Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
Introduce the student to the areas of professional, civil and environmental engineering practices with exposure to faculty members specializing in each area, solving typical problems in each professional area, learning of the activities of service organizations, and the responsibilities of professional practice.
Introduction to surveying and engineering graphics for civil, construction, environmental, and architectural engineering applications. Topics include measurement theory, distance and angle measurement, leveling, traversing, topographic surveying, construction layout, error analysis, and coordinate geometry. Engineering graphics instruction covers technical drawing conventions, visualization, CAD-based drafting, and development of site plans and profiles. Laboratory and field exercises provide hands-on experience with surveying instruments and integration of survey data into professional engineering drawings.
Civil Engineering Materials introduces the engineering properties and behavior of common structural materials, including steel, wood, aggregate, concrete, and asphalt. Through hands-on experimental testing, students learn standard laboratory procedures, data analysis techniques, and interpretation of material performance. The course also emphasizes effective communication of technical results and the use of engineering judgment to draw informed conclusions from experimental data.
Water is one of the most abundant, yet most precious, natural resources on Earth. Processes occurring within and across many geosystems determine water’s movement and properties. This course explores how components of Earth’s water and climate systems operate and are linked through a combination of lecture and experiential field/lab activities. Fieldtrips and lab activities are designed to expose students to standard and innovative techniques used by engineers and geoscientists to understand water and climate systems, including map interpretation, glacial mass balance analysis, and dendrochronologic (tree ring measurement) analysis to obtain river flow and flood information. Fieldtrips will also help students better understand how humans modify water systems, through processes such as river regulation. Students will reside in Innsbruck (Austria) [with daytrips to King Ludwig II’s castles in Bavaria, Stubaier Glacier in Austria, and Bolzano, Italy] and Munich (Germany).
This course introduces students to the broader societal and global contexts in which architectural/civil/construction/environmental (ACCE) engineering infrastructure is planned, designed, and maintained. Emphasis is placed on effective communication—written, oral, and visual—within ACCE engineering practice and on citizenship, including awareness of U.S. and global cultural, political, and ethical issues that affect engineering decisions. Students will analyze real-world case studies (domestic and international), engage in structured debates and presentations, and develop professional-level written reports.
Introduction Environmental Engineering introduces the scientific and engineering principles used to analyze and solve environmental engineering problems. The course focuses on applications related to air quality, water resources, and wastewater management. Students gain a foundational understanding of how these principles are applied in professional environmental engineering practice.
Introduction to Structural Engineering introduces the fundamental principles of structural analysis for determinate and indeterminate structures. Students learn to analyze structural systems, evaluate loads and internal forces, and interpret structural behavior using analytical and computational methods. Proficiency with computing tools is required and integrated throughout the course to support problem solving and analysis.
Static and dynamic interaction of soil and water; theories of stress distribution, consolidation, strength and failures; stability of soil structures. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.
Introduction to Transportation Engineering provides an overview of transportation systems with an emphasis on roadway and traffic engineering. The course introduces transportation planning and economics, highway geometric and pavement design, drainage, and construction practices. Students also explore traffic control devices, traffic operations and management, and highway capacity analysis to understand how transportation systems are designed and operated safely and efficiently.
Introduction to Construction Engineering introduces the application of engineering economic principles to construction and engineering problems. The course examines construction management processes and methods used in planning, scheduling, and monitoring engineering projects. Students gain an understanding of how technical, economic, and managerial considerations are integrated to deliver construction projects effectively.
Introduction to Architectural Engineering provides an overview of the Architectural Engineering discipline and the role of architectural engineers in designing and operating efficient built environments. The course introduces building functions, components, and the integration of building systems throughout design, construction, and operation. Students explore energy consumption, thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and strategies to improve building energy efficiency, while learning to apply fundamental concepts of electrical and lighting design and relevant codes and standards.
Capstone Design Site Development: Civil Engineering is a team-based, project-driven course in which students design site development projects using engineering software, prepare construction drawings, and deliver professional engineering reports. Emphasis is placed on integrating technical skills with professional communication, ethical decision-making, and collaborative teamwork. This course is typically taken during a student’s final semester on campus.
Students use software to design projects in teams, prepare construction drawings and deliver engineering reports. Writing proficiency within this discipline and computing proficiency are required for a passing grade in this course. Computer proficiency is required for a passing grade in the course. A student who does not display computer upper-division student skills with Civil 3D and HEC-HMS will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in the other areas of the course.
