The Surveying Engineering major provides a basic undergraduate education required for private and public service in the profession of surveying. Particular emphasis is placed on fundamental surveying principles required in all areas of surveying. Instruction is provided in the main divisions of surveying, including land surveying, mapping, photogrammetry, data analysis and adjustment, geodesy and map projection coordinate systems, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and land development. Students study various data collection techniques using surveying tools including total stations, levels, softcopy photogrammetry, satellite imagery, and the global positioning system (GPS). They also study legal principles related to land surveying, professional ethics, applications for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in surveying, and data management techniques. Through the use of elective courses, students can specialize in the areas of GIS, photogrammetry, remote sensing, land surveying, and geodesy. Through the use of projects and capstone courses students will design measurement systems, alignments, land information systems, and land development.

Specific educational objectives of the program are designed so that the graduate will have:

• A solid understanding of the basic principles of mathematics, science, and engineering and the technical competency to use the techniques, skills and modern surveying tools for practice in surveying engineering as well as for graduate education.
• An understanding of the principles in surveying engineering and understanding of professional practice and ethical issues including the ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
• The ability to work in a team and develop problem-solving skills that include oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate technical and professional information.
• An awareness of organizations and activities that allow them to develop leadership skills, gain exposure to the surveying profession, and gain a broad understanding of contemporary societal issues.
• A recognition of the need for continued learning.

For the B. S. degree a minimum of 128 credits is required. The baccalaureate program in Surveying is accredited by the Applied Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc., 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012, telephone: 410-347-7700, or www.abet.org. The Surveying program was renamed to Surveying Engineering effective Fall 2004. Surveying Engineering will be reviewed for accreditation as Surveying Engineering during Fall 2005.