Civil Engineering Programs in Pennsylvania

Civil Engineering Degree Programs in Pennsylvania: Your Complete Guide

Civil engineering offers exciting career opportunities in Pennsylvania’s growing infrastructure sector. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to pursue your civil engineering degree in the Keystone State, from program requirements to career prospects.

What Makes Pennsylvania Ideal for Civil Engineering Studies?

Pennsylvania provides an exceptional environment for civil engineering education and career growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers in Pennsylvania earn competitive salaries, with steady job growth projected through 2030. The state’s diverse landscape and infrastructure needs create numerous opportunities for hands-on experience and career advancement.

What Are the Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs?

To begin your civil engineering journey in Pennsylvania, you’ll need:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Strong foundation in mathematics (4 years)
• Science background (3 years, including physics and chemistry)
• Competitive SAT or ACT scores
• Meeting university-specific GPA requirements

Which Universities Offer Civil Engineering Programs in Pennsylvania?

Penn State University

• Location: University Park, PA
• Program: Civil Engineering, B.S.
• Credits Required: 127 (45 General Education, 82 Major-specific)
• Specializations:
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Transportation Systems
  • Structural Engineering
  • Construction Management

Shippensburg University

• Location: Shippensburg, PA
• Program: Civil Engineering, B.S.
• Credits Required: 128 (45 General Education, 83 Major-specific)
• Focus Areas:
  • Traditional Civil Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering

What Courses Will You Take?

Core curriculum typically includes:

• Advanced Mathematics (MATH 140, 141)
• Physics (PHYS 211)
• Chemistry (CHEM 110)
• Engineering Design (EDSGN 100)
• Mechanics (EMCH 211, 212, 213)
• Specialized Engineering Courses

How Do You Become Licensed in Pennsylvania?

The path to professional licensure includes:

1. Complete your ABET-accredited degree
2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
3. Gain 4 years of supervised experience under a PE
4. Pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
5. Submit background checks from relevant states
6. Provide 5 professional references

For detailed licensing information, visit the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available?

Several funding opportunities exist:

• Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation Scholarships
• ASCE National Scholarships
• University-specific grants
• Federal student aid
• State-based financial assistance

How Can You Advance Your Career?

Professional development opportunities include:

• Membership in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
• Specialized certifications
• Graduate studies
• Professional networking events
• Industry conferences

What Are the Job Prospects?

Major employers in Pennsylvania include:

• Michael Baker International

  • Locations: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia
  • Focus: Transportation and infrastructure projects

• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)

  • Headquarters: Harrisburg
  • Opportunities: Infrastructure development and maintenance

For current job openings, visit:

• PennDOT Careers
• ASCE Job Board

How Can You Get Started?

1. Research accredited programs through ABET
2. Contact university admissions offices
3. Submit applications through university portals
4. Apply for financial aid and scholarships
5. Begin your engineering journey

For additional guidance, contact:

• NCEES: Website
• PA Engineering Board: Phone – 1 (833) DOS-BPOA, Email: [email protected]

Your civil engineering career starts with choosing the right educational program. Pennsylvania’s universities offer excellent opportunities to build your foundation in this rewarding field.