Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering

Chico State civil engineering graduates create a better world. A curriculum packed with hands-on experiences make our students recognized by industry as ready to hit the ground running when they graduate.

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With one of the highest 4-year graduation rates in the CSU system and lowest average student debt amounts in the country, Chico State offers one of the nation’s highest return on investment.

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What’s the Civil Engineering Program?

Hands on

Hands-on Learning

Known for its emphasis on hands-on learning with an inclusive and friendly environment, Chico State Civil Engineering ranks in the top 20 civil engineering programs in the nation according to GradReports(opens in new window).

Faculty

Expert Curriculum

With curriculum developed by distinguished faculty that are experts in their field, our students learn everything from how to design structures, develop solutions to environmental issues such as drought and water pollution, & designing sustainable, resilient infrastructure.

Graduate

Versatile Graduates

Our graduates are prepared to tackle 21st century problems and have the skills to be just as comfortable in a hardhat at the jobsite as they are with a suit and tie in the board room.


CE student using laptop during capstone seminar

Career Paths for Civil Engineers

The Chico State Civil Engineering program is a versatile degree with options to specialize in subareas within civil engineering.

Our graduates work as:

  • Environmental Engineers
  • Geotechnical Engineers
  • Structural Engineers
  • Transportation Engineers
  • Water Resources Engineers

student working with professor in the concrete lab

Is Civil Engineering Right for Me?

The Civil Engineering program is a good fit for you if you:

  • Are able to plan, direct, and control the activities and work of others
  • Able to do mathematics, physics, and detailed work with accuracy
  • Want the flexibility to do field work or office work
  • Like problem solving, often using a variety of tools to design solutions
  • Want to work on projects that help society
  • Enjoy working in a team environment
  • Are able to visualize drawings or pictures as 3-D objects

What Do Students and Graduates of the CE Program Say?

Our graduates are known for being driven and able to take initiative and execute. Hear what they have to say about their experience at Chico State and how the civil engineering program prepared them for success. Read about Outstanding Grad Jordan Beach.

Jordan


How Do Civil Engineering Students Get Involved?

Our students are active in professional societies, such as our student chapter of American Society of Civil Engineers(opens in new window), which consistently receives honorable mentions for their annual report. Students participate in a number of competitions, such as Concrete Canoe, Geowall, Steel Bridge, Sustainable Solutions, and Water Treatment.

Chi Epsilon (civil engineering honor society), Society of Women Engineers, Latinos in Technical Careers, and National Society of Black Engineers provide additional opportunities for students to engage with each other, the campus community, and the profession.


How to Apply

We can’t wait to meet you! Chico State is part of the California State University system and uses Cal State Apply for applications.

Make sure to select California State University, Chico as your campus of choice when applying. Registering and applying is quick and easy, so let’s get started!

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About Chico State

Nationally Ranked

U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks us in the top 10 of regional public universities in the West, and Forbes ranks Chico State as a top college for educational quality and value (just to name a few).

Logos: U.S. News and World Report and Forbes