College Catalog

This curriculum is designed to equip graduates to face the challenge of modern surveying practice. The major also provides an overview of the surveying field and prepares students for advanced study and for the Surveying Fundamentals exam, which is the first step in registering as a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS). The major emphasizes applications-based studies involving the analysis of surveying projects. Modern approaches to the analysis of highways, structures, hydraulic systems, and site development are emphasized. This technical instruction with modern instrumentation, hardware, and software is reinforced with foundation courses emphasizing written and oral communication and physical sciences. All of the instruction is presented with problem solving in mind and strong emphasis on applications and critical thinking.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can seek employment performing tasks such as control, boundary, topographical, and utility surveys as well as preparing geographic information systems. Employers that may hire graduates may include surveying firms, PennDOT, DEP, engineering consulting firms, and utility companies. Students will be permitted to take the examinations to become a licensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Recommended High School Subjects

A strong preparation in math, science, and computer technology is recommended but not required. Drafting and CAD experience would also be helpful.

Remediation Strategies

Students whose placement test results indicate a need for MTH005 or below are not permitted to take Civil/Surveying (CET) courses until MTH005 has been successfully completed. Students testing into MTH006 are permitted to take first semester Civil/Surveying courses. Students must take MTH180 in their second semester; otherwise, students need instructor permission to continue into a second semester Civil/Surveying courses. Students testing deficient in English and/or reading are required to remediate these areas during their first semester. Students testing deficient in three areas (mathematics, English, reading) are not permitted to take Civil/Surveying courses until remediation has been completed in all three areas.

Transfer Procedures

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals

A graduate of this major should be able to:

• apply the knowledge, techniques, skills, and modern tools of surveying technology to narrowly defined surveying technology activities.
• apply a knowledge of mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to surveying technology problems that require limited application of principles but extensive practical knowledge.
• conduct standard tests and measurements, and conduct, analyze, and interpret experiments.
• function effectively as a member of a technical team.
• identify, analyze, and solve narrowly defined surveying technology problems.
• develop an ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in both technical and non-technical environments, as well as an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature.
• understand the need for and engage in self-directed, continuing professional development.
• demonstrate an understanding of and a commitment to professional and ethical responsibilities, including a respect for diversity.
• exhibit a commitment to quality, timeliness, and continuous improvement.

Curriculum

Eligible students may substitute MTH 240/242 for MTH 180/182. Students taking the MTH 240/242 option may substitute PHS 201/201 for PHS 115/125.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.