Civil Engineering Technology Bachelor of Science Degree
In RIT’s civil engineering technology degree, you’ll gain the practical theory, knowledge, and skills necessary to analyze and solve complex challenges posed by our nation’s growing infrastructure needs.
#4
Best Engineering Job: “Civil Engineer”
Overview for Civil Engineering Technology BS
Why Study RIT’s Degree in Civil Engineering Technology
Gain Real-World Career Experience: Four required blocks of co-op mean nearly a year of hands-on, full-time paid work experience in industry.
Connect with Top Employers: A civil engineering career fair connects civil engineering technology majors with more than 65 employers in construction, transportation, wastewater management, infrastructure, and more. Network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
Choose From Three Professional Options: Railroad's your degree with an option construction management, structural design, or water resources.
STEM-OPT Visa Eligible: The STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows full-time, on-campus international students on an F-1 student visa to stay and work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
When infrastructure works, no one notices. But when clean water fails to come out of faucets, when roads and bridges crumble, or when dams break and flood communities, suddenly our attention shifts to infrastructure and how its failure significantly impacts our lives.
The people who make infrastructure their top priority are civil engineers who are charged with analyzing problems and designing solutions to our nation’s growing infrastructure needs. In RIT’s civil engineering technology degree, you’ll learn to design bridges and buildings, analyze traffic flow, manage the construction of complex structures, and address environmental issues such as clean drinking water and effective wastewater management.
RIT’s Degree in Civil Engineering Technology
RIT’s civil engineering technology degree supports the growing need for civil engineers to analyze, design, build, and retrofit new and existing infrastructure needs. There is also demand for civil engineers to develop and integrate modern technical innovations into their infrastructure solutions to address sustainable practices that are protective of the environment.
In the civil engineering technology major, you’ll begin with a foundation in structural mechanics, physics, calculus, and the liberal arts. In the first two years of the program, technical subjects are taught concurrently with mathematics and science, helping you to understand applications while studying scientific fundamentals. The third and fourth years expand on these fundamentals with advanced course work in structural design, water and wastewater management and treatment, transportation systems, foundation engineering, and additional liberal arts courses. In the fifth year, you'll complete a capstone project that includes the complete design of a major civil engineering project.
With a choice of professional electives, you can complete course sequences in structural design, construction management, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and water resources management. Electives also are available in other technical disciplines. The major allows you to specialize while also obtaining a broad background in civil engineering and construction management.
While an option is not required, you may choose to pursue one of three professional options to gain a deeper understanding in one of these areas:
- Construction management option–For students interested in the business, management, and project planning aspects related to construction, including sustainable building design.
- Structural design option–For students interested in structural design and the use of different types of materials (masonry, steel, reinforced concrete, etc.) in constructing roads, bridges, and buildings.
- Water resources option–For students interested in water treatment, wastewater treatment, hydrology, stormwater management, and the environment.
With four required cooperative education experiences, you’ll gain full-time, hands-on career experience working for a range of companies and organizations in construction, transportation, water/wastewater management, renewable energy, and more. You’ll gain the practical theory, knowledge, and hands-on technical skills you’ll need to become an expert in applying today’s technologies to the solution of civil engineering and construction problems.
Throughout the civil engineering degree, you’ll spend time in labs where you’ll use experimental methods to solve engineering challenges and actively put theory and technology to work. You’ll work on state-of-the-art equipment and in sophisticated laboratories that allow for a wealth of hands-on experience. You’ll have access to laboratories and equipment for soil mechanics, construction materials, surveying, water and wastewater analysis and treatment, hydraulic systems, and mechanics. You’ll also have access to our Design and Drafting Laboratory with state-of-the-practice hardware and software such as AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD, HydroCAD, Civil3D, and much more.
With a BS degree in civil engineering technology, you’ll also be prepared to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, the first step in becoming licensed as a professional engineer (PE).
