Civil Engineering
The Civil Engineering program at Notre Dame University equips students with a rigorous foundation in engineering principles, design practices, and sustainable development. Throughout four years, students explore areas such as structural engineering, geotechnics, hydrology, and transportation systems, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum integrates hands-on laboratory work, real-world case studies, and collaborative design projects that simulate challenges encountered in professional civil engineering environments. This strong emphasis on problem-solving, communication, and teamwork prepares students to design infrastructure that meets the demands of modern society while remaining environmentally and ethically responsible.
Beyond classroom instruction, students benefit from research opportunities, service-learning projects, and internships that expand their experience and connect them with industry leaders. Faculty members bring expertise in critical areas like smart infrastructure, water resources management, and urban planning, offering mentorship that bridges academic learning with societal impact. With access to state-of-the-art labs and active student chapters of engineering organizations, students are immersed in a learning environment that nurtures innovation, responsibility, and leadership in civil engineering practices.
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: 03 January 2026
- Location: University of Notre Dame, United States
- Field of Study: Civil Engineering & Construction
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Engineering Fundamentals and Basics
- Introduction to Civil Engineering
- Calculus I & II
- General Chemistry
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Physics for Engineers I
Year 2 – Materials and Analytical Methods
- Mechanics of Materials
- Differential Equations
- Engineering Surveying
- Environmental Engineering Principles
- Fluid Mechanics
Year 3 – Core Civil Engineering Disciplines
- Structural Analysis
- Transportation Engineering
- Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering
- Hydrology and Hydraulic Systems
- Engineering Ethics and Professional Practice
Year 4 – Design, Integration, and Specialization
- Capstone Design Project
- Construction Engineering and Management
- Structural Design (Steel and Concrete)
- Elective: Sustainable Infrastructure
- Elective: Urban Planning or Water Resources
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Civil Engineering program find opportunities across a broad range of industries and public sectors where infrastructure and environmental design intersect. Common career paths include roles such as structural engineer, transportation planner, water resources engineer, geotechnical consultant, and construction project manager. They work with engineering firms, government agencies, environmental consultancies, and urban development organizations, often contributing to large-scale projects like bridges, highways, tunnels, and flood control systems. The analytical and collaborative skills developed during the program also prepare students for leadership roles and further academic pursuits, including graduate studies in civil or environmental engineering, architecture, or urban development planning. With infrastructure needs expanding globally, the demand for qualified civil engineers continues to grow, offering graduates a dynamic and impactful professional path.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame’s Civil Engineering program provides a comprehensive, practice-oriented, and socially conscious education that aligns with the complex demands of the 21st century. The curriculum emphasizes both foundational theory and hands-on application, supported by advanced facilities and close faculty mentorship. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, community-based projects, and cutting-edge research addressing issues such as climate resilience, sustainable urbanization, and smart transportation systems. The program’s blend of technical excellence, ethical responsibility, and real-world relevance fosters graduates who are ready not only to build infrastructure but to shape a better, more sustainable world. With a strong alumni network and industry connections, students gain access to internships, mentorships, and employment pathways that support both immediate success and long-term advancement.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
