
- Structural Engineering
Structural engineering is the study and analysis of structures such as buildings, dams, and bridges. Structural engineers answer questions such as: how well will this bridge support the weight of traffic? Will this skyscraper withstand high winds? They test and determine the stability and longevity of these structures and projects.
- Construction Engineering:
Construction engineering combines design, management, and planning to apply the principles of engineering in real-world settings. Construction engineers work on projects to design and build airports, roads, buildings, and subway systems.
- Transportation Engineering
Transportation engineering, sometimes called transportation systems or infrastructure engineering, deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation networks. These can include railroads, highways, bridges, or airports. Transportation engineers study how to effectively design and build these projects to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity.
What are the Prerequisites for a Civil Engineering Bachelor's Degree?
Students interested in a degree in civil engineering should optimize their high school education with courses in science, mathematics, and technology, as these form the basic curriculum for a bachelor's degree in the field. They should also maximize their ACT/SAT scores in mathematics and science. For most civil engineering programs students must first apply to complete a general application at the university level, then, after completing a first-year engineering curriculum, they may apply for admission to the engineering program itself. Students must meet a department's criteria in order to be eligible for the program application. These criteria can include completing certain required courses and maintaining a required GPA level, depending on the program.
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering
The curriculum for a bachelor's degree in civil engineering covers a range of topics that provide the essential skills to work in the field. The curriculum is typically divided between general required courses that provide the basic skills needed to succeed and courses focused on a student's specific concentration or specialization, as well as general education courses to provide a well-rounded educational experience. Typical topics covered may include calculus, physics, chemistry, composition and communications, structural mechanics, and hydraulics. Laboratory and practical coursework are an essential aspect of engineering instruction, supplemented with lecture and seminar programs.
Most bachelor's degree programs in civil engineering begin with a first-year engineering curriculum. This is a required set of courses that introduce students to a range of disciplines and engineering skill areas, giving students the opportunity to decide which type of engineering they are interested in, such as aerospace, nuclear, or civil engineering. The transition from the first-year program to a student's area of focus in some cases requires a second application to their program of choice within a university's college of engineering.
Some universities offer students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate research, guided by a member of the faculty. This can provide students with an opportunity to learn the intricacies of conducting their own research as well as gain valuable experience and networking with practitioners in the field.
Students may also have the opportunity to pursue a double major in civil engineering and architecture. Civil engineering and architecture are related fields, with many similarities, but it is important to know the difference between a civil engineer and an architect.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering?
A bachelor's degree in civil engineering typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. These degrees can require more than 132 credit hours of coursework. Students can shorten the length of their study by completing summer classes, or by utilizing transfer credits from an associate degree to finish prerequisite or general education requirements.
Some universities offer combined BS/MS degree programs, allowing students to take graduate-level courses while completing their bachelor's degrees. This can extend the length of a bachelor's program to five years; however, it allows a student to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees simultaneously, thus shortening the overall course of study.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in Civil Engineering Degrees
Accreditation is an important measure of the quality and reliability of a university's programs and degrees. Accreditation is especially important in civil engineering due to the responsibilities of the field. Civil engineers are accountable for the security, reliability, and safety of the projects they plan and oversee. The accreditation of engineering programs is the responsibility of the Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET accredits universities and programs around the world, ensuring that they meet a rigorous standard of excellence and professionalism in the field.
In order to receive federal aid, a student must be enrolled in a regionally or nationally accredited university and program.
Civil Engineering Licensure & Certification
A professional engineering license is required for civil engineering positions above the entry-level. Professional Engineers (PEs) are the only individuals allowed to submit plans and projects to government agencies and offices for approval. The requirements for receiving a PE license vary from state to state, however, they typically require a bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited university, passing several examinations, and several years of work under the direction of an already licensed PE. At the national level, state civil engineering licensure boards are organized into the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering?
A bachelor's degree in civil engineering provides a range of careers. Civil engineers work in both the private and public sectors. They work for local, county, state, and federal governments. They work with construction firms, as contractors, designers, and project managers. In order to advance beyond the entry-level, civil engineers require substantial work experience, a graduate degree, and/or professional licensure.
How to Become a Structural Engineer
| Median Salary | $69,525* |
| Job Growth | 2%** |
Sources; *Payscale.com, **Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Structural engineers practice a specialized form of civil engineering, focused on the design and construction of various infrastructures. Structural engineers work closely with construction professionals on projects including roadways, bridges, sewage and utility systems, and others. Structural engineers prepare plans, ensure projects meet environmental and safety standards and oversee inspections and upkeep of various structures. They may work for local, state, or federal governments, contractors, and other companies.
A bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited university is required for entry-level positions as a structural engineer while a graduate degree can open up opportunities for advancement to management positions.
How to Become a Hydraulic Engineer
| Median Salary | $70,421* |
| Job Growth | 2%** |
Sources; *Payscale.com, **BLS
Hydraulic engineers are specialized civil engineers whose work involves the flow of water and other liquids. They may work on dams, bridges, hydroelectric powerplants, or sewage systems. Their work may overlap with the work of structural and mechanical engineers.
The first step towards working as a hydraulic engineer is to earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a hydraulic engineering concentration from an ABET accredited program. Like other forms of civil engineering hydraulic engineering requires, math, problem-solving, and organization skills. Earning a Professional Engineering license or a graduate degree can open up opportunities for advancement to higher-level positions.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in Civil Engineering Degrees
There is a wide range of financial aid and scholarship options open to students who wish to pursue a degree in civil engineering. These include student loans, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Federal student aid includes loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. The first step in the federal student aid process is to complete the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application utilizes income tax information to determine student's eligibility for need-based financial aid.
Universities typically offer both need and merit based scholarships and grants. Universities also use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for need-based scholarships. These can typically be found on a university's financial aid page on its website.
Other possible sources for financial aid include third-party organizations such as the American Society for Engineering Education, which provides students with the opportunity to apply for fellowships, grants, scholarships, and internships.
Professional Organizations in Civil Engineering
The NSPE provides its members with ongoing education opportunities, professional networking, job boards, and a community of like-minded professionals in the field.
The ASCE offers members access to a global network of fellow professionals, as well as learning opportunities, conferences, and job boards. The ASCE also publishes a number of academic journals, including the 'Journal of Civil Engineering Education', the 'Journal of Construction Engineering and Management', and the 'Journal of Engineering Mechanics'.
The ASEE is a non-profit that promotes education in engineering and engineering technology. They provide resources and support for engineering educators and researchers around the country through fellowships, publications, conferences, and professional networks.