’Necessity is the mother of invention’ is a phrase we’ve all heard at one time or another no doubt. As humans, we’re hard-wired to think about the problems we face in life and try and come up with solutions to them, solutions which facilitate us and others around us. The invention of the wheel is a classic example.

Engineering is a profession that applies the principles of math and science to practical problems. In the U.S., an undergraduate engineering degree usually takes four years and can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars. Graduate programs can take anywhere between two to six years and add more to the cost of an undergraduate degree. Luckily, many scholarship programs are available to help students offset those costs.

Civil engineers work with large structures such as buildings, bridges, and dams. As a civil engineering student, internships will provide valuable industry connections and a chance to try out different areas of the work. This can help you map out a future career path and decide whether to pursue a graduate program in a specific field of study. Continue reading below for our list of the 10 best civil engineering internships in the U.S.