Civil Engineering Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Getting a Civil Engineering Degree in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Civil engineering plays a vital role in shaping our built environment. From designing infrastructure like bridges and highways to managing water resources and constructing sustainable buildings, civil engineers are essential to modern society. If you’re considering pursuing a Civil Engineering degree in Virginia Beach, Virginia, this guide will walk you through the available educational paths, local programs, and career opportunities in the area.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Virginia, is known for its beautiful coastline, bustling tourism industry, and thriving economy. As the most populous city in the state, it provides an excellent mix of urban and suburban living. With local landmarks like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, the city offers an ideal environment for aspiring civil engineers to learn and grow. For more information about Virginia Beach, visit the official city website.

Civil Engineering Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach offers several options for earning a Civil Engineering degree. Below are the local institutions and nearby programs for students pursuing this career path:

1. Old Dominion University (ODU) – Norfolk, VA (Approx. 20 miles from Virginia Beach)
   ODU offers a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, accredited by ABET. The program emphasizes practical experience through internships and senior capstone projects. Students can specialize in areas like transportation, environmental engineering, and structural systems.
   Learn more about ODU’s Civil Engineering program here.

2. Virginia Military Institute (VMI) – Lexington, VA (Approx. 210 miles from Virginia Beach)
   VMI’s Civil and Environmental Engineering program focuses on leadership and technical expertise. This ABET-accredited program combines classroom learning with hands-on projects, preparing students for both military and civilian careers in engineering.
   Visit VMI’s Civil Engineering program page.

3. Norfolk State University (NSU) – Norfolk, VA (Approx. 18 miles from Virginia Beach)
   NSU offers an engineering program with courses that feed into civil engineering specializations. The university provides a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and design principles, with opportunities for internships in local engineering firms.
   Explore Norfolk State University’s engineering programs.

If you are unable to find a Civil Engineering program directly in Virginia Beach, these nearby options provide accessible and high-quality alternatives.

Civil Engineering Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is home to a variety of organizations that employ civil engineers. Here are some of the top employers in the area:

1. Virginia Beach Department of Public Works
   This city department manages infrastructure development, maintenance, and public projects. They offer roles for civil engineers in areas like stormwater management, road construction, and environmental restoration.
   Explore career opportunities with the Virginia Beach Department of Public Works.

2. Clark Nexsen – Virginia Beach, VA
   A nationally recognized architecture and engineering firm, Clark Nexsen employs civil engineers in designing public and private infrastructure projects. The firm focuses on innovation and sustainability.
   Visit Clark Nexsen’s careers page.

3. AECOM – Norfolk, VA (Approx. 20 miles from Virginia Beach)
   AECOM is a global engineering firm that has a strong presence in the Virginia Beach area. Their projects include transportation systems, urban development, and environmental solutions.
   Learn more about AECOM’s career opportunities.

Prerequisites for Civil Engineering Programs

Admission requirements for Civil Engineering programs in Virginia typically include the following:

• Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent, with coursework in mathematics (algebra, calculus) and science (physics, chemistry).
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores, as required by specific universities.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs require a GPA of 3.0 or higher for admission.
• Additional Requirements: Some institutions may request letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or proof of extracurricular activities.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

Accreditation and licensure are essential components of a Civil Engineering career:

Importance of ABET Accreditation

The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) ensures that Civil Engineering programs meet industry standards. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program is often a requirement for licensure and employment. Check the ABET website to verify program accreditation.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Virginia

1. Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
2. Examination: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
3. Experience: Gain 4-8 years of supervised work experience in civil engineering.
4. Licensure Exam: Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
   For more details, visit the Virginia Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers, and Landscape Architects.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Civil Engineering degree in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rewarding step toward a fulfilling career in this vital field. With accredited programs, robust local employment opportunities, and a supportive professional community, Virginia Beach offers an ideal environment for aspiring civil engineers. Take the first step by researching programs, exploring career paths, and reaching out to schools to begin your journey today.