Research in engineering context is the systematic process of learning about and building new technologies to design a product. Thus, it is not concerned with discovering how the world works, but rather how things can be made to function for a given purpose. This is because engineers work to create design solutions to real-world problems. Research involves formulation of hypothesis or proposition of solutions, data analysis, and deductions; and ascertaining whether the conclusions fit the hypothesis. Research is a process of creating, or formulating knowledge that does not yet exist.

Listed below are the Course Learning Objectives (CLOs) containing different topics and assessments relevant to the methods of conducting research study for civil engineers.