Civil Engineering

Why Choose This Major?

Civil Engineering students at UD have some flexibility in designing a curriculum to meet their needs and interests. After laying a strong foundation in math, science, and engineering through required courses, students may begin taking technical electives in one of the main focus areas–structural, geotechnical, environmental, water resources, transportation, railroad, or coastal/ocean engineering. Minors in civil engineering, environmental engineering, sustainable infrastructure, and environmental sustainability are also offered.

Active research ensures that the content of the undergraduate program is constantly renewed and maintained at a challenging technical level and integrates discovery learning into the program. Opportunities abound for civil engineering undergraduates to work with faculty and graduate students as research assistants, either for pay or independent study credit. Research in the department covers a broad range of topics with particular strengths in bridge design, construction, evaluation, and rehabilitation; applications of composite materials to concrete, steel, and earth structures; computer modeling of wave/shoreline interactions; intelligent transportation systems; management and operation of civil infrastructure systems; remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater; and biodegradation of wastes.