FAQ
Civil Engineer FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a civil engineer.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a civil engineer: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about civil engineers
Do civil engineers need a license?
A PE license is required to sign off on public plans.
What degree do they need?
A bachelor’s in civil engineering.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster-than-average growth.
How much does a civil engineer make?
The median annual wage for civil engineers was $100,840 ($48.48 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $68,240 and the highest 10% earned more than $163,220.
How long does it take to become a civil engineer?
Most people need about 4 years + PE path of training. A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is required; a PE license is needed for many roles.
Do you need a degree to be a civil engineer?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is civil engineer a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.4% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 22,700 openings each year. Upsides include high pay; a common challenge is that legal responsibility.
What skills does a civil engineer need?
Key technical skills include structural analysis, hydraulics, geotechnical engineering, and cad and design software. Employers also value problem solving, communication, and leadership.
What certifications are available for civil engineers?
Common credentials include Engineer in Training (EIT), Professional Engineer (PE), Structural Engineer (SE), and PMP. Civil engineers who sign plans for the public need a Professional Engineer license, earned through an ABET degree, the FE and PE exams and experience.
Still deciding?
Try the Civil Engineer fit quiz, compare with Civil Engineering Technician, or explore Civil Engineer training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-2051 (Civil engineers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Civil engineers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.