Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Degree

Campus

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Degree

Q: Is a civil engineering degree worth it?

A civil engineering degree can be worthwhile for students interested in designing and improving the infrastructure that supports communities. It offers a broad technical foundation that applies to many industries and addresses long-term societal needs. It also offers broad technical preparation that applies across industries within the civil engineering field.

Q: What skills will you develop in a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering program?

Students engage in problem-solving, analytical thinking, technical communication and project-based collaboration. Coursework emphasizes applying math and science in engineering and management contexts, with hands‑on lab experiences that include materials testing, surveying techniques and basic structural analysis using industry‑standard tools.

Q: Is civil engineering hard?

Civil engineering is considered challenging due to its strong focus on mathematics, science and technical analysis. Attainment often depends on persistence, time management and an interest in solving complex, practical problems. Students may find the challenge motivating, especially as their skills grow and their confidence increases over time.

Q: What’s the difference between civil vs. mechanical engineering?

Civil engineering centers on infrastructure and environmental systems like roads, bridges and water resources, while mechanical engineering focuses more on machines, mechanical systems and energy applications. Both rely on core engineering principles but apply them to different problem sets.

Q: How does sustainability connect to civil engineering education?

Sustainability is an important consideration in civil engineering, influencing how infrastructure is designed, built and maintained. Students will examine concepts related to environmental impact, resource management and ethical responsibility in engineering decisions.

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Engineering

Program

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Current Education Level

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Country

United States

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Overview

What Is a Civil Engineering Degree?

A civil engineering degree is a qualification focusing on the design, development and maintenance of the infrastructure that supports everyday life, including roads, bridges, buildings, water systems and transportation networks. It centers on applying math, science and engineering principles to practical challenges while considering safety, sustainability and long-term impact. Learning commonly includes structural fundamentals, materials, surveying and engineering technologies used in the field.

The Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) program at Grand Canyon University builds this foundation through industry-informed coursework that addresses structures, transportation, geotechnical engineering and water resources. Designed for students who want to turn ideas into real solutions, the program blends technical rigor with hands-on learning, project management experience and ethical leadership principles.

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Offered By

College of Engineering and Technology

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 128

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Why Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering at GCU?

GCU offers a campus‑based civil engineering experience designed for students who want structured learning opportunities and technical experience alongside a sense of community. With a purpose‑driven approach, supportive faculty and resources built around engineering education, GCU can help you to develop both technical skills and personal confidence as you prepare for the next stage of your academic journey.

Study Engineering On Campus

GCU’s campus environment gives civil engineering students the chance to learn alongside peers who share similar goals, interests and challenges. From student organizations to campus events and collaborative classes, you can build connections while completing a project-focused engineering degree.

Campus Life

Competitive GCU Tuition

GCU offers tuition and financial support options that are designed to help make on‑campus education more accessible. To support this mission, we have extended our on-campus tuition freeze every year since 2009. Scholarships, financial planning resources and transparent pricing allow students to focus on learning.

On-Campus Tuition

Engineering Labs and Facilities

As a civil engineering student, you’ll have access to campus labs and facilities designed to support practice-based learning and technical skill development from day one. These spaces allow you to practice engineering concepts, collaborate on projects and gain experience that supports your academic growth.

On-Campus Facilities

Coursework

Bachelor's in Civil Engineering Degree Coursework

This program covers the core technical concepts used to plan, design and manage modern infrastructure. Coursework emphasizes how math, science and engineering principles are used in civil engineering systems and project-based coursework.

This BSCE program teaches competencies in the following core civil engineering areas:

Structural engineering

Analysis and design of steel, concrete, timber and composite structures, including beams, slabs, columns, frames and trusses

Transportation engineering

Highway and roadway planning, traffic engineering, pavement design and transportation systems standards

Geotechnical engineering

Soil mechanics, foundation design, slope stability, retaining structures and soil testing methods

Water resources engineering

Hydrology, hydraulics, fluid mechanics, water conveyance, storage systems and watershed management

Construction engineering and management

Project planning, cost estimating, scheduling, quality control, contracts and delivery methods

Surveying and geomatics

Field surveying techniques, GPS data collection, measurements and mapping for engineering projects

Engineering analysis and mechanics

Statics, dynamics, strength of materials and differential equations that apply to civil systems

Planning, sustainability and ethics

Urban planning, environmental considerations, resilience, regulatory frameworks and professional responsibility

Careers

What Can You Do With a Civil Engineering Degree?

