Join science with technology to build the world around you
Develop the skills to get the framework of the world on solid footing by training to become a member of civil engineering teams that are responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of infrastructure. You’ll focus on improving roads, bridges, buildings, dams, storm and sanitary water systems, pipelines, deep and shallow foundations, and apply sustainability practices.
Gain hands-on experience in design and drafting in our Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) laboratory, and train with state-of-the-art electronic survey equipment interfaced with survey software. You’ll be introduced to Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning equipment and point cloud management. You’ll also learn automated structural detailing to meet the demand. A two-week surveying field camp at the end of the second semester is compulsory.
Program highlights
- Two-week surveying field camp gives you work-integrated learning experience
- Networking opportunities within the community, including participation in the optional competitive co-op program
- Industry-experienced faculty
- Hands-on experience in a modernized lab
- Compete against classmates in headframe building competition in second year
- Graduates can seek membership with the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) to become certified as a C.Tech. (Certified Technician)
Program of study for 2025-26 Academic Year
Students are required to successfully complete an online Lab Safety course (in Moodle) when starting their program at Cambrian. This course must be completed prior to entering the labs (as identified in the table below) in the Schools of Skills Training, Engineering Technology and Environmental Studies.
| Semester 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| CIV 1200 | Concrete & Asphalt 1 | 4 |
| CIV 2331 | Construction Technology | 4 |
| ENG 1002 | College Communications | 3 |
| MTH 1050 | Algebra I | 3 |
| SUR 1116 | Surveying I 1 | 5 |
| One General Education course. 2 | 3 | |
| Credits | 22 | |
| Semester 2 | ||
| CAD 1001 | Engineering Graphics | 3 |
| ENG 1754 | Technical Communication | 3 |
| MCH 1205 | Mechanics | 5 |
| MTH 1250 | Algebra II | 3 |
| SUR 1220 | Surveying II 1 | 5 |
| SUR 1232 | Survey Field Methods | 1 |
| One General Education course. 1 | 3 | |
| Credits | 23 | |
| Semester 3 | ||
| CAD 1200 | Computer Aided Drafting II | 2 |
| CIV 2300 | Soil Mechanics I 1 | 4 |
| CIV 2302 | Civil Engineering Applications | 3 |
| CIV 2421 | Basic Hydraulics | 3 |
| MCH 2310 | Strength Of Materials I | 4 |
| MTH 2325 | Technical Math III | 3 |
| ENV 1027 | Sustainable Practices | 3 |
| Credits | 22 | |
| Semester 4 | ||
| CIV 2403 | Structural Behaviour & Detailing | 4 |
| CIV 2404 | Computer Aided Structural Detailing | 3 |
| CIV 2431 | Municipal Planning | 4 |
| CIV 3500 | Special Projects 1 | 4 |
| CIV 3520 | Contracts Law & Specifications | 4 |
| One General Education course. 1 | 3 | |
| Credits | 22 | |
| Total Credits | 89 | |
- 1
Course with Lab Component
- 2
For more information regarding General Education courses, click here.
Admission requirements
For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS): Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or mature student status, including:
- Any grade 12 English (C) or (U)
- Any grade 12 mathematics (C) or (U) (MCT4C is highly recommended)
Additional admission requirements
Recommendations:
- Any grade 12 physics (C), (U)
- Computer competency in relevant software
Program delivery
2025-2026
Fall term start
SEMESTER 1: Fall 2025
SEMESTER 2: Winter 2026
SEMESTER 3: Fall 2026
SEMESTER 4: Winter 2027
Specific program pathways
Graduates of Cambrian's CVTN program may apply to enter directly into Semester 5 of the Civil Engineering Technology (CVTY) program. This is a competitive process.
College or university degree opportunities
If you are a graduate of this program, you may continue your studies at a college or university and you may receive credit(s) for your prior college education. Refer to Cambrian's college and university agreement details for further information.
Employment opportunities
Civil Engineering Technicians usually work in surveying, material testing, drafting, design, construction, estimating, inspection, or sales and service. Graduates are prepared for employment opportunities in:
- Consulting engineering firms
- Government departments
- Municipal engineering departments
- Construction firms
For more information about Civil Engineering as a career, including employment opportunities, visit Ontario Civil Construction Careers Institute.
Please note: Cambrian College strives to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. Please note that the academic curriculum is continually reviewed and revised to ensure that Cambrian's programs and courses remain relevant. The College reserves the right to cancel or make changes to any course or program, fee, procedure, or campus location at any time.
