Civil Engineering

The program for the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering offers four major areas of concentration: structural engineering, water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering and construction engineering. The Civil Engineering Program is accredited by the Engineering Accrediting Commission (EAC) of ABET, Inc.

The objective of the Civil Engineering Program is to prepare students for engineering careers and/or advanced study in civil engineering and to offer research and service programs for the general public. Civil engineers provide modern society with vital infrastructure and lifeline systems such as cities, roads, buildings, bridges, railroads, water supply systems, and drainage systems etc. In addition, they protect society from extreme forces of nature such as high winds, earthquakes and floods. . The program places special emphasis on solving problems in urban areas, particularly in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Civil engineers are employed in both industry and governmental agencies. The demand is significantly higher than the number of graduates.

The expertise of the civil engineering faculty, combined with their dedication to quality of instruction, their willingness to provide individual attention to students, and their experience provide the basis for a solid fundamental engineering education.

Program Educational Objectives

In accordance with ABET accreditation criteria and pursuant to the University’s mission statement, the following program educational objectives have been established:

Program Outcomes

Students graduating from the civil engineering program are expected to acquire the following:

(a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
(b) an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
(c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability and sustainability
(d) an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams
(e) an ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems
(f) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
(g) an ability to communicate effectively
(h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic environmental and societal context
(i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
(j) a knowledge of contemporary issues
(k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.

Required Courses: