University of Arizona

What you'll study

The curriculum covers the core foundations of civil engineering alongside specialised modules that reflect modern practice. Early years emphasise mathematics, physics and foundational engineering courses such as statics, dynamics and mechanics of materials. Later years build into discipline-specific topics, including structural analysis and design, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulics and water resources, environmental engineering principles, and construction management.

• Core technical subjects: calculus, differential equations, statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, engineering mathematics.
• Civil specialisms: structural analysis and design, reinforced concrete and steel design, geotechnical engineering, foundation design, transportation systems, traffic engineering, hydraulics and hydrology, water-resources engineering, and environmental engineering fundamentals.
• Professional practice and design: construction management, surveying, engineering economy, project management, codes and standards, ethics and sustainability.
• Laboratory and hands-on work: materials testing, structural labs, geotechnical soil testing, fluid mechanics and hydraulics experiments, computer modelling and CAD/ BIM applications.
• Capstone: a multi-semester senior design project where students work in teams to deliver a real-world engineering design, integrating technical analysis, drawings, cost estimation and professional communication.

Students also take general education courses to develop communication, teamwork and critical thinking skills. Coursework is augmented by software and computing training commonly used in industry, such as finite element packages, CAD, GIS and traffic modelling tools.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong performance in mathematics and science at secondary level, typically including calculus and physics. Successful candidates usually present a competitive academic record in relevant subjects and evidence of preparedness for a rigorous engineering curriculum.

• Academic background: strong secondary-school grades with emphasis on mathematics (including calculus where available) and physics or chemistry.
• Recommended preparation: coursework in advanced mathematics, physics, computer science or related STEM subjects; laboratory experience and problem-solving activities are advantageous.
• English language: for applicants whose first language is not English, demonstration of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent is required.
• Additional factors: admissions decisions often consider personal statements, extracurricular activities related to engineering (such as robotics, internships or volunteer projects), and recommendations that speak to quantitative ability and teamwork.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona enter a broad labour market. Typical roles include civil or structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, transportation planner, water-resources engineer, environmental engineer, construction manager and site engineer. Employers span private consulting firms, construction and infrastructure companies, utility providers, and local, state or federal public agencies.

• Professional registration: the programme provides the academic foundation required for professional engineering licensure pathways; graduates often pursue the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and subsequent professional engineer (PE) licensure after gaining work experience.
• Career development: students commonly secure internships and co-op placements that lead to graduate employment; opportunities also exist in research labs, municipal planning offices and industry partnerships.
• Further study: graduates may choose specialised master's degrees in structural, geotechnical, transportation, environmental engineering or related interdisciplinary fields, or pursue research and doctoral programmes.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona’s civil engineering programme is housed within a research-active engineering college that emphasises hands-on learning, industry engagement and interdisciplinary research. The department offers well-equipped laboratories for structures, materials, geotechnical and hydraulics testing, and integrates practical design experience through senior capstone projects and design studios.

• Research and facilities: access to modern testing facilities, computing resources and research centres that address infrastructure resilience, water resources and sustainable design.
• Industry connections: strong links with regional engineering firms, public agencies and construction companies provide internship and employment pathways, as well as project collaborations for senior design work.
• Student support and extracurriculars: advising, career services, student chapters of professional societies (such as ASCE) and design/build clubs help students develop practical skills, leadership and professional networks.
• Location advantages: the university’s location offers exposure to varied environmental and infrastructural challenges—urban, desert and mountainous contexts—which benefits learning in water resources, transportation and resilient design.