Bachelors in Civil Engineering in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Bachelor's degree programs in Civil Engineering represent one of the most established and in-demand pathways in American higher education, with civil engineering consistently ranking among the top four engineering disciplines by enrollment and degree completion. 

Civil engineering plays a vital role in U.S. infrastructure, with over 437,000 professionals designing and managing buildings and public works. With an average age of 41.6 and a projected job growth of 6.47% over the next decade, the field offers strong career potential for candidates wishing to study in the U.S.

Now, let's discuss the basic details about the Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA to better understand the top US universities offering these courses. 

Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA: Overview

Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering programs in the USA are designed to equip you with strong technical and analytical foundations for careers in infrastructure, construction, and environmental systems. 

These programs are typically offered as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) and are available through multiple intake seasons, primarily Fall (Aug-Sept), with additional options for Spring and Summer at select universities. 

Here's a detailed overview of Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA:

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of studying bachelors in civil engineering in USA 

Why Pursue Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA?

The U.S. offers world-class, ABET-accredited Civil Engineering programs at top universities like MIT, UC Berkeley, Georgia Tech, and Stanford. 

These institutions lead in areas such as sustainability, smart infrastructure, and AI modelling, and offer hands-on industry experience with firms like AECOM and Bechtel, making the U.S. a top choice for aspiring civil engineers.

Here are some key benefits of pursuing a Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA:

1. Strong Starting Salaries

• The average starting salary for engineering graduates is around $64,502 (INR 55.1L) to $85,000 (INR 72.7L), outpacing many other fields. 
• Civil engineering offers a median salary of US$91,420 (INR 78.2L)(with the top 25% earning over $123,010 (INR 1Cr)).

2. Excellent Job Market Outlook

• Employment for civil engineers is projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, aligning with or slightly exceeding the average growth rate for all occupations.
• There will be roughly 195,000 job openings annually, driven by infrastructure upgrades and replacements.

3. Competitive Salaries Across Regions

• Even entry-level positions pay well, ranging from US$ depending on the location. For instance, California offers salaries of over US$87,000 (INR 74.4L), and cities like San Francisco and New York see salaries reaching US$98,600 (INR 84.4L) to US$92,100 (INR 78.8L)

4. Low Unemployment in Engineering Majors

• Civil engineering has one of the lowest graduate unemployment rates (about 1% or lower, compared to much higher rates in fields like communications (~55%).

5. Licensure & Professional Growth

• Graduates from ABET-accredited programs can become licensed Professional Engineers (PEs) by passing the FE and PE exams.
• PE licensure often leads to increased responsibility, career advancement, and earning potential.

After discussing Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA, here are some of the top universities that offer full-time and part-time courses. 

Top Universities Offering Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

Top U.S. universities offer world-class Bachelor’s programs in Civil Engineering, combining academics with industry-aligned training. Institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, and Georgia Institute of Technology lead the field, with annual tuition around $27,650 (INR 23.6L) and $57,518 (INR 49.2L), respectively. 

These 4-year programs have early deadlines, September 1 for Berkeley and January 1 for Georgia Tech, making early application planning essential.

Following are the top universities offering bachelors in civil engineering courses in USA>

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

Now, let’s explore popular universities to study bachelors in civil engineering courses in the USA

Popular Universities for Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

Popular U.S. universities, such as California Baptist University and Stanford University, offer strong Bachelor’s programs in Civil Engineering, catering to diverse student needs. 

California Baptist provides an accelerated 3–4 year B.S. program at $20,319 (INR 17.4L) per semester, with a Feb 1 deadline. Stanford offers a prestigious 4-year program with annual tuition of $65,082 (INR 55.7L) and deadlines typically around Dec 1.

Here's a breakdown of popular universities that offer Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA in USA:

Now, let's understand the admission requirements for different Bachelor's degrees in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA. 

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

To pursue a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering in the USA, students typically need a minimum GPA of 3.4, although some universities, such as Illinois, are more flexible. 

SAT/ACT scores may be required, but many schools like UC Berkeley and the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign are now test-optional. For international applicants, English proficiency scores like TOEFL 80+, IELTS 6.5+, or Duolingo 115+ are commonly accepted.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for pursuing a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering Courses in USA:

Now that you have covered the eligibility criteria for enrollment in Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA, let's understand the application process to apply for these programs. 

Application Process for Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA in USA

A Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering (B.S./B.E.) in the USA offers access to top-tier education, advanced research, and strong industry ties. 

While the application process may vary by university, it generally follows a clear structure that focuses on academic and administrative readiness. 

Most programs require 120–128 credits over 4 years, with some offering accelerated 3-year options or combined bachelor’s and master’s pathways.

Here's a step-by-step application process to apply for a Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA:

Step 1. Choose Your Major

Apply directly to a Civil Engineering program, as many universities expect students to select their intended major during the application process.

Step 2. Submit Your Application

Use platforms like the Common App or university-specific portals. Application windows typically open in October with deadlines ranging from November to January for Fall intake.

Step 3. Meet Academic Requirements

A strong high school record with advanced math (e.g., calculus) and lab sciences is essential. Some schools require completion of specific course sequences.

Step 4. Standardized Test Scores

Many universities are now test-optional, but submitting SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application, especially for merit scholarships.

