B.S. in Civil Engineering

Program Overview

The B.S. in Civil Engineering at South Dakota Mines provides a comprehensive education for students pursuing a professional career in the design and construction of infrastructure systems. The curriculum encompasses a wide array of specialized branches including environmental, geotechnical, structural, water resources, sustainable, and construction engineering. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills to address critical needs like environmental stewardship, sustainable design solutions, and community planning. Graduates are prepared to serve the public by designing essential infrastructure such as dams, waterways, harbors, bridges, buildings, water supply and wastewater systems, highways, airports, tunnels, pipelines, and renewable energy facilities.

STEM-designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Civil Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is a STEM-designated degree. This is particularly advantageous for international students on an F-1 visa, as it qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This allows for an additional 24 months of post-completion work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12 months, providing a total of up to three years of valuable practical experience in their field.

ABET-accredited: Yes, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Civil Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). ABET accreditation is a globally recognized standard, signifying that the program meets the highest quality standards for the engineering profession. This accreditation is vital for graduates seeking professional licensure and is highly valued by employers across the globe.

Curriculum: The B.S. in Civil Engineering curriculum at SDSMT provides a robust foundation starting with humanities, social sciences, mathematics (including Calculus III), and basic sciences. Students transition into engineering sciences, covering Fluid Mechanics and Engineering Surveys. During the junior year, required courses cover core civil engineering disciplines such as Environmental Engineering, Engineering Hydrology, Geotechnical Engineering, and Theory and Design of Metal Structures. The senior year culminates in a two-semester capstone design course, where students work in multi-disciplinary teams on real-world projects, incorporating sustainable design principles, feasibility analyses, and detailed designs. Students also have 12 credit hours of department-approved electives, allowing for specialization in areas like structural, environmental, water resources, geotechnical, sustainable, or construction engineering.

Research Focus: South Dakota School of Mines & Technology strongly encourages undergraduate research within its Civil Engineering program. Students have opportunities to participate in transformative initiatives, such as developing materials for lunar habitats, improving roadway pavement design, turning waste into sustainable energy, and engaging in advanced waste management systems. The department is actively engaged in research aimed at enhancing society through new materials, environmental preservation, sustainable solutions, and a deeper understanding of engineering systems. Specific research includes investigations into environmental conditions impacting soil strength in geotechnical labs. This emphasis on hands-on research and real-world projects prepares students for innovation and problem-solving in their future careers or graduate studies.

Industry Engagement: SDSMT places a high priority on industry engagement for its Civil Engineering graduates. The curriculum includes real-world project-based learning and numerous internship opportunities, with a high percentage of students (75-80%) graduating with work experience. The program's focus on sustainable engineering design and practical applications makes graduates highly attractive to employers. SDSMT maintains strong connections with a variety of potential employers, including major construction and engineering firms like Kiewit, Nucor, KLJ Engineering, Blattner Energy, and Burns & McDonnell, as well as various governmental agencies. Students are also encouraged to participate in relevant student organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and take the Fundamentals of Engineering (F.E.) examination, the first step toward professional licensure.

Global Perspective: The B.S. in Civil Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology fosters a global perspective by addressing engineering challenges with universal societal and environmental impacts. While the student body may be predominantly regional, the curriculum includes discussions and projects that highlight how civil engineering impacts global issues. Through courses and encouraged participation in programs like "Engineers and Scientists Abroad," students can gain a broader understanding of the engineering profession's global reach and its role in sustainable urban development, environmental protection, and addressing critical social issues worldwide. The ABET accreditation further ensures that the education meets internationally recognized standards, preparing graduates for careers in a globally interconnected engineering marketplace.