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LOCATION
Docklands Campus
Location Fees and Funding
Here's the fees and funding information for each year of this course
Overview
This course will give you a solid grounding in the design, construction and management of civil engineering work.
We have great links with industry and high levels of graduate employment. You'll enjoy regular visits to iconic construction sites in London as well as professionally monitored field study courses and projects.
Entry level is 96 UCAS points, and you don't need A2 maths. You'll take a top-up module in your first year that will underpin and extend your GCSE maths knowledge.
You can also gain advanced entry on to the final year of this BSc course by completing our two-year Foundation degree in civil engineering.
This makes our course ideal for students who, while not necessarily 'maths geniuses', nevertheless have good basic skills in that area and aspirations to develop a career in management or a range of technical fields.
This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of the Engineering Council as fully satisfying the educational base for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).
What makes this course different
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
This course will prepare you for a range of technical and professional careers within civil engineering. We've developed it carefully through regular consultation with industry experts.
At the core of your degree, throughout which you'll combine academic and practical learning, is a thorough grounding in the design, construction and maintenance of buildings, roads, bridges, canals.
We'll also give you a firm grounding in structural engineering - the analysis and design of structures that support or resist loads.
Other areas you'll study include geotechnical engineering, the behaviour and stability of materials such as soil and rock, and water engineering, which involves coastal engineering, treating and distributing water as well as managing wastewater and sewage disposal.
DOWNLOAD COURSE SPECIFICATIONS
Course Specification - Engineering Foundation Year
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COURSE SPECIFICATION - BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering (v22)
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MODULES
- Core Modules
Mental wealth; Professional Life CloseMental wealth; Professional Life
The module will introduce key knowledge and skills required for your success in higher education, communication and interpersonal life skills for academic and professional purposes. The module is designed to provide guidance in order to become independent learner, effectively reflect and take necessary actions for professional success. The module will also aid you to build your confidence as a learner, enabling you to identify where your strengths and weaknesses lie, and how you can build their skills for the future.
Introduction to Computing CloseIntroduction to Computing
The module equips you with an understanding of computing principles and an understanding of the fundamentals of hardware and software, which can provide an opportunity for you to gain appreciation of the practical skills involved in computer systems. It helps you develop a better understanding of computations to solve problems, analysing problems and procedures, and a better understanding of algorithms, languages and programming. It provides an opportunity to you to understand the connections between the different areas of computing.
Mathematical Applications CloseMathematical Applications
The main aims of this module are to prepare you for L4 study by developing the mathematical abilities required for understanding engineering and be able to apply mathematical techniques to solve engineering problems.
Analytical Mathematics CloseAnalytical Mathematics
The main aims of this module are to prepare you for L4 study by developing the mathematical abilities required for understanding engineering and be able to apply mathematical techniques to solve engineering problems.
Engineering Sciences CloseEngineering Sciences
The aim of this module is to provide you with an elementary knowledge and understanding of the physical concepts relating to materials, electricity and simple structures used in engineering.
Physical Sciences ClosePhysical Sciences
The aim of this module is to provide you with an elementary knowledge and understanding of the physical concepts relating to second moment of area, sound, light, thermodynamics and work and energy systems used in engineering.
- Core Modules
Mental Wealth; Professional Life 1 (IT Project Pitching) CloseMental Wealth; Professional Life 1 (IT Project Pitching)
Developing fundamental professional skills is increasingly critical for successful graduate-level employment, entrepreneurship and career progression in the 4th industrial revolution.
This module will provide you with the opportunity to identify the skills, competencies and experience required for successful development to, and in, a range of potential future career areas.
Herein you will begin to recognise the areas for their own personal professional development through taught and workshop activity.
Central to the developmental process is for each student to cultivate the reflective skills, openness and self-awareness to enable themselves to assess what they are doing, identify areas for improvement, and confidently receive and give constructive feedback. Students will additionally develop knowledge of strategies to advance their own emotional intelligence through 'life style' and 'self care' approaches to inform their health and wellbeing.
Having acquired understanding of the key developmental areas, students will have an opportunity to form groups and develop, then pitch IT project ideas to an in-house IT consultancy micro-business, and be mentored and supervised by students from higher years in developing these ideas. In this position they will learn and begin to apply the skills developed elsewhere in their studies (and from external activities) as required in the workplace.
Engineering Materials CloseEngineering Materials
The main aim of this module is to provide you with a basic understanding of the properties and behaviour of wide range of engineering materials and to enable you to appreciate essential facts and principles required to make good choices in selection of materials.
