Civil 3D is a 3D civil engineering modeling application owned by Autodesk. It is used by Civil Engineers, Surveyors, Designers, and other AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) professionals. This application makes it easy to produce designs and documentation for a variety of different projects, streamlining and improving workflow, improving accuracy, and reducing errors. It also integrates easily with other Autodesk applications such as Revit and AutoCAD. This article contains more information about what Civil 3D is used for and reasons why you might want to learn this application. It also provides an in-depth look at the learning process and some of the best ways that you can become fluent in Civil 3D.
Civil 3D is an Autodesk modeling application that is used to design and document civil engineering projects. It is used for many different types of civil infrastructure projects including land development, rail projects, bridges, water systems, and roads and highways. Civil 3D uses a 3D model-based environment, and it supports Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows. It has specific tools for many different civil engineering features including tools for grading, parcel layout, surfaces, and corridor design. Its automated features let designers streamline many time-consuming tasks.
Civil 3D also facilitates collaboration among team members. This application integrates data from a variety of sources, such as survey data and GIS data. It can also exchange information with other Autodesk applications, like AutoCAD and Revit. In addition, it allows team members to work simultaneously on the same project and make real-time updates. With Civil 3D, team members can maintain consistency for data and processes, and respond more quickly to any project changes.
Civil 3D was first developed as an add-on for AutoCAD. AutoCAD is an industry-standard application that is used for computer-aided drafting (CAD). It is widely used by Architects, Engineers, Product Designers, and Interior Designers. Civil 3D was developed to address the need for design software that would address the specific needs of Civil Engineers. Over time it has been continually improved and updated and has become a widely-used tool within this field.
Fluency in Civil 3D is a fundamental skill required for many professional roles in the field of civil engineering. By learning to use this application, you’ll gain a sought-after job skill that can help you gain access to a lucrative and stable career. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a federal agency that collects and analyzes U.S. labor market information. It predicts strong future job growth in the field of civil engineering. Between 2023 and 2033, it projects that jobs will grow by 6 percent, which is faster than the average U.S. job growth rate of 4 percent. The agency explains, “With continued investment in U.S. infrastructure, civil engineers will be needed to manage projects that meet society's need for upgrading bridges, roads, water systems, buildings, and other structures.” In addition, it says, “Civil engineers also will be needed to oversee renewable-energy projects, such as construction of wind farms and solar arrays, as these projects gain approval.” The median pay for a Civil Engineer is almost $96,000 per year, according to BLS.
Many people who work in civil engineering also report that this is an enjoyable and fulfilling profession. Civil engineering projects take place within a wide range of different industries including transportation, construction, and energy. That means that when you work in civil engineering, you may get to work on many different types of projects such as roads, airports, dams, pipelines, water systems, tunnels, and bridges. For a blog post on the Institution of Civil Engineers website titled, “7 Top Reasons Why Civil Engineering Is the Best Career,” the author spoke to a number of people who work in this field and found that the diversity of projects they get to participate in is one of the things that many people enjoy about it. One person commented, “There’s so much variety,” and another said, “You get to work with a ton of new people on new tasks every day!”
If you already work in civil engineering, Civil 3D can help you work more efficiently and accurately. Its many tools and automated features can streamline your workflow and save you a lot of time. You’ll be able to create and revise designs more quickly, and you will also spend less time on documentation. The application’s 3D models also make it easy to visualize projects and compare different design options. Finally, Civil 3D contains many project management tools that can help you manage your projects and meet your deadlines more easily.
Civil 3D is used to design and document civil engineering projects. It is often used by Civil Engineers. Civil Engineers design, construct, and maintain a variety of infrastructure projects such as roads, tunnels, bridges, and water and sewer systems. They may work in both offices and construction sites. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)--a federal agency that gathers and analyzes U.S. labor market statistics--predicts that over the next ten years jobs in this field will grow by 6 percent, which is faster than average, with almost 23,000 job openings projected each year on average. It says, “Civil engineers will be needed to manage projects that meet society's need for upgrading bridges, roads, water systems, buildings, and other structures.” In addition, it states, “Civil engineers also will be needed to oversee renewable-energy projects, such as construction of wind farms and solar arrays, as these projects gain approval.” The median pay for a Civil Engineer is $95,000 according to BLS.
