CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Civil Engineering at University of Missouri-Kansas City

Credential: Bachelor's | State: MO

Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): $67,076 | Annual Completions: 31

UMKC Civil Engineering: Solid ROI with Strong Infrastructure Career Prospects

Program Analysis

The Civil Engineering program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) equips students with a robust foundation in the design, construction, and maintenance of essential infrastructure. You'll delve into core areas such as structural analysis, transportation systems, water resources, geotechnical engineering, and environmental engineering. This curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and the application of scientific and mathematical principles to real-world challenges. Graduates are prepared to tackle complex projects, ensuring public safety and improving quality of life through the development of roads, bridges, buildings, water treatment facilities, and more.

Upon graduation, UMKC Civil Engineering alumni are well-positioned for a variety of rewarding career paths. Common entry-level roles include Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Transportation Engineer, and Geotechnical Engineer. With experience, these roles can advance to Senior Civil Engineer, Project Manager, or specialized positions like Bridge Engineer or Environmental Engineering Consultant. The median earnings one year post-graduation are reported at $67,076, indicating a strong initial return on investment. While specific entry-level salaries can vary by location and employer, they often range from $55,000 to $70,000. Mid-career professionals can expect to earn between $80,000 and $110,000, with senior engineers and project managers potentially exceeding $120,000 annually.

The demand for civil engineers remains consistently strong, driven by the ongoing need to repair and upgrade aging infrastructure, as well as the development of new projects in growing urban and suburban areas. Trends like sustainable design, smart city technologies, and resilient infrastructure further enhance career prospects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects robust growth for civil engineers. To maximize your career potential, focus on developing strong analytical and design skills, gain practical experience through internships, and consider professional licensure (PE) as you advance in your career. UMKC's location in a major metropolitan area offers ample opportunities for such practical experience.

Career Paths

Graduates of Civil Engineering at University of Missouri-Kansas City can pursue the following career paths:

  • Civil Engineer. Median salary: $75,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Structural Engineer. Median salary: $80,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Transportation Engineer. Median salary: $78,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Geotechnical Engineer. Median salary: $77,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Project Manager (Civil). Median salary: $95,000, Strong growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Structural Analysis and Design
  • Transportation Planning and Design
  • Water Resource Management
  • Geotechnical Investigation
  • Project Management

Frequently Asked Questions about Civil Engineering at University of Missouri-Kansas City

Is Civil Engineering. at University of Missouri-Kansas City worth it?

Yes, the Civil Engineering program at UMKC appears to be a worthwhile investment. Graduates report a median earning of $67,076 one year after completing their bachelor's degree, which is a strong starting point. The field of civil engineering itself has consistently high demand due to infrastructure needs, offering stable career paths. With opportunities for advancement into roles like Project Manager, salaries can significantly increase over time, providing a good long-term return on your educational investment. The program's focus on practical application in a major city also enhances employability.

What jobs can I get with a Civil Engineering. degree?

A Civil Engineering degree from UMKC opens doors to a wide range of essential roles. Entry-level positions often include Civil Engineer, where you might work on site development or infrastructure projects. You could also specialize as a Structural Engineer, focusing on building and bridge design, or a Transportation Engineer, involved in planning roads and transit systems. Other common paths include Geotechnical Engineer, assessing soil conditions for construction, and Environmental Engineer, addressing pollution control and resource management. With experience, you can move into roles like Senior Engineer or Project Manager.

How much do Civil Engineering. graduates earn?

Civil Engineering graduates from UMKC show promising earning potential. The median salary one year post-graduation is $67,076. Entry-level positions typically range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on the specific role and location. As graduates gain experience and move into mid-career positions, such as Senior Civil Engineer or specialized roles, salaries commonly fall between $80,000 and $110,000. Experienced professionals in leadership or management roles, like Project Managers, can expect to earn upwards of $120,000 per year, demonstrating significant salary growth potential.

Explore More

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.