What’s the Difference Between Engineering and Engineering Technology?
It’s a question we’re asked all the time. While there are subtle differences in the course work between the two, choosing the right major in engineering or engineering technology is more about identifying what you like to do and how you like to do it.
Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees
Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.
+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.
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Apply for Fall 2025
First-year students can apply for Early Decision II by Jan. 1 to get an admissions and financial aid assessment by mid-January.
Careers and Experiential Learning
Typical Job Titles
| Project Manager | Civil Engineer | Design Engineer |
| Electronic Transmission Engineer | Estimating Engineer | Pavement Engineer |
| Construction Material Engineer | Field Engineer | Geotechnical Engineer |
| Project Engineer | Structural Engineer | Traffic Engineering |
| Transportation Engineer | Water Engineer | Principal Investigator |
| Consultant | Transportation Safety Specialist | Transit Operator |
| Metropolitan Transportation Planner |
Industries
Cooperative Education
What’s different about an RIT education? It’s the career experience you gain by completing cooperative education and internships with top companies in every single industry. You’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain real-world career experience that sets you apart. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries.
Co-ops and internships take your knowledge and turn it into know-how. Your engineering co-ops will provide hands-on experience that enables you to apply your engineering knowledge in professional settings while you make valuable connections between classwork and real-world applications.
Students in the civil engineering technology degree are required to complete four co-op blocks. This typically includes one spring, one fall, and two summer blocks. You'll alternate periods of full-time study with full-time paid work experience in your career field. In some circumstances, other forms of experiential education (e.g., study abroad, research, military service) may be used to fulfill part of the co-op requirement. Each student is assigned a co-op advisor to assist in identifying and applying to co-op opportunities.
Careers in Civil Engineering Technology
Civil engineers are in demand. Our nation’s growing infrastructure needs–coupled with a focus on addressing the environment as a key component in infrastructure solutions–have created ample career opportunities for civil engineers. And, with an exceptional outcomes rate, graduates of our degree in civil engineering technology are employed with top organizations in areas as diverse as environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, engineering management, transportation engineering, water resources engineering, and more.
Civil Engineering Career Fair
RIT’s Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education hosts a civil engineering career fair that connects civil engineering technology majors with employers in civil engineering, infrastructure, construction, and more. During this event, you’ll be able to network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
Featured Work and Profiles
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![Civil engineers looking for ways to prevent future bridge disasters like the one in Baltimore]()
Civil engineers seek ways to prevent future bridge disasters
Amanda Bao Spectrum News speaks to Amanda Bao, Interim Department Chair of the Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Environmental Management and Safety, about how the tragedy in Baltimore could have been...
Read More about Civil engineers seek ways to prevent future bridge disasters -
![A rendering of the new research building that is under construction on the southwest side of campus near Global Village on RIT campus in Rochester, NY]()
Construction for new RIT research building led by Civil ET alum
Wozniak ’06 (civil engineering technology) is on the Facilities Management Services team and is no stranger to RIT. She worked closely as a co-op with the Pike Company during the construction of the...
Read More about Construction for new RIT research building led by Civil ET alum -
![civil engineering technology alumni working in construction site]()
Research and Real-World Experience: The RIT Advantage
How Civil ET's emphasis on practical skills and research opportunities and inspiration from supportive professors led Alana to a PhD program at UT Austin, researching structural engineering.
Read More about Research and Real-World Experience: The RIT Advantage -
![civil engineering technology alumni working in construction on construction site]()
Building a Career from Home Renovation to Construction Site
Follow Jacob’s passion for construction from a basement renovation project with his dad in high school to RIT where he got hands-on in lab and co-op to ultimately landing a career out of graduation as...
Read More about Building a Career from Home Renovation to Construction Site -
![Lu Sun]()
Professor Champions Workforce Training Revolution for Transportation Sector
Lu Sun Lu Sun will spearhead a $2 million workforce training initiative funded by the Department of Labor, uniting academia, corporations, and regional agencies to enhance the transportation sector and...