Analytical Skills in Built Environment CloseAnalytical Skills in Built Environment
The main aim of this module is to develop your skills and understanding, of the numerical and mathematical techniques which underpin civil engineering, construction and surveying disciplines. At the end of this module you should possess the core knowledge of algebra, trigonometry and statistics which can be applied to data analysis, presentation and problem solving. This module also aims to equip you with the CAD skills which will enable you to manipulate and process data numerically, graphically and spatially.
The Built Environment CloseThe Built Environment
The aim of the module is to appreciate the factors, organisation and professional disciplines involved in the planning, design, development and in-use of the built environment facility.
Engineering Mechanics CloseEngineering Mechanics
This module aims to develop your understanding of the fundamental structural characteristics governing the properties of engineering materials; and to introduce you to the fundamental concepts and principles of engineering mechanics.
The module would provide you with an appreciation of the relationship between conceptual models and real engineering systems; and enable you to develop an analytical and practical approach to the solution of basic engineering problems based on the use of the fundamental principles of mechanics.
Land and Construction Surveying CloseLand and Construction Surveying
This module introduces you to geospatial surveying practices, principles and procedures for civil engineering and construction projects. The module develops skills in using modern surveying instrumentation to enable 3-dimensional position of features to be determined and for the quality of those positions to be known. The processes for determining vertical height (level) as well as horizontal position (by measuring angles and distances) will be studied. On completion of this module, students will be able to carry out survey data collection using a range of equipment and will appreciate the role of the surveyor and the role of survey data for construction purposes.
- Core Modules
Mental Wealth; Professional Life 2 (Computing in Practice) CloseMental Wealth; Professional Life 2 (Computing in Practice)
Developing fundamental professional skills are increasingly critical for successful graduate-level employment, entrepreneurship and career progression in the 4th industrial revolution.
This module equips you with the skills that are needed to make successful applications for jobs within the IT sector, provides you with opportunities to gain experience of working in the IT industry and apply their knowledge of information and communication technologies, gained elsewhere in their programmes, to the solution of a real-world business problem
Herein you will advance the areas identified at level 4 for their own personal professional development (including emotional, social, physical, cultural and cognitive intelligences) through taught and workshop activity.
You will reflect on the success of the strategies that they employed to further develop their reflective skills, self-awareness, 'life style' and 'self-care' approaches and where necessary improve their approaches.
Students will have an opportunity to gain work experience in an external IT company or have the opportunity to select an in-house microbusiness to join. In this position they will take on a specific production role, working collaboratively with peers and academic staff on a live project. In doing so they will apply the skills learnt elsewhere in their studies (and external development) required in the workplace.
3D Data Modelling and Analysis Close3D Data Modelling and Analysis
This module examines the concepts, methodologies and techniques of acquiring and modelling 3D data. The principles of 3D ground models based on grid and triangulated structures are investigated as techniques for representing and analysing terrain and other surfaces. The principles of Terrestrial Laser Scanning, Photogrammetry, and Satellite Remote Sensing are examined as techniques for data acquisition. The techniques and limitations of 3D data, representation and modelling via digital terrain models, point clouds 3D surfaces are analysed.
Structural Analysis and Element Design CloseStructural Analysis and Element Design
The main aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of the behaviour of indeterminate structures and the design of reinforced concrete and steel structural elements to the appropriate British Standard or European Code of Practice
Ground Engineering CloseGround Engineering
Any construction project at any scale begins with groundworks. For the success of groundworks, Civil Engineers need to have a fair understanding of engineering geology (i.e. earth science for engineers), soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and materials used in transforming the natural ground to the engineered ground through reinforcement and/or stabilisation, so too the benefits and costs (technical and environmental) of groundwork solutions.
This module is designed for you to gain a thorough understanding of engineering geology (earth processes, geological structures, ground hazards and engineering implications), soil mechanics (physical, hydraulic and mechanical properties), and soil as a construction material in form of compacted ground or reinforced compacted ground (i.e. accompanied with physical/chemical additives).
This module builds on stability analysis topics of study that are embedded in the Level 4 Engineering Mechanics module. This module also builds on the Level 4 Engineering Materials; the emphasis here will be on materials in ground engineering discipline.
Engineering Surveying CloseEngineering Surveying
This module develops your understanding and theoretical knowledge of applied techniques within engineering surveying. You will develop your ability to devise solutions to measurement problems and to evaluate the results and the systems performance in an engineering context. Students on this module will hence investigate and apply measurement techniques and systems in order to solve engineering surveying problems.
