Civil Engineering
Build a better world—literally. UB's civil engineering program is for students who get excited about things like designing earthquake-resistant skyscrapers, creating climate-resilient water systems, and constructing bridges that bring communities together. As one of our students put it, "I didn't want to be doing the same thing every day." If you’ve ever marveled at the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Wall of China, the Hoover Dam or the efficiency of your local highway system, then this program may be your road to success.
What will I learn?
UB's civil engineering program is designed for students who want a world-class education in fundamental concepts, critical thinking, technical skills and ethical principles for engineering analysis and design. You'll begin with math and science, including classes and labs in earth science, physics, chemistry and calculus, as you build your problem-solving skills. In later years, you'll explore topics such as environmental, structural, geotechnical and transportation engineering, with the option to specialize in one or more areas of civil engineering for in-depth design experience.
What can I do with a civil engineering degree?
While many students choose to get an advanced degree (either right away or after a few years), it’s also very common to have a successful career starting right after graduation.
UB civil engineering grads have worked at many different types of organizations, including:
- Government agencies like the Federal Highway Administration and New York State Department of Transportation, among many others.
- Private consulting firms. UB grads often serve as senior engineers, partners or even CEOs of private companies.
- Construction companies. Many leading construction firms employ civil engineers to help design and supervise multi-million-dollar projects.
- Research and development. Universities and other organizations rely on civil engineers to help advance the field.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $113,360.00 | N/A | Rapid Growth |
| Civil Engineers | $124,590.00 | $59.90 | Rapid Growth |
| Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary | $65,040.00 | $31.27 | Rapid Growth |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.