Read More about Professor Champions Workforce Training Revolution for Transportation Sector
Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Civil Engineering Technology BS
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
Civil Engineering Technology, BS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CVET-140 | Materials of Construction A study of common construction materials in civil engineering with particular emphasis on Portland cement concrete and asphalt cement concrete. Aggregates, Portland cement, and asphalt cement (each an ingredient in the concretes) are studied extensively. Mass-volume relationships are explored in relation to these materials. An overview of laboratory testing procedures for evaluating these materials is provided. Important properties of masonry, steel, and wood products are also discussed. (Co-requisites: CVET-141 or equivalent course.) Lecture 2 (Fall). |
2 |
| CVET-141 | Materials of Construction Laboratory The Materials of Construction Laboratory will be taken concurrently with Materials of Construction (CVET-140). Standard laboratory tests will be performed for evaluating the properties of aggregate, Portland cement concrete, asphalt cement concrete, and mortar. Mix design procedures for Portland cement concrete and asphalt cement concrete will be learned and used. An introduction to green building materials will be provided. (Co-requisites: CVET-140 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| CVET-150 | Computer Aided Design and Drafting Introduction to engineering graphics as a means of communication in the technical fields. The course is laboratory oriented and provides the student with basic skills to create and edit professional 2D and 3D drawings with this comprehensive first course in the use of computer aided design and drafting (CADD) software for (mechanical, architectural and civil drawings). The course assumes no prior knowledge of engineering drawing or CADD. Lec/Lab 4 (Spring). |
2 |
| CVET-180 | Introduction to Civil Engineering The objective of this course is to develop in the student an understanding of plans and drawings in civil engineering projects such as site development, structures, hydraulic structures, water and wastewater transport and treatment facilities, and transportation facilities. Students will also understand how related disciplines—architecture, mechanical and electrical engineering, and landscape architecture—are incorporated into construction drawings. Students develop an understanding of the technical and legal purpose of plans and how to assemble them. (Co-requisites: CVET-181 or equivalent course.) Lecture 2 (Fall). |
2 |
| CVET-181 | Introduction to Civil Engineering Lab The purpose of this course is to provide students with hands on learning of fundamental and innovative tools in the area of civil engineering graphics. Students will apply information from the co-requisite course to understand how construction drawing sets and drawing components are organized and generated. Spreadsheet methods will be used to solve design problems and building information modeling software will be introduced in the DDL computer lab. (Co-requisites: CVET-180 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| CVET-210 | Statics An introduction to the analysis of static structures covering free-body diagrams, forces, moments, vectors, equilibrium, friction, and analysis of structures and truss members. Applications are drawn from civil engineering technology. (Prerequisites: PHYS-111 or 1017-211 or equivalent course.) Lecture 2, Recitation 2 (Spring). |
3 |
| MATH-171 | Calculus A (General Education – Mathematical Perspective A) This is the first course in a three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). This course includes a study of precalculus, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, continuity, and differentiability. Limits of functions are used to study continuity and differentiability. The study of the derivative includes the definition, basic rules, and implicit differentiation. Applications of the derivative include optimization and related-rates problems. (Prerequisites: Completion of the math placement exam or C- or better in MATH-111 or C- or better in ((NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275) and NMTH-220) or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| MATH-172 | Calculus B (General Education – Mathematical Perspective B) This is the second course in three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). The course includes Riemann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, techniques of integration, and applications of the definite integral. The techniques of integration include substitution and integration by parts. The applications of the definite integral include areas between curves, and the calculation of volume. (Prerequisites: C- or better in MATH-171 or 1016-171T or 1016-281 or 1016-231 or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| PHYS-111 | College Physics I (General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective) This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws, gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Attendance at the scheduled evening sessions of this class is required for exams. There will be 2 or 3 of these evening exams during the semester. Competency in algebra, geometry and trigonometry is required. Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
