Civil Engineering

Civil engineering is the profession that designs, builds, and maintains the physical infrastructure that makes modern life possible. Roads, bridges, tunnels, railways, airports, water treatment plants, flood defences, and the foundations of buildings all involve the work of civil engineers, who apply scientific and mathematical principles to solve the practical challenges of constructing large, complex systems safely, efficiently, and sustainably. As Brunel University London notes, civil engineering can literally change the world, and its graduates work on projects that prepare communities for the challenges they will face in the future.

Brunel University London's three-year full-time Civil Engineering degree includes a foundation year and carries a typical entry tariff of 120 points. The foundation year provides additional scientific and mathematical preparation before you progress to the main degree content, ensuring students from a range of backgrounds can build the rigorous foundation the discipline demands. You will study structural engineering, geotechnics, hydraulics, materials science, construction management, environmental engineering, and the quantitative methods used to analyse and design civil engineering systems.

The programme develops both theoretical understanding and practical engineering skills, through laboratory work, design projects, and engagement with real engineering problems.

Civil engineering graduates work in structural and geotechnical consultancy, highways and transport, water engineering, environmental engineering, construction contracting, offshore engineering, and project management. Many work towards chartered status with the Institution of Civil Engineers, which is the recognised professional standard for the discipline. The combination of analytical rigour and practical problem-solving skills the degree develops also opens doors in project finance, government infrastructure roles, and international development.

Postgraduate study in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or project management is an option for those wanting to specialise further.