This module includes a residential field scheme which takes place away from the university.
Optional ModulesAdvanced Sustainable Technology CloseAdvanced Sustainable Technology
The module investigates and analyse sustainable construction technologies and methods used in buildings and construction works.
Tendering, Estimating and Cost Control CloseTendering, Estimating and Cost Control
- To provide you with an introduction to financial control of construction projects and the procurement process by accessing knowledge based on information produced from tendering, estimating and financial procedures.
- Allow to enable you to understand deliverables, time constraints, budgets and to implement best value best practice.
- Optional Modules
Industrial Sandwich Placement CloseIndustrial Sandwich Placement
The aim of this module is to enable you to undertake a placement in a relevant industrial environment to develop their technical and professional skills, within a real work environment to compliment their programme of study.
- Core Modules
Mental Wealth; Professional Life 3 (Project) CloseMental Wealth; Professional Life 3 (Project)
Developing professional skills are increasingly critical for successful graduate-level employment, entrepreneurship and career progression in the 4th industrial revolution.
This module will provide you with the opportunity to apply the full range of skills, competencies and experience required for successful development to, and in, a range of potential future career areas.
Herein you will advance the areas identified at level 5 for their own personal professional development (including emotional, social, physical, cultural and cognitive intelligences) through taught and workshop activity.
You will undertake a sizeable piece of individual academic work in an area of your own interest relevant to, and demonstrating technical skills acquired in, your programme of study. You will normally need to research one or more academic topic areas and then apply your findings to the construction of a computer-based system.
You will consider the ethical, legal, social, and professional issues in the construction of systems and the project will require appropriate research, analysis, design, implementation, quality assurance, evaluation and project management.
You will reflect on the success of the strategies that you employed to further develop your reflective skills, self-awareness, 'life style' and 'self care' approaches and where necessary improve your approaches.
You will have an opportunity to select an in-house microbusiness to join in the role of 'Manager'. In this position you will oversee the successful operation of the enterprise, coach and mentor students new to the programme. Working collaboratively with peers and academic staff, you will ensure the effective delivery of a live project by managing people and physical resources. In doing so you will apply the skills learnt elsewhere in your studies (and from external activities) required in the workplace.
Capstone Project CloseCapstone Project
The main aim of this module is to equip you with the necessary skills to carry out and report research in order to consolidate the knowledge gained in other modules in a chosen field of study, combine it with the published knowledge of others, investigate it practically and report your findings.
Optional ModulesAdvanced Construction Technology and Innovation CloseAdvanced Construction Technology and Innovation
This module explores the use of different techniques & tools and value management by considering the sustainability of construction to achieve improved integration, buildability, speed, cost, health and safety, and quality criteria applied to the production of buildings and facilities.
Geotechnical Engineering CloseGeotechnical Engineering
Any construction project at any scale begins with groundworks. For the success of groundworks, Civil Engineers need to have a fair understanding of engineering geology, soil mechanics, rock mechanics and the application of these in design of Geotechnical Structures.
This module is designed for you to develop the ability to use the properties of soils in the analysis of geotechnical problems that require assessment of the stability and deformation of the ground and to develop an appreciation of how this knowledge can be integrated into conceptual and detailed geotechnical design of structures and earthworks.
This module builds on the Level 5 Ground Engineering and Level 4 Engineering Mechanics modules.
Transport Infrastructure Engineering CloseTransport Infrastructure Engineering
To provide an optional module in the final year of the course which will provide broad grounding in transport infrastructure and systems engineering principles. The module will give you the knowledge and analytical skills that will enable them to become competent in the analysis, design and operation of transport infrastructure systems.
Project Management CloseProject Management
- To further explore the disciplines, theories and tools associated with the successful project management and delivery of construction-related activities.
- To develop skills in establishing project requirement in terms of client / stakeholder needs; procurement of human and technical resources; planning and coordinating work and phase activities; motivating the team; monitoring cost and quality and managing change; delivering desired outcomes and gaining feedback.
- To discuss human resource management theories in construction-related project-based organisations, including issues associated with development of individual & group competences, creating effective project teams, the management of conflict, the role of stakeholders, and experiential learning.
HOW YOU'LL LEARN
You'll study similar sub-disciplines of civil engineering to those covered in the BEng course, but with a different, more pragmatic approach. There'll be a mixture of theoretical and practical work, with access to fully equipped civil engineering laboratories such as concrete and soil labs.
