Civil engineering certificates are becoming very popular for people in the field. For undergraduates, it’s a great way to gain specialized skills and practical experience that can boost their chances of getting a job upon graduation. For graduates, it’s an added advantage that can propel them to greater heights in their careers.
If you are interested in attending a civil engineering certificate program, this article contains all the relevant information that you may need. Discover the top graduate civil engineering college certificates, their tuition costs, as well as some of the admission requirements.
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What Is a Civil Engineering Certificate College Program?
A civil engineering certificate college program is an educational process that provides students with basic knowledge in the field. A civil engineering college certificate shows that a student has completed specific training during their college courses. This program is often shorter and more specialized than degree programs.
What’s the Difference Between a College Civil Engineering Certificate and Professional Certification in Civil Engineering?
The difference between a college civil engineering certificate and a professional certification in civil engineering is that a certificate program prepares students for professional field-specific certification. This certificate shows that students have received special training while in college and qualifies candidates for certain jobs.
On the other hand, a professional certification in civileEngineering shows that a professional has attained a set of standards or criteria for a skill or job as determined by a third-party. Criteria for certificates differ by institution while criteria for certifications are based on set competency standards.
Civil Engineering College Certificate vs Civil Engineering Certification: Key Differences
| Civil Engineering Certificate | Civil Engineering Certification |
|---|---|
| It is for both newcomers and experienced professionals. | It is for experienced professionals. |
| Provided by colleges and universities. | Provided by third-party associations such as professional bodies. |
| Indicates that a course or series of courses have been completed. | Indicates a professional shows mastery and/or competence in a specific subject and is measured against a standard, usually by exam. |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Civil Engineering Certificate at College?
It takes anywhere between a few weeks to a few months to complete a civil engineering certificate program. This is shorter than the standard year to four years it takes to earn a graduate or Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.
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Best Civil Engineering Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Certificate in Civil Engineering – Construction Management | $2,272/credit hour |
| Johns Hopkins University | Graduate Certificate in Civil Engineering | $4,920/course |
| Marquette University | Certificate in Environmental Engineering | $1,220/credit hour |
| Stanford University | Certificate in Civil and Environmental Engineering | $1,352/unit |
| University at Buffalo | Certificate in Bridge Engineering | $5,655/semester (in state); $11,550/semester (out of state) |
| University of Central Florida | Certificate in Structural Engineering | $288.16/credit |
| University of Connecticut | Certificate in Contaminated Site Remediation | $1,300/credit |
| University of Louisville | Certificate in Structural Engineering | $737/credit (in state); $1,521/credit (out of state) |
| University of Michigan | Certificate in Construction Engineering and Management | $2,000/full program |
| University of Washington | Certificate in Earthquake Engineering | $6,000/full program |
Best Graduate Civil Engineering Certificate Programs Explained
Civil engineering students pursuing a certificate program can choose from a handful of specialties including structural engineering, environmental engineering, earthquake engineering, and bridge engineering. Below, we highlight the top institutions that offer these programs as well as academic requirements and tuition costs.
Columbia University offers a Certificate in Civil Engineering that builds on the technical background of students to help them become experts in the managerial and financial aspects of this field. Students will carry out different activities and learn how to plan, finance, and procure a built environment. Architects and engineers gain skills in project leadership, management, and finance.
Certificate in Civil Engineering - Construction Details
- Cost: $2,272/credit hour
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree in civil engineering
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, personal-professional statement, minimum GPA of 3.0, resume, and an application fee of $150
This program at Johns Hopkins University provides students with a mastery of geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, preservation engineering, and coastal engineering. The program features courses that are practice-oriented and taught by professionals. These industry experts give students the type of personal attention required to see them succeed. The program may feature civil engineering projects.
Certificate in Civil Engineering Details
- Cost: $4,920/course
- Length: 5 courses
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, minimum GPA of 3.0 (B or above) in the latter half of undergraduate studies
This Marquette University program is designed for engineers in various disciplines. Students receive the education needed to solve complicated environmental engineering problems to protect the environment and sustain public health. Students from this program will become more technically proficient in handling problems involved with air, water, and land resources.
Certificate in Environmental Engineering Details
- Cost: $1,220/credit hour
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Online application, $50 application fee, unofficial transcripts, personal statements, resumes, test scores, and letters of recommendation
This certificate program at Stanford University advances education and research in environmental technology. Students learn how to use different types of technologies for physics, material science, biology, computing, and mathematics. These technologies are applied to the sustainable design of cities, highway networks, dams and water systems, and power grids.
Certificate in Civil and Environmental Engineering Details
- Cost: $1,352/unit
- Length: 4 total courses at an average of 1 to 2 years
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: A degree in a related field with at least a 3.0 GPA, familiarity with the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry
This program at University at Buffalo prepares students for leadership roles in the improvement of bridge building and infrastructure. Students will be taught how to use new construction techniques and materials. The program is flexible and accommodates multiple schedules.