4 |
| PHYS-112 | College Physics II (General Education) This course is an introduction to algebra-based physics focusing on thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and elementary topics in modern physics. Topics include heat and temperature, laws of thermodynamics, electric and magnetic forces and fields, DC and AC electrical circuits, electromagnetic induction, the concept of the photon, and the Bohr model of the atom. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Attendance at the scheduled evening sessions of this class is required for exams. There will be 2 or 3 of these evening exams during the semester. (Prerequisites: PHYS-111 or PHYS-211 or equivalent course.) Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring). |
4 |
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. (This class is restricted to incoming 1st year or global campus students.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
General Education – First Year Writing (WI) |
3 | |
General Education – Artistic Perspective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| CHMG-141 | General & Analytical Chemistry I (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective) This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
3 |
| CHMG-145 | General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective) The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions. (Corequisite: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
1 |
| CVET-160 | Surveying Introduction to fundamentals of surveying. Topics include note taking; differential leveling; vertical and horizontal measurement; traversing; topographic mapping; horizontal, vertical, compound and reverse curves; and earthwork. (Co-requisites: CVET-161 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
3 |
| CVET-161 | Surveying Laboratory Students apply the fundamentals of surveying to field exercises using modern surveying equipment. Field exercises include differential leveling, cross sections, traversing, topographic mapping, horizontal curve layout, vertical curve design, and earthwork estimation. (Co-requisites: CVET-160 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| CVET-220 | Strength of Materials Study how forces and moments affect axial, shearing, and bending stresses and deflections of structural members. The relationships between stress and strain, for both axial and torsional loading, are explored. Beams, shafts, and columns are analyzed and designed based on stress and deformation. Combined stress states are analyzed, including using Mohr's circle. Statically indeterminate problems are evaluated. Euler's equations and column design principles are studied and applied. (Prerequisites: CVET-210 or equivalent course.) Lecture 4, Recitation 2 (Fall). |
4 |
| CVET-240 | Elementary Soil Mechanics An introduction to soil mechanics and its application to problems encountered in civil engineering design and construction. Major topics include soil properties and classification, weight-volume relationships, compaction/ground improvement, groundwater flow, stresses in soils, settlement analysis, and shear strength. (Prerequisites: CVET-220 or equivalent course. Co-requisites: CVET-241 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
3 |
| CVET-241 | Elementary Soil Mechanics Lab The Elementary Soil Mechanics Laboratory will be taken concurrently with CVET-240. Standard laboratory tests will be performed for evaluating the properties of soils including gradation, plasticity, compaction, permeability, compressibility, and shear strength. (Co-requisites: CVET-240 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Spring). |
1 |
| ESHS-210 | Sustainable Earth Resources An introduction to geology from an earth resources-economic geology prospective, focusing on sustainability of green energy resources. Basic geology topics include earth materials, internal forces, and surface processes. Environmental topics include soil and water resources. Sustainability of earth resources is explored, including strategic and industrial minerals, long-term viability of fossil fuels, and the sustainability of minerals crucial for renewable energy production and storage. The course will also explore ethical issues associated with fossil fuel use, conflict mineral extraction, the uneven distribution of benefits associated with Earth resource extraction, and the uneven distribution of negative consequences, both environmental and social, of Earth resource extraction. Scientific and ethical questions will be discussed throughout the course. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
3 |
