Civil Engineering Programs in Las Vegas, Nevada

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Las Vegas, Nevada

Civil Engineering plays a vital role in shaping communities by designing and building infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water systems. If you’re considering a career in this dynamic field, earning a Civil Engineering degree is a crucial first step. Las Vegas, Nevada, offers several educational opportunities for aspiring civil engineers, as well as nearby programs for those willing to commute. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a Civil Engineering degree in Las Vegas and provide resources to help you succeed.

About Las Vegas

Las Vegas, located in Clark County, Nevada, is a globally recognized city known for its vibrant entertainment and robust tourism industry. Beyond its famous Strip, Las Vegas boasts a growing economy supported by major infrastructure projects and urban development, making it an ideal location for aspiring civil engineers. Local landmarks such as the Hoover Dam and the Las Vegas Convention Center showcase the significant contributions of civil engineering to the area. For more information about the city, visit the official Las Vegas website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Las Vegas, Nevada

Several institutions in and near Las Vegas offer programs to help you achieve your Civil Engineering career goals. Below are the key options:

1. University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)

   • Location: Paradise neighborhood
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
   • Overview: UNLV’s program is accredited by ABET and provides a strong foundation in engineering principles, including structural analysis, environmental engineering, and transportation systems.
   • Website: UNLV Civil Engineering Program

2. College of Southern Nevada (CSN)

   • Location: Multiple campuses, including North Las Vegas and Henderson
   • Program: Associate of Science in Engineering (Transfer Pathway)
   • Overview: CSN offers a transfer-focused program, enabling students to complete foundational coursework before transferring to a four-year institution like UNLV to complete a bachelor’s degree.
   • Website: CSN Engineering Program

3. University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)

   • Location: Reno, Nevada (approximately 450 miles from Las Vegas)
   • Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees in Civil Engineering
   • Overview: UNR provides advanced degree options and specializes in areas like Pavement Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Transportation Engineering.
   • Website: UNR Civil Engineering Department

For students in Las Vegas, the University of Nevada, Reno, offers comprehensive online resources and distance learning options to minimize travel requirements.

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is home to several organizations that employ civil engineers, ranging from private firms to government agencies. Below are examples of top employers:

1. Clark County Public Works

   • Location: Central Las Vegas
   • Overview: This government agency manages public infrastructure projects, including road construction and flood control systems.
   • Website: Clark County Public Works

2. NV Energy

   • Location: Downtown Las Vegas
   • Overview: NV Energy is a leading utility company that employs civil engineers for power plant construction, grid development, and infrastructure maintenance.
   • Website: NV Energy Careers

3. AECOM

   • Location: Spring Valley neighborhood
   • Overview: AECOM is a global engineering firm with a significant presence in Las Vegas, offering services in transportation, environmental engineering, and urban development.
   • Website: AECOM Careers

These organizations provide excellent opportunities for internships, entry-level jobs, and career advancement for civil engineering professionals.

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Civil Engineering program, you’ll typically need to meet the following requirements:

• Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores (varies by institution)
• Prerequisite Courses: Math (Algebra, Calculus), Physics, and Chemistry
• Minimum GPA: Typically 2.5–3.0 for undergraduate programs
• Additional Requirements: Letters of recommendation, personal statements, and standardized test scores (for graduate programs)

Specific requirements may vary, so check with the school’s admissions office for detailed information.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Accreditation is a critical factor when selecting a Civil Engineering program. In the United States, ABET accreditation ensures that programs meet industry standards and adequately prepare students for their careers. Both UNLV and UNR offer ABET-accredited Civil Engineering degrees.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Nevada

1. Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Exams: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
3. Experience: Gain four years of work experience under a licensed PE.
4. Licensure: Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

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

Get Started Today

Earning a Civil Engineering degree in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a rewarding pathway to a career that shapes the world around us. With a variety of educational options and robust local job opportunities, there’s never been a better time to embark on this journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about admissions and take the first step toward becoming a civil engineer.