Collaborative or group projects are a key part of the course - as they are in the profession. In your final year, you'll produce an individual piece of research.
Our staff bring a huge amount of research expertise to bear on their teaching, so you can be sure that what you study reflects the most up-to-date thinking and practice. Alongside strong academic credentials, many have extensive industrial experience as practising civil engineers.
Each term, we're visited by around 20 local industry professionals - known as the Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) - to update us on changing recruitment requirements for graduates and to advise on coursework, projects and field trips etc.
Current members of the IAB include Atkins, Thames Water, Waterman Group, Hardman Structural Engineers, Morrish & Partners, SRK Consulting and the London Borough of Newham.
Every year, our civil engineering and construction management students visit the Constructionarium at the National CITB Training Centre in Norfolk. There you'll work as a team with a sponsoring contractor and design engineer, building scaled-down versions of famous bridges or buildings to gain hands on experience of what you have studied in the class.
Our Docklands campus is ideally placed for studying iconic projects in the capital, such as the Tate Modern Phase 2 Extension, the Canary Wharf Crossrail station and the reconfiguration of the Olympic Stadium.
Guided independent study
We are investing in key areas beyond your studies including our career services, library and well-being, to be available both face-to-face on campus and online with many of these available 24/7. We have new, modern library facilities on both campuses offering inspirational environments for study and research. Libraries contain resources in print and digital formats, a range of study spaces and dedicated librarian who can assist with your learning.
Academic support
Students are supported with any academic or subject related queries by an Academic Advisor, module leaders, former and current UEL students.
If you need a bit of extra help with certain skills such as academic writing, English, maths or statistics, our Academic Tutors offer workshops, drop-in sessions and one-to-one appointments to help our students achieve their potential. You can receive advice and guidance on all aspects of the IT systems provided by the university from our IT Service Desks located on all three campuses.
Our Student Support hubs in Docklands and Stratford feature centralised helpdesks to cater for your every need. UEL provides also support and advice for disabled students and those with specific learning difficulties (SPDs).
Workload
Each year you will spend around 300 hours of timetabled learning and teaching activities. These may be lectures, workshops, seminars and individual and group tutorials. Contact hours may vary depending on each module.
The approximate percentages for this course are:
Year 1: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours.
Year 2: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours.
Year 3: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours.
The size of classes can vary depending on the nature of the course, module and activity. This can range from large groups in a lecture theatre setting, to smaller groups taking part in seminars and collaborative work. You will receive your personalised timetable at the beginning of the academic year dependent on your course.
HOW YOU'LL BE ASSESSED
We'll assess you through coursework, group and individual presentations, time-controlled assessments and exams. The balance between exams and coursework is approximately 30 per cent exams, 10 per cent presentations and 60 per cent coursework.
Feedback is provided within 15 working days in line with UEL's assessment and feedback policy.
CAMPUS and FACILITIES

Docklands Campus, Docklands Campus, London, E16 2RD
WHO TEACHES THIS COURSE
The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers. Full details of the academics will be provided in the student handbook and module guides.
Related Courses

Studying BSc Civil Engineering at UEL was the best decision I've ever made. The subject can be very challenging but the incredibly diverse nature of the University means that you can network successfully to find students with a similar level of knowledge and experience to yourself. This – in conjunction with experienced, dedicated staff – means that the course is in no way intimidating."
Adrian Pettigrew
Civil Engineering, BSc (Hons)
YOUR FUTURE CAREER
With a degree in civil engineering from UEL, you'll be well placed to secure a stimulating and rewarding career.
The high quality of our teaching on the course is widely recognised, and the constant input from industry professionals ensures your studies will be highly relevant to employers once you graduate.
You might decide to specialise as a structural engineer, a hydraulic engineer, highway engineer or a geotechnical engineer. Your decision may be prompted by how your career develops in your first job and you start on the process known as Initial Professional Development, which takes between three and five years.
Some of our recent graduates have gone on to land jobs at Highways England, Network Rail, Thames Water, Hardman Structural Engineers, Morrish & Partners, SRK Consulting, Kier Group and in local authorities.
Others have chosen to work in other professional areas such as finance, education, marketing and housing.
Around 20 per cent of our students are from overseas, with many returning to work for local authorities or government departments.
If you decide to continue your studies, you'll have the option of taking a one-year MSc course in Civil Engineering to pursue Chartered Engineer status.
Explore the different career options you can pursue with this degree and see the median salaries of the sector on our Career Coach portal.