A civil engineering degree can help prepare you to apply technical knowledge and problem‑solving skills in practical, field-related contexts that support community and infrastructure development. These engineering career skills can help you work with different teams and contribute to projects across a range of settings, including office environments and on‑site locations where construction activities are monitored.

Some specific jobs that may be related to this BSCE degree include:^{(See disclaimer 1,2)}

Civil engineer

Architectural and engineering manager

$99,590

Median annual wage for civil engineers as of May 2024^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Estimated job growth for civil engineers from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 4)}

FAQ

Civil Engineering Degree FAQs

As you explore whether a bachelor's degree in civil engineering aligns with your goals, it’s helpful to understand the field and what the degree involves. The following frequently asked questions offer insights into civil engineering, the academic experience and the potential pathways associated with earning a BS in Civil Engineering.

Is a civil engineering degree worth it?

What skills will you develop in a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering program?

Is civil engineering hard?

What’s the difference between civil vs. mechanical engineering?

What software tools are commonly used in civil engineering programs?

Civil engineering programs commonly use software like AutoCAD and Civil 3D for drafting and design, MATLAB for numerical analysis and SAP2000 or STAAD.Pro for structural modeling. Students also often work with ArcGIS for mapping and spatial analysis and Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM). These tools help with everything from designing infrastructure to analyzing data and simulating real conditions seen in the field.

How does sustainability connect to civil engineering education?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major88 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements128 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

ESG-162

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is founded in the application of mathematics to engineering problems and processes. The course begins with foundations in algebraic manipulation, progresses into trigonometric models, complex numbers, signal processing, introduction to matrices and system equations, differentiation and integration, and differential equations all applied to the solution to engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162L.

ESG-162L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The engineering math labs are the hands on applications of the foundational mathematics concepts applied to engineering problems in the engineering math course. The labs will apply algebra, trigonometry, matrices, differential and integral calculus, and differential equations to various engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162.

ESG-210

2 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the fundamentals of the engineering design methodology and the product development process.. Students will learn the importance of listening to the voice of the customer and how to incorporate those desires into a product using design for X principles. Students will develop verification and validation tests and learn how those become formalized qualification or acceptance processes. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-154 or higher subsequent math course.

ESG-220

2 Total Credits

PHY-121

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.

PHY-121L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.

ESG-395

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This is a writing-intensive course that covers the basics of managing an engineering project, including: project planning, initiating of the project, implementation of the project plan, and completion of the project. Students will learn how to pitch their idea for funding, both in written form and in oral form, as well as how to prepare a formal written funding proposal. The class will cover the basics of engineering economics and introduce how this topic is covered on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Throughout the semester, the students will use the management and economic concepts learned to develop a portfolio and proposal for a capstone project to be completed in the following year. Prerequisites: ESG-210 and ESG-220 or SWE-320.

Core Courses

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

MAT-262

4 Total Credits

ESG-111

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the basics of computer programming. Students will learn to develop algorithms to solve engineering problems, and the implementation of those algorithms in the C language. This course will include using C program for embedded devices for interacting with the world around them. Topics include assembly language, C programming language, and real time programming. MATLAB will be taught in the course to introduce students to rapid development tools and allow for flexibility in prototyping. Concepts of Object Oriented (OO) programming will be included in the MATLAB section of this course. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common microcontrollers. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-261.

MAT-264

4 Total Credits

ESG-251

2 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the basics of computer-aided design. Students will learn to produce great designs using computer-aided design software. Topics include 2-D and 3-D design and modeling, mechanical tolerances, and electrical and mechanical design integration. Hands-on activities focus on the design and integration of different subsystems, electrical and mechanical. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L.

ESG-374

2 Total Credits

PHY-122

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.

PHY-122L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.

MAT-364

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on solutions and qualitative study of linear systems of ordinary differential equations, and on the analysis of classical partial differential equations. Topics include first- and second-order equations; series solutions; Laplace transform solutions; higher order equations; Fourier series; second-order partial differential equations. Boundary value problems, electrostatics, and quantum mechanics provide the main context in this course. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.

ESG-260

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focus is on the analysis of two- and three-dimensional forces on a system in an equilibrium (static) state. Further, it discusses real world applications for static analyses via simple trusses, frames, machines, and beams. Additional topics covered include properties of areas, second moments, internal forces in beams, laws of friction, and static simulation in Solidworks. Prerequisite: PHY-121, PHY-121L, ESG-251.