Step 5. Prepare Supporting Documents

Submit official transcripts, personal essays, and, if applicable, letters of recommendation. Essays often focus on leadership, creativity, or problem-solving experiences.

Step 6. Track Application Status

After submission, monitor your application portal regularly for updates, interview requests, or additional documentation.

Step 7. Admission Decisions & Enrollment

Admission results are typically released by March or April. Accepted students must confirm enrollment and follow the orientation steps provided by the university.

Let's now explore the details of the Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA, including their specializations and total duration.

Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA: Course Details & Specialization

Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering in the USA offer a well-rounded curriculum that includes both core and specialised courses. Students can choose from electives in areas like Structural, Environmental, Geotechnical, and Transportation Engineering. 

Universities like UIUC enhance learning with science and general electives, hands-on labs, design projects, and a final capstone course, ensuring both depth and practical experience.

Here's a list of popular Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA:

Now, let's take a closer look at the costs of pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering in the USA. 

Cost of Pursuing Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

The cost of pursuing a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering in the USA goes beyond tuition, with key expenses including books and course materials ($1,170 or INR 1L/year), utilities ($50–$120/month or INR4.3K–INR10.3K), and public transport ($20–$60/month or INR 1.7K–INR 5.1K). These additional costs should be factored into your overall budget when planning to study in the U.S.

Below is the breakdown of the cost of living in the US for international students: 

Note: Cost estimates are yearly and may vary by city and university.

Next, let's explore the various scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to help support your Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA.

Scholarships for pursuing a Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

With over 150 scholarships dedicated to civil engineering students in the USA, aspiring engineers have numerous opportunities to reduce their financial burden. These scholarships vary in eligibility and funding amounts, supporting academic excellence and promoting diversity. Exploring and applying for multiple scholarships early can significantly enhance students' chances of securing meaningful financial aid.

Below is the list of US scholarships that you can avail while taking admission in Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in the USA: 

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships for Bachelor's in Civil Engineering in the USA offer valuable financial support and academic enrichment within universities.

For example, Stony Brook University offers the Civil Engineering Research Experience Award Fellowship, providing $5,000 (INR 4.3L) for summer research, and the Othmar Ammann Endowed Scholarship, which awards $2,000 (INR 1.8L) to high-performing civil engineering students.

These scholarships recognize academic merit and foster hands-on learning experiences. Here are a few internal scholarships available to Civil Engineering students:

Now, let’s take a look at external scholarships for civil engineering courses in USA

External Scholarships

External scholarships for civil engineering undergraduates in the USA offer financial aid and career-building opportunities. 

Programs like the INDOT Engineer Scholarship provide $3,125 (INR 2.7L) per semester with work experience and post-graduation commitments, while the ASCE National Scholarships offer $2,500(INR 2.1L)–$3,000+(INR 2.6L) to academically strong students who are ASCE members. These awards support both education and early career development.

Here's a breakdown of external scholarships for Civil Engineering students:

Next, let's discuss your job options after completing your Civil Engineering Courses in USA. 

Job Opportunities After a Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA

Graduates with a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering in the USA have access to strong job opportunities with competitive salaries. 

Entry-level roles, such as Civil Engineer in Training (EIT), offer average salaries of around $79,000 (INR 67.5L). In comparison, Graduate Civil Engineers earn approximately $67,598 (INR 57.9L) annually, highlighting the field's solid earning potential from the outset.

Here's a detailed look at some of the high-demand job opportunities after doing a Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA: 

Source: Indeed, Payscale

Note: Salaries and roles may vary based on experience, location, and employer.

Next, look at some of the top recruiters for Civil Engineering graduates who want to successfully start their HR career. 

Top Recruiters for Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering in the USA

Top recruiters for civil engineering graduates in the USA include leading global firms like Jacobs Engineering and Bechtel Corporation. 

These companies offer competitive roles such as Project Engineer at $90,000 (INR 77L) and Field Engineer at $82,243 (INR 70.3L) annually, reflecting the strong demand and earning potential for skilled civil engineers.

Here are some of the top recruiters and hiring employers for Civil Engineering graduates in the U.S.:

Source: Payscale, Indeed, Levels

Prepare to take the next step toward a Civil Engineering course in USA. UpGrad provides expert guidance, resources, and support to help you confidently begin your journey. 

How Can upGrad Help You Study Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA?

upGrad provides comprehensive assistance to simplify your application process for Civil Engineering programs at leading U.S. universities. Their full-service approach transforms your international education aspirations into reality through:

• Comprehensive Test Coaching: Access specialized preparation programs for GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, and IELTS, delivered by experienced faculty members.
• Tailored Educational Journey: Participate in interactive, systematically designed coursework supported by dedicated one-on-one mentoring to ensure consistent progress.
• Complete Application Support: Receive comprehensive assistance throughout your application journey, including university selection, essay development, and documentation coordination.
• Immigration & Funding Guidance: Access professional consultation for visa processing and discover scholarship programs aligned with your academic and financial profile.
• Educational Finance Consulting: Get strategic support for budget planning and securing student loans specifically designed for international candidates.
• End-to-End Process Coordination: upGrad manages every step from initial university research through final enrollment, allowing you to concentrate on achieving your academic objectives.

Ready to start your Bachelors in Civil Engineering Courses in USA? Book a free one-on-one counseling session with upGrad's experts and improve your chances of getting into a top U.S. university.