Civil Engineering Technology BS & AAS
What is Civil Engineering Technology?
Want to help build the infrastructure that communities rely on every day? Civil Engineering Technology focuses on designing, constructing, and maintaining the essential systems that make modern life possible. From highways and bridges to water treatment plants and sustainable buildings, civil engineering technologists solve complex problems that directly impact people's daily lives.
At MSU-Northern, you'll learn how to turn engineering concepts into real-world solutions. You'll study structural design, materials testing, site surveying, and project management – all the skills needed to help create and maintain public infrastructure. This field combines practical technical skills with professional problem-solving abilities, perfect for students who enjoy both hands-on work and technical challenges.
Why Choose the Civil Engineering Technology Program?
MSU-Northern's program is accredited by ABET's Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC), ensuring your degree meets high professional standards. Our program provides comprehensive technical training while preparing you for professional licensure – graduates are eligible to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, your first step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer.
Our experienced faculty bring real-world expertise to every class, guiding you through practical lab work, surveying projects, structural analysis, and field investigations. Through partnerships with organizations like the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and local consulting firms, we ensure our curriculum stays current with industry needs and practices.
Program Accreditation:
MSU-Northern’s Civil Engineering program is ABET accredited.
Students can take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and
Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam to obtain their PE License and work as a licensed
engineer.
Civil Engineering Technology: Bachelor of Science (BS)
- Best for students seeking careers in infrastructure design, construction management, and project supervision.
- This degree combines math, science, and technical courses to prepare graduates for leadership roles in civil engineering projects, such as roads, bridges, and utilities, or for pursuing licensure as a professional engineer.
Civil Engineering Technology: Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
- Best for students aiming to enter the workforce quickly as civil engineering technicians.
- This degree focuses on practical training in drafting, surveying, materials testing, and construction, preparing students for employment supporting engineers, architects, and construction managers.
Here are some of the things you'll learn:
- Design and analyze civil engineering projects using professional methods
- Conduct construction testing and site surveying with industry-standard equipment
- Manage projects and estimate costs for infrastructure development
- Apply technical and ethical principles to engineering challenges
- Use modern engineering software and tools
- Prepare for professional licensure through FE exam preparation
Experience engineering firsthand through extensive lab and field work opportunities. Our industry partnerships help students find valuable summer employment with engineering firms, contractors, and government agencies. These real-world experiences give you practical insights and hands-on skills that employers value. You'll also benefit from mentorship by faculty with extensive industry experience, connecting you directly to the professional engineering community.
Our Civil Engineering Technology program stands out for its practical, industry-focused training and clear pathway to professional licensure. Small class sizes mean you'll work closely with experienced faculty who know you by name. With ABET accreditation and Fundamentals of Engineering exam eligibility, you'll graduate ready to start your career or pursue advanced opportunities in the field.
Civil Engineering Technology graduates are in high demand across the construction, engineering, and infrastructure sectors. Whether you want to design bridges, manage construction projects, or solve environmental challenges, this degree opens doors to rewarding careers.
| Career | Description | Median Salary* |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineer |
Plans, designs, and oversees construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. | $95,890 |
| Project Manager | Manages civil engineering projects, coordinating between stakeholders, ensuring projects meet specifications, budgets, and timelines. | $95,580 |
| Construction Surveyor | Measures and maps land areas to determine boundaries, elevations, and layouts for construction projects. | $63,080 |
| Structural Engineer | Designs and evaluates structural components of buildings and infrastructure to ensure safety and durability. | $90,000 |
| Field Engineer | Provides on-site engineering support, overseeing construction activities, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with design specifications. | $70,907 |
| Hydraulic Engineer | Specializes in the flow and conveyance of fluids, particularly water, designing systems like dams, channels, and water distribution networks. | $74,000 - $113,000 |
*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.
"I had never been to Havre before my recruiting visit. But once I was here, I just had a gut feeling that Northern was the right place for me.”
Theron Peterson interned with the Montana Department of Transportation and worked with engineers on several highway projects.
Read about Theron's internship experience!
Jace Leeds spent three months of his summer interning Heppner, Oregon, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field.
Tate O'Neill's internship is more than just a job—it’s a stepping stone to his dream of working in Disney Imagineering.
Academic Maps provide a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required
to complete the program:
Engineering Technology: Civil Engineering Technology BS
Engineering Technology: Civil Engineering Technology AAS
Example Courses:
- Applied Strength of Materials
- Soils and Foundations
- Highway Design
- Fluid Mechanics
- Structural Analysis
- Civil Drafting
Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.
For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
Anna Bowker, MS
Office: Brockmann Center 210 S
Phone: (406) 265-3540
Jeremy Siemens, MS, PE, PLS
Office: Brockmann Center 210 J
Phone: (406) 265-4132