Online Civil Engineering Technician Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Due to the hands-on nature of the job, online programs for civil engineering technicians are very rare. Typically, an associate degree is the most common type of degree for entry into the profession, and students may find hybrid programs which may offer some required courses online.

How to Choose an Online College for Civil Engineering Technicians

Program Availability and Format

Civil engineering technician programs are rarely available in an online format. Most lessons in this hands-on discipline are presented through traditional classroom instruction, teaching students practical skills in surveying and drafting. Normally, civil engineering technician programs are available only at the associate's degree level. Online programs may be available from a few institutions, though hybrid programs are slightly more common.

Common Courses

Courses in a civil engineering technician program vary among subjects in electrical and mechanical engineering, highway and road construction, land surveying and building techniques. Drafting and computer-aided design are often integral to a civil engineer technician program, requiring students to use on-campus computer labs and CAD software. Some schools may offer general education and introductory courses online.

Career Outlook and Salary Information

Civil engineer technicians often enter the field after earning an associate degree, though formal education may not always be necessary. PayScale.com reported in May 2010 that entry-level civil engineering technicians earned between $29,203 - $40,726 during the first year. Technicians with more than five years of experience increased their salary by as much as 33%. Those with an associate degree showed salaries equivalent to an experienced technician.

Online Program Options for Civil Engineering

Associate of Science for Civil Engineering Technicians

An associate degree program for civil engineering technicians is rarely offered as a fully-online option. Students may complete some coursework online, though most schools require hands-on lab work and practice. Studies may also allow students to specialize in areas such as construction management or topical surveying.
A few colleges and universities offer the option of earning an associate degree in civil engineering technology that is fully transferable to a program in civil engineering. Courses in the first two years of the program teach the theory and practical skills necessary to lay the groundwork for construction projects. Graduates are awarded an associate degree and may find entry-level jobs or continue to a bachelor's degree completion program.