The faculty of the civil engineering department believe very strongly that undergraduate education should prepare students to be productive engineers upon receiving the degree. For this reason, particular emphasis in undergraduate teaching is placed on the application of engineering principles to the solution of problems. After completing a broad civil engineering core program the undergraduate student must choose an elective sequence in one of the areas of civil engineering of particular interest, such as structural, geotechnical, environmental, construction management or engineering mechanics.

In order to provide undergraduates with experience in industry, the department attempts to arrange summer jobs for the three summers between their semesters at Case Western Reserve University. By working for organizations in all areas of design and construction, students can gain an invaluable knowledge of the way the industry functions. This experience lets them gain more from their education and makes them more attractive to prospective employers upon graduation. A cooperative education program is also available, which requires the student to spend two full semesters working full-time in an engineering capacity with a contractor, consulting engineer, architect, or materials supplier during the course of his or her education. The aim of the program is to enable students to make their education more meaningful by gaining familiarity with the industry they will work in after graduation and to help students finance their education.

The accredited undergraduate program in civil engineering at Case Western Reserve University has been designed so that the student chooses a sequence of four (4) or more approved elective courses. The sequence is intended to give students the chance to pursue in some depth a particular area related to their careers as civil engineers. Sample of courses from which elective sequences could be chosen follow the civil engineering curriculum in this bulletin. In addition, the students are required to do a senior project in their area of interest.

Students enrolled in other majors may elect to pursue a minor in civil engineering. A minimum of 15 credit hours is required including a course in Mechanics (ENGR 200), one in Civil Engineering Materials (ECIV 211) and a minimum of 10 credit hours to be chosen with the approval of the minor’s advisor in any of the following areas: solid mechanics, structural, geotechnical, construction management and environmental. Most classes at Case Western Reserve University are small, and the student has close contact with the faculty. Students have an opportunity to gain practical experience as well as earn a supplemental income by assisting faculty members on consulting work during vacation periods.

The General Bulletin describes both undergraduate and graduate programs, and has the course descriptions for Chemical Engineering courses. The University Registrar also provides an online Searchable Schedule of Classes.

Civil Engineering Faculty are listed here.