Civil Engineering BEng/MEng
Study of how to design, build, and maintain the infrastructure that supports modern life.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in infrastructure and construction
Enjoy maths and physics
Like problem-solving
Want a career building structures and systems
Are practical and analytical
Popular Career Fields
Engineering & Construction
Government & Public Sector
Property & Real Estate
Environmental Consultancy
Your Personality Might Be:
Problem-solver
Government & Public Sector
Practical thinker
Public service-minded
What is it?
What Is a Civil Engineering Degree?
Civil Engineering focuses on the planning, design, and construction of essential structures such as bridges, roads, buildings, and water systems. It combines creativity with science and technology to make our environment safer, stronger, and more sustainable.
Why Study Civil Engineering?
Civil engineers shape the world we live in - from sustainable cities to transport networks. This degree is perfect if you enjoy problem-solving, design, and working on large-scale projects that make a real difference to society.
Course Summary
Study of how to design, build, and maintain the infrastructure that supports modern life.
What you'll study
Most Civil Engineering degrees cover:
Engineering mathematics and mechanics
Structural analysis and design
Materials science and geotechnics
Hydraulics and water engineering
Transportation and infrastructure design
Environmental and sustainable engineering
Construction management and surveying
Later in your course, you can usually specialise - for example, in structural, environmental, or transport engineering.
Degree Types
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering): Focuses on practical engineering design and professional skills.
MEng (Integrated Master’s): A four-year degree offering advanced study and preparation for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Skills You'll Gain
A Civil Engineering degree builds both technical and transferable skills, including:
Structural design and analysis
Project planning and teamwork
Problem-solving and decision-making
Environmental and sustainability awareness
Communication and leadership
Structural Analysis – understanding how loads, forces, and materials interact in buildings and infrastructure.
Design & Drafting – producing technical drawings and models using CAD and engineering software.
Project & Site Management – coordinating construction activities, resources, and timelines.
Geotechnical Knowledge – analysing soil, foundations, and ground conditions for safe design.
Environmental & Sustainability Skills – integrating sustainable practices into infrastructure planning and development.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Civil Engineering graduates are in high demand in sectors such as:
Construction and infrastructure
Environmental and water management
Transport and logistics
Energy and renewable systems
Government and consultancy
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Industry placements or sandwich years, often with construction, infrastructure, or environmental engineering firms.
Summer internships with consultancies or government departments.
These placements provide real-world experience and help you apply your learning to live engineering projects.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and preferably Physics. Geography, Design Technology, or Further Maths are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show your interest in design, problem-solving, and sustainability.
Mention engineering projects, construction work, or design experience.
Reflect on how you want to improve communities through infrastructure.
Include examples like STEM clubs, model building, or CAD design.
What to do Next
Compare degrees to see which focus on structural, environmental, or project management aspects.
Attend open days or online sessions to see facilities and meet lecturers.
Try online courses in design, physics, or CAD modelling.
Learn about how civil engineers are tackling climate change and urban challenges.
Wider Reading
To Engineer Is Human by Henry Petroski – Understanding how engineers design and learn from failure.
Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down by J.E. Gordon – A clear, engaging look at how structures work.
The Art of Construction by Mario Salvadori – A practical guide to building and structural design.
Building a World Worth Living In by Dame Judith Hackitt – Insights into safety, leadership, and modern engineering.