CIV-380

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explores the fundamental principles of mechanics that govern the behavior of materials under various loads. Topics include stress and strain, stress-load relationships, load deformation, and moments such as axial, torsion, and bending. Additionally, the course covers the fundamentals of mechanics related to deformable bodies and other key concepts and laws, including Mohr's circle and Hooke's law. Co-Requisite: CIV-380L.

CIV-380L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This laboratory course supports the Strength of Materials class by reinforcing the fundamental principles of mechanics that govern the behavior of materials under loads. Through hands-on experiments and practical applications, students explore and understand key concepts such as stress and strain, stress-load relationships, load deformation, and moments, including axial, torsion, and bending, along with various modes of failure, including yielding, fatigue, fracture, and rupture. The lab offers practical experience with the fundamentals of mechanics, the behavior of deformable bodies, and the application of Mohr's circle and Hooke's law. Co-Requisite: CIV-380.

CIV-420

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explores the principles, concepts, and practices of urban and regional planning, emphasizing traffic engineering. Through case studies and projects, students gain an understanding of key areas such as land use and intensity planning, transportation systems, and the planning, funding, design, operations, and maintenance of transportation-related infrastructure. The course also examines the relationship between urban planning and traffic engineering in addressing various challenges. Students learn how to develop and implement policies and plans that shape urban growth, functionality, and safety, highlighting the roles of government, the private sector, and the public in planning, development, and implementation.

CIV-382

2 Total Credits

Course Description

This lecture and lab course employs hands-on demonstrations and experiments to provide students with real-life exposure to and experience with the mechanical principles of incompressible fluids. With a focus on water and its origins and characteristics in terms of civil engineering applications, the course covers topics such as water shed management, storage, piping (pressurized and non-pressurized flow) and open channels.

CIV-333

3 Total Credits

MEE-360

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the principles of kinematics and kinetics as they apply to engineering systems and analyses. This course covers Newton’s second law, work-energy and power, impulse and momentum methods. Additional topics include vibrations and an introduction to transient responses. Simulation with Solidworks and MATLAB are also covered. Prerequisite: ESG-260. Co-Requisite: MEE-360L.

MEE-360L

1 Total Credits

CIV-336

3 Total Credits

CIV-376

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the essential tools of structural analysis and design, including the determination of design loads and the interaction and equilibrium of external and internal forces. It covers topics such as shear and moment diagrams, the slope deflection method, and the method of consistent deformation, as well as matrix stiffness methods for analyzing beams, frames, and trusses. The course also includes a review of sustainable practices and ethical issues in structural design.

CIV-383

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides students with an introduction to geotechnical and soil engineering practices within the field of civil engineering, offering both a contemporary viewpoint and a historical context. Key topics covered include the nature and origin of soils and rocks, soil and clay mineralogy, and the importance of geologic landforms and soil deposits. The course also delves into the fundamental physical and mechanical properties of soils and how these are defined, determined, and integrated into design processes. Prerequisites: PHY-122 and PHY-122L. Co-Requisite: CIV-383L.

CIV-383L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students conduct and interpret a variety of soil tests, complementing the knowledge gained in the lecture course. Specifically, the course covers tests for water content, including Atterberg limits such as liquid and shrinkage limits, plasticity index, and plasticity, soil compaction using the standard and modified Proctor methods, particle size distribution, and grain size distribution. Additionally, the course addresses permeability, consolidation, stress and strain measurements, and direct shear strength assessments. Prerequisites: PHY-122 and PHY-122L. Co-Requisite: CIV-383.

ESG-451

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The first capstone is a writing-intensive course that provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. Prerequisite: ESG-395.

CIV-438

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the material properties of concrete and mild reinforcing steel. Students enhance their technical competence in flexure and shear theory, along with design procedures for reinforced concrete beams, one-way slabs, and columns under uniaxial bending. The course also includes the theory and procedures for calculating deflections of reinforced concrete beams and one-way slabs. Finally, students learn the theory and procedures required to detail reinforcement in reinforced concrete beams, one-way slabs, and columns. The course also includes a review of sustainable practices and ethical issues in concrete design.

