Civil Engineering Technology at University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians
63 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
64
Optimistic
63
Base Case
58
Pessimistic
Earnings $62,552/yr (3% vs median)
AI Risk High (53% exposed)
Job Market Small (6,300 openings/yr)
ROI 22.6x earnings multiple (7.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #2 of 12 Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

This program at UNC Charlotte places you squarely in a specialized, yet high-demand, corner of the engineering world. Your earning potential benefits significantly from Charlotte's sustained growth, driving a constant need for infrastructure development, from new roads and bridges to commercial and residential complexes. This isn't a theoretical engineering degree; it's intensely practical, equipping you for hands-on roles that bridge the gap between design and execution. You'll be crucial in translating engineering plans into reality, working with CAD software, surveying equipment, and materials testing, often on project sites. Primary employers include regional construction firms, municipal public works departments, and state transportation agencies, all deeply embedded in the local economy. While automation is a factor in many fields, the on-site, practical nature of many technician roles requires direct supervision and problem-solving that provides a degree of resilience. To truly stand out, prioritize securing internships; direct experience with local development projects will be your most valuable asset.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Civil Engineering Technology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $673K $651K $578K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 23.3x 22.6x 20.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.7x 7.4x 6.6x
Probability of Field Employment 55% 48% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 64 63 58

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$28,856
Out-of-state: $87,504 (7.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$58,980
-104% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,812
4.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$78,553
26% growth from Year 1

About University of North Carolina at Charlotte

With 80% of applicants admitted, University of North Carolina at Charlotte prioritizes broad access, with 23,567 students enrolled in Charlotte, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at University of North Carolina at Charlotte →

Top Career Paths

Civil engineering technologists and technicians $64,200/yr
Traffic technicians $58,480/yr
View all 2 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Civil Engineering Technology at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 63/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Civil Engineering Technology at University of North Carolina at Charlotte?
At 63/100, University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Civil Engineering Technology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Civil Engineering Technology at University of North Carolina at Charlotte?
The 53% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is University of North Carolina at Charlotte one of the best schools for Civil Engineering Technology?
Among 12 Civil Engineering Technology programs, University of North Carolina at Charlotte's #2 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →