Civil Engineering Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Charlotte, North Carolina
Civil Engineering is a vital profession that focuses on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. If you are considering a career in this field, Charlotte, North Carolina, offers excellent opportunities for education and employment. This guide will walk you through your options for earning a Civil Engineering degree, the local resources available, and the steps to start your journey in this rewarding field.
About Charlotte
Charlotte, often referred to as the Queen City, is North Carolina’s largest city and a hub for business, culture, and education. Known for its vibrant neighborhoods like Uptown, Dilworth, and South End, Charlotte offers a dynamic environment for students. The city is also home to a growing construction and engineering sector, making it an ideal location for aspiring civil engineers. Learn more about Charlotte through its official city website.
Civil Engineering Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Several institutions in Charlotte and nearby areas offer accredited Civil Engineering programs. These programs provide the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field.
1. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte)
- Location: University City neighborhood, Charlotte, NC
- Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Master of Science in Civil Engineering
- Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering
- Specializations: Structural, Environmental, Transportation, and Geotechnical Engineering
- Website: UNC Charlotte Civil Engineering Programs
2. North Carolina State University (NC State)
- Location: Raleigh, NC (Approx. 2.5 hours from Charlotte)
- Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering
- Specializations: Structural, Environmental, Transportation, and Geotechnical Engineering
- Website: NC State Civil Engineering Programs
3. Clemson University
- Location: Clemson, SC (Approx. 2 hours from Charlotte)
- Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering
- Specializations: Structural, Environmental, and Transportation Engineering
- Website: Clemson University Civil Engineering
If you are unable to find a suitable program directly in Charlotte, these nearby institutions provide excellent alternatives.
Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Charlotte
Charlotte’s thriving engineering and construction sectors offer numerous opportunities for civil engineers. Here are some of the major employers in the area:
1. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Description: Responsible for transportation infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and public transit.
- Website: NCDOT Careers
2. Charlotte Water
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Description: Manages water and wastewater systems for the city.
- Website: Charlotte Water Careers
3. Duke Energy
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Description: One of the largest energy companies in the U.S., with projects requiring civil engineering expertise.
- Website: Duke Energy Careers
For local networking and professional development, consider joining the ASCE Charlotte Section.
Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs
To enroll in a Civil Engineering program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- SAT or ACT scores
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
Graduate programs may require a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores.
Accreditation and Professional Licensure
Accreditation is critical when choosing a Civil Engineering program. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which ensures the program meets industry standards.
Steps to Become a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in North Carolina:
- Earn an ABET-accredited degree in Civil Engineering.
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, becoming an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
- Gain at least four years of work experience under a licensed PE.
- Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam to earn licensure.
Visit the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors for more information.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a Civil Engineering degree in Charlotte, North Carolina, opens doors to a rewarding and impactful career. With excellent local and nearby programs, strong employment prospects, and abundant resources, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your future in Civil Engineering.