The mission of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department is to provide high-quality, state-of-the-art educational and research programs. The Department strives for excellence in its academic programs, its research endeavours, and its university, community and professional service activities. The program is designed to prepare graduates for success in their immediate, as well as long-term, professional careers as practitioners, for obtaining a professional license, and for pursuing advanced studies and lifelong learning.

Civil and environmental engineers apply the principles and techniques of engineering to the analysis, design, and integration of complex infrastructure and environmental systems. They have traditionally been leaders in many aspects of urban development, and aid in addressing uniquely urban issues associated with providing critical services to residents. We respond to crises like ageing infrastructure, and how to sustain critical services without undue pressure on the environment at large. The civil and environmental engineer is trained to be a leader in such diverse areas as:

the design and control of structural systems, including tall buildings, bridges and transportation systems necessary for urban development and redevelopment, demolition, commerce and industry;

water resources planning and management;

fate, transport, and remediation of contaminants in water, soil resources;

design of collection and treatment systems for sanitary sewage and stormwater management;

integrated waste management;

drinking water treatment and distribution systems;

construction engineering and management; and

the integration and management of public works projects designed to improve equity and availability in municipal services.