Civil Engineering
The Civil Engineering Bachelor of Science program at Cornell University provides a comprehensive, mathematically grounded, and application oriented academic environment for students who want to design, analyze, and improve infrastructure systems that support modern society. The curriculum integrates structural mechanics, materials science, environmental systems, geotechnical engineering, transportation planning, and construction management, enabling learners to understand how engineering principles shape the built environment. With a strong emphasis on infrastructure design, students develop the capability to evaluate structural behavior, analyze load systems, and apply engineering models that ensure safety, durability, and efficiency across civil engineering projects. This foundation supports engagement with complex challenges involving urban development, environmental sustainability, and resilient construction practices.
Throughout the four year program, students work closely with faculty engaged in research across structural engineering, construction materials, transportation systems, water resources, geotechnical mechanics, and environmental engineering. Learners participate in laboratory analysis, design studios, computational modeling, field based studies, and project driven coursework that build strong skills in engineering evaluation, critical problem solving, and technical communication. The academic environment encourages interdisciplinary thinking by connecting engineering science with architecture, planning, environmental policy, and sustainability goals. This blend of analytical depth and practical engagement prepares graduates to contribute to infrastructure improvement, environmental stewardship, and technological innovation across diverse engineering settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Civil Engineering
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Civil Engineering & Construction
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1
• Foundations of Engineering Mathematics and Physics
• Introduction to Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Engineering Graphics and Computer Modeling
• Elective in Earth Science, Architecture, or Computing
Year 2
• Mechanics of Solids and Materials
• Surveying and Geospatial Techniques
• Fluid Mechanics and Environmental Systems
• Elective in Construction Management, Hydrology, or Transportation Concepts
Year 3
• Structural Analysis and Design
• Geotechnical Engineering and Soil Mechanics
• Transportation Engineering and Urban Systems
• Elective in Water Resources, Materials, or Sustainable Infrastructure
Year 4
• Civil Engineering Capstone Design Project
• Project Management and Professional Practice
• Advanced Engineering Seminar
• Elective Supporting Final Design or Research Focus
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program enter a broad range of engineering, construction, and infrastructure related fields, frequently joining structural engineering firms, construction and project management companies, transportation and urban planning organizations, and environmental engineering groups. Their preparation in structural analysis, materials behavior, geotechnical evaluation, and system level design equips them to work on bridges, buildings, highways, water systems, tunnels, and transportation networks, contributing to both public and private sector initiatives. Many graduates pursue roles in consulting, site engineering, environmental compliance, sustainability assessment, and infrastructure development, where their ability to interpret engineering data, model large scale systems, and coordinate multidisciplinary projects is essential. With strong analytical capability, technical precision, and a broad understanding of civil systems, they support the creation of safe, efficient, and resilient infrastructure that shapes communities and responds to emerging environmental and societal challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students seeking a rigorous, impactful, and future focused engineering education, offering opportunities to develop advanced engineering insight and strong technical capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished civil engineering faculty. Learners benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical fundamentals with hands on experimentation, computational modeling, and design based problem solving, enabling them to understand both the scientific and practical aspects of infrastructure development. Through fieldwork, research projects, sustainability focused coursework, and interdisciplinary collaboration, students gain the tools to design durable structures, plan efficient systems, and address environmental considerations in engineering practice. Its structured four year format ensures intellectual depth, professional readiness, and strong engineering identity, preparing graduates for leadership in civil engineering, infrastructure innovation, and construction driven industries.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
