What does Civil Engineering, in general, talk about?

Civil Engineering is a foundational branch of engineering concerned with the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment. This includes essential infrastructure such as buildings, roads, bridges, tunnels, water supply systems, sanitation networks, and dams.

At Debre Berhan University, a proud Applied Science University, our Civil Engineering program goes beyond theoretical instruction. It is built on a strong foundation of applied, hands-on learning that prepares students to solve real-world engineering challenges. Through field-based instruction, laboratory experimentation, and collaborative design-build projects, students gain experience in addressing infrastructure needs that are relevant to their communities and the nation.

We work closely with industry partners, public institutions, and engineering firms, enabling students to gain exposure to actual project environments, tools, and expectations. From field surveys to lab simulations, from construction sites to design offices, the program emphasizes learning by doing—the true hallmark of applied universities.

Department Establishment Date

The Department of Civil Engineering was established in 2009 G.C., in response to Ethiopia’s rapidly growing demand for infrastructure development and professional engineers who are capable of implementing practical and sustainable solutions. From its inception, the department has focused on practice-driven education and community-oriented innovation.

 Current Teaching and Technical Staff Profile

On Duty

• 3 Assistant Professors (PhD holders)
• 2 Assistant Professors (MSc. holders)
• 45 Lecturers
• 4 Technical Assistants

On Study Leave

• 5 PhD candidates specializing in Structural, Geotechnical, Water Resources, and Highway Engineering

Message from the Head of Department

Dear Students, Faculty, and Valued Stakeholders,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Department of Civil Engineering at Debre Berhan University—an institution committed to applied sciences and community transformation.

As a department in an applied university, our core commitment is to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world practice. Our teaching is project-based, lab-centered, and community-linked, ensuring that students graduate with the confidence and skills to contribute immediately in the field.

Civil Engineering is more than design and construction—it is a profession of impact. Whether we are improving access to clean water, building safe roads, or strengthening disaster resilience, we believe our students can lead the future of infrastructure development in Ethiopia and beyond.

We integrate state-of-the-art tools and methods such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geotechnical Investigation Equipment, Surveying Instruments, Hydraulic Labs, and Transportation Simulation Software. Our curriculum also includes capstone projects, industry placements, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration—all fundamental pillars of applied engineering education.

Our graduates are not just degree holders; they are problem-solvers, innovators, and practitioners ready to serve in both public and private sectors.

Thank you for your trust, your collaboration, and your belief in applied learning. Together, let us build a smarter, stronger, and more sustainable future—one structure at a time.