Civil engineering encompasses a diversity of specialty subdisciplines such as structural, water resources, environmental, construction, transportation and geotechnical engineering. Many civil engineers are involved in major projects that require them to conceptualize and design within complex constraints. Key skills for a successful civil engineer include communication (both written and oral); perceiving, visualizing, reasoning and problem solving; managing oneself, other people, time and things; working with other people; and using mathematics and science in design and problem solving. Engineering Practice provides a perspective and
an exposure to modern civil engineering practice. Students work in small groups on a (contrived) major project in which a broad range of issues, parameters and constraints must be considered. The importance of civil engineering drawings, and written communication are also covered throughout the course. A physical/
virtual field trip to a construction site is arranged to give students an understanding of practical issues in construction. Students are required to design, build and test a structure to observe structural behavior.