Civil Engineering Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Jacksonville, Florida

Civil engineering plays a vital role in shaping the world we live in, from designing roads and bridges to creating sustainable infrastructure for growing communities. If you are considering pursuing a Civil Engineering Degree in Jacksonville, Florida, this guide will help you navigate the educational options, prerequisites, and career opportunities available in this vibrant city.

About Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville, located in northeastern Florida, is the largest city by area in the United States. Known for its scenic riverfront, sprawling urban parks, and historic neighborhoods such as Riverside and San Marco, Jacksonville offers a unique blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. As a growing metropolitan area, the city presents ample opportunities for aspiring civil engineers to contribute to its infrastructure development. Learn more about Jacksonville by visiting its official website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville is home to several educational institutions offering Civil Engineering programs, as well as nearby options for those willing to commute. Below is a list of schools where you can pursue a Civil Engineering degree:

1. University of North Florida (UNF)

   • Location: Southside neighborhood, Jacksonville
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Civil Engineering
   • Description: UNF’s School of Engineering emphasizes practical experience and industry engagement, with ABET-accredited programs that prepare students for professional licensure.
   • Website: UNF Civil Engineering

2. Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

   • Location: Various campuses across Jacksonville
   • Programs Offered: Pre-engineering associate degrees with transfer options to four-year universities
   • Description: FSCJ provides foundational coursework in mathematics, physics, and engineering to prepare students for transfer into Civil Engineering bachelor’s degree programs.
   • Website: FSCJ Engineering Programs

3. University of Florida (UF)

   • Location: Gainesville, Florida (approximately 70 miles from Jacksonville)
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering
   • Description: UF offers highly ranked Civil Engineering programs focusing on research, innovation, and practical applications.
   • Website: UF Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville boasts a thriving job market for civil engineers, with opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Here are some prominent employers in the area:

1. City of Jacksonville Engineering Department

   • Location: Downtown Jacksonville
   • Description: This department oversees municipal engineering projects, including road construction and water management.
   • Website: City of Jacksonville Engineering

2. AECOM

   • Location: Deerwood area, Jacksonville
   • Description: A global infrastructure consulting firm, AECOM offers civil engineers opportunities to work on large-scale projects, including transportation and environmental infrastructure.
   • Website: AECOM Careers

3. HDR

   • Location: Southpoint neighborhood, Jacksonville
   • Description: HDR specializes in engineering, architecture, and environmental services, with a focus on innovative and sustainable design.
   • Website: HDR Careers

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

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

• Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent, with coursework in mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, calculus), physics, and chemistry.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs; GRE scores for graduate programs.
• GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA requirements vary by institution, generally ranging from 2.5 to 3.5.
• Additional Requirements: Some programs may require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or a portfolio of relevant work.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

The Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that Civil Engineering programs meet industry standards and adequately prepare students for professional practice. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the primary accrediting body for engineering programs in the United States. Always verify that your chosen program is ABET-accredited by visiting their official website.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Florida

Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) is essential for advancing in the civil engineering field. The process in Florida involves:

1. Education: Earning an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.
2. Exam Requirements: Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to become an Engineer in Training (EIT).
3. Experience: Gaining four years of supervised engineering experience.
4. PE Exam: Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

Learn more about licensing requirements from the Florida Board of Professional Engineers and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career in Civil Engineering is a rewarding journey that combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving. Jacksonville, Florida, offers excellent educational opportunities, a robust job market, and professional resources to support your goals. Take the first step toward your future by reaching out to local schools and exploring their Civil Engineering programs. Your path to building a better world starts here.