Civil and Environmental Engineering Study Notes

Civil and Environmental Engineering Overview

Introduction

  • Presenter: Stephanie Heeter, Academic Advisor III for Civil and Environmental Engineering

  • Focus on both civil and environmental engineering degrees offered by the department.

  • Incorporation of QR codes in slides for further information.

Degree Offerings

  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering

Environmental Engineering

Key Focus Areas

  • Application of science and engineering principles to:

    • Protect human health

    • Minimize environmental impact

  • Emphasis on the relationship between humans and the environment.

Areas of Emphasis

  • Major coursework related to:

    • Water and wastewater management

    • Environmental quality and sustainability

  • Careers possible include:

    • Air pollution and air quality management

    • Land remediation projects

    • Regulatory compliance for environmental safety

    • Renewable energy initiatives

    • Sustainability efforts in corporate settings (e.g., PepsiCo)

Career Trajectories

  • Opportunities for internships and research projects are available, providing pathways outside traditional water-focused roles.

  • Encouragement to participate in student organization, AES (Environmental Engineering Society), to network and gain insights from upperclassmen.

Civil Engineering

Overview

  • Focus: Infrastructure including:

    • Roads, bridges, buildings

    • Water management

    • Flood management

  • Noted for being a cooperative, group-oriented field requiring teamwork and communication skills.

Degree Tracks in Civil Engineering

  • General Civil Engineering Track

    • Default track for newly offered students.

    • Students spend 2-3 semesters in this track to decide on specialization.

    • Graduates typically well-rounded, exposed to all civil engineering areas.

  • Transportation and Infrastructure Track

    • Focus on planning and construction of transportation projects.

    • Involves communities in planning to ensure economic feasibility.

  • Structural Engineering Track

    • Requires strong math and physics skills.

    • Students may consider pursuing a Master's degree for advanced design capabilities.

  • Coastal Engineering Track

    • Focus on projects involving both land and marine environments.

    • Relevant for projects such as expansions of port facilities.

  • Geotechnical Engineering Track

    • Focus on soil and rock mechanics to ensure stable foundations.

    • Work in various industries including petroleum and mining.

  • Water Resources Engineering Track

    • Explores the management and allocation of water resources.

    • Projects may include flood design solutions and sustainable water systems.

  • Environmental Engineering within Civil Engineering

    • Offers dual focus on civil and environmental themes.

    • Students may pursue careers in environmental consulting with relevant knowledge from both fields.

  • Construction Engineering and Management Track

    • Students may focus on project management roles.

    • Skills in budgeting, scheduling, and teamwork emphasized.