Be a coastal specialist
High-spec industry facilities
Professