Civil engineering encompasses the planning, design, construction and operation of facilities essential to modern life, ranging from bridges to transit systems. Civil engineers are problem solvers, meeting the challenges of community planning, water supply, structures, traffic congestion, energy needs, pollution, and infrastructure improvements. Societal needs, economic conditions and public safety are paramount in the work accomplished by civil engineers. High-tech tools such as computer aided design (CAD), geographical information systems (GIS) and computer modeling are a necessity in all areas of civil engineering.
Civil engineers are sought by both private companies and public agencies for a variety of professional positions. Many work for engineering consulting firms or construction companies as design engineers, field engineers and project managers. They also join government agencies to oversee transportation, water supply, environmental protection, and resource management. Graduates are equally prepared to pursue MS and PhD degrees in allied fields, as well as business, management and law degrees.