Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

B.S. in Civil Engineering Program

Civil engineering (CE), the oldest and broadest of the divisions of engineering, implements a range of public and private projects for improving society’s physical infrastructure and the environment. The civil engineer integrates scientific principles with engineering experience to plan, design, and construct networks of highways and railroads, airports, bridges and dams, environmental pollution control systems, industrial structures, water purification and distribution systems, and urban transportation systems that maintain, protect, and enhance the quality of life. Civil engineers are trained to consider the social effects as well as the physical and environmental factors that constrain the planning, design, construction, and operation of their projects. Environmental engineering, a technical specialization with its origins in civil engineering, is a growing discipline dedicated to the protection of the environment.

The undergraduate program gives students the theoretical background, instruction in engineering application of scientific principles, and professional attitude to serve the public. It typically leads to entry-level positions or to graduate work in technical specialties (e.g., environmental, geotechnical, structural, and transportation), business administration, or other professions.

Courses that address the behavior and design of steel and reinforced concrete structures, environmental pollution, control systems, water resources systems, foundations, and surface transportation systems are integrated into the curriculum, culminating in a series of senior-level professional design courses. These simulate the design processes used in the major areas of civil engineering and prepare students for entry-level positions. Most faculty members are licensed professional engineers. KU graduates have successful records in professional practice, research in academic institutions, government and private laboratories, and in managing firms and corporations of all sizes.

B.S. CE Mission Statement

Graduates who pursue a career in Civil Engineering will be successfully engaged in professional engineering practice or graduate study in the analysis, design, construction, and operation of public and private infrastructure systems.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Combined Civil Engineering and Business Program

A student who wants to combine engineering with business may enroll in a program leading to a B.S. degree in both fields. Full-time enrollment enables the student to earn the two degrees in 5 years. During the first 2 years, the student enrolls in the School of Engineering. After that, the student enrolls simultaneously in the schools of Engineering and Business.

Careers

Professional Registration and Licensing

Engineers are involved in projects that directly affect the health and safety of the public. Graduates are strongly encouraged to become registered Professional Engineers. This involves completing a B.S. degree in civil engineering, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Engineering (PE) examinations, and obtaining four years of satisfactory engineering experience under the supervision of a professional engineer. Students in civil engineering must take the FE examination before graduation.

Professional Opportunities

Civil engineers plan, design, construct, and oversee public and private infrastructure systems as well as maintain essential structures such as bridges, buildings, tunnels, roads, and water supply and sewage systems. Civil engineers typically work for major industrial and commercial centers, construction industry, state departments of transportation, manufacturing companies, oil or electrical companies, aerospace industries, or consulting firms.