Architects also use this application, often in collaboration with Civil Engineers. Architects design buildings and other structures, and oversee their construction. BLS anticipates that between 2023 and 2033, there will be 8 percent job growth in this field, with about 8,500 job openings each year. The agency explains, “Architects are expected to be needed to make plans and designs, particularly in sustainable design, for the construction and renovation of homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and other structures.” In addition, it notes, “Improved building information modeling (BIM) software and measuring technology are expected to allow architects to take on activities once performed by other workers, such as architectural and civil drafters, interior designers, and engineers.” It reports that the median pay for an Architect is $93,000.
Another role where Civil 3D may be used is that of Surveyor. Surveyors use specialized equipment to measure land and property boundaries. They create maps and reports that are used for construction, real estate transactions, or legal purposes. Fieldwork and travel are often required. Job growth in this field is expected to be 6 percent over the next ten years, according to BLS. It says, “Surveyors will continue to be needed to certify boundary lines and review sites for construction. Employment demand also will be tied to projects such as road repair and mining activities, although the use of drones and other technologies may limit growth somewhat by increasing worker productivity.” The median pay for a Surveyor is $68,000, as reported by BLS.
Drafters also use Civil 3D. Drafters specialize in using computer software such as Civil 3D. They take designs that have been created by Engineers, Architects, and other design professionals, and use this software to create technical drawings and plans. Many Drafters specialize in a specific field such as civil engineering, mechanical drafting, or architectural design. BLS reports that the majority of drafting jobs in the United States are for Architectural and Civil Drafters. The next most common type of drafting job is mechanical drafting, followed by electrical and electronics drafting. While Drafters use applications like Civil 3D, BLS also cautions that jobs in this field may decrease in the next ten years as a result of the use of these applications. It explains, “Expected employment decreases will be driven by the use of computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) technologies. These technologies increase drafter productivity and allow engineers and architects to perform many tasks that used to be done by drafters.” The median pay for a drafter is $62,000, according to BLS.
When it comes to learning Civil 3D, you’ll find four main types of classes: in-person, live online (virtual), on-demand, and self-paced. Each format has both advantages and disadvantages. To decide which option is best for you, it can be helpful to think about your individual learning style and needs. For instance, do you learn better with a lot of one-on-one interaction, or do you prefer to work through things by yourself? Do you have the ability to attend a regularly scheduled live class, or do you need more flexibility? And, what are your learning goals? Do you simply need a basic understanding of Civil 3D, or do you want to master this application? By considering all of these factors, you can make a better-educated decision about the type of course to take.
An in-person class is the traditional way to learn and takes place face-to-face inside a classroom space that is dedicated to learning. An instructor teaches, answers questions, and provides feedback. You learn as part of a group of students who are also present in the classroom with you, and you’ll have the opportunity to interact and network with those students. Some students prefer in-person instruction because they find it more engaging and feel like it’s an easier way to learn new skills. Instructors also say that the in-person format can make it easier to understand when students need additional help. However, to learn in person you have to commute to a classroom. Depending on where you live, this can be stressful, inconvenient, or time-consuming. In addition, with in-person learning, you’re limited to classes that you can travel to.
Live online classes are a popular alternative to in-person ones because they don’t require a commute. They are designed to be very similar to in-person learning, with real-time interaction, and the ability to ask questions and get feedback. They also include frequent opportunities to interact with classmates. The big difference is that they take place remotely via Zoom or a similar platform. Students attend a live online class by logging in on their computers. Because this format allows you to attend from any location, you’re likely to find that you have access to more course options. You may also find a more diverse group of classmates. A downside to live online learning is that you’ll need to supply your own equipment. In addition, this format sometimes comes with technical issues to solve such as internet connection problems or software setup issues.
If you don’t want to be tied to attending class at a specific time every week, an asynchronous learning option may be a better fit for you. Asynchronous learning is not live. Instead, when you enroll you’ll be given access to a pre-recorded set of lessons and exercises, and you can work through them at your own pace. This format not only allows you to set your own learning schedule, but allows you to learn at a pace that works best for you. For instance, you can pause, rewind, or even fast-forward the content. An on-demand class is one asynchronous learning option and is typically the cheapest. With an on-demand class, you’ll get access to the material, but instructor feedback is usually minimal.
If you want the freedom of an asynchronous class, but you’d prefer more instructor involvement, another option is a self-paced class. Like on-demand classes, self-paced classes are pre-recorded and allow you to progress through the material at your own pace. However, many self-paced classes include regular instructor advice and feedback on your work. In addition, you’ll typically interact with classmates, such as through online discussion forums. This interaction can help deepen your understanding of the material, and classmates can be a valuable resource both while you are learning, and in the future. A downside to self-paced learning is that because you get so much control over your learning, you may need to make more of an effort to stay motivated and on track.
Civil 3D is a technical application with a number of complex tools to master, and while it can be mastered by almost anyone, many people find it relatively difficult to learn. If you take a class intended for beginners, there probably won’t be any prerequisites, however, learning this application is likely to be easier if you have some civil engineering or design knowledge. Civil 3D is designed for civil engineering projects, which means that in order to use it, you’ll need to have an understanding of basic civil engineering concepts like infrastructure design, surfaces, and surveying. You may find the learning process easier if you already know how to use AutoCAD. Civil 3D and AutoCAD are both computer-aided drafting (CAD) applications offered by Autodesk, and they have many similarities in their user interface and the tools offered.
A background in design can also be helpful when you’re learning Civil 3D. One design concept that new students often find challenging is 3D modeling. While 2D modeling involves creating flat representations, 3D modeling adds a third dimension and requires different spatial reasoning skills in addition to an understanding of Civil 3D’s 3D modeling tools. The unique combination of artistic and technical skills required for 3D modeling can be challenging at first. If you’re already familiar with AutoCAD, you may have some experience with 3D modeling, however, AutoCAD is primarily used for 2D modeling.
If you want to learn Civil 3D, you should plan to devote as much time as you can to practice. Practice is an important part of mastering anything new, including Civil 3D. It benefits you in many ways, helping you apply your new knowledge, strengthening your conceptual understanding, and building muscle memory for the various tasks that you’ll complete in Civil 3D. Practice also helps you identify areas where you need to improve. The more you practice, the more easily you’re likely to learn to use Civil 3D.
There are also costs associated with learning Civil 3D. This is an Autodesk application. You can get a free 30-day trial, and after that, the application is available by subscription. Autodesk offers both monthly and yearly subscription plans. It also offers a pay-as-you-go plan called Flex, where you can buy tokens that can be used to access Civil 3D for 24 hours at a time. Students and educators can get free access to Civil 3D which is valid for a year and is renewable if they remain eligible. In addition to the cost of the application, there is the cost associated with taking a Civil 3D class. Class prices vary widely, from several hundred dollars for a basic course, to several thousand for a comprehensive program. In many cases, you’ll receive free access to Civil 3D while you are taking a class.
If you want to learn Civil 3D, the Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) is a great place to find a variety of training options. This school is specifically focused on providing comprehensive training options for professionals in the AEC (architecture, engineering, construction) industry. It is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), and its classes are approved by Autodesk, Adobe, Trimble, and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for eLearning. VDCI’s online, self-paced classes allow you to create a personalized learning schedule that fits your needs. You’ll also be able to get advice and feedback on your submissions and projects and interact with peers in discussion forums.