Capstone Design Building Systems: Civil Engineering is a team-based, culminating design course in which students use industry-standard software to design building projects, prepare construction drawings, and produce professional engineering reports. Typically taken during the final term on campus, the course emphasizes the integration of building systems within a comprehensive design project.
Capstone Design Building Systems: Construction Engineering is a team-based, culminating design course in which students use industry-standard software to develop comprehensive building projects. Students create detailed building models using industry standard software, prepare construction drawings, and produce professional engineering reports that integrate technical and constructability considerations.
Students use software to design site projects in teams, prepare construction drawings and deliver engineering reports. This class is normally taken during the last term on campus. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course. Computer proficiency is required for a passing grade in the course. A student who does not display computer upper-division student skills with Civil 3D and HEC-HMS will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in the other areas of the course.
Capstone Design Building Systems: Architectural Engineering is a team-based, culminating design course in which students use industry-standard software to develop comprehensive building system designs. Students create integrated building models using industry standard software, prepare construction drawings, and produce professional engineering reports that reflect architectural engineering practice. Typically taken during the final term on campus, the course emphasizes synthesis of prior coursework, professional communication, and technical rigor.
Information Systems Design provides an overview of management information systems (MIS) with an emphasis on practical applications and methodologies relevant to construction engineering. The course examines how data are collected, processed, and transformed into useful information to support decision-making. Students explore information design methodologies and study building information modeling (BIM) in detail, with attention to current industry practices and emerging technologies.
Transportation Data Science introduces students to the processing, analysis, and interpretation of large-scale transportation-related data. The course develops programming proficiency in Python and provides an overview of key algorithms and machine learning methods used in transportation research and practice. Students apply data-driven techniques to real transportation datasets to support analysis, modeling, and decision-making.
Engineering Management introduces fundamental management principles and the core functions of planning, organizing, motivating, and controlling within engineering organizations. The course examines the management of engineers across research, design, manufacturing, construction, and quality-focused environments. Emphasis is placed on understanding organizational structures, team dynamics, and the broader context in which engineering decisions are made.
Environmental Measurements examines environmental engineering phenomena through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experimentation. Students conduct laboratory experiments, select appropriate analytical protocols to meet specific objectives, and evaluate and interpret environmental data. Emphasis is placed on engineering judgment, teamwork, and the clear communication of results through well-written technical reports.
Solid and Hazardous Waste Management covers the engineering and regulatory principles involved in the collection, storage, recycling, treatment, and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes. The course emphasizes practical approaches to waste management while integrating environmental, safety, and regulatory considerations. Students gain insight into the technical, scientific, and societal aspects of managing waste effectively and sustainably.
Fate, Transport & Effects of Hazardous Substances examines how chemicals and microorganisms move through environmental systems and the impacts they have on human health and the environment. The course explores mechanisms of transport, transformation, and persistence, as well as the evaluation of potential risks associated with hazardous substances.
Water and Wastewater Treatment introduces the physical, chemical, and biological principles underlying the treatment of municipal water and wastewater. The course covers the design and operation of treatment units, emphasizing processes that ensure water quality and public health protection. Students gain practical understanding of how treatment technologies are applied to meet regulatory and environmental standards.
Air Quality Engineering is an introductory course that explores the evaluation and management of air resources in relation to human and environmental health. The course emphasizes fundamental principles of air quality assessment and design processes for engineered solutions. Students are also introduced to a variety of air pollution issues and treatment technologies used to mitigate contaminants in the atmosphere.
Groundwater Mechanics explores the physical and theoretical principles governing groundwater flow and contaminant transport. The course emphasizes understanding subsurface hydrology, fluid mechanics in porous media, and the application of these principles to analyze and solve practical groundwater problems. Students gain skills to model, predict, and manage groundwater resources effectively.
NDT of Structures introduces state-of-the-art and state-of-the-practice methods for non-destructively evaluating and testing civil engineering structures and materials, including concrete, asphalt, and steel. Students gain hands-on experience applying these techniques to assess the condition and performance of structures. The course emphasizes real-world problem solving through laboratory exercises and field evaluations of structures on campus.
Matrix Analysis of Structures introduces the matrix-displacement method for analyzing framed structures, emphasizing both theoretical concepts and computer implementation. The course covers formulation of structural matrices, solution of structural systems, and the use of software tools for analysis. An introduction to finite-element analysis is also included, providing students with foundational skills for modeling and analyzing complex structures.
