Civil Engineering Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Civil Engineering Technology is a hands-on, applied field focused on supporting the design, construction, and maintenance of critical infrastructure systems. This program equips students with the technical expertise needed to assist civil engineers in bringing large-scale public works projects to life, from transportation networks to water resource systems and urban development.
- Site Analysis: Evaluating land conditions, topography, and environmental factors to determine the feasibility and optimal layout for construction projects.
- Structural Testing Procedures: Applying standardized methods to assess the strength, stability, and durability of building materials and structural components.
- Field and Laboratory Testing: Conducting real-world and controlled environment assessments of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.
- Plan and Specification Preparation: Creating detailed technical drawings and written guidelines that communicate design intent, material requirements, and construction protocols.
- Test Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Mastering the use, calibration, and upkeep of precision instruments used in material sampling, measurement, and quality control.
- Report Preparation: Compiling accurate, professional documentation of test results, project progress, and compliance findings for engineering teams and regulatory agencies.
Civil Engineering Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Civil Engineering Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Civil Engineering Technology degrees, including Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians and Traffic Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 69,710 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3022 | $64,200 | $43,550 - $97,840 | 62,130 | $30.86 |
| Traffic Technicians 53-6041 | $58,480 | $38,060 - $85,810 | 7,580 | $28.12 |
Salary Comparison
Civil Engineering Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $45,390 in Alaska to $105,820 in District of Columbia—a 133% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, California, and Washington. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 69,710 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Civil Engineering Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 100 institutions offering Civil Engineering Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Civil Engineering Technology is found at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) (41 graduates), Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) (36 graduates), Gadsden State Community College (GSCC) (31 graduates), Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (CSTCC) (30 graduates), and State Technical College of Missouri (State Tech) (29 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 1,106 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Civil Engineering Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Civil Engineering Technology degree?
Salaries for Civil Engineering Technology graduates vary by role and location. Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $64,200 annually, while Traffic Technicians earn around $58,480. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $105,820 compared to $45,390 in Alaska. Approximately 69,710 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Civil Engineering Technology programs?
Currently 118 accredited institutions offer Civil Engineering Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) (41 graduates), Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) (36 graduates), and Gadsden State Community College (GSCC) (31 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Civil Engineering Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 1,897 in 2010 to a peak of 1,344 in 2020, before declining slightly to 1,132 in 2023-24. This represents a 40% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Civil Engineering Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Traffic Technicians, . Related occupations employ approximately 69,710 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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