CIV-450

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course delves deeper into complex geomechanical principles and concepts used to determine settlement potential, bearing capacity, and slope stability, as well as the design of both rigid and flexible foundations and retaining structures. The course begins with approaches and processes for designing shallow and deep foundations tailored to a variety of spread footing and pile type applications across different soil conditions. It also introduces geogrids and other proprietary systems utilized in foundations and retaining structures. Additionally, the course covers specific applications of geotechnical engineering to highway and roadway subgrades, as well as cut and fill slopes, preparing students for further study in the highway portion of the transportation engineering and design course. Prerequisites: CIV-383 and CIV-383L.

CIV-311

3 Total Credits

CIV-311L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This course uses actual field surveying applications to further explore the concepts and principles introduced in the lecture course. Students learn to operate survey equipment and instruments for real-world survey applications on and around campus. Additionally, the lab includes field trips, guest lectures, and demonstrations on various surveying, geomatics, and geodesy applications and methods. Co-Requisite: CIV-311.

CIV-431

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fields of municipal (public) and consulting (private) civil engineering, examining the similarities and differences between both sectors. Additionally, the course addresses the role of regulatory boards, national standard-setting organizations, as well as local bodies like state, county, city, or metropolitan planning organizations (MPO) and Councils of Governments (COG) in the planning, funding, designing, building, operating and maintenance of civil engineering related infrastructure with the added context of being environmentally sound and sustainable. Thus, this class will include an introduction to both environmental and sustainability engineering and how that is brought into practice on both the public and private sides of civil engineering. The environmental engineering track will focus on the impact of regulations on the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of civil infrastructure and a sustainability engineering track emphasizes the societal aspects of civil engineering, addressing the needs for an infrastructure that supports communities while accounting for climate change and the resulting pressures on it from that. Prerequisites: CIV-420, CIV-333, CIV-336, and ESG-395.

CIV-448

1 Total Credits

ESG-452

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The second capstone is a writing intensive course that provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of all the learning experiences in an engineering program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. Prerequisite: ESG-451.

CIV-334

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the elements of structural steel design, including tension members and their connections, structural connections such as welding and high-strength bolts, compression members, and rolled and built-up flexural members. It also addresses the effects of combined axial and flexural loading. Additionally, the course introduces the application and structural design methods for composite and timber structures. This includes fiber reinforced plastics (FRP). Students also review sustainable practices and ethical issues in steel, composite and timber design.

CIV-381

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the construction industry and practices, preparing them to contribute effectively to construction companies, project management consultants, and owners upon graduation. It emphasizes improving project delivery through an understanding of the linkages between design and construction. The course covers a wide range of construction topics, including contract documents, contract plans, project planning, network scheduling, critical path analysis, sourcing materials, procurement, equipment, building methods, quantity take-off, cost estimating, cost control, quality assurance, quality control, and labor and resource allocation. Additionally, various methods of project delivery are studied, such as bid-build, CM at risk, design-build, and job order contracting. It also provides practical field experiences to deepen their understanding of the construction industry and with the opportunity to explore potential career roles. Prerequisite: ESG-395.

ESG-488

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the principles and causes of both natural and manmade disasters, highlighting their profound impact on society and the practice of engineering across various disciplines, particularly civil engineering. The course focuses on research into how these events occur and how responses are managed (recovery), as well as lessons learned to prevent future occurrences or minimize damage. Prerequisites: CIV-380, CIV-380L, and CIV-438.

CIV-363

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the fundamentals of highway planning, design, operations, and maintenance. It includes an in-depth exploration of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and USDOT Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) design standards, guidelines, practices, and recommendations. The course emphasizes the comprehensive use of key resources and the utilization of design guidelines and how they are applied in the design of highways, streets, intersections, interchanges, rigid and flexible pavements, pavement preservation methods, and other transportation facilities. An overview of aviation, railway, mass transit, and port facilities planning, and design is also included. Prerequisites: CIV-383, CIV-383L, CIV-420, and CIV-450.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Civil Engineers: What Civil Engineers Do. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 2026.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Civil Engineers: Similar Occupations. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 2026.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Civil Engineers, as of May 2024, retrieved April 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as civil engineers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Civil Engineers, retrieved April 2026.

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Degree

Step 1: Educational Interests

What Is a Civil Engineering Degree?

Why Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering at GCU?

Bachelor's in Civil Engineering Degree Coursework

What Can You Do With a Civil Engineering Degree?

Pursue Your BSCE Degree at an Accredited University

Civil Engineering Degree FAQs

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses