B.S. in Civil Engineering

Program Overview

The B.S. in Civil Engineering at SUNY Poly is designed to prepare students for careers in this foundational engineering discipline, which is critical for shaping the built environment. The program covers liberal arts, mathematics, science, and a broad range of engineering coursework, with specialized studies in key areas such as structural, environmental, and transportation engineering. Students gain the technical knowledge and critical thinking skills required for professional practice and advanced studies, contributing to vital infrastructure that supports daily life, from transportation networks to water supply systems.

STEM-designated: Yes, the B.S. in Civil Engineering at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a STEM-designated program. This classification is highly beneficial, particularly for international students, as it often allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the United States after graduation, providing more opportunities to gain valuable work experience in their field. The program's core focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics firmly places it within the STEM framework.

ABET-accredited: Yes, the Civil Engineering program at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET. ABET accreditation is a highly regarded benchmark in engineering education, ensuring that a program meets the quality standards essential to prepare graduates for professional practice. This accreditation signifies that the curriculum, faculty, facilities, and educational outcomes align with rigorous, nationally and internationally recognized criteria, enhancing the credibility of the degree and the global employability of its graduates.

Curriculum: The Civil Engineering curriculum at SUNY Poly provides a robust foundation in engineering principles. It typically includes extensive coursework in mathematics (Calculus, Differential Equations, Statistics), basic sciences (Physics, Chemistry), and core engineering sciences such as Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, and Thermodynamics. Specialized civil engineering courses delve into areas like Structural Analysis and Design (steel and concrete), Environmental Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Transportation Engineering (highway planning and design, traffic operations), and Geotechnical Engineering (foundation design). The program emphasizes a balance between theory and application, often incorporating hands-on learning, design projects, and potentially a culminating capstone experience.

Research Focus: While primarily a professional practice-oriented degree, the Civil Engineering program at SUNY Poly integrates a strong research focus by encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, particularly in areas related to infrastructure engineering, environmental engineering, and transportation engineering. Students have opportunities to participate in projects that develop critical thinking skills and contribute to innovations in civil engineering, such as sustainable infrastructure and smart cities. The university's overall commitment to applied research and the establishment of new research centers, including the Center for Smart Infrastructure and Sustainability, provide avenues for civil engineering students to engage with cutting-edge topics.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant strength of the Civil Engineering program at SUNY Poly. The curriculum is designed to be highly relevant to industry needs, and the program actively encourages internships and co-op opportunities. These experiences provide students with invaluable hands-on exposure to professional civil engineering practice, allowing them to apply classroom learning in authentic settings. The university maintains connections with engineering firms, construction companies, government agencies, and public works departments. Participation in student organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) also fosters networking with industry professionals, providing mentorship and enhancing career prospects.

Global Perspective: SUNY Polytechnic Institute fosters a global perspective within its Civil Engineering program, recognizing that infrastructure development and environmental challenges are increasingly global concerns. The universal principles of civil engineering design and sustainable practices are taught within a broader context. The university's diverse student population, with students from over 20 nations, enriches the learning environment by exposing students to various cultural and engineering perspectives. While specific international project opportunities may vary, the program prepares graduates to understand and address engineering challenges within a globalized context, making them adaptable to working for multinational corporations or on international projects.