Overview of Surveying Engineering
Surveying engineering is an interdisciplinary field of engineering that deals with the use of mathematics, technology, and design to accurately measure and map land for various civil engineering projects. This includes boundary surveys, road construction projects, building sites, dams, bridges, and pipelines. Surveyors must be proficient in mathematics, engineering and science, as well as possess critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Career Opportunities Associated With Surveying Engineering
There are a variety of career opportunities available in the field of Surveying Engineering. These include surveyors who collect field data, survey technologists who analyze and plot data, mapping scientists who solve complex mapping problems, and engineers who work to apply surveying technology to civil projects. The surveying field is a rapidly changing and constantly growing profession that requires professionals to be knowledgeable in a wide array of topics.
Internship or Co-op Opportunities Related to Surveying Engineering
Several internship and co-op opportunities exist for students interested in Surveying Engineering. Some examples include positions with private surveying companies, governmental organizations, and engineering companies. Internships with these organizations can provide a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in surveying, leading to successful careers in the field.
Specialized Tracks or Concentrations Within Surveying Engineering
Surveying Engineering can encompass many specialty tracks, depending on the focus of the program. These specialty tracks can range from Cartography and Photo Interpretation to Geospatial Data Analysis and Civil Infrastructure Design. Many surveying engineering programs also offer tracks in Land Development and GIS, as well as Hydrographic Surveying and Geomatics.
How Surveying Engineering Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education
Surveying Engineering courses typically include a great deal of advanced mathematics, which prepares students for higher-level studies in mathematics. Additionally, many surveying engineering degrees include courses on civil engineering topics, such as hydrology and water resources, as well as land development and urban planning. These courses equip students with the knowledge they need to pursue graduate-level degrees in civil engineering.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Surveying Engineering
Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important in the surveying field, as robotics and drones make it easier to measure and map land with improved accuracy. This technology allows surveyors to gather data faster and more accurately, saving time and money. Additionally, AI-enabled software can help surveyors identify patterns to better understand the data gathered.
The Career Outlook for Surveying Engineering
The career outlook for Surveying Engineering is positive, as the demand for surveyors is expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate over the next decade. As global infrastructure continues to improve and expand, surveying engineers will be needed to help measure and map these changes in the environment. Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence and robotics will open up new opportunities for surveyors to better serve their clients.
Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Surveying Engineering:
- Ferris State University, Salary: $60,062
- Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Salary: $52,230
- The Pennsylvania State University, Salary: $52,230
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus, Salary: $52,230
For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Surveying Engineering.

