Civil Engineering Programs in Huntsville, Alabama

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Huntsville, Alabama

Are you interested in pursuing a career in Civil Engineering? Huntsville, Alabama, offers excellent opportunities for students to earn a Civil Engineering degree, with access to top-tier educational institutions and resources. This guide will help you explore the paths available to achieve your goal, from undergraduate programs to advanced degrees. Civil Engineering, a field focused on designing and constructing infrastructure, provides a stable and rewarding career with strong demand nationwide.

About Huntsville

Known as “Rocket City,” Huntsville is a hub for science, technology, and engineering, making it an ideal location to study Civil Engineering. Home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal, the city has a rich history in innovation and engineering. Huntsville also boasts a growing metropolitan area with a strong emphasis on infrastructure and development, providing a real-world laboratory for aspiring civil engineers. Learn more about the city by visiting Huntsville’s official website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is home to several institutions offering Civil Engineering programs. Below are the top options for students seeking degrees in this field:

1. University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH)

   • Website: UAH Civil Engineering Program
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering.
   • Key Features: UAH emphasizes practical experience and offers collaborative doctoral programs with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Students can specialize in structural, environmental, or transportation engineering.

2. Alabama A&M University

   • Website: Alabama A&M Civil Engineering Program
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering.
   • Key Features: This program focuses on construction management and environmental engineering, providing students with hands-on experience and research opportunities.

3. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

   • Location: About 100 miles from Huntsville.
   • Website: UAB Civil Engineering Program
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering.
   • Distance from Huntsville: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
   • Key Features: UAB offers extensive research opportunities and strong connections with industry leaders.

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Huntsville

Huntsville’s thriving economy provides ample job opportunities for Civil Engineering graduates. Below are some of the top employers in the area:

1. City of Huntsville Engineering Department

   • Website: Huntsville Engineering Department
   • Location: Downtown Huntsville.
   • Description: This department oversees city infrastructure projects, including roadways, bridges, and public facilities. Civil engineers here work on improving Huntsville’s growing urban landscape.

2. Redstone Arsenal

   • Website: Redstone Arsenal Official Site
   • Description: A major U.S. Army installation providing engineering opportunities related to infrastructure and facilities management.

3. Turner Construction Company

   • Website: Turner Construction
   • Location: Huntsville.
   • Description: A leading construction firm involved in large-scale commercial and public sector projects.

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Civil Engineering program in Huntsville, students typically need to meet the following requirements:

• Undergraduate Programs:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • SAT or ACT scores (varies by institution).
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Graduate Programs:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • GRE scores.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in mathematics, physics, or basic engineering principles.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Accreditation is a critical factor when selecting a Civil Engineering program. Ensure the program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which certifies that the curriculum meets national standards. You can verify accreditation on the ABET website.

To become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Alabama, follow these steps:

1. Earn an ABET-accredited degree in Civil Engineering.
2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
3. Complete four years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed PE.
4. Pass the PE exam, also administered by NCEES.
5. Maintain licensure by completing continuing education requirements through the Alabama Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

Get Started Today

Huntsville, Alabama, offers an excellent environment to pursue a Civil Engineering degree, with access to top-notch educational institutions and a thriving job market. Whether you’re just starting your undergraduate studies or aiming for an advanced degree, the city’s resources and opportunities can help you succeed. Contact a school today to begin your journey toward a rewarding career in Civil Engineering.