Engineering is the application of the physical sciences and mathematics to the design of items that benefit society. Civil Engineering is divided into five broad areas: structures, hydraulics and hydrology, geotechnical engineering (soil mechanics), traffic and transportation, and environmental engineering. The Civil Engineering Technology program at Northern offers course work in each of these areas with the exception of environmental engineering technology.

Engineering technology begins with mathematics at the College Algebra level and moves students through to calculus. This differs from a standard engineering program, which starts with the calculus and includes topics in differential equations. Drafting skills and the use of third party design applications software is heavily emphasized in the Civil Engineering Technology program.

The Bachelor's of Science degree in Civil Engineering Technology prepares Graduates to achieve the following program educational objectives:

• Graduates will have technical skills required for construction testing, planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining civil projects in the Built Environment and Global Infrastructure.
• Graduates will be prepared to analyze and design systems in support of Civil Engineering projects.
• Graduates will have the managerial skills to perform cost estimates and analysis, and to manage technical activities in support of Civil Engineering projects.
• Graduates will gain awareness of Professional community involvement, leadership, continuing education, and ethical responsibilities.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Associate degree program are qualified for positions as engineering and or surveying technicians, in consulting firms or in the public sector.

Associates degree graduates may also serve as support staff in various local, state, and federal public works and transportation agencies. Graduates of the Bachelors degree program that pass their FE are qualified, under state law, to pursue a career as engineers in training.

With the FE and four years of progressively responsible experience and other criteria as set out by the Montana Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors graduates may sit for their Principles Practices of Engineering Exam. Upon successfully passing this exam, the individual will be registered as a professional engineer and qualified to work in that industry.