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Dunwoody College of Technology Launches Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Dunwoody College of Technology has recently announced an exciting expansion to its academic offerings, with plans to introduce a new Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. This initiative is set to launch in Fall 2027 and comes as a response to the increasing nationwide demand for qualified civil engineers. The program aims to equip students with the essential skills required to design, construct, and maintain the crucial infrastructure that communities rely on every day, thereby aligning their education with the pressing needs of employers throughout Minnesota and beyond.

The four-year degree will delve into various aspects of civil engineering, providing students with a comprehensive knowledge base. Emphasizing hands-on learning, the curriculum incorporates cutting-edge engineering technologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Autodesk Civil 3D, drones, LiDAR, and AI simulation tools. A strong focus will be placed on sustainable infrastructure practices and the importance of multidisciplinary design approaches in addressing contemporary engineering challenges.

Dunwoody's Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering offers an engaging blend of rigorous theory and practical experience. Students will participate in laboratory tests, fieldwork, and project-based learning that encompasses five main disciplines: structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, water resources engineering, and environmental engineering. This comprehensive educational experience is designed to cultivate the type of technical expertise and practical know-how that employers are increasingly valuing in potential hires.

As the demand for civil engineers surges, fueled by an aging workforce set to retire, the new program not only seeks to fill existing gaps in the industry but also encourages innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among its graduates. According to Noureen Sajid, the director of Dunwoody's School of Engineering, the newly established curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide students with avenues leading to high-paying engineering careers, fostering not just competence but creativity in problem-solving.

Scott Stallman, Ph.D., president of Dunwoody College, emphasized the critical role civil engineers play in community infrastructure, noting that the new program will prepare students to address increasingly complex infrastructure challenges. Graduates will emerge with valuable skills that empower them to tackle issues at the intersection of engineering and community needs.

Dunwoody College has placed a significant emphasis on collaboration while developing the Civil Engineering curriculum. Input from a steering committee comprising licensed professional engineers has shaped the program's focus on experiential learning, fieldwork, and real-world application of engineering principles, placing students in a position to successfully launch high-impact careers.

The response from prospective students has been enthusiastic, as they recognize the stability and growth potential associated with careers in civil engineering. The program is on track to pursue accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, further solidifying its commitment to high standards in engineering education.

Civil engineering is essential for building and enhancing public infrastructure, from roads and bridges to water systems and public spaces. Dunwoody's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates is reflected in its promise to combine theoretical education with practical skills, ensuring that students are fully equipped for the demands of the workplace.

With the unveiling of this new Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering program, Dunwoody College continues its legacy of innovation and excellence in technical education. Students interested in pursuing careers that shape and improve communities are encouraged to explore this exciting opportunity and prepare for a fulfilling future in civil engineering. For further information, visit dunwoody.edu/civil.