Programs - Civil Engineering

The civil engineering curriculum is designed to give the student a sound education in preparation for this role. The first two years include courses that deal with the principles of mathematics, physical and engineering sciences on which engineering concepts are based, as well as courses in humanities and social sciences and introductory courses in engineering and design. The last two years are devoted to developing the necessary technical competence, as well as the ability to apply the knowledge that the student has acquired to the design and synthesis of complex civil engineering projects.  Project-based learning is an essential ingredient, and a year-long, client-based capstone design project highlights the senior year.

The entire curriculum is oriented to develop a student’s ability to think critically and logically. Upon graduation the student will be able to adapt this ability to the engineering environment of his or her choice. The curriculum in civil engineering will provide the student with the capacity for professional growth, either by advanced study or as a practicing professional engineer. A student may also use this academic background as a stepping stone to a position in management, administration, law, or some other non-engineering field.

Civil Engineering Department’s Mission Statement

To provide an excellent civil engineering education that prepares graduates to develop into professionals who will exceed the needs of their employers, clients, and community in a continually changing world.

Program Educational Objectives and Student Learning Outcomes

The CE program uses the term “educational objective” to describe the expected accomplishment of students in three to five year following graduation.  The term “student learning outcome” is used to describe the knowledge and skills that students demonstrate at the time of graduation.

Graduates will demonstrate the ability to perform essential engineering functions in the design, management, or construction industry.  Supporting learning outcomes are as follows:

• Problem Solving – The ability to solve problems in mathematics (through differential equations), calculus-based physics, chemistry, an additional science, and well-defined engineering problems in four technical areas appropriate to civil engineering.
  
• Interpreting Data – The ability to interpret graphical, numerical, and textual data.
  
• Experiments – The ability to design and conduct a civil engineering experiment.
  
• Cultural and Civic Awareness – The ability to understand contemporary issues and engineering impacts in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context.

Graduates will demonstrate the ability to design/construct complex engineering systems in the broad-based engineering industry.  Supporting learning outcomes are as follows:

• Design/Engineering Tools – The ability to design a product or process to satisfy a client's needs subject to constraints by using current technology and the tools of the profession.
  
• Teamwork – The ability to function effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
  
• Communication – The ability to deliver effective oral, written, and graphical communication.
  
• Ethics – The ability to analyze a complex situation involving multiple conflicting professional and ethical interests, to determine an appropriate course of action.

Graduates will demonstrate their potential for technical leadership and management.  Supporting learning outcomes are as follows:

• Life Long Learning – The ability to demonstrate self-learning (i.e., without the aid of formal instruction).
  
• Business and Public Administration – The ability to explain basic principles and problem solving processes used in business, public policy, and public administration.
  
• Project, Construction, and Asset Management – The ability to explain rudimentary concepts and problem solving processes used in all types of management.
  
• Leadership – The ability to explain the role of the leader, fundamental leadership principles, and attitudes conducive to effective professional practice.

CIVIL ENGINEERING PLAN OF STUDY

Environmental Engineering Area Minor
The Environmental Engineering Area minor includes 3 required courses and 3 elective courses. The required courses provide an introduction to the overall field of environmental engineering. The elective courses allow the student to tailor the minor to their academic majors and special interests.