Dept. Chair of Civil Engineering

Civil engineering, at its core, is the art and science of designing, constructing, and maintaining the built environment, but in today's rapidly changing world, it has evolved to encompass new dimensions. Beyond the traditional roles of designing bridges, skyscrapers, dams, harbors, pipelines, energy systems, tunnels, and transportation systems, civil engineering has embraced a transformative approach to address the pressing challenges of our time.

Climate change and sustainability are now integral aspects of the profession. Civil engineers are at the forefront of creating innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change and promote sustainable practices in construction and infrastructure development. They strive to reduce the carbon footprint of projects and adapt to the changing climate, ensuring that our built environment is resilient and environmentally responsible.

Moreover, the digital age has ushered in a new era of civil engineering, where digitization and artificial intelligence have become indispensable tools. With the integration of cutting-edge technologies, civil engineers optimize project planning, streamline construction processes, and enhance project management. Artificial intelligence, in particular, aids in predictive modeling, risk analysis, and real-time monitoring, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and with minimal environmental impact. The combination of these new elements with traditional civil engineering principles results in a holistic approach that not only shapes the world but also ensures it is sustainable, technologically advanced, and ready to face the challenges of the 21st century. In summary, civil engineering is no longer confined to traditional paradigms. It has expanded to incorporate climate change mitigation and sustainability, acknowledging the critical role of engineers in addressing environmental concerns. Additionally, the integration of digitization and artificial intelligence has revolutionized the profession, enhancing efficiency, safety, and environmental stewardship. Civil engineers are now at the vanguard of designing a more sustainable, technologically advanced, and resilient built environment for present and future generations.

The goal of Özyeğin University's civil engineering department is to cultivate civil engineers who can comprehend and manage this broader perspective. The education provided is tailored accordingly, equipping students with a profound understanding of the fundamental principles across all major areas of civil engineering, including Structures, Geotechnics, Hydraulics, Transportation, Construction Materials, and Construction Management. Moreover, students receive advanced coursework in one of two specialized areas, emphasizing the modern definition of civil engineering.

These two specialized areas are defined as follows:

1. Climate Change and Sustainability,
2. Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Civil Engineering.

Furthermore, Özyeğin University's Civil Engineering Department boasts a dedicated team of full-time faculty members, each of whom possesses a rich academic background and significant experience in both the academic and industrial sectors. They are distinguished figures in their respective fields, actively contributing to the realization of the department's objectives.

The student profile nurtured within this department is inherently adaptable to the multidisciplinary and multifaceted nature of civil engineering. Students not only gain a solid technical foundation but also develop essential skills in communication, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking, all reinforced by the university's environment and the education provided. This comprehensive approach ensures that our graduates are not only well-versed in traditional civil engineering practices but are also well-prepared to address the challenges of climate change, sustainability, and the transformative influence of digitization and artificial intelligence in the field. As a result, they are well-equipped to provide fresh perspectives and valuable contributions to either industry or academia.