The Civil 3D Certificate Program is a comprehensive course that takes seven months to complete. This program will equip you with skills in civil engineering, site development, and infrastructure planning. Covered topics include working on digital terrain models, designing roadways and utility networks, and applying civil engineering principles to real-world scenarios. You’ll also learn how to collaborate on large-scale civil projects using FTP, MILCON, and government databases. The program includes courses in both Civil 3D and AutoCAD. In addition, you’ll take elective courses in AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp Pro, and work on a capstone project. The Civil 3D Certificate Program comes with six live one-on-one mentoring sessions.
VDCI also offers a Civil 3D Certification Training Bundle which will help you prepare for the Autodesk Civil 3D certification exam. This multi-week course covers beginner through intermediate concepts. You’ll take three Civil 3D classes where you’ll learn to use this application for surveying and mapping, transportation design, and land development. You’ll also get a voucher for the Civil 3D exam, and you’ll get a free exam retake if you need it. To take this class you should have intermediate-level AutoCAD experience.
Another option is the AutoCAD & Civil 3D Certification Training Bundle. This course is also designed to prepare you for the Civil 3D certification exam. It is designed for beginners. You’ll start by taking two AutoCAD classes, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of this application. Next, you’ll take three Civil 3D courses which are focused on using the application for surveying and mapping, transportation design, and land development. This class comes with a voucher for the Civil 3D exam and a free exam retake. You’ll also get a live one-on-one bonus training session.
VDCI also runs shorter Civil 3D classes that take a few weeks to complete. In Intermediate Civil 3D: Surveying and Mapping, you’ll learn about the surveying and mapping elements and commands in Civil 3D. Covered topics include survey and COGO points, point marker and label styles, point groups, linework code sets, figure prefix databases, survey imports, parcels, sites, parcel labels, TIN surfaces, surface labels, and surface analysis. Intermediate Civil 3D: Transportation Design is focused on the transportation design elements and commands in Civil 3D. Instructors cover alignments, surface profiles, design profiles, and view windows, assemblies, corridors, intersections, sample lines, cross sections, and 3D visualization. The third VDCI option is Intermediate Civil 3D: Land Development. This course covers land development design elements and commands such as drawing template files, data shortcuts, feature lines, and grading groups.
Another VDCI offering, which is likely to be useful in any Civil 3D role, is the Essential Skills Course. This bundle is a great way to improve your communication, teamwork, collaboration, and self-management skills, all of which are essential in the field of civil engineering. Three classes are included. In Communication and Connection, you’ll learn a variety of communication skills including negotiation and conflict management. You’ll also work on your emotional intelligence and learn about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Self-Management Skills covers skills such as prioritizing, improving efficiency, focusing on ethics and integrity, and setting goals. Finally, in Teamwork, Collaboration & Leadership, you’ll learn to build collaboration, conduct meetings effectively, inspire other people, and make decisions as a group.
Civil 3D training equips you with the knowledge needed to create and manage diverse civil infrastructure projects efficiently, improving project delivery, enhancing collaboration, and enabling accurate design and drafting capabilities.
Learn how to set up viewport and adjust scale in paper space for Civil 3D drawing. Follow step-by-step instructions for creating a viewport window and scaling it appropriately in your paper drawing.
Learn how to create and insert a custom title block in Civil 3D with this step-by-step guide. Say goodbye to warning symbols and set up your sheet effortlessly.
Learn how to enhance drawing completeness in Civil 3D by utilizing data references and drawing scales. Explore how data references update based on drawing scale changes for a more comprehensive drawing layout.
Learn how to create and customize labels in Civil 3D for improved design clarity and organization. Streamline your drawing with detailed labels for roads, lots, and more.
showing 5 of 103 entries
Develop the skills to design and refurbish public infrastructure using AutoCAD Civil 3D. This hands-on program prepares you for a career in civil engineering, focusing on 3D modeling, data management, and real-world project applications.
Enhance your Civil 3D skills and prepare for the Autodesk Civil 3D Certification exam with hands-on training and advanced techniques in civil engineering design.
Master the AutoCAD and Civil 3D skills with hands-on, real-world training in construction document preparation and civil engineering design. Prepare for the Autodesk Civil 3D Certification exam. Voucher included.