Civil Engineering Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii

If you’re interested in pursuing a Civil Engineering degree in Honolulu, Hawaii, you’re making a great choice. Civil Engineering is a dynamic field focusing on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems. Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, offers unique opportunities for aspiring civil engineers due to its urban landscape and environmental challenges. This guide will walk you through the educational paths, local programs, and resources available for earning a Civil Engineering degree in Honolulu.

About Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural history, and vibrant urban environment. Located on Oahu, the city is home to a mix of bustling neighborhoods like Waikiki and Downtown Honolulu, as well as serene locations like Manoa Valley. Honolulu is also a hub for education and innovation in Hawaii, with institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa shaping the professional landscape. You can learn more about the city by visiting the Official City and County of Honolulu Website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu offers a range of educational opportunities for those pursuing a Civil Engineering degree. Here are the top programs in the area:

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa – College of Engineering

   • Location: Manoa Valley, Honolulu
   • Programs Offered:
     • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
     • Master of Science in Civil Engineering
     • Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering
   • Specializations: Structural, environmental, and transportation engineering
   • Website: University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Engineering
   • Distance: Located in the heart of Honolulu

2. Hawaii Pacific University (HPU)

   • Location: Downtown Honolulu
   • Programs: While HPU does not currently offer a dedicated Civil Engineering degree, it provides foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and engineering that can prepare students for transfer to specialized programs.
   • Website: Hawaii Pacific University

For students willing to explore programs outside of Honolulu, the following options are nearby:

3. University of Hawaii Maui College
   • Location: Kahului, Maui
   • Programs Offered: Engineering transfer programs designed to lead into Civil Engineering degrees at other UH campuses.
   • Distance: Approximately 100 miles by air from Honolulu
   • Website: UH Maui College

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

Honolulu’s urban development and infrastructure projects create a robust demand for civil engineers. Below are some key employers in the area:

1. State of Hawaii Department of Transportation

   • Location: Downtown Honolulu
   • Description: Responsible for transportation infrastructure, including highways, harbors, and airports.
   • Website: Hawaii Department of Transportation Careers

2. City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting

   • Location: Downtown Honolulu
   • Description: Oversees building codes, zoning regulations, and infrastructure planning.
   • Website: Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting

3. Bowers + Kubota Consulting

   • Location: Waipahu, Oahu (approximately 15 miles from Honolulu)
   • Description: A local engineering firm specializing in project management and infrastructure design.
   • Website: Bowers + Kubota

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

Admission to a Civil Engineering program in Honolulu typically requires the following:

• Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent with coursework in math and science.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs; GRE scores for graduate programs.
• GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduate admission, higher for competitive programs.
• Prerequisite Courses: Algebra, calculus, physics, and chemistry.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Importance of ABET Accreditation

Accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) ensures that Civil Engineering programs meet rigorous academic and professional standards.

Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Hawaii

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

1. Obtain a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to earn the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) credential.
3. Acquire four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE.
4. Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

For more information, visit the Hawaii Board of Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors, and Landscape Architects and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

Get Started Today

Honolulu offers excellent opportunities for aspiring civil engineers, from top-tier educational institutions to diverse employment prospects. Whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or considering advanced degrees, the resources and programs in Honolulu can help you achieve your goals. Contact a school today to take the first step toward earning your Civil Engineering degree and building a rewarding career.