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7. Basic understanding of facility energy conservation techniques and environmental regulatory concepts. (Encompassed in pillars: 4) 8. At least one course that extends knowledge in any of the classical engineering disciplines. Course(s) can be in any technical area such as structural engineering, pavement design, environmental engineering, soils analysis or design, hydraulics, hydrology, mechanical engineering or electrical engineering. (Encompassed in pillars: 4) 9. Basic understanding of data processing and computer techniques for application to engineering problems. (Encompassed in pillars: 1, 4) 10. Working knowledge of and ability to apply business and financial accounting principles. (Encompassed in pillars: 1, 3) 11. Proficiency in oral and written communications and ability to identify, research, and recommend alternatives to various engineering problems for presentation to both technical and non-technical managers. (Encompassed in pillars: 1, 4) 12. If a thesis or major report is required for the degree, the topic selected must be applicable to public works engineering problems found in the Navy facilities business or extends knowledge in a particular technical engineering area. (Encompassed in pillars: 4) Note: The requirements for the public works engineering option should be satisfied by courses that emphasize the technical and administrative aspects of public works.

Further basis for the proposed curriculum is from an American Public Works Association (APWA) study which concluded that most of the keys to success of a public works official has little to do with technical issues and are more focused on leadership, management, and administrative skills 3.

The present University of Florida’s Public Works Management curriculum offers a very flexible curriculum, requiring only two core courses. Although a certain amount of flexibility is needed to allow professionals to develop areas of interest, and attract students who prefer the flexibility, there should be a minimum required core (courses) that would most benefit the profession of Public Works Management. Our proposed curriculum will be broken into the four educational pillars with the required classes, the recommended classes, and the optional classes. You will see several of the courses falling under various pillars as some of the courses cover a wide range of topics.

Taking courses from several departments will be very beneficial to the student. Since a manager often deals with problems outside of their department and must interact with other professionals, learning and interacting with the students from other departments on campus can be very beneficial. The wider one’s perspective, the better one is able to understand and organize abstract concepts.

The following courses being taught at the University of Florida provide a basis from which to satisfy the “Four Pillars of Responsibility” inherent in the duties of the Public Works Manager. A typical Master’s of Engineering degree requires 32 semester hours. The proposed curriculum is divided into the core courses, recommended courses, and electives. Our curriculum proposes 21 credit hours of core courses, allowing the prospective public works manager flexibility in scheduling and interest in the fulfillment of the remaining credit hours.

“Proceedings of the 2003 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2003, American Society for Engineering Education”

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Najafi, F. (2003, June), Graduate Study In Public Works Engineering And Public Works Management Paper presented at 2003 Annual Conference, Nashville, Tennessee. 10.18260/1-2--11558