Civil Engineering Programs in Boston, Massachusetts

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Boston, Massachusetts

Are you considering a career in civil engineering and wondering how to get started in Boston, Massachusetts? Civil engineering plays a crucial role in designing and maintaining the infrastructure that supports modern life, from bridges and roads to water systems and buildings. This guide provides an in-depth look at the educational and career opportunities for aspiring civil engineers in Boston, including local programs, prerequisites, and professional resources.

What is Civil Engineering?

Civil engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects. Civil engineers specialize in areas such as structural, environmental, transportation, and water resources engineering. The field offers diverse career paths and opportunities to make a significant impact on society.

About Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is renowned for its rich history, world-class educational institutions, and thriving engineering industry. Located in Suffolk County, Boston is home to iconic landmarks such as Fenway Park, the Boston Common, and the Freedom Trail. As a hub for innovation and higher education, Boston provides an ideal environment for pursuing a civil engineering degree. For more information about the city, visit the official Boston website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston boasts several excellent institutions offering civil engineering programs. Below is a list of local schools and their programs:

1. Northeastern University

   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.), Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S.C.E.), and Ph.D. programs.
   • Highlights: Northeastern’s civil engineering program is well-known for its cooperative education (co-op) program, which integrates classroom learning with professional work experience. Students can specialize in areas such as structural and environmental engineering.
   • Location: Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood of Boston.
   • Website: Northeastern Civil Engineering Program

2. Boston University

   • Program: Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S.C.E.) and Ph.D. programs.
   • Highlights: Boston University offers advanced research opportunities in transportation systems, environmental sustainability, and material science.
   • Location: West Campus, Boston.
   • Website: Boston University Graduate Programs in Civil Engineering

3. Wentworth Institute of Technology

   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.).
   • Highlights: Wentworth emphasizes hands-on learning through labs and internships. The program covers structural design, geotechnical engineering, and construction management.
   • Location: Fenway neighborhood of Boston.
   • Website: Wentworth Civil Engineering Program

If you are willing to travel slightly outside Boston, additional programs are available at schools such as the University of Massachusetts Lowell (approximately 30 miles from Boston).

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Boston

Boston’s thriving economy and ongoing infrastructure development create ample opportunities for civil engineering professionals. Here are some prominent employers in the area:

1. HDR Inc.

   • Description: A global engineering firm specializing in transportation, water systems, and infrastructure projects.
   • Location: Downtown Boston.
   • Website: HDR Careers

2. Jacobs Engineering Group

   • Description: A leading engineering and construction firm offering services in transportation, water resources, and urban planning.
   • Location: Financial District, Boston.
   • Website: Jacobs Careers

3. City of Boston Engineering Division

   • Description: Oversees public works and infrastructure projects within the city.
   • Location: Boston City Hall.
   • Website: City of Boston Engineering Division

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a civil engineering program in Boston, you typically need:

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong grades in mathematics, physics, and science courses.
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs; GRE for graduate programs).
• Letters of recommendation and a personal statement for most programs.

Specific requirements vary by institution, so be sure to review each school’s admission criteria.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Accreditation ensures that your civil engineering degree meets industry standards. In the U.S., the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the primary accrediting body for engineering programs. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program is essential for licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE).

The process for becoming a licensed PE in Massachusetts includes:

1. Earning a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
3. Gaining 4+ years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed PE.
4. Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

For more information, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

Get Started Today

Boston provides excellent opportunities for pursuing a civil engineering degree and beginning a rewarding career in this dynamic field. With top-tier educational institutions, a robust job market, and professional resources, the city is an ideal location for aspiring civil engineers. Take the first step by researching programs and reaching out to a school today to learn more about their offerings and application process.