| MATH-211 | Elements of Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations (General Education) This course includes an introduction to differential equations, Laplace transforms, numerical methods in differential equations, and the calculus of functions of two variables. The emphasis is on the application of these topics to problems in engineering technology. (Prerequisites: C- or better MATH-172 or MATH-182 or MATH 182A or 1016-232 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| MECA-436 | Engineering Economics This course provides coverage of the financial side of engineering decisions relating to product development and operations. Course topics provide a foundation for engineers to effectively analyze engineering systems and operations with respect to financial considerations of product development, analysis, and operations. This course prepares students for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Examination, Engineering Economics section. Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring). |
2 |
General Education – Ethical Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Global Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
| Third Year | ||
| COMM-142 | Introduction to Technical Communication (General Education) This course introduces students to current best practices in written and visual technical communication including writing effective email, short and long technical reports and presentations, developing instructional material, and learning the principles and practices of ethical technical communication. Course activities focus on engineering and scientific technical documents. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| CVET-250 | Hydraulics A study of the principle physical properties of liquids, hydrostatic pressure and forces, buoyancy and flotation, Bernoulli's Law, Conservation of Energy and Mass, and the concept of momentum. These fundamentals are applied in the analysis and design of closed conduit systems, open channel flow, pumps and pump selection and storage facilities. Rainfall runoff relationships and applications to stormwater management are also introduced. (Prerequisites: CVET-210 or equivalent course. Co-requisites: CVET-251 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
3 |
| CVET-251 | Hydraulics Lab Experimental study of principle physical properties of liquids and major laws of fluid mechanics. Students will conduct several experiments that illustrate the theory and design principles taught in lecture. (Co-requisites: CVET-250 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| CVET-300 | Land Development Computer Applications The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an introduction to civil 3D software and how to use the application and its tools to create standardized civil engineering and drafting projects. The course enables students to complete transportation, site, sewer, storm drain, and subdivision projects quickly, while using the tools to dynamically link and generate automatic design updates. (Prerequisites: CVET-150 and ((CVET-160 and CVET-161) or 0608-340) and ((CVET-180 and CVET-181) or 0608-220) or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
2 |
| CVET-332 | Structural Analysis and Modeling Introduction of classical and modern computational techniques to analyze statically determinate and indeterminate structures. Topics include beams, 2D trusses, 2D frames, cables and arches, moving loads and influence lines, approximate methods and moment distribution. Computer-aided structural analysis using commercial structural analysis software STAAD is involved. (Prerequisites: CVET-220 or equivalent course.) Lecture 4 (Fall, Spring). |
4 |
| CVET-499 | Civil Engineering Technology Co-op (spring, summer) One semester or summer block of appropriate work experience in a related industry. Department permission is required. (This course is restricted to CVET-BS Major students.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
0 |
| ENGT-95 | Career Seminar This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational program at RIT, the programs in the department, and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the cooperative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search. Seminar 1 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| CVET-350 | Highway Design This course exposes students to the fields of highway and traffic engineering. The areas of planning, design, construction, and operation are covered. Emphasis is placed on specific skills needed in these fields, including highway standards; geometry and alignment; traffic signal timing and design, drainage; earthwork; safety standards; and structures. (Prerequisites: CVET-300 or equivalent course.
Co-requisites: CVET-351 or equivalent course.) Lecture 2 (Spring). |
2 |
| CVET-351 | Highway Design Lab This lab offering provides students with an introduction to MicroStation, which is a computer aided drafting and design course used primarily by federal and state departments of transportation (DOT). Open Roads, is a 3D software that uses MicroStation as an operating platform. Open roads is also commonly used by DOT agencies. MicroStation/Open Roads is analogous to AutoCAD/Civil3D. Students, after completing this course, will be able to successfully utilize the civil geometry tools to create geometry for roadway projects. (Prerequisites: CVET-300 or equivalent course.