Reinforced Concrete Structures I introduces the behavior, materials, and design of reinforced concrete structural elements. The course covers concrete materials and placement, along with the theory and design of reinforced beams, girders, slabs, columns, and footings. Emphasis is placed on applying design codes, structural analysis principles, and engineering judgment to reinforced concrete systems.
Structural Steel Design I introduces the theory and design of structural steel members and their connections. The course emphasizes the behavior of steel structures under various loading conditions and the application of design codes and specifications. Students learn to design tension members, compression members, flexural members, and basic connections using accepted engineering practice.
Concrete Materials examines the materials, properties, and performance of concrete used in civil engineering applications. The course covers portland cement and related cementitious systems as well as and supplementary cementitious materials, aggregates, mixture proportioning, properties of fresh and hardened concrete, durability considerations, construction methods, special concrete materials, and standard test methods. Emphasis is placed on understanding material behavior and selecting appropriate materials and mixtures for specific engineering applications.
Wood Structural Design introduces modern timber engineering principles for the analysis and design of wood structural systems. The course covers the behavior and design of beams, columns, trusses, and floor systems, with emphasis on material properties, load resistance, and code-based design procedures. Students learn to apply current design standards and engineering judgment to timber structures.
Reinforced Concrete Structures II builds on fundamental reinforced concrete design concepts with a focus on advanced building components and systems. The course covers the design of two-way slabs, slender columns, prestressed beams, slabs-on-grade, and retaining walls. Emphasis is placed on code-based design, structural behavior, and the application of engineering judgment to complex reinforced concrete elements.
Structural Steel Design II advances the design of steel structures through the study of basic and elementary procedures for complex structural systems. The course covers the design of plate girders, mill buildings, multistory buildings, highway bridges, and light-gauge steel structures. Emphasis is placed on system-level behavior, code-based design, and practical engineering applications.
Wood and Masonry Structures focuses on the analysis and design of wood and masonry components and subassemblies used in low-rise residential and commercial buildings. The course emphasizes the application of current design specifications and codes to ensure structural safety and performance. Students develop practical skills in designing beams, columns, walls, and connections using wood and masonry materials.
Application of geotechnical and structural engineering principles to foundation system design. Topics include shallow foundations (spread footings, mat foundations), deep foundations (driven piles, drilled shafts), lateral earth pressures, retaining structures, soil-structure interaction, and foundation analysis under static and dynamic loading. Emphasizes both subsurface investigation interpretation and structural design of foundation elements.
Roadway Intersection Design focuses on the application of geometric design principles and traffic control strategies for roadway intersections. Topics include horizontal and vertical alignment, intersection design, traffic control devices, and traffic signal layout. Students complete design projects that apply standard techniques and design guidelines to develop safe and efficient intersection solutions.
This course provides a foundation in urban transportation planning, covering the planning process, relevant transportation modeling software, and the conduct of transportation planning and traffic impact studies. The course emphasizes integrating technical analysis with planning principles to develop safe, efficient, and sustainable urban transportation systems.
This course covers the fundamentals of traffic flow theory. Topics shall include microscopic flow characteristics, macroscopic flow characteristics, microscopic speed characteristics, macroscopic speed characteristics, microscopic density characteristics, macroscopic density characteristics, demand-supply analysis, capacity analysis, traffic stream models, shockwave analysis, queueing analysis, and simulation models.
Covers the principles of traffic engineering, including vehicle operating characteristics, traffic flow theory, geometric design of roads and intersections, and traffic control methods. Emphasis is placed on applying engineering analysis and design techniques to optimize traffic operations and improve safety.
Covers the design and maintenance of asphalt and concrete pavements, with emphasis on pavement thickness design and rehabilitation strategies. Topics include pavement design using Asphalt Institute and AASHTO methods, major maintenance techniques such as overlay design and slab repair, and routine maintenance practices including distress surveys, pothole repair, and crack and joint sealing. The course emphasizes practical engineering applications and decision-making for pavement performance and longevity.
Introduces horizontal construction equipment, methods, and systems used in civil and construction engineering projects. The course covers the design of horizontal construction systems, construction operations analysis, and the use of simulation techniques to evaluate productivity, cost, and efficiency. Emphasis is placed on practical applications and decision-making in horizontal construction projects.
