Suggested Sequence of Study
The following suggested sequence of study is for new full-time students starting the program Fall 2024.
When you’re ready to register for classes, visit Self-Service, Student Planning. This will show you your specific program requirements and how you’re doing so far.
Please note that course offerings and costs can change. See what’s included in the cost calculation.
Legend
- Course has a prerequisite and/or corequisite

Course Descriptions: Show All | Hide All
Semester 1
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
CAD-118 |
Technical Drawing and CAD
This course will introduce hands-on technical drawing and computer-aided drafting and design. Basic drawing tools and computer hardware, software and file management will be discussed. Basic manual drawing and two-dimensional engineering CAD drawing creation will be covered. Various editing techniques in CAD will be examined. Manual drawings will be created; CAD drawings will be created, edited and plotted.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in CSC-110, or EGT-108, or EGT-410. For non-majors, a student with basic computer proficiency can be enrolled with instructor consent.
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|
3 |
$750.00 |
CET-123 |
Constr Drawings and Cont
The course examines typical building and civil construction (highway) plans and introduces the methods of bidding and contracting for various types of building projects.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Non-majors may enroll with instructor consent.
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|
3 |
$765.00 |
CET-160 |
Surveying
Surveying includes the use of surveying instruments and note-keeping for level circuits, topographic surveys, traversing, and construction surveys. Computations to determine errors, distances, azimuths, bearings, angles, areas, volumes, and topics in photogrammetry are included.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in MAT-741 or MAT-121 or instructor consent.
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|
3 |
$715.00 |
CSC-110 |
Introduction to Computers
This is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
Lecture Hours: 48
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
EGT-416 |
Civil Engineering and Architecture
This is a combined lecture and lab course to introduce students to the interdependent fields of civil engineering and architecture; students explore various systems of architecture and civil engineering, learn project planning, and basic building design using specialized building information modeling software.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
MAT-741 |
Technical Mathematics I
This course is designed to provide students with the mathematical skills to succeed in technical programs. Topics covered will include algebraic operations, solving linear equations, ratios, proportions, unit conversions, functions, geometry, and introductory trigonometry.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in MAT-060 or MAT-063. Or equivalent placement score.
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Completing MAT-128 with a minimum grade of C- will fulfill the MAT-741 requirement in Semester 1 and the MAT-748 requirement in Semester 2 |
3 |
$675.00 |
or MAT-121 |
College Algebra
This course provides an intensified study of algebraic techniques and prepares students for future study in mathematics. The central theme is the concept of functions, their properties, graphs and applications. Functions studied include polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-102. Or equivalent placement score.
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|
4 |
$900.00 |
Total Credits: 18
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $4,255.00
Remaining course fees after the Last-Dollar Scholarship is applied: $205.00
Semester 2
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
CET-142 |
PC Concrete, HMA, and Testing
This course covers types, production, and physical properties of asphalt and portland cements, testing and selection of mineral aggregates and concrete mix designs, laboratory testing procedures of mix evaluation and quality control methods for asphalt and portland cement concretes.
Instructor consent if not in program major.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
|
|
3 |
$705.00 |
CET-183 |
Structural Detailing and Civil Drafting
Structural Detailing uses computer-aided drafting (CAD) techniques to prepare drawings for sites and highway structures which include structural steel, reinforced concrete and structural timber. Course introduces the preparation of bar bend details, reinforcing bar lists, and quantity calculations for various types of projects. Topics from the Department of Transportation Highway and Bridge Standard Specifications are also covered.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in CAD-118 or instructor consent.
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|
3 |
$820.00 |
CET-213 |
Route Surveying/Roadway Design
Route surveying covers horizontal and vertical curves (circular, parabolic, and spiral), earthwork, and elements of safety and photogrammetric applications. Fieldwork includes surveying for a grading project and drafting the plan and profile, cross-sections, and calculating and balancing earth volumes. Roadway design incorporates the use of a computer-aided roadway design software package and includes topographic mapping, highway design, and plotting project drawings.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in CET-160.
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
COM-781 |
Written Communication in the Workplace
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
or ENG-105 |
Composition I
Composition I emphasizes fluency, thesis-driven organization, the use of supporting details, and research techniques. Writing is approached as a recursive process that includes prewriting strategies, drafting, revising, and editing. The course helps students shape writing to serve readers' needs and define a sense of purpose in their writing. It also gives students strategies for reading college-level material.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Appropriate placement score or equivalent.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
CON-266 |
Construction Safety
This course includes the 30-Hour Construction Outreach Program as outlined by the OSHA Voluntary Outreach Program. Areas of study include General Safety and Health Provisions, Occupational Health and Environmental Controls (HAZCOM), job site safety, training requirements and an overview of the 1926 Standards (OSHA rules),with emphasis on developing, implementing and maintaining a comprehensive safety and health program.
Lecture Hours: 48
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|
3 |
$844.00 |
MAT-748 |
Technical Math II
The second of a two-course sequence designed to communicate the mathematics principles, concepts and manipulative skills needed for technical programs. Topics covered will include systems of equations, advanced trigonometry, vectors, polynomials, logarithmic and exponential functions.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in MAT-741.
|
Completing MAT-128 with a minimum grade of C- will fulfill the MAT-741 requirement in Semester 1 and the MAT-748 requirement in Semester 2 |
3 |
$675.00 |
or MAT-134 |
Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry
The second course of a two-semester pre-calculus sequence. Topics include trigonometry and applications, vectors, analytic geometry, and polar and parametric equations.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-121. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 18
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $4,394.00
Remaining course fees after the Last-Dollar Scholarship is applied: $344.00
Semester 3
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
CET-223 |
Soils, Testing, and Foundations
Students study the origin, structure, identification, and engineering classification of soils, moisture-density relationships, standard laboratory testing procedures, compressive and shearing strength of soil and bearing capacity of soils and piling.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in MAT-741 or MAT-121.
