Program Overview

Undergraduate Program in Civil Engineering

The undergraduate program leading to the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) degree in Civil Engineering is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both basic sciences and specific civil engineering skills.

Program Structure

Initially, students complete either the First Year Engineering program at UBC, common to all first-year engineering students at UBC, or the Engineering Transfer Program, taken at other institutions, as the basis for entering the second year program in Civil Engineering.

• First year and second year Civil Engineering includes fundamental courses in:
  • mathematics
  • physics
  • chemistry
  • solid mechanics
  • fluid mechanics
  • structures
• In second year, students are introduced to civil engineering through a design course focusing on the conceptual design of a civil engineering project.

Career Outlook

Civil Engineering graduates are employed by industry, government, and engineering consulting firms to lead the development of smart, strong, and sustainable cities of the future.

• Civil Engineers design systems that provide safe drinking water, develop earthquake-resistant infrastructures, and build and promote green and sustainable public spaces.
• Examples of Civil Engineering jobs include:
  • Building services engineer
  • Design engineer
  • Environmental consultant
  • Geotechnical engineer
  • Project manager
  • Structural engineer
  • Transportation engineer
  • Water quality engineer

Student Development

The Faculty of Applied Science at the University of British Columbia is home to the largest co-operative education program in Western Canada, with support for students in Vancouver and the Okanagan.

• Applied Science Co-op
• Work Learn Program

Student Life

The Department of Civil Engineering is home to many student clubs and teams that represent academic, specialization, social, and recreational interests.

• For a full list, visit the student opportunities section.

Research Areas

The Department of Civil Engineering at UBC conducts research in various areas, including:

• Environmental Fluid Mechanics
• Environmental Systems Engineering
• Geo-Environmental Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Hydrotechnical Engineering
• Project & Construction Management
• Structural & Earthquake Engineering
• Structural Materials
• Transportation Engineering
• Research Facilities

Graduate Programs

The Department of Civil Engineering offers several graduate programs, including:

• Master of Engineering
• Master of Engineering Leadership
• Master of Applied Science
• Doctor of Philosophy
• Funding
• Graduate Academic Advising
• Thesis Completion & Graduation
• Graduate Canvas
• Graduate Forms
• Graduate FAQ

Alumni Spotlight

The Department of Civil Engineering has a strong network of alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of civil engineering.

• Examples of successful alumni include Simon Wilcox, BASc ‘25.

Department Overview

The Department of Civil Engineering is located on the Vancouver Campus of the University of British Columbia.

• The department is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for successful careers in civil engineering.
• The department is also home to many student clubs and teams that represent academic, specialization, social, and recreational interests.