To complete your degree at any university, you will need to complete the basic coursework demanded by the school. These courses traditionally include math, literature, history and science. Though the bulk of your classes in your first two years may seem unrelated to your civil engineering degree, it's necessary to meet the standards of your university and build a high level of broad knowledge before plunging into major-specific work.
Civil engineers combine the work of mathematicians and artists. Expect to take several courses on the basics of art and design, which will then lead you into studying the design of bridges, skyscrapers and other structures. Design courses include studying existing structures and understanding the fundamental strengths and weaknesses of concrete, metals and other building materials. Engineering design courses also consider the physics behind the design.
Civil engineers need a strong grasp of math and physics if they want to design and build structurally sound bridges, buildings and roads. Expect to spend time in geometry, algebra and physics courses, with advanced coursework in engineering economics, fundamentals of load bearing, surveying and designing to scale. Engineering is not the best career choice for those who are intimidated by complex calculations or a high-stress course load.
In addition to the hard-skills courses that will teach you to design, plan and build complex structures, you will need a strong foundation in what it means to be a civil engineer. You will take courses on historic engineering projects, current struggles faced by engineers, understanding and interpreting disasters caused by engineering failures, the environmental impact of design and creating safe structures. The role of the civil engineer in society is an important part of your overall coursework.