Civil Engineers

High School

Because a bachelor's degree is considered essential in the field, high school students who are interested in civil engineering must follow a college prep curriculum. Students should focus on mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and calculus), the sciences (physics and chemistry), computer science (including data science and artificial intelligence), and English and the humanities (history, economics, and sociology). Students should also aim for honors-level courses.

Postsecondary Training

In addition to completing the core engineering curriculum (including mathematics, science, drafting, and computer applications), students can choose their specialty from the following types of courses: infrastructure, structural, environmental, geotechnical, and transportation. Bachelor's degrees can be achieved through a number of programs: a four- or five-year accredited college or university; two years in a community college engineering program plus two or three years in a college or university; or five or six years in a co-op program (attending classes for part of the year and working in an engineering-related job for the rest of the year). About one in five civil engineering students go on to receive a master's degree. Many engineering students also participate in internships at engineering consulting firms or other companies or government agencies that employ civil engineers.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in civil engineering, general engineering, engineering management, and emerging technology or practice areas. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. The American Society of Civil Engineers offers certificate programs in Architectural and Commercial Building Construction, Civil Infrastructure Construction, Construction Engineering, Port Engineering, Structural Earthquake Engineering, Water Treatment, and other areas. Visit https://www.asce.org/education-and-events/explore-education/certificate-programs to learn more.

Other Education or Training

The National Society of Professional Engineers provides webinars for student members of the society. Past webinars included How to Get Your First Job, Career Success in Engineering: A Guide for Students and New Professionals, and Ethics and Professionalism for Students and Young Engineers. Other organizations that provide continuing education opportunities include the American Society for Engineering Education, Society of Women Engineers, Institute of Transportation Engineers, and the American Society of Civil Engineers.