Co-requisites: CVET-350 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Spring). |
2 |
| CVET-431 | Structural Steel Design This course covers the design of structural members and frames and their connections in steel structures. Topics include principles of structural design and the code of ethics in engineering practices, structural loads and systems, steel grade and shapes, steel framing and deck design, tension members, compression members, non-composite beams, beam-columns, column base plates, bolted connections, and welded connections. The use of AISC Steel Construction Manual is emphasized and a comprehensive group design project is assigned. Some computer work for structural modeling is involved. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| CVET-432 | Reinforced Concrete Design This course covers the design of structural members and frames of reinforced concrete. Topics include principles of structural design and loads; properties of concrete and reinforcement and the code of ethics in engineering practices; analysis and design of floor slabs, beams and girders including doubly reinforced and T-beams, columns, and footings, cantilever retaining walls, bearing walls, unreinforced concrete basement walls, shear walls, corbels and brackets. The use of the ACI code, is emphasized and a comprehensive group design project is assigned. Some computer work is involved. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| CVET-437 | Principles of Dynamics in Civil Engineering Technology Study of the basic principles of engineering dynamics. Topics include kinematics of particles, force, mass and acceleration, work and energy, force-impulse and momentum, and an introduction to vibrations and structural dynamics. Applications to practical civil engineering problems are emphasized. (Prerequisites: MATH-211 or equivalent course and at least 3rd year standing.) Lecture 2 (Fall). |
2 |
| CVET-440 | Foundation Engineering This course will study the geotechnical engineering aspects of foundation design. Focus is on bearing capacity analysis and spread footing design, mat foundations, pile capacity and pile foundation design, drilled shafts, lateral earth pressures and retaining wall design, and an introduction to slope stability analysis. (Prerequisites: (CVET-240 and CVET-241) or 0608-360 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 . |
3 |
| CVET-450 | Principles of Water and Wastewater Treatment An introduction to water and wastewater treatment, interpretation of analyzed physical, chemical, and biological aqueous characteristics associated with the design and operation of treatment processes. Fundamental principles and applications of physical, chemical, and biological processes employed in the treatment of drinking water and sanitary wastewater will be covered. Fundamental components and design procedures for gravity sewer systems will be introduced. (Prerequisites: CVET-250 and CVET-251 and (CHMG-122 or CHMG-142) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
3 |
| CVET-499 | Civil Engineering Technology Co-op (summer) One semester or summer block of appropriate work experience in a related industry. Department permission is required. (This course is restricted to CVET-BS Major students.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
0 |
Open Elective |
6 | |
General Education – Immersion 1, 2 |
6 | |
General Education – Social Perspective |
3 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| CVET-499 | Civil Engineering Technology Co-op (fall) One semester or summer block of appropriate work experience in a related industry. Department permission is required. (This course is restricted to CVET-BS Major students.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
0 |
| CVET-500 | Civil Engineering Technology Capstone (WI-PR) A capstone course in civil engineering technology. This course builds on and integrates the engineering concepts developed in prior course work into the complete design of a major civil engineering project. The course will require a written and an oral presentation of the completed design to include, where appropriate, plans and specifications. (Prerequisites: At least 5th year standing with a minimum of 2 terms of CVET-499 completed.) Lecture 2, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
Technical Elective |
3 | |
Open Elective |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 3 |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 128 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
Professional Options
Students who elect to pursue a Professional Option may use any combination of Open and Technical Electives to complete one of the options listed below:
Construction Management
| Choose two of the following: | |
| CVET-462 | Construction Project Management An introduction to construction management. Project administrative roles and relationships among the various project team participants are explored. Topics include specifics of construction project start-up including procurement, project buyout, and job site layout and control. Subcontracts and relationship with subcontractors are explored. Construction related documentation including contract documents, submittals, information requests, change orders, progress payments, bonds, insurances, and project closeout is discussed. Safety, quality, and project closeout are also covered. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CVET-464 | Construction Planning, Scheduling and Control This course covers planning, organization, scheduling, and control of construction projects. The components of construction project planning are examined. Students are exposed to and gain practice in using the Critical Path Method (CPM) in scheduling, Monte Carlo risk analysis and monitoring the progress of construction projects. Cost control and resource allocation/resource management are explored. (This course is restricted to CVET-BS or CONMGT-MN students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall). |
