The Program
Civil engineering technicians obtain field data and prepare drawings and maps pertaining to angles, elevations, azimuth points, contours, and earthwork. They use electronic total stations, levels, global positioning surveying (GPS), and other instruments. They plan, design and perform construction staking tasks necessary for the construction of highways, railroads, bridges, buildings, airfields, subdivisions, and other facilities. They also perform testing and inspection tasks on the various construction operations to ensure compliance with specifications.
Aptitudes and Interests: Students will be required to learn and apply theoretical principles and technical knowledge easily, perform mathematical computations accurately, visualize shapes and forms from survey data or sketches, concentrate on details for long periods to avoid errors, and use judgment in planning work and handling problems. Students should like work of a scientific and technical nature involving preparation of maps, charts, and drawings. Students will also need an interest in learning CAD and other design software on computers and working with the latest electronic computers, surveying, and testing equipment. These civil engineering technicians work as a team and must exercise tact in dealing with persons who have opposing opinions. This field requires great precision and accuracy and workers must be willing to accept responsibility for performance in accordance with prescribed standards.
Helpful High School Courses
Algebra, Computers, Drafting, English, Geometry, Keyboarding, Physics, Trigonometry
Course Sequence
Program begins in August
Program length is 4 semesters
Admits 13 students each year
Typical classroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 days per week
Summer Session - None
Certificates and Degrees
- Advanced Technical Certificate Civil Engineering Technician
- Associate of Applied Science degree Civil Engineering Technology
Program Requirements
Application for Admission
Application fee
High school transcript or GED
COMPASS Placement Test or ACT scores
Register early - admission is based on space availability.
Admission Steps
- Complete and return an Application for Admission along with a check or money order for $40 (non-refundable), payable to Idaho State University. You may also apply online.
- Submit official college transcripts, if applicable, from each accredited institution of higher education that you have attended.
- Submit an official copy of your high school transcript or GED scores (Not required if you have completed and submitted proof of 14 or more academic credits from an accredited institution of higher education.)
- Meet with a College of Technology counselor, if desired, to obtain more in-depth information. To make an appointment, call (208)282-2622.
- Either:
- Complete the COMPASS Placement test. This test enables us to place you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
- Submit ACT/SAT scores, valid for seven (7) years from the date of testing.
- Apply for financial aid if needed. Questions, call (208) 282-2756.
Fees
Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance.
| Paper and ink cartridges for plotting and printing. Handouts, payments for ISPLS conference. Report binding, wooden stakes, field books, flagging, wooden lath. Smaller survey equipment that student break periodically, ex: prisms, rods, etc. GPS batteries and batteries for other equipment. Software upgrades. | |
| Class | Amount |
|---|---|
| CET 111 Drawing with CAD | $20.00 |
| CET 112 Beginning Surveying | $15.00 |
| CET 115 Materials Testing and Specifications I | $15.00 |
| CET 121 Civil Engineering Technology Drafting | $10.00 |
| CET 122 Intermediate Surveying | $15.00 |
| CET 125 Materials Testing and Specifications II | $10.00 |
| CET 212 Route Survey, Design and State Plane Coordinates | $30.00 |
| CET 215 Materials Testing and Specifications III | $10.00 |
| CET 224 Land and Construction Surveys | $20.00 |
| CET 225 Materials Testing and Specifications IV | $10.00 |
Paying for College
You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.
Affirmative Action & Equal Employment Opportunity at ISU
Career Opportunities
100% of 2007 graduates were employed in related jobs.
Employment Opportunities
100% of 2007 graduates were employed in related jobs
- Engineering and surveying companies
- Local, state and federal government agencies
- Median income -Idaho $36,710, and nationally $39,210 in this field*
- About 250 Civil Engineering Technicians work in this occupation in Idaho*
* Idaho Career Information Systems data
All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Science.
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