Civil Engineering Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Memphis, Tennessee

Pursuing a Civil Engineering degree can open doors to dynamic career opportunities in planning, designing, and managing infrastructure projects. Memphis, Tennessee, offers unique educational paths and resources for aspiring civil engineers. This guide will explore the process of earning a Civil Engineering degree in Memphis, including local programs, employment opportunities, and key requirements for entering the field.

Civil Engineering encompasses various disciplines, including structural, environmental, and transportation engineering. Students can pursue degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels, with specialized courses tailored to their interests.

About Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, located along the Mississippi River in Shelby County, is known for its vibrant cultural history and economic significance in the Mid-South. With a population exceeding 600,000, Memphis offers a mix of urban and suburban living. The city is home to iconic landmarks like Beale Street, Graceland, and the National Civil Rights Museum. For more information about Memphis, visit the City of Memphis official website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis provides excellent opportunities for students pursuing Civil Engineering education. Below are the top local programs:

1. The University of Memphis

  • Program Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering
  • Location: The Herff College of Engineering, University District
  • Features: The University of Memphis offers ABET-accredited programs with research opportunities in structural, environmental, and transportation engineering. Students benefit from hands-on learning through internships and capstone projects.
  • Website: The University of Memphis – Civil Engineering

2. Christian Brothers University

  • Program Offered: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
  • Location: Midtown Memphis
  • Features: Christian Brothers University provides a personalized learning environment with small class sizes and a focus on practical applications. The program emphasizes sustainability and community-based projects.
  • Website: Christian Brothers University – Engineering

3. Tennessee State University (Nashville, TN)

  • Program Offered: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
  • Distance: Approximately 200 miles from Memphis
  • Features: Tennessee State University’s Civil Engineering program prepares students for professional licensure with a curriculum focused on transportation and geotechnical engineering.
  • Website: Tennessee State University – Civil Engineering

For students willing to travel, Tennessee Technological University and Vanderbilt University also offer renowned Civil Engineering programs within a few hours of Memphis.

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Memphis

Memphis has a robust job market for civil engineers, with opportunities in public agencies, private firms, and construction companies. Here are some of the top employers in the region:

1. Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

2. City of Memphis Engineering Department

  • Description: This department oversees municipal engineering projects, including roads, bridges, and public utilities.
  • Location: City Hall, Downtown Memphis
  • Website: City of Memphis Engineering Department

3. Shelby County Engineering Department

Other notable employers include private firms like Kimley-Horn and Barge Design Solutions, which specialize in civil and environmental engineering services.

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Civil Engineering program in Memphis, students typically need:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • SAT or ACT scores (minimum scores vary by program).
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduate programs.
  • Completion of prerequisite courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
  • For graduate programs, a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, GRE scores, and a GPA of at least 3.0.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Importance of Accreditation

Selecting an ABET-accredited program is vital for ensuring quality education and meeting licensure requirements. ABET accreditation signifies that a program adheres to national standards in engineering education. Verify accreditation status on the ABET website.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Tennessee

  1. Education: Graduate from an ABET-accredited Civil Engineering program.
  2. Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: Pass this exam to become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
  3. Work Experience: Gain four years of supervised experience under a licensed PE.
  4. Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: Pass this exam to earn PE licensure.

For more details, visit the Tennessee Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners.

Get Started Today

Earning a Civil Engineering degree in Memphis, Tennessee, is an exciting step toward a rewarding career. With excellent local programs, a strong job market, and abundant resources, Memphis is an ideal place to pursue your education. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and begin your journey in Civil Engineering!

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