Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The programme combines core engineering science and liberal-arts requirements in the early years with focused civil engineering subjects in the later years. You will build a strong mathematical and physical sciences foundation (calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, physics and chemistry), then progress to civil-specific topics and hands-on design work.

• Fundamental courses: Calculus and advanced mathematics for engineers, physics for engineers, statics and dynamics, materials science for civil applications.
• Core civil engineering subjects: Strength of materials, structural analysis and design, fluid mechanics and hydraulics, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental and water resources engineering.
• Design and professional practice: CAD and engineering drawing, construction management, project programming and scheduling, engineering economics and ethics.
• Laboratory and computing: Materials and structures laboratories, fluid lab work, soil mechanics testing, computational methods for modelling and finite element analysis, data acquisition and instrumentation.
• Capstone project: A team-based senior design project addressing a real-world civil engineering problem, integrating technical analysis, design documentation and communication to stakeholders.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Courses in sustainability, climate-resilient infrastructure, urban planning, renewable energy systems, and opportunities to take courses across environmental science, economics and management.
• Experiential learning: Field trips, off-campus fieldwork, internships with consulting firms or public agencies, and opportunities for undergraduate research alongside faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the physical sciences. Typical successful applicants will have completed advanced-level mathematics (such as calculus) and physics; chemistry is also recommended. Admissions decisions consider the overall academic record, transcripts, teacher or academic references, and a personal statement describing interest in civil engineering.

• Academic preparation: High achievement in secondary-school mathematics (calculus where available) and physics; coursework in chemistry and computer science is advantageous.
• Academic profile: A competitive GPA or equivalent academic standing in previous study; evidence of quantitative ability and problem-solving skills.
• Supporting materials: Strong academic references, a personal statement explaining motivation for civil engineering, and any relevant project, laboratory or extracurricular experience (e.g. robotics, construction clubs, internships).
• Other considerations: Admissions teams value practical experience and initiative—work placements, summer programmes, research projects or community service related to infrastructure or the environment strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers designing, building and maintaining infrastructure and for roles addressing environmental and community resilience. Many go into engineering consultancies, construction and contracting firms, public works and transportation agencies, environmental and water-resources organisations, or continue to postgraduate study.

• Structural engineer, designing buildings, bridges and other load-bearing systems.
• Geotechnical engineer, specialising in soil and foundation engineering or earthworks.
• Transportation or highway engineer, focusing on networks, traffic modelling and transit systems.
• Environmental and water-resources engineer, working on water supply, wastewater, flood management and sustainability projects.
• Construction project manager or site engineer, overseeing delivery, health and safety and contract administration.
• Policy, planning or consultancy roles in government agencies, NGOs and international development organisations.
• Further study: many graduates pursue professional accreditation (chartered status or professional engineer licences) or postgraduate degrees (MEng, MSc, or research-based programmes).

Why study at Dartmouth University

Dartmouth University offers civil engineering education in a close-knit academic environment where undergraduates work directly with faculty across disciplines. The programme emphasises hands-on learning and individual mentorship, with access to well-equipped laboratories and opportunities to engage in applied research and design projects from early in the degree.

• Small cohorts and close faculty contact: Frequent interaction with instructors and project supervision supports tailored learning and professional development.
• Interdisciplinary approach: The curriculum integrates engineering fundamentals with environmental science, public policy and liberal-arts perspectives to prepare graduates for complex societal challenges.
• Practical facilities and research opportunities: Students benefit from structural, geotechnical and hydrology labs, fabrication workshops and computing resources for modelling and simulation.
• Industry connections and experiential learning: Strong links with regional and national engineering firms, public agencies and alumni provide internship, co‑op and employment pathways.