Civil Engineering is the practice of improving and maintaining the built and natural environments to increase the quality of life for present and future generations.

 Civil Engineers design and supervise the construction of essential structures such as: bridges, sport stadiums, office blocks, convention centres, dams, major pipelines and transportation systems (e.g.: roads, railways, airports, harbours).

 A Civil Engineering professional, during construction, have to ensure that the works are built as designed. They also manage the plant, manpower and ensure that the works are completed within budget and on time.

 The field of Civil Engineering requires people who are mathematically inclined, can make decisions, delegate, control assignments, think logically and work systematically.

What is Civil Engineering?

Buildings, Roads, harbours, bridges, dams, airports, water and sewage systems are the result of creativity and technical skills of people in civil engineering.

All such significant contributions which make our communities better places to live and work in have been planned, designed and built by the civil engineering profession and industry.

Branches of Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering careers may be pursued in a specialised field or in general terms: Examples of specialised fields include:

• Structural: Bridges, Roads, Towers

• Transportation: Roads, Traffic control, Airports

• Water: Dams, Pipelines, Purification

• Geotechnical: Foundations, Excavations and Fills

• Construction: Construction of Projects

• Urban: Municipal Services, Development and Maintenance of Towns

• Railway and harbour: Railway network, Harbour Facilities

• Environmental: Impact Studies, Social and Natural Environments

• Informatics: Data Capturing, computers for enhancing civil engineering activities

How do I know Civil Engineering is for me?

Do you:

  • Want a career which makes extensive use of science and technology?
  • Want to make a contribution to protecting our natural environment?
  • Want to improve the quality of life for all South Africans?
  • Want to participate in projects which will contribute to the long term development of South Africa?
  • If you have answered to yes to some of the above, Civil Engineering is for you.

What school subject should I take?

Mathematics and Physical Science

How do I become a Civil Engineering Technician?

If you have a senior certificate in passes in Mathematics and Physical Science, you may study at an Institute of Technology, for the National Diploma in Civil Engineering. This is a three year course of which one-year comprises of experiential training with an employer. This is followed by two years of practical training to qualify for registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa. Responsibilities include the building and maintaining of high technology infrastructure and providing services

Becoming a Civil Engineering Technologist?

After obtaining the National Diploma in Civil Engineering, further study for the BTech Degree at an Institution of Technology is required to obtain the status of technologist. A further three years of practical experience is necessary for professional registration. Responsibilities include the application and improvement of advanced technology in the civil engineering environment.