What is Civil Engineering
Civil engineers design, build, operate, and maintain structures and infrastructure that form the built environment of our modern society. The built environment include buildings, bridges, highways, water supply systems, environmental protection systems, ports, railroads, dams, flood control works, airports, and many others.
The American Society of Civil Engineers notes that civil engineers provide "a better world by design" because their projects improve the quality of life for mankind while being economically viable and environmentally conscious. This is the oldest branch of engineering, and will continue to be essential so long as civilization exists. Civil engineering is an exciting and rewarding profession.
Branches of Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is a very broad profession that encompasses a wide range of activities. The Civil Engineering Department at Cal Poly Pomona is divided into the following branches.



Environmental engineering focuses on engineering works that clean and protect the environment. These projects can include designing facilities to safely handle solid waste, industrial waste, or municipal wastewater. It also can include identifying and remediating existing pollution, such as underground contaminant plumes. It has been said that civil engineers have saved more lives than doctors, and much of this benefit has come from environmental engineering.





Where Do Civil Engineers Work?
Civil engineers work in a variety of different settings and for a wide range of employers. Many civil engineers also choose to be self-employed. Some civil engineering jobs are primarily indoors, but many involve frequent visits to project sites during both the design and construction phases.
Public sector employers include various public agencies, such as city building and safety departments, county public works departments, water agencies, Caltrans, and many others.
Private sector employers include small, medium, and large companies that provide civil engineering services. Some are primarily design-oriented, while others focus on construction.
Employment Outlook
There is a very strong demand for civil engineers, especially in California, and not enough new graduates to meet this demand. Most recent graduates receive multiple job offers. Resources to find employment can be found here.
How to Become a Civil Engineer
The best way to pursue a career in civil engineering, is to obtain a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or construction engineering from an ABET accredited program, such as Cal Poly Pomona. Civil engineers also need to become licensed by the state in which the project is located.
Although there are many excellent civil engineering jobs for those who do not go beyond the bachelor's degree, pursuing a master's degree opens more professional opportunities. In some branches of civil engineering, a master's degree is nearly essential. Over the next ten to twenty years, a master's degree might become a requirement in order to become professionally licensed.