Program Overview

Introduction to Civil Engineering at the University of Guelph

The Civil Engineering program at the University of Guelph is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field, focusing on sustainability, resilience, and social justice. From the first year, students engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to create infrastructure supporting growing communities, protecting the environment, and improving quality of life locally and globally.

Program Overview

This program stands out for its emphasis on sustainability, resilience, and social justice. Students take courses like "Civil Engineering Sustainability and Design" and "Water and Climate Justice," learning how engineering can create real impact for people and the planet. The program also offers a unique Artificial Intelligence and Civil Engineering Systems emphasis, allowing students to explore the future of civil systems.

Design and Build Real-World Solutions

Using a systems-thinking approach, students plan and build sustainable infrastructure, from roads and water systems to smart cities and climate-resilient communities.

Gain Expertise

Students gain expertise in the discipline with courses in areas like structural design, geotechnical systems, transportation planning, and sustainable water infrastructure.

Launch a Future-Proof Career

Graduates possess the skills to lead in today's most in-demand industries, armed with experience, a portfolio of real-world projects, and a deep understanding of environmental and social responsibility.

Co-op Program

All Civil Engineering students at Guelph are automatically admitted into the co-op stream, allowing them to graduate with five work terms and over 20 months of paid industry experience. The co-op program is fully integrated into the curriculum, helping students build their resume, make professional connections, and explore their career path while studying.

Courses and Curriculum

The program includes a range of courses that blend engineering fundamentals with sustainability, climate adaptation, and social impact. Some examples include:

• Soil Mechanics and Site Characterization
• Water and Climate Justice
• Physics of Livable Buildings
• Sustainable Materials in Civil Engineering
• Humanitarian Engineering
• Sustainable Transportation Systems

Students also take interdisciplinary design courses, such as:

• Civil Engineering Sustainability & Design
• Structural Design
• Water Infrastructure Design for Cities
• River Hydraulic Design for Sustainability and Resiliency
• Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Design
• Green Infrastructure Design for Stormwater Management

Academic Sequence

The academic sequence for Civil Engineering students follows Sequence A, which includes:

• Semester 1: General Chemistry I, Engineering and Design I, Engineering Analysis, Calculus I, Physics with Applications
• Semester 2: General Chemistry II, Introduction to Programming, Engineering Mechanics I, Calculus II, Introductory Electricity and Magnetism

Careers

With a B.Eng. degree in Civil Engineering, graduates can pursue careers in:

• Government & Infrastructure Development
• Transportation & Construction
• Urban Planning & Environment
• Energy, Technology & Consulting
• Education, Research & Emergency Management

Some specific career paths include:

• Structural Engineer
• Transportation Engineer
• Geotechnical Engineer
• Water Resources Engineer
• Construction Project Manager
• Bridge Designer
• Infrastructure Planner
• Environmental Systems Engineer
• Sustainability Consultant
• Building Code Specialist
• Municipal Engineer

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for the Civil Engineering program at the University of Guelph are available for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The University of Guelph offers a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding education, including the prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarships.