Civil & Environmental Engineering

Trusted, quality programs

The civil and environmental engineering bachelor’s degree programs deliver a broad background in all areas of civil and environmental engineering and provide opportunities for specialization. Practical applications are emphasized with sufficient theory so you can grow with the future as new materials, methods, and designs develop. The UW-Platteville Civil Engineering program is Accredited by the EAC Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Civil Engineering Program Criteria and similarly named engineering programs.

We offer a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, where you can choose one of the following emphasis areas:

• Construction engineering
• Environmental engineering
• Geotechnical engineering
• Municipal engineering
• Structural engineering
• Transportation engineering

Students majoring in environmental engineering may also earn the Environmental Engineering Safety Certificate, which is offered by UW-Platteville's Department of Industrial Studies. Our Environmental Engineering program is also Accredited by the EAC Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Environmental Engineering Program Criteria and similarly named engineering programs.

Careers in Civil and Environmental Engineering

Civil engineers design, build, and maintain the foundation for our society. Many of our daily tasks, from drinking tap water to driving on roads and bridges to accessing an airport, are made possible because of civil engineers. While architects put designs on paper, as a civil engineer, you will get the structures or systems built.

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental challenges. They focus on protecting the environment and public health by reducing waste and pollution, and are dedicated to improving environmental conditions.

Civil and environmental engineering majors can choose from a range of career paths in both the public and private sectors. Some of the most common careers for graduates include:

• Civil engineer
• Environmental engineer
• Construction engineer
• Urban planner
• Landscape architect
• Civil engineering technologist
• Environmental scientist
• Surveyor
• Hydrologist
• Natural sciences manager

Both civil and environmental engineers often play key roles in the creation and maintenance of infrastructure projects and in addressing environmental issues—both those related to infrastructure, as well as problems with broader applicability. These career paths can be rewarding, both personally and professionally, as engineering professionals feel the satisfaction that comes with resolving issues and using their knowledge and skills for the greater good.

Hands-on and rewarding 

At UW-Platteville, we focus on hands-on learning, where you will learn by experimenting and making discoveries. In our civil and environmental engineering classes, you will:

• Learn how to apply a strong focus on design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure.
• Experience practical and hands-on laboratory and field work, site visits, and computer modeling.
• Benefit from passionate, dedicated faculty with deep industry experience.
• Work in state-of-the-art research lab facilities.
• Focus on your studies through electives in areas such as agriculture, industrial safety, sustainability, or chemistry.
• Be prepared for a successful career with consulting or construction firms, municipalities, industries, nonprofit organizations, or attend graduate school.