Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme emphasises applied civil engineering topics with a balance of mathematics, engineering fundamentals and practical laboratory and field work. Core study areas typically include statics and strength of materials, surveying and geomatics, construction materials and testing, fluid mechanics and hydraulics, structural analysis for technicians, transportation systems, construction methods and project management, plus computer applications such as CAD, BIM and GIS.

Typical modules and learning activities you can expect:

• Engineering Mathematics and Applied Calculus — mathematical tools for engineering calculations.
• Statics and Strength of Materials — fundamentals of forces, stresses and behaviour of structural elements.
• Surveying and Geomatics — field measurement, global positioning, mapping and data collection techniques.
• Construction Materials and Testing — laboratory testing of concrete, soils, asphalt and quality control procedures.
• Hydraulics and Fluid Mechanics — flow in pipes and open channels, stormwater management principles.
• Transportation and Highway Technology — basic design, planning and maintenance of transportation infrastructure.
• Construction Management and Estimating — scheduling, cost estimating, contracts and site safety.
• Computer-Aided Design, BIM and GIS Applications — drafting, modelling and spatial analysis tools used in practice.
• Capstone Applied Project or Design Sequence — team project applying technical skills to a realistic civil engineering technology problem.

Hands‑on labs, surveying field exercises, materials testing in dedicated facilities and cooperative education placements are integrated to reinforce classroom learning and build workplace competencies.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong foundation in mathematics and science. Applicants are typically expected to have completed courses in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and physics; preparation in calculus and chemistry is advantageous.

RIT evaluates applications holistically using academic records, personal statements and any relevant experience. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or qualifying pathways. Prospective students transferring from community colleges or related diploma programmes may receive advanced standing for relevant technical coursework—applicants should provide official transcripts and course descriptions for evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the civil engineering technology degree enter the workforce in technician and technologist roles across construction, consulting, public works and manufacturing. Typical job titles include civil engineering technician, construction inspector, field engineer, surveying technician, materials testing technician, CAD/BIM technician and transportation or highway technician.

Career pathways may lead to supervisory positions in construction management, specialised roles in materials or geotechnical testing, or opportunities with municipal and state transportation departments. Many graduates progress to further study or professional certification to expand responsibilities; some pursue transfer to engineering bachelor’s programmes if they wish to qualify for licensed professional engineer status, depending on local licensure requirements.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT is known for an applied, career‑focused approach to engineering education with strong ties to industry and an emphasis on experiential learning. The university’s co‑operative education programme and internship networks give students extended workplace experience that enhances employability. Facilities supporting civil engineering technology students include surveying equipment, materials testing laboratories and computing resources for CAD, BIM and GIS.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across engineering and construction management programmes, active career services and faculty with industry experience. The campus environment supports hands‑on learning and professional development that prepares graduates to meet the needs of modern infrastructure and construction sectors.