Civil Engineering Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in St. Louis, Missouri

Civil engineering is a dynamic and impactful field that involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. For individuals in St. Louis, Missouri, pursuing a Civil Engineering Degree provides the opportunity to join a profession that shapes communities and improves quality of life. This guide explores local educational opportunities, career prospects, and essential resources to support your journey toward becoming a civil engineer in St. Louis.

About St. Louis

St. Louis, nicknamed the “Gateway to the West,” is a vibrant city with a rich history and thriving engineering industry. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch and Forest Park, it serves as a hub for business, education, and innovation. The city’s educational landscape reflects its commitment to fostering future professionals, including civil engineers. More information about St. Louis can be found on its official website.

Civil Engineering Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis offers excellent educational opportunities for aspiring civil engineers. Below are the local programs available, along with nearby options for those willing to commute.

1. University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) / Washington University in St. Louis Joint Engineering Program

   • Location: St. Louis (North Campus for UMSL and Danforth Campus for WashU)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCIE)
   • Description: This unique joint program combines the strengths of UMSL and WashU, offering students access to resources at both institutions. Evening courses and flexible scheduling make it ideal for working students or those pursuing internships.
   • Website: UMSL/WashU Joint Engineering Program

2. Saint Louis University (SLU)

   • Location: Midtown, St. Louis
   • Program: Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
   • Description: SLU’s School of Science and Engineering offers a robust Civil Engineering program emphasizing hands-on learning, research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
   • Website: SLU Civil Engineering

3. Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T)

   • Location: Rolla, Missouri (approximately 90 miles from St. Louis)
   • Program: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering
   • Description: Known for its engineering focus, Missouri S&T provides a comprehensive curriculum, including specializations in structural, environmental, and transportation engineering.
   • Website: Missouri S&T Civil Engineering

If you are unable to find a suitable program in St. Louis, Missouri S&T in Rolla is a top choice within driving distance.

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in St. Louis

St. Louis boasts a thriving job market for civil engineers, with numerous firms and organizations employing professionals in the field. Below are some key employers:

1. Burns & McDonnell

   • Location: Downtown St. Louis
   • Description: A global engineering, architecture, and construction firm offering opportunities in infrastructure design, environmental engineering, and consulting.
   • Careers Page: Burns & McDonnell Careers

2. Horner & Shifrin, Inc.

   • Location: Brentwood
   • Description: A multidisciplinary engineering firm specializing in structural, transportation, and water resources engineering.
   • Careers Page: Horner & Shifrin Careers

3. City of St. Louis Department of Public Works

   • Location: Downtown St. Louis
   • Description: Oversees infrastructure projects throughout the city, offering civil engineering roles in public infrastructure management.
   • Website: City of St. Louis Public Works

These organizations provide diverse opportunities for civil engineers, including entry-level positions and internships.

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Civil Engineering program in St. Louis, you will typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent, with coursework in mathematics (calculus and algebra), physics, and chemistry.
• GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA of 2.75 for competitive programs such as the UMSL/WashU Joint Engineering Program.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs; GRE scores for graduate programs may also be required.

Be sure to check specific admission requirements for each program.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that Civil Engineering programs meet rigorous educational standards. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which is critical for licensure and professional practice. Verify accreditation status on the ABET website.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Missouri

1. Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certification: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
3. Work Experience: Gain four years of supervised engineering experience.
4. PE Exam: Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.

Visit the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors and Landscape Architects for details on licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Civil Engineering Degree in St. Louis, Missouri, opens doors to a fulfilling career in a high-demand field. With excellent local programs, strong employment opportunities, and supportive professional organizations, there has never been a better time to start your journey. Take the first step by contacting a school today to learn more about their admission process and program offerings.