Civil Engineering Technology
Nestor Escobales, Program Director
The Civil Engineering Technology program (CET) is accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, and offers areas of specialization in Construction Management, Structural Design, and Surveying and Site Development. Students in this program are prepared for employment in a wide range of professional and technical positions with the construction, consulting engineering, surveying and development industries. Graduates are eligible to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, the first step to licensure as a professional engineer. CET courses include topics such as computer-aided drafting, statics, strength of materials, materials testing, surveying, building construction, soils and foundations, and hydrology and drainage. Effective written, oral and graphic communications are practiced throughout the curriculum along with computer literacy. The program culminates in a senior project that integrates course work with a practical project assignment in the student's area of interest. To satisfy the upper-division general education requirements, students are encouraged to complete a minor in either Engineering Management or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Mission Statement: The BS degree program in Civil Engineering Technology offers a high quality degree program that meets national standards of excellence. It is a significant component of the University's commitment to science, engineering and technology, particularly in fields of major importance to the region. Through the University's TELETECHNET distance learning program, the Civil Engineering Technology program provides opportunities for technical personnel throughout the state and elsewhere to enhance their education and pursue baccalaureate level studies. Simultaneously, the program supports the general education components that yield a well-rounded graduate who is aware of societal needs and issues.
Program Educational Objectives: The objective of the civil engineering technology program is to prepare graduates to establish themselves as successful professionals in structural building design, construction, and surveying/land design or related areas during the first few years of their careers by having demonstrated their ability to:
- Address and solve increasingly complex technical problems related to one's professional field and area of specialization.
- Make well educated, responsible and ethical decisions that will have positive impact on organization and society.
- Work effectively in teams and precisely communicate ideas.
- Continue personal and professional growth.
Construction Area of Specialization: The Construction Management area of specialization option prepares students for careers in the construction industry by providing a combination of knowledge and skills from a number of disciplines. In addition to the basic technical skills in structures, materials, fluids, etc, students in construction management take courses in scheduling, project management, estimating and other topics that allow projects to be completed on schedule and within budget. Graduates of the Construction Engineering area of specialization are employed at both large and small companies as project engineers, field engineers, assistant superintendents, estimators, schedulers, and similar construction related positions.
Structural Design Area of Specialization: Students choosing the Structural Design area of specialization will take in addition to the basic technical skills in materials, fluids, etc, courses in structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design. Graduates of this option have found employment with public utilities and transportation agencies, architectural and structural engineering firms, design-build contractors, and construction firms in positions such as designer, engineer, planner, and computer aided design analyst.
Surveying and Site Development Area of Specialization: Students choosing this area of specialization will take course work in advanced surveying, route and construction surveying, geographic information systems (GIS). Graduates of this option are eligible to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination in Virginia and many other states. Graduates are employed with various governmental agencies, engineering and construction firms.