Construction Engineering

Construction Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln prepares students for a dynamic and essential field that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as buildings, roads, bridges, and other critical structures. The program combines rigorous coursework in civil engineering principles with specialized training in construction methods, project management, and sustainable building practices. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of construction materials, structures, and systems, enabling them to lead complex projects from inception to completion. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through labs, fieldwork, and internships, providing real-world experience that bridges classroom theory with practical application. Faculty members are experts in their field, engaging students with research, industry partnerships, and innovative teaching methods. The program also covers emerging topics such as building information modeling (BIM), construction safety, and environmental considerations, ensuring graduates are prepared for the evolving needs of the construction industry. Graduates of the Construction Engineering program are equipped to work in diverse roles including project managers, construction engineers, estimators, and site supervisors. They are highly sought after by construction firms, consulting companies, and government agencies. The program not only emphasizes technical skills but also fosters leadership, communication, and ethical decision-making, essential qualities for success in the construction profession. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative industry networks, students are well-positioned to contribute to infrastructure development that improves communities and supports economic growth. Whether students aspire to work on large-scale infrastructure projects or innovative construction solutions, the Construction Engineering program at UNL provides the foundation for a rewarding and impactful career dedicated to building the future.

First Semester

• CHEM 109 General Chemistry I4
• COMM 286 Business & Professional Communication3
• CONE 103 Introduction to Construction Engineering1
• CSCE 155N Computer Science I: Engineering & Science Focus3
• ENGR 10 Freshman Engineering Seminar0
• MATH 106 Calculus I5

Total16

Second Semester

• MATH 107 Calculus II4
• JGEN 200 Technical Communication I3
• PHYS 211 General Physics I4
• PHYS 221 General Physics I Lab1
• ACE Elective3

Choose one course from not yet satisfied ACE outcomes 5, 7, or 9.

Total15

Third Semester

• CIVE 221 Geometric Control Systems (CONE 221)3
• CNST 225 Introduction to Building Information Modeling3
• ENGR 20 Sophomore Engineering Seminar0
• MATH 208 Calculus III4
• MECH 223 Engineering Statics3
• PHYS 212 General Physics II4

Total17

Fourth Semester

• CONE 211 Construction Business Methods3
• BSEN 206 Engineering Economics (CONE 206)3
• MATH 221 Differential Equations3
• MECH 325 Mechanics of Elastic Bodies3
• MECH 373 Engineering Dynamics3

Total15

Fifth Semester

• CIVE 341 Introduction to Structural Engineering4
• CONE 319 Construction Methods & Equipment3
• CONE 378 Construction Estimating (CNST 378)3
• MATH 380 Statistics & Applications (STAT 380) or MECH 321 Engineering Statistics & Data Analysis3
• MECH 310 Fluid Mechanics (CIVE 310)3

Total16

Sixth Semester

• CIVE 334 Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering4
• CIVE 378 Materials of Construction3
• ECON 212 Principles of Microeconomics3
• ELEC 211 Elements of Electrical Engineering I3
• ACE Elective3

Choose one course from not yet satisfied ACE outcomes 5, 7, or 9.

Total16

Seventh Semester

• CIVE 440 Reinforced Concrete Design I3
• CONE 414 Accident Prevention in Construction or CNST 344 Construction Site Safety Management3
• CONE 476 Project Budgets & Controls (CNST 476)3
• CONE 485 Construction Planning, Scheduling & Controls (CNST 485)3
• Technical Elective3

Total15

Eighth Semester

• CIVE 441 Steel Design I3
• CONE 489 Construction Engineering Capstone Course3
• BLAW 371 Legal Environment3
• Technical Elective3

ACE Elective3

Choose one course from not yet satisfied ACE outcomes 5, 7, or 9.

Total15

Total Credit Hours Required for Graduation125

Electives

Students are required to enroll in a predetermined set of courses specifically designed for general construction education. Each student selects, with the approval of his/her advisor, a set of approved electives.

Technical electives are selected from the following list. One (3 credit hour) of the required two electives needs to be considered a design technical elective.

Design Technical Electives

• CONE 416 Wood/Contemporary Materials Design
• CONE 417 Formwork Systems
• CONE 481 Highway & Bridge Construction
• CONE 483 Support of Excavation
• CIVE 443 Structural Analysis
• CIVE 444 Structural Design & Planning
• CIVE 446 Steel Design II
• CIVE 447 Reinforced Concrete Design II

Technical Electives

All previously listed Design Technical Electives

• CNST 379 Construction Estimating II
• CNST 434 The Design/Build Project Delivery System
• CONE 450 Sustainable Construction
• CONE 466 Heavy/Civil Estimating
• CONE 498 Special Topics in Construction
• MECH 420 Heat Transfer

• There is a $45 application fee payable online with a credit card.
• Secondary school transcript
• Secondary school certificate/diploma
• Non-native English speakers must submit an IELTS or TOEFL score demonstrating proficiency in English.
• In order to be issued an I-20, you must submit a bank statement showing sufficient support for the first year of study.

Scholarships

• GLOBAL LAUREATE SCHOLARSHIP
• GLOBAL EXCELLENCY SCHOLARSHIP
• GLOBAL AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP
• GLOBAL DIPLOMAT SCHOLARSHIP
• GLOBAL DELEGATE SCHOLARSHIP
• GLOBAL CONSUL SCHOLARSHIP

Construction Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for the dynamic and challenging field of construction management and engineering. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in engineering principles, combined with practical training in construction methods, project management, and sustainable building practices. Students have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in construction technology, structural analysis, and cost estimation. The curriculum includes coursework in construction materials and methods, construction safety, surveying, Contract Law, and project planning and scheduling. Furthermore, students engage in hands-on learning through laboratories, field projects, and internships, which provide valuable real-world experience and industry connections. The program aims to develop graduates who are capable of overseeing complex construction projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality standards are met while adhering to budget and schedule constraints. Students are also encouraged to participate in professional organizations such as the Associated General Contractors of America and the Student Construction Organization to enhance their leadership skills and network with industry professionals. The construction industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, and the program incorporates these themes into its curriculum to prepare students for future challenges. Upon graduation, students can pursue careers in construction management, project engineering, estimating, and construction consulting, among other roles. The university supports this program through access to state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated labs, and industry partnerships that facilitate internships and cooperative education opportunities. Overall, the Construction Engineering program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln provides a balanced education that combines technical expertise, practical skills, and professional development to prepare students for successful careers in the construction industry.