| CVET-561 | Construction Cost Analysis and Management An introduction to direct cost estimating for construction projects. The estimating techniques covered include quantity take-off, labor productivity, and pricing (labor, material, and equipment). Drawings, sketches, and specifications are used as a basis for developing quantities involving site work, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, and finishes. Students also use software tools to aid in developing takeoff quantities. Different estimate structures and various types of estimates are examined. Direct and indirect construction costs are explored along with approaches for estimating overhead costs and profit. A logistical study of Project Cost Management and Cost Control & Forecasting methods, including Earned Value Method. This course may be cross-listed with CONM-661; BSMS program students are advised to enroll in the graduate level course. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| Choose one additional course from above or below: | |
| CVET-424 | Building Information Modeling with Revit The primary objective of the Revit course is to teach students the concepts of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and introduce the tools for parametric building design and documentation using Revit Architecture. Students will be able to create full 3D architectural project models and generate working drawings. The course focuses on design development tools - building the 3D model with foundation, walls, windows, doors, floors, roofs, stairs, creating reflected ceiling plans and furniture plans. Students will add views and annotation to the sheets to create a set of construction documents. Students will also learn how to add basic structure design features using Revit structure, and they will learn to use Autodesk Navisworks software to create project schedules and quantify materials. (Prerequisites: CVET-181 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| CVET-505 | Sustainable Building Design & Construction Course material will focus on the design, engineering, and construction of sustainable buildings and how the construction manager guides the project team to meet the owner’s objectives of a sustainable facility. Students will explore the primary differences and similarities between the different green building rating systems, including the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. This course may be cross-listed with CONM-690; BSMS program students are advised to enroll in the graduate level course. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| ESHS-225 | Construction Safety This course is designed to cover construction health and safety hazards and will study OSHA regulations in depth. Students get to handle and investigate construction safety issues, the OSHA standards addressing trench excavation, scaffolding, temporary electric circuits, fall protection, HAZCOM, underground construction are studied. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
Structural Design
| Required Courses | |
| Choose three of the following: | |
| CVET-424 | Building Information Modeling with Revit The primary objective of the Revit course is to teach students the concepts of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and introduce the tools for parametric building design and documentation using Revit Architecture. Students will be able to create full 3D architectural project models and generate working drawings. The course focuses on design development tools - building the 3D model with foundation, walls, windows, doors, floors, roofs, stairs, creating reflected ceiling plans and furniture plans. Students will add views and annotation to the sheets to create a set of construction documents. Students will also learn how to add basic structure design features using Revit structure, and they will learn to use Autodesk Navisworks software to create project schedules and quantify materials. (Prerequisites: CVET-181 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| CVET-433 | Structural Timber Design Design wood structures. Topics include properties of structural lumber, design of wood structural members including beams, columns, beam-columns, trusses, studs, plywood diaphragms and shear walls, and design of structural member connections. Emphasis is on the use of NDC Wood Design Package. A comprehensive group design project is assigned. Some computer work is involved. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| CVET-434 | Design of Highway Bridges Design concrete and steel bridges. Topics include types of bridges, design loads on bridges, live load distribution, design of prestressed concrete girders, design of I-plate steel girders, design of reinforced concrete deck, design of bridge foundations, and introduction to multi-span bridges. Emphasis is on the use of the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and bridge design software, and a comprehensive group design project is assigned. Some computer work is involved. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 and CVET-431 or CVET-432 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CVET-435 | Prestressed Concrete This course focuses on the fundamental concepts of prestressed concrete design. Topics include prestressing systems, types of prestressing, materials used in prestressed concrete, analysis and design of pre- and post-tensioned systems, design of connections, losses in prestress. Emphasis is given on the use of the current industry standards and a design project. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CVET-436 | Masonry Structures This course focuses on the fundamental concepts of structural design with masonry elements. Topics include historical perspective of masonry technology, materials used in masonry construction, general design requirements for masonry, structural design of unreinforced and reinforced masonry elements, masonry construction practices, repairs and improvements to masonry walls. Emphasis is given on the use of the building codes for masonry structures and a comprehensive group design project. (Prerequisites: CVET-332 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
