Civil Engineering Programs in Garland, Texas

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Garland, Texas

Civil engineering is a dynamic and essential field that focuses on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings. For individuals in Garland, Texas, pursuing a Civil Engineering Degree opens doors to a rewarding career with significant societal impact. This guide explores the educational paths available in Garland, local resources, and what you need to know to get started.

About Garland, Texas

Located in Dallas County, Garland is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and is known for its thriving economy and strong educational resources. The city boasts a diverse community and offers proximity to major employers in engineering and construction. For more information about Garland, visit the official city website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Garland, Texas

While no universities in Garland specifically offer a Civil Engineering program, there are excellent options nearby. Below are local and nearby institutions providing accredited programs:

1. The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)

   • Location: Richardson, TX (Approximately 10 miles from Garland)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
   • Details: UTD offers a robust undergraduate program focusing on structural, environmental, and transportation engineering. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and internship opportunities.
   • Website: UTD Civil Engineering Program

2. The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

   • Location: Arlington, TX (Approximately 35 miles from Garland)
   • Program: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering
   • Details: UTA provides comprehensive programs, including specializations in structural, geotechnical, and water resources engineering. Graduate students can engage in advanced research.
   • Website: UTA Civil Engineering Program

3. Southern Methodist University (SMU)

   • Location: Dallas, TX (Approximately 15 miles from Garland)
   • Program: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Civil Engineering
   • Details: SMU offers small class sizes, research opportunities, and strong industry connections in the Dallas area. The program emphasizes innovation and sustainability.
   • Website: SMU Civil Engineering Program

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Garland

Garland and the surrounding area offer numerous opportunities for civil engineering professionals. Key employers include:

1. City of Garland – Public Works Department

   • Location: Garland, TX
   • Details: This department oversees city infrastructure projects, including roads, drainage systems, and public facilities.
   • Website: Garland Public Works Department

2. Jacobs Engineering Group

   • Location: Dallas, TX (Approximately 10 miles from Garland)
   • Details: Jacobs is a global leader in engineering and construction services, with projects spanning transportation, water, and environmental sectors.
   • Website: Jacobs Careers

3. Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)

   • Location: Dallas District Office (Approximately 15 miles from Garland)
   • Details: TxDOT plays a critical role in maintaining and developing Texas’s transportation infrastructure, offering roles for civil engineers at various levels.
   • Website: TxDOT Careers

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Civil Engineering program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: A strong foundation in mathematics and science is essential.
• Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are often required for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs may require GRE scores.
• Minimum GPA: A competitive GPA, generally 3.0 or higher.
• Prerequisite Courses: For bachelor’s degrees, high school coursework in algebra, calculus, physics, and chemistry is recommended. Graduate programs may require prior coursework in engineering or a related field.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Accreditation ensures that a Civil Engineering program meets high-quality standards. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the primary accrediting body for engineering programs in the U.S. To verify accreditation, visit the ABET website.

To become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Work Experience: Complete four years of supervised engineering work.
3. Exams: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the PE exam, both administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
4. Licensure: Apply for your PE license through the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

Get Started Today

A career in Civil Engineering offers the chance to make a lasting impact on communities and infrastructure. Whether you’re starting your undergraduate studies or advancing your career with a graduate degree, the resources in and around Garland, Texas, provide excellent opportunities. Take the first step today by exploring local programs and reaching out to an institution that aligns with your educational goals.