How to become a civil engineer
Plan, design and test the construction of private and public buildings and facilities.
Pathways to this career
Civil engineers must complete an undergraduate engineering degree, with a major in civil engineering.
Eager to go further? Develop your career with a Masters qualification and compete for higher level management roles.
You must have a Professional Engineer’s License to work independently as a civil engineer in most states. Prerequisites for the application process include completion of a bachelor’s degree in engineering, plus a minimum 4 years of industry work experience.
What does a civil engineer do?
Civil engineering professionals are responsible for many tasks that pertain to the infrastructure of a locality or country. They plan and design the construction and development of dams, roadways, expansion bridges, sewage and water systems, airports and numerous other important structures. There are many things that civil engineering professionals must consider such as the durability of materials for the project as well as the estimated cost of seeing the project to fruition.
Duties and tasks
Arrange for timely delivery of materials needed for the project.
Coordinate project construction.
Create a complete and accurate estimate of project costs.
Create designs and complex plans for projects.
Design all projects with logistics and aesthetics in mind.
Determine the best materials and methods for the individual project.
Ensure structural design is safe and up to code.
Ensure that quality standards and specifications are met.
Monitor any and all project changes and update the cost estimation.
Obtain and have soil and rock analysed prior to project development.
Oversee all labourer's at the job site.
Supervise and coordinate construction.
Understand and ensure all codes and regulations are implemented.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Agricultural engineer
Pipeline engineer
Structural engineer
Discover related degrees
UndergraduateSCU-CCE-DIP
Move up the ladder to supervision in civil construction
Take your trade to the next level. Upskill in specialisations including CAD, site safety, and planning. Graduate and be ready for roles including estimator and safety officer. Or continue your studies in civil engineering with degree level study.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Business
UndergraduateSCU-EBU-DEG
Build. Lead. Innovate.
A double degree that combines engineering expertise with business acumen. You’ll work on technical, analytical, and leadership skills. Design sustainable solutions. Lead innovation across industries. Graduate as an engineer with business smarts.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 5 years full time or part time equivalent
Associate Degree in Engineering
UndergraduateADU-ADE-ADG
Build a strong foundation in engineering to get you started
Study engineering principles – based on maths, physics, and design. You’ll explore civil, mechanical, electrical, and mechatronics. Gain experience with industry software. Graduate work-ready or choose further study to become a fully qualified engineer.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
UndergraduateSCU-ENS-DEG
Become a professional and accredited engineer
This engineering degree unpacks the maths and science engineers need to solve complex engineering problems. Choose to specialise in civil or mechanical engineering. 60 days of industry placement develops your professional conduct and judgement.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
Discover related subjects
UndergraduateTUA-ARC102
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 16 Feb 2026, 1 Jun 2026, 14 Sep 2026
UndergraduateCUR-CME425
- Study method
- 100% online
- Start dates
- Starts 1 Dec 2025, 1 Jun 2026
UndergraduateTAS-JEE157
- Study method
- 100% online
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026
Fundamentals of Track Engineering
UndergraduateTAS-JEE151
- Study method
- 100% online
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026
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