University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The Civil Engineering programme provides a broad foundation across the principal sub-disciplines of civil engineering, together with opportunities for applied learning and specialisation. Course work emphasises analytical methods, engineering design, and practical skills needed for planning, constructing and maintaining infrastructure.

• Core mathematics and sciences: calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra, physics and chemistry as they apply to engineering problems.
• Fundamental engineering topics: statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics and engineering thermodynamics.
• Civil engineering core: structural analysis and design, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, water resources and hydraulics, environmental engineering fundamentals, and construction engineering and management.
• Design and practice: computer-aided design and drafting (AutoCAD/Civil 3D), structural modelling and analysis tools, surveying and geomatics, numerical methods and engineering software such as MATLAB.
• Laboratory and field work: materials testing, soil mechanics labs, hydraulics flumes, surveying field exercises and construction site visits to develop hands-on skills.
• Capstone design project: a year-long or semester-long senior design sequence where student teams deliver a complete engineering design addressing real-world constraints, codes and project management considerations.
• Electives and special topics: opportunities to take advanced courses or electives in areas such as seismic design, advanced structural systems, pavement engineering, water resources modelling, sustainable infrastructure and building information modelling (BIM).
• Professional development: ethics, engineering economics, communication, technical writing and preparation for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a strong high-school programme with emphasis on mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes calculus, precalculus or advanced algebra, physics and chemistry. Admission decisions take into account overall academic record, strength of quantitative courses and extracurricular activities related to engineering or technical fields.

• Academic background: high school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in mathematics and science courses. A successful applicant usually has completed calculus and physics prior to entry or intends to take them immediately on entry.
• Standardised tests and documents: the university’s admissions policies regarding standardised tests (SAT/ACT) and international qualifications should be consulted; some applicants may need to provide proof of English language proficiency.
• Prerequisites and placement: engineering programmes commonly require placement in calculus and introductory engineering courses; remediation or bridge courses may be available if needed.
• Transfer and mature students: students transferring from community colleges or other institutions should present official transcripts showing relevant college-level mathematics and engineering courses. Prior technical experience or internships strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Civil Engineering programme pursue careers designing, constructing and maintaining the built environment. The degree provides a direct pathway into professional engineering roles and further study.

• Typical roles: structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, transportation engineer, water resources or environmental engineer, construction manager, project engineer and site engineer.
• Employers and sectors: consulting engineering firms, construction companies, municipal and state departments of transportation and public works, utilities, environmental agencies, and heavy civil contractors.
• Professional registration: graduates are prepared to sit the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam as the first step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), followed by relevant work experience and the PE examination.
• Further study and research: many graduates pursue master’s degrees or specialised certifications in structural engineering, transportation, environmental engineering or construction management, or participate in research and development projects.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a civil engineering programme grounded in hands-on learning, small-class interaction and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on applied research. Students benefit from laboratory facilities, field-based instruction and connections to regional industry partners.

• Applied facilities and centres: access to engineering laboratories for materials, soils and hydraulics testing, surveying equipment and computing resources for design and simulation. Students often engage with regional research centres on infrastructure, water resources and energy-related projects.
• Industry connections and experience: strong ties to local and regional employers provide internships, co-op opportunities and real project experience, helping students build professional networks before graduation.
• Student support and activities: advising tailored to engineering students, career services, plus student chapters of professional societies such as ASCE and extracurricular design teams that develop practical skills and leadership.
• Pathway to licensure and career development: the curriculum aligns with the knowledge and skills needed for the FE exam and professional practice, with faculty mentoring on career planning and graduate study options.