Certificate in Building Engineering Details
- Cost: $5,655/semester (in state); $11,550/semester (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person, hybrid, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Application fee of $85, three letters of recommendation, college transcript, personal essay, resume, and GRE scores
The Graduate Certificate in Structural Engineering at the University of Central Florida teaches students analysis and structural design. The program improves civil and structural engineers’ skills and knowledge in the construction industry. Students must have an undergraduate degree in a relevant field to be eligible for this program.
Certificate in Structural Engineering Details
- Cost: $288.16/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in related field
- Other Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a resume or curriculum vitae, official transcripts, and a written essay
The Contaminated Site Remediation Certificate at the University of Connecticut trains students on how to use tools and techniques to design containment systems and site investigations. Students learn about the physical, biological, and chemical processes that determine the fate and behavior of contaminants on the subsurface. They also learn about the different aspects of soil and groundwater via online courses.
Certificate in Contaminated Site Remediation Details
- Cost: $1,300/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for the entire duration or GPA of 3.0 for the last two years, four semesters of advanced mathematics, transcripts, $75 application fee, one letter of recommendation, personal statement, and resume
This University of Louisville certificate program equips professionals to become experts in the field of structural engineering and exposes them to civil engineering technology. It is also suitable for students looking for a credential alternative to a master's degree or students who want to save more time and money. The program can be completed in one year.
Certificate in Structural Engineering Details
- Cost: $737/credit (in state); $1,521/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: A completed graduate application, application fee, official transcript, and a minimum GPA of 2.75
This University of Michigan program consists of six online courses that equip students with the knowledge that they need to become successful construction engineers and management professionals. Graduates can work in the architecture, engineering, and construction fields of the AEC industry. Graduates receive a master-track certificate from both the University of Michigan and Coursera.
Certificate in Construction Engineering and Management Details
- Cost: $2,000/full program
- Length: 6 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Fundamental knowledge of math and physics
Students in this University of Washington program will build foundational skills in built infrastructure analysis and seismic design. Other course subjects include the dynamics of structures, the analysis of a seismic hazard, and theories on resisting earthquakes. Students also study advanced topics like the design and behavior of seismic protective systems.
Certificate in Earthquake Engineering Details
- Cost: $6,000/full program
- Length: 3 courses over 9 months
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
- Other Requirements: Graduate-level knowledge of structural dynamics, professional experience in structural engineering or a related field
Civil Engineering Graduate Certificate Program vs Civil Engineering Master’s Degree
A civil engineering graduate certificate is a non-degree awarding program that features core courses that allow students to pick up new skills in a specialized area of the field. A Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering is a more robust program of study that gives an in-depth, holistic education. Some of the major differences between both educational programs are listed here:
- Financial aid. Students pursuing a certificate in civil engineering generally do not qualify for federal financial aid. Students pursuing a civil engineering master’s degree can apply for all types of financial aid.
- Course work. Certificate programs are usually not as demanding as master’s degree programs. A civil engineering certificate program typically requires between 12 to 14 credits for completion. For master’s degrees, between 34 to 38 credits are required for completion and they cover a wider body of knowledge.
- Time. Certificate programs usually take a shorter time to complete than a master’s degree. The academic load is lighter for students pursuing a civil engineering certificate as they do not have to take general electives.
- Cost. Master’s degree programs are more expensive than certificate programs. The credit load is higher so students must pay for more classes.
- Final result. Students obtaining a civil engineering master’s degree will graduate with a degree upon completion of the program. Students in a certificate program get a certificate demonstrating that they have successfully acquired specialized skills and knowledge.
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Is a Graduate Civil Engineering Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a civil engineering certificate is worth it because it can boost your career path and network. Having knowledge and skills in a specific area can set you apart from other graduates without these skills. Graduates with certificates can also access more high-paying opportunities.
If you seek to further your education, a graduate certificate can be a great pathway to develop in a specialization. Graduate certificates are also good for civil engineer professionals that need knowledge in a specific area for an assignment or to be considered for a promotion at work.
Civil Engineering Certificate Program Coursework
Courses to expect in a civil engineering certificate include bridge engineering, foundation engineering, dynamics of structures and earthquake engineering, advanced structural mechanics, and structural reliability and safety. The essentials of these civil engineering courses are briefly explained below.
Foundation Engineering
This program focuses on the design methods and fundamental principles of geotechnical earthquake engineering. Key topics covered in this course include earthquakes, basic seismology concepts, seismic hazard analysis, and strong ground motion. Students learn the design procedures for dynamically loaded shallow and pile foundations.
Bridge Engineering
Students will get introduced to the fundamentals of steel bridge theory, design, and analysis. This course covers both single and continuous span bridge structures. Other areas covered in this course include fatigue analysis, connection design and construction, and deck design with bearing design. Students learn to use industry-appropriate software.
Advanced Structural Mechanics
This course focuses on the basic concept of structural analysis. Students will learn about the principle of virtual forces using standard and matrix formulation. They also learn about the force method and displacement method for skeletal structure analysis. In addition, they will learn how to use some civil engineering technology.
