Civil Engineering, BS

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Program Details

Location
Akron Campus
Level
undergraduate
Degree/Program Type
Bachelor of Science / major
Format
In-person
Course Info
Curriculum Guide
College
College of Engineering and Polymer Science
School/Department
Department of Civil Engineering

Program Contact

Dean's Office: College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Auburn Science and Engineering Center

330-972-6978 Send an Email

Overview

Civil engineers plan, design, build and operate the infrastructure that supports modern life. This includes everything from buildings and bridges to clean water systems and transportation networks.

At The University of Akron, civil engineering students choose from five specializations, all built on a strong foundation in engineering principles. You’ll learn how to plan and design large-scale projects, solve environmental challenges and improve the systems people rely on every day.

To prepare for professional success, you’ll study math, solid and fluid mechanics, engineering materials, structural and geotechnical design, and environmental processes.

Admissions Requirements

  • Students who meet The University of Akron’s admission requirements and choose engineering as their major are directly admitted into the College

  • If you're coming from high school, your high school records will help determine the best first-semester courses for you

Career Outcomes

Civil engineers build careers with government agencies, utilities, architectural firms, builders, engineering companies and consulting firms, or continue on to graduate study in engineering or law. It’s a hands-on career that goes beyond the typical desk job — civil engineers often work outdoors at construction sites, in offices or in research labs.

Recent UA graduates with a B.S. in Civil Engineering have gone on to work at companies like AECOM, Arcadis, Chemstress, City of Akron, GPD Group, Kenmore and ODOT, or have pursued graduate studies.

Accreditation

The BS in Civil Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Civil and Similarly Named Engineering Programs. The program has specific educational objectives and student outcomes that prepare graduates to enter the professional practice of engineering.

BS/MS Combined Degree Pathway

You can earn this degree and a master's in five years and at a significant savings. Learn more about the: Combined degree option. Please note: This excludes co-op.

YES, some things just set us apart.

Steel Bridge team
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Specialize and Learn in State-of-the-Art Facilities

Choose a specialization in water resources, environmental, geotechnical, structural or transportation engineering. Learn in newly renovated spaces including a student lounge, computer lab and materials lab.

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Earn While You Learn with Paid Co-Op Experience

Gain paid, hands-on experience through our flexible co-op program, a great way to build your skills and earn money while you learn.

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Hands-On Design Teams & Academic Support

Apply what you learn in class by joining nationally recognized design teams like Concrete Canoe and Steel Bridge, and take advantage of free tutoring and academic support offered to all engineering students.

Engineering Excellence since 1913.

We’ve been reaching new heights for more than a century — and we’re not slowing down.

Students on co-op

Learn Through Experience

Our engineering students learn through experience. Our famed co-op program, one of the oldest in the country, provides students with paid industry experience. On average, students earn $47K over three co-op rotations, all while completing their degree. Within six months of graduation, our 2024 College graduates launched careers, pursued graduate school, or entered military service, with an average starting salary of $72K.

SIM Project

Undergraduate Research

Undergraduate research opportunities and senior capstone projects empower students to innovate, apply classroom knowledge, and strengthen collaboration skills in professional settings.

Zips Engineered for Success

Exceptional Education

We offer an exceptional education. Our expert professors are not only leaders in their fields but are also deeply committed to your success. They are passionate about helping you achieve great things and are dedicated to supporting every student's journey in engineering.

Concrete Canoe team

Design Teams & Student Organizations

Build bridges, canoes, geo-walls, robots, race cars and more on our design teams, which rank among the best in the nation and world in competition. Students can also join one of our many student organizations such as American Society of Civil Engineers, Concrete Canoe Design Team, Steel Bridge Design Team and Geo-Challenge Team.