Civil Engineering Programs in Mississippi

Civil Engineering Degree Programs in Mississippi: Your Complete Guide

Getting a civil engineering degree in Mississippi opens doors to a rewarding career designing and maintaining vital infrastructure. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about pursuing your civil engineering education in the Magnolia State.

What Career Opportunities Exist for Civil Engineers in Mississippi?

Civil engineering offers excellent career prospects in Mississippi. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers in Mississippi earn competitive salaries, with employment growth projected to continue steadily through 2030. Major employers include:

Neel-Schaffer, Inc. (headquartered in Jackson)
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)
Various private consulting firms and government agencies

Which Universities Offer Civil Engineering Programs in Mississippi?

Two major universities offer ABET-accredited civil engineering programs:

University of Mississippi

Location: University, MS
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.)
Credit Requirements: 128 hours
Program Features: Comprehensive curriculum in Oxford’s vibrant college town setting

Mississippi State University

Location: Starkville, MS
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.)
Credit Requirements: 130 hours
Program Features: Strong industry connections in a supportive community

What Are the Admission Requirements?

To enter a civil engineering program, you’ll need:

High school diploma or equivalent
Strong SAT or ACT scores
Advanced mathematics and science coursework
Application essay and letters of recommendation (varies by school)
Meeting specific university application deadlines

What Does the Curriculum Include?

Civil engineering programs typically cover:

Advanced mathematics and physics
Chemistry fundamentals
Engineering mechanics
Materials science
Specialized courses in:
- Structural engineering
- Transportation systems
- Environmental engineering
- Geotechnical engineering

Programs conclude with a capstone project or internship for hands-on experience.

How Do You Become Licensed in Mississippi?

Becoming a Professional Engineer (PE) in Mississippi requires:

Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Earn Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
Complete 4 years of work experience under a licensed PE
Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam

For detailed licensing information, visit the Mississippi State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers or NCEES.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available?

Several funding opportunities exist:

State-Specific Scholarships

Mississippi Engineering Society Scholarship
University-specific engineering scholarships

Institutional Aid

University of Mississippi Engineering Scholarships
Mississippi State University Engineering Scholarships

Visit each university’s financial aid office or website for current scholarship opportunities and deadlines.

How Important Is Program Accreditation?

Accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is crucial because it:

Ensures program quality
Is required for professional licensure
Facilitates credit transfer
May be required by employers

Both the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University maintain ABET accreditation for their civil engineering programs.

What Professional Organizations Should You Join?

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) offers:

Networking opportunities
Professional development resources
Industry publications
Student chapters at both Mississippi universities

How Can You Get Started?

Research both university programs thoroughly
Schedule campus visits
Meet with program advisors
Submit applications early
Apply for financial aid and scholarships
Join professional organizations as a student member

For more information about civil engineering education in Mississippi, contact the individual universities or visit their websites: