Civil Engineering, Land Development Engineering
The Civil Engineering, Land Development Engineering Bachelor of Science program at the University of North Carolina equips students with the knowledge and technical expertise needed to plan, design, and manage infrastructure and land use projects in both urban and rural environments. Emphasizing both core civil engineering principles and specialized land development topics, the curriculum covers essential areas such as structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, and environmental design, while also focusing on surveying, site planning, drainage systems, and regulatory frameworks. Students are introduced to how modern civil engineering shapes physical spaces in alignment with environmental, economic, and community needs.
This program offers a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and engineering design, coupled with practical training in software tools and project-based learning. Students participate in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and collaborative design studios that simulate real-world land development scenarios. Guided by experienced faculty and industry partnerships, learners gain both technical skills and a clear understanding of zoning laws, construction standards, and environmental compliance. With a balance between theory and application, the program prepares students to lead sustainable, efficient, and community-driven development projects, ensuring that built environments meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s demands.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Civil Engineering, Land Development Engineering
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Civil Engineering & Construction
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Engineering Fundamentals and Scientific Foundations
• Calculus I & II
• Introduction to Civil Engineering
• General Physics and Laboratory
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Introduction to Land Use Planning
Year 2 – Core Civil Engineering Concepts
• Structural Mechanics and Materials
• Surveying and Geomatics
• Environmental Engineering Principles
• Transportation and Infrastructure Systems
• Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering
Year 3 – Design Applications and Technical Integration
• Hydraulic and Hydrologic Systems
• Urban Land Development Design
• Construction Materials and Methods
• Engineering Project Management
• Site Grading and Stormwater Design
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Preparation
• Land Development Capstone Project
• Regulatory Codes and Permitting
• Advanced Topics in Civil Design
• Engineering Ethics and Communication
• Internship or Field Experience
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-positioned for professional roles in both the public and private sectors, where they contribute to the planning and development of critical infrastructure and urban growth. Common employment areas include land development firms, municipal planning departments, construction and engineering consultancies, and transportation agencies, where civil engineers play a key role in shaping safe, sustainable, and efficient built environments. With expertise in site analysis, permitting, drainage design, and regulatory compliance, alumni often work as design engineers, project managers, field supervisors, or permitting specialists. The degree also offers pathways into construction technology, environmental remediation, and stormwater management. Some graduates choose to pursue licensure as professional engineers (PE), enhancing their career mobility and leadership opportunities. For those interested in continued education, the program also provides a solid base for graduate study in structural engineering, urban planning, or sustainable infrastructure. The demand for engineers with both civil and land development skills continues to rise, especially in fast-growing communities where effective land use and long-term infrastructure planning are top priorities.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers students the opportunity to blend traditional civil engineering education with specialized training in land development, preparing them for the real-world challenges of planning and building communities. Through a curriculum that emphasizes technical depth, regulatory understanding, and project execution, students gain the tools to deliver innovative and compliant engineering solutions across varied terrains and development contexts. The University of North Carolina provides access to experienced faculty, state-of-the-art labs, and real project scenarios, allowing students to explore both design and field practice. With a focus on sustainability, zoning, and environmental integration, this program shapes graduates into professionals capable of creating resilient infrastructure and livable communities. Whether working on transportation networks, residential layouts, or commercial development, students graduate with a strong grasp of both engineering design and urban systems. The program’s comprehensive and applied approach makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to build a career that connects science, construction, and community development through engineering excellence, regulatory insight, and innovative land use planning.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
