The Department of Main Roads has launched a $7000 scholarship deal with Central Queensland University to attract more year 12 students to study civil engineering.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Paul Lucas said the program targeted students keen to study engineering.

"The scholarship program targets year 12 students who excel in mathematics and science and who have an interest in pursuing an engineering career," Mr Lucas said.

"In the first year of the program, Main Roads and Central Queensland University will offer one scholarship and may expand this program if it is a success," Mr Lucas said.

"The shortage of qualified engineers is a nationwide issue and I am proud to see Main Roads Central Region is partnering Central Queensland University to encourage students to engineering".

Central Queensland University Executive Dean of Sciences, Engineering and Health Professor Elizabeth Taylor welcomed the initiative.

"In offering this scholarship, Main Roads is giving the successful student a wonderful opportunity to pursue a very rewarding career in civil engineering," she said.

Main Roads and Central Queensland University will work together to finalise the selection of the successful applicant.

Mr Lucas said the agreement with Central Queensland University is a great example of industry and tertiary institutions working together to increase the number of technical engineering professionals.

"This initiative not only encourages students to enrol in engineering, but will hopefully encourage more future engineering graduates to seriously consider a career with Main Roads," Mr Lucas said.

Information on how to apply will be available on CQU's website - www.cqu.edu.au. Application packages will also be forwarded to schools in the coming month.

Photo: Executive Dean Professor Elizabeth Taylor with Main Roads representative Kim Martin.