Civil Engineering

Students in Carleton’s Civil Engineering BEng program build a wide technical foundation through courses across structural, transportation, geotechnical, municipal, fire safety, water resources, and environmental engineering. Initially, learners develop essential skills in surveying, GIS, CAD, Building Information Modeling (BIM), spatial data analysis, and digital drafting—with hands-on experience using total stations, GPS, and field exercises.

They also explore advanced topics such as fire-structure interaction, materials behaviour under fire exposure, and computer modelling of fire dynamics. Many programs include real-world learning in research labs like the Advanced Geotechnical Research Laboratory and the Civil Engineering Structures Lab, where students conduct soil stability tests, material experiments, and structural load simulations using industry-standard tools.

Students further hone their skills through optional paid co-op placements lasting four to 16 months, or a first-year internship, gaining exposure to government, industry, and research environments unique to Ottawa. Some first year students can opt into an eight-week internship program, depending on eligibility.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent.
• Six 4U or M courses including Advanced Functions, Chemistry, Physics, and one of Calculus and Vectors (recommended), or Biology, or Earth and Space Science.

What You’ll Learn

• Strong foundation in surveying, GIS, CAD, and Building Information Modeling.
• Skills in environmental and water resources engineering, tackling sustainability challenges.
• Effective design of structures, transportation systems, geotechnical works, and municipal infrastructure.