Introduces vertical construction equipment and methods used in building projects. The course covers the design of vertical construction systems, construction operation analysis, and construction management processes associated with vertical construction. Emphasis is placed on equipment selection, sequencing, productivity analysis, and effective management of building construction operations.
Addresses the estimating and cost control functions across all phases of a construction project, from conceptual planning through project execution. Topics include productivity analysis, organization and preparation of estimates, cost forecasting, estimating tools and techniques, contingency planning, and the relationship between estimates, contract types, and project execution strategies. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, risk management, and decision-making in construction cost estimating.
Introduces the principles of safety engineering, safety management, and accident prevention for engineering and construction projects. The course covers accident theories, hazard identification and control, human behavior and safety, and state and federal safety regulations, including those applicable to construction projects. Emphasis is placed on developing effective safety management systems and ensuring compliance with the Construction Safety Act and other relevant laws.
Introduces the principles of sustainable and lean construction with an emphasis on improving construction performance through efficient use of resources and effective project delivery. The course applies engineering economics to sustainable construction problems and examines green design, construction, and operations from a project management perspective. Students explore theoretical concepts and industry practices used to model, evaluate, and enhance construction performance through project scheduling, construction operations, and contracting relationships.
Covers the financial management of construction projects, emphasizing the evaluation and control of project costs and financial performance. Topics include alternative selection, life-cycle cost analysis, applied financial management techniques, insurance and indemnification, risk management, and tax implications. The course focuses on integrating financial principles with construction project decision-making.
Examines the organizational structure of construction companies and the laws, regulations, practices, tools, and processes used to plan, schedule, and monitor construction projects. The course emphasizes the development and management of construction schedules as tools for coordinating work, controlling time and cost, and supporting project decision-making. Writing proficiency within the discipline is required for successful completion of the course.
The course focuses on statistical hydrology, climate, dendrohydrology (tree rings) and glaciers. The classroom lectures and in-class labs include the use of statistical software to analyze hydrologic datasets, the use of remote imagery to evaluate glacier recession, application of empirical equations to estimate glacier mass loss, evaluation of hydrologic (streamflow, snowpack) and climatic datasets, developing skeleton plots and cross dating tree-ring data, and seminars. The field labs consist of hand coring and analyzing tree ring data.
Basic concepts of fluid flow, energy and momentum principles, flow resistance in nonuniform sections, channel controls and transitions, and nonuniform flow computations.
The course follows an interdisciplinary approach in which knowledge and techniques from different disciplines are brought together in order to gain an integrated understanding of the impact of humans on freshwater systems and, vice versa, the societal and economic impact of freshwater scarcity and pollution.
Introduces the fundamental principles of hydrology, including the hydrologic cycle, rainfall–runoff relationships, unit hydrograph theory, statistical hydrology, and hydrologic simulation. The course includes a class project applying hydrologic analysis to flood control, water supply, and multipurpose water resources projects. Emphasis is placed on quantitative analysis and practical engineering applications.
Develops a quantitative approach to understanding and predicting hydrologic processes that govern watershed behavior. Topics include interception, snowmelt, evapotranspiration, infiltration, groundwater flow, overland flow, and streamflow. The course emphasizes comparison of different model representations, their relative advantages and limitations, and the coupling of processes and their effects on integrated hydrologic response.
Nature and magnitude of erosion problems. Erosion plan development. Rainfall energy and erosion predictions. Sediment transport in urban areas. Channel and slope stability. Sedimentation and other controls.
Introduces the design, implementation, and application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for solving civil engineering problems. The course covers GIS data acquisition, spatial analysis, mapping, and decision-making tools, emphasizing practical applications in infrastructure, environmental, and transportation engineering.
Credit is based on the amount of work undertaken. This course is presents developing topics in the Civil Engineering disciplines including: transportation systems, processes and model; site development; architectural & building systems; advances in civil engineering materials and structural design; environmental analysis, modeling, or processes; hydrologist processes, models and water resources advances; next generation construction engineering; sustainability and resilient infrastructure systems.
Independent study, either as individual students or a group of five students or less working under the guidance and mentorship of an instructor. The independent study will typically focus on: (1) a specific issue, problem, application, design or process in a traditional field of civil engineering OR (2) a specific development, advancement, issue, problem, or challenge in a new or developing specialty area in the fields of civil engineering.
Conduct research under the guidance of a faculty member. Analyze data. Produce and present, submit or publish related scholarly work.