Water Resources
| Choose three of the following: | |
| CVET-423 | GIS for CETEMS This course examines the fundamentals of geographic information systems and their application in the fields of civil engineering and environmental management. It emphasizes the application of GIS technology to problems such as, but not limited to, water resource management, asset management, environmental impact assessments, urban planning, and transportation. (Enrollment in this course is restricted to students with at least 3rd year standing in CVET-BS or ESHS-BS.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring). |
| CVET-451 | Design of Water & Wastewater Treatment Facilities Hydraulic, biological, and chemical principles of water and wastewater treatment processes are applied to the design of municipal treatment works. Process, plant design, and construction elements are stressed. (Prerequisites: CVET-450 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CVET-452 | Groundwater Hydraulics Groundwater movement analysis and engineering design applications. Topics include construction dewatering, groundwater remediation, flow-net analysis, flow analysis to wells and trenches, design of groundwater collection systems, pump selection, and groundwater's interaction with engineered structures. Application of groundwater computer software. (Prerequisites: CVET-250 and CVET-251 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CVET-453 | Stormwater Management This course focuses on the fundamental design concepts of surface water hydrology and how these concepts are applied to the management of stormwater for municipal and development projects. Topics include rainfall/runoff relationships, groundwater hydrology, hydrographs, soil erosion and sediment control, storm sewer design, and green infrastructure. Practical engineering procedures, using desktop and state-of-the-practice hydraulic and hydrologic software, are introduced to analyze existing conditions and design new solutions. (Prerequisites: CVET-250 and CVET-251 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is STEM designated when studying on campus and full time.
First-Year Admission
First-year applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic background that includes:
- 4 years of English
- 3 years of social studies and/or history
- 3 years of math is required and must include algebra, geometry, and algebra 2/trigonometry. Pre-calculus is preferred.
- 2-3 years of science. Chemistry or physics is required and biology is recommended.
- Technology electives are preferred.
Transfer Admission
Transfer applicants should meet these minimum degree-specific requirements:
- A minimum of college algebra is required. Pre-calculus or calculus is preferred.
- Chemistry or physics is required.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.
RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships
Accreditation
The BS in civil engineering technology major is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Computer Engineering Technology and Similarly Named Programs.
Visit the college's accreditation page for information on enrollment and graduation data, program educational objectives, and student outcomes.
Resources
Access Resources for students including academic advisors, student clubs and organizations, documents, technical information and support, and software help.
Related News
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December 13, 2024
![Two students and a female professor sit at a atable with brightly covered bridge samples in front of them.]()
Researchers discover solutions to build stronger bridges
Aging infrastructure is a major issue in the U.S. with nearly 50 percent of bridges considered in poor condition. Investments are often for immediate repairs, but today engineering researchers are exploring how structural changes might improve longevity, safety, and construction costs. -
August 28, 2024
![Katie McConky and Amanda Bao are shown in headshots next to each other.]()
Faculty-researchers Katie McConky and Amanda Bao named ELATES Fellows
Two faculty-researchers at RIT have been selected to the Class of 2024-2025 of Drexel University’s Executive Leadership in Academic Technology, Engineering and Science (ELATES) program, designed to promote women in academic STEM fields and faculty allies of all genders into institutional leadership roles. -
May 2, 2024
![Boats are shown continuing to work on the collapse site at the Francis Scott Key Bridge.]()
Where Are America’s Most Vulnerable Bridges?
Bloomberg highlights Amanda Bao, associate professor in the Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Environmental Management and Safety, in a report about maintaining bridge safety and integrity.
Contact
- Amanda Bao
- Interim Department Chair
- Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Environmental Management and Safety
- College of Engineering Technology
- 585‑475‑4956
- axbite@rit.edu