<p>Looking at this school's description, I still don't exactly understand the difference between civil engineering and civil engineering technology.</p>
<p>What limitations should I be aware of if I were to go into this program?</p>
<p>"Engineering technology" programs are legally and professionally distinct from "engineering" programs. In general, people with "technology" degrees act as assistants to those with "engineering" degrees, in the same way that nurses assist doctors, or paralegals assist lawyers.</p>
<p>In civil engineering firms, the people with the "engineering" degrees would typically make design decisions, meet with clients and government agencies, manage budgets, and have overall responsibility for projects. The people with the "technology" degrees would typically draft blueprints, conduct field tests or surveys, perform inspections at construction sites, deal with subcontractors, etc. </p>
<p>"Technology" undergraduate programs may be either 2 or 4 years, focus on applied practical knowledge, and are rarely followed by graduate degrees. "Engineering" programs are always 4 years, include much more theoretical math and basic science, and are commonly followed by graduate degrees.</p>
<p>You would be much more likely to rise to a senior management position with an "engineering" degree than with a "technology" degree. However, an experienced engineering technician can earn a good salary too, especially if he can work overtime. </p>
<p>In some (not all) states, a "technology" degree can be used to qualify for the Professional Engineer (PE) licensing exam. If you can qualify as a PE, then you can legally practice as a civil engineer, even without an "engineering" degree. In practice, however, "technology" degrees are not a common route to the PE license, even in states where this is legal.</p>