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|
3 |
$700.00 |
CET-233 |
Fundamentals of GPS and GIS
This course will introduce fundamental processes of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) including technical aspects of GPS satellites, differential corrections and hardware. The specific application for mapping and data collection will be discussed and demonstrated. Fundamental processes and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will also be introduced, including file formats, data base management, spatial analysis and manipulation of data.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in MAT-741 or MAT-121.
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
CET-253 |
Fundamentals of Construction Estimating
Students learn the fundamental principles of construction estimating. The course stresses the organization of the estimate, the procedure of estimating costs in different divisions of the project and determining the critical quantities of materials obtained from a set of plans.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Pre/Co-requisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in MAT-063 or MAT-060. Or equivalent placement score.
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3 |
$695.00 |
EGT-243 |
Statics and Strength of Materials
Statics deals with forces on structural members at rest. Topics include vector and scalar quantities, resultants of coplanar force systems, free-body diagrams, equations of equilibrium, equilibrium in force systems. Strength of materials deals with centroids and moments of inertia, the relationship between stress and strain; shear, moments and deflections in beams; columns; and welded and bolted connections.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in PHY-162 or PHY-183.
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|
3 |
$675.00 |
PHY-183 |
Applied Physics
This course is an introduction to topics of classical physics such as motion, friction, gravitation, vibrational motion, thermodynamics, sound, light and optics.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-504, MAT-741, or MAT-121.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or PHY-162 |
College Physics I
This course covers the fundamental concepts, principles and laws of physics and their applications. It covers kinematics, dynamics, force, linear and rotational motion, fluids, sound, temperature, and heat.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-741 or MAT-102. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
PSY-102 |
Human and Work Relations
Human Relations is the study of self and social behavior. Emphasis is placed on the understanding and application of social science theories and research for the development of effective interpersonal and organizational relationships.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or PSY-111 |
Introduction to Psychology
This course provides an introduction to the study of behavior and mental processes with emphasis in such areas as learning, cognition, motivation, personality, behavioral disorder, therapy, and social influence. An understanding of the impact of both theoretical perspectives and experimental evidence on the formulation of the science of human behavior is also stressed. Psychological theories and principles are utilized to explain and predict behavior.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or SOC-110 |
Introduction to Sociology
This course surveys the basic principles, concepts, and research findings of social life from small groups to societies. The course examines a range of sociological explanations for the various forms of social behaviors and establishes a basis for reflection and further study in the field.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 18
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $4,095.00
Remaining course fees after the Last-Dollar Scholarship is applied: $45.00
Semester 4
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
CET-133 |
Construction Methods and Resources
Methods of and problems related to construction of highways and buildings are covered. Examination is done of the commonly utilized resources - money, materials, equipment, personnel - and their management. Production and handling costs are discussed. Productivity, construction scheduling and construction safety are also covered briefly.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in MAT-741 or MAT-121.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
CET-256 |
Land Surveying
This course covers topics of the U.S. Public Land Survey System, Iowa laws regarding surveying and the preparation and recording of plats. Fieldwork is required to collect boundary measurements and field astronomy for a North azimuth. Calculations include astronomical bearings, traverse adjustment, area and partition of land. Computer drafting is used in the preparation of the plat.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in CET-160.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
CET-262 |
Environmental Technology
Topics covered include hydraulics, hydrology, water quality, water and sewer systems, storm water control, solid and hazardous waste, and air and noise pollution.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in MAT-121 or MAT-741.
|
|
3 |
$690.00 |
CET-285 |
Structural Steel/Reinforced Concrete Design
Structural Steel Design covers the design of beams, columns, bolted and welded connections, base and bearing plates, and tension members. Reinforced Concrete Design covers the strength and behavior of reinforced concrete in the design of such structural members as beams, slabs, walls, columns, and footings.
Lecture Hours: 16
Lab Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): EGT-243
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
CET-296 |
Site Planning and Development
The course will examine procedures for developing site plans for main types of construction projects. Various aspects of the development of a job site will be examined by considering feasibility studies, zoning requirements, site survey and design, required permits and other pertinent information. The general outline of the policies used by local municipalities will be used as examples.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in CAD-118, and EGT-460, and CET-123.
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in CET-213 and CET-262.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
SPC-101 |
Fundamentals of Oral Communication
This course introduces students to the oral communication process and how it affects human interaction There will be an emphasis on developing interpersonal, small group, and public speaking skills. Students will be involved in activities that provide opportunity for the understanding and improvement of their oral communication skills.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 18
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $4,065.00
Remaining course fees after the Last-Dollar Scholarship is applied: $15.00
Cost Calculations
The cost calculations are based on 2024–2025 resident tuition, fees, and any additional course fees. These are for informational purposes only and not a guarantee of what you'll be charged.
- Course Cost: The course cost is calculated by multiplying resident tuition and fees per credit hour by the number of credits for the course, then adding any applicable course fees.
- Total Tuition + Course Fees: This is the total tuition and course fees for all courses during the semester. If there are multiple courses that can fulfill the same requirement, we’ll use the first one listed for the calculation.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for your program, be sure to include the cost of books.
Keep in mind that some programs may have additional expenses, like tools, equipment, supplies, uniforms, exam fees, and background checks. Check with your faculty advisor for more details.