Structural Reliability and Safety
This course teaches students how to use statistics and reliability modeling to provide solutions to geotechnical and structural engineering systems. Students will learn to predict these systems’ patterns by characterizing and quantifying any uncertainties that may arise from any external sources.
Dynamics of Structures and Earthquake Engineering
Students will learn about the dynamics of systems under different types of time-dependent loads. They are taught seismic response and response spectra, inelastic systems, numerical evaluation of response, and modal analysis.
Topics on visco-elastic behavior, damping, and simplified nonlinear analysis are also included. Students will also learn more about different construction materials and their strengths.
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What Can You Do With a Civil Engineering Certificate from College?
With a civil engineering certificate from college, students will be able to attain their professional goals and build a successful career across different exciting aspects of the field. Some of the career paths that students can follow with a civil engineering certificate include structural engineering, environmental engineering, construction management, and geotechnical engineering.
Best Civil Engineering Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Construction Engineering and Management | $98,890 |
| Materials Engineer | $98,300 |
| Environmental Engineer | $96,820 |
| Structural Engineer | $88,050 |
| Geotechnical Engineer | $88,050 |
Best Civil Engineering Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
Getting a graduate certificate in the field of civil engineering can help you get a high-paying job in the industry and get noticed by potential employers. Here are some of the best civil engineering jobs you can get with a graduate certificate. With many of these roles, you can find work in both the public sector and the private sector.
Construction engineering management is a fine blend of construction management and traditional engineering. This job involves applying scientific and technical knowledge to the construction of infrastructural projects. These professionals oversee various construction phases and work on design-focused engineering.
- Average Salary: $98,890
- Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: No prior experience, bachelor’s degree, civil engineering certificate
Material engineers study materials at the atomic level and then create them. They try to understand the characteristics of materials, their components, and the way they are modeled with the aid of computers. This includes design and materials testing. They offer solutions across different fields in engineering, including civil engineering.
- Average Salary: $98,300
- Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: No prior experience, bachelor’s degree
Environmental engineers solve problems plaguing the environment using the principles of engineering, biology, soil science, and chemistry. Environmental concerns such as waste disposal, recycling, and public health are improved by environmental engineers. These professionals will also need knowledge on policies surrounding environmental protections.
- Average Salary: $96,820
- Job Outlook: 4% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: No prior experience, bachelor’s degree
A structural engineer designs different types of structures such as buildings and bridges. They use computer design technology to design 2D and 3D models for infrastructure design. They also measure loads and presses to ascertain how sound a structure is.
- Average Salary: $88,050
- Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: No prior experience, bachelor’s degree
A geotechnical engineer tests and analyzes the risks of a construction project to humans and the environment. They support the design and development and ensure that everything goes according to plan. Natural disasters such as rock falls, sinkholes, and landslides are weighed and considered.
- Average Salary: $88,050
- Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: No prior experience, bachelor’s degree
Should I Also Get a Civil Engineering Certification?
Yes, you should also get a civil engineering certification if you are seeking to become a professional in the field. Certification gets you recognized as a member of a professional body and serves as a professional engineering license.
As a beneficial professional development tool, certifications will help you acquire new civil engineering skills and learn new technologies to attain a specific promotion. In addition, they also help you stand out to prospective employers
Best Civil Engineering Certifications
- Engineer in Training (EIT). The Engineer In Training Certification is granted by the engineering board of a state. Recipients must successfully pass the EIT exam and the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which are administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM). This certification provides students with formal education and field experience. It qualifies them to work as professional construction managers on projects and programs. They will have to demonstrate technical expertise as well as specific personal skills.
- Structural Engineer (SE). The SECB certifies already licensed engineers in the practice of structural engineering. This certification does not affect the current structural engineering registrations or make it easier to obtain.
- LEED AP Building Design. This certification is for professionals who want to establish their expertise in green building. In addition, they will also need to demonstrate a level of knowledge in a LEED-rating system, pass a certification exam, and earn 30 continuing education hours.
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Is a College Certificate for Civil Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a College Certificate in Civil Engineering is worth it because it can lead to higher full-time employment opportunities. Graduate certificate holders are often more qualified for higher-paying jobs than bachelor’s degree graduates. A certificate is a great way of gaining special skills and precise knowledge in addition to a degree within a limited time frame.
Civil Engineering Certificates FAQ
Yes, civil engineering can be hard. Although harder to study than liberal arts and humanities programs, civil engineering is considered slightly easier to study than some other disciplines in engineering. Civil engineering can still be difficult because students must take math courses, multiple lab sessions, and challenging technical classes.
Some of the key skills that material engineers need include sound scientific and technical knowledge, leadership skills, effective organizational skills, analytical skills, communication skills, and detail attention.
The seven fields of civil engineering are structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, materials engineering, construction engineering and management, water resources engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is important for civil engineers because it is the largest and most renowned project management certification. This certification will boost your resume and qualify you for special management projects.
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