Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Admissions & Aid Shiley School of Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

What Will I Learn in the Civil Engineering Major?

Looking for a major that will change the way we live? Civil engineers design, construct, and operate the world’s infrastructure, from highways to bridges to water systems and skyscrapers—and that’s just the beginning. University of Portland’s Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) will prepare you to analyze systems, solve complex problems, and design the next generation of innovative systems that will improve human life.

As a civil engineering major at UP, you’ll have access to hands-on learning opportunities and industry partnerships in the state-of-the-art Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation, as well as the expertise of UP’s distinguished and dedicated engineering faculty. And with numerous undergraduate research opportunities, student organizations, entrepreneurial initiatives, and study abroad experiences available, you’ll have countless avenues to take your learning even farther.

 Civil Engineering Courses

The ABET-accredited bachelor’s in civil engineering program begins with fundamental courses in mathematics, science, and engineering theory. Upper-level courses are devoted to analysis and design topics, including water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, and engineering mechanics. Electives are available as well, with courses in specialties like environmental science, marine biology, climatology, and oceanography.

The fourth-year curriculum culminates in a capstone project that emphasizes hands-on skills and data application in order to develop innovative solutions to pressing engineering problems across a range of industries. With coursework and experiential learning designed to maximize your potential, you’ll build the industry-aligned skills and real-world connections that will set you up for success in the civil engineering field.

Degree Requirements

University Core

University of Portland’s 40-credit-hour Core Curriculum ensures you graduate with a well-rounded education rooted in the Holy Cross tradition. From philosophy to communication, these courses broaden your perspective, complement your accounting major, and empower you to approach problems creatively and ethically.

The Core

 

Loading...

More than a Degree

Be a part of a civil engineering program that’s doing more, from life-saving innovation to groundbreaking research. With rigorous academics and a close-knit community, UP is dedicated to providing an educational experience that prepares you for tomorrow’s challenges.

A group of UP engineering students participating in an internship with Hyster-Yale pose for a picture with their professor in a university building.

Engineering Internships

UP’s Multiple Engineering Co-op Program (MECOP) and Civil Engineering Co-op Program (CECOP) provide the opportunity for you to graduate with a year of industry experience. The programs connect you to two six-month paid internships with leading regional employers from our 150+ partner organizations, including Boeing, Flex Force Enterprises, and McKinstry. A dedicated mentor guides you through the program, ensuring you make the most of your hands-on learning and professional development.

The exterior of the Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation, a contemporary Leed certified building with windows extending across the entire facade.

Undergraduate Research

Deepen your engineering expertise and push the boundaries of the industry’s knowledge through undergraduate research opportunities at UP. By working one-on-one with faculty advisors, you can earn elective credit while exploring cutting-edge topics in UP’s state-of-the-art Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation.

A UP mechanical Engineering student in a light pink, short-sleeved, striped shirt works on a project in the lab. His mentor, a Holy Cross brother is standing to his right instructing him.

Holy Cross Tradition

At UP, our Holy Cross identity and values infuse a deeper purpose into our civil engineering degree program. While mastering technical skills, you'll also be inspired to create engineering solutions that thoughtfully address societal needs, environmental challenges, and economic realities.

The UP Difference

Explore what sets a University of Portland education apart.

An image of the exterior of the Shiley Marcos Center for Design and Innovation with a logo for Money magazine's best colleges overlaid in the bottom center.

#

Engineering Program in Oregon, Money Magazine

Average Engineering Class Size

UP Civil Engineering students working closely with a professor.
UP Civil Engineering students collaborating in the lab.

+

Engineering Students Co-Authored Publications with Faculty

Civil Engineering Student Spotlight

I became interested in studying civil engineering because there are many opportunities to serve the public through public infrastructure projects. While at UP, I participated in the Civil Engineering Cooperative Program (CECOP), which gave me two six-month paid internships. At my first internship with the City of Forest Grove, I worked on an ADA-compliance project requested by a local nonprofit that helps adults with disabilities become independent. It was so gratifying, I wanted to continue pursuing work that would positively impact local communities, and I was able to continue that work on state and local transportation projects at my second internship with Consor, my current employer.

Erin McConville ’21, Engineering Designer at Consor Engineers

Careers and Outcomes

The civil engineering program at UP emphasizes collaboration, problem-solving skills, hands-on lab and project work, and strong communication skills, all of which develop you to be a prepared and competitive candidate.

Jobs with a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering

  • Structural Engineer
  • Urban Planner
  • Construction Manager
  • Transport Engineering
  • Construction Engineer
  • Wastewater Engineer
  • Environmental Consultant

Graduate Studies

As a civil engineering major, your skills in design, analysis, and resourcing position you to pursue graduate and professional studies in a variety of fields. And with day-one opportunities for research with our esteemed faculty, you’ll enter post-grad studies with plenty of hands-on experience already under your belt!

Alumni Employers

UP's civil engineering alumni are sought-after by local and national employers such as:

  • Barghausen Consulting Engineers, Inc.
  • US Army Corps of Engineers
  • Jacobs Solutions
  • Froelich Engineers, Inc.
  • City of Salem
  • KPFF Consulting Engineers

Related Programs

A UP student with long brown hair wearing a teal sweater stands next to a professor, who is adjusting a piece of lab equipment. The background is blurred and only their upper torsos are visible.

BS in Mechanical Engineering

A University of Portland professor writes on a whiteboard filled with mathematical equations in a classroom, only their hand and marker visible. A light fixture and part of the ceiling appear in the background.

BS in Environmental Engineering

A close-up of a persons hands manipulating a circuit board, with part of the desk, keyboard, and monitor stand visible in the background.

BS in Electrical Engineering

Groundbreaking Solutions for Tomorrow’s Challenges

Civil engineers lay the groundwork for a safe, secure, and innovative future. No matter what sector you choose, our infrastructure depends on curious, empowered engineers to enhance industries, improve lives, and make forward-thinking change. Apply now to UP’s bachelor of science in civil engineering degree program to be part of the next generation of change-makers.

Apply Visit Request Information