About Department of Civil Engineering · Seattle
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Seattle University is an academic program within the College of Science & Engineering that prepares students for careers in infrastructure design, environmental protection, and public safety. It emphasizes hands-on learning, real-world problem-solving, and collaboration with industry professionals. The department has won more National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) awards than any other undergraduate engineering program in the U.S. Graduates are highly sought after in public and private sectors, with over 90% employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Seattle University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers undergraduate degrees and minors focused on civil engineering (with general and environmental tracks) and related fields such as environmental science, humanitarian engineering, and GIS. The program is ABET-accredited, small in class size (avg. 18 students), and emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research, and senior design projects. Students gain exposure to cutting-edge tools including drones, GIS, GPS surveying, and AI-based analysis. The department has earned 21 NCEES Engineering Education Awards — more than any other undergraduate program in the U.S. — for its innovative, industry-connected curriculum. Faculty mentorship is strong, with an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The department is part of a Jesuit, Catholic university with a mission rooted in social justice, leadership, and service to the common good.
- Serves
- Seattle, WA (local campus-based program)
In their own words
Seattle University is a Jesuit, Catholic university...
About Us
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Seattle University prepares students to design solutions that improve infrastructure, protect the environment, and enhance public safety. Our award-winning programs foster team collaboration and problem-solving. Graduates are in high demand across public and private sectors.
Our Programs
We offer two tracks into civil engineering — general civil engineering and environmental engineering. Both emphasize hands-on learning and practical application. Students can also pursue minors in environmental science, humanitarian engineering, and GIS & geospatial technology.
Why Choose Us?
Small class sizes, caring faculty, 95% student satisfaction, 92% employment/grad school placement, 21 NCEES awards — more than any other undergraduate program in the U.S. — and a Jesuit, Catholic education rooted in service and social justice.
Student Resources
Students have access to academic advising, scholarships, student clubs, internships, undergraduate research, and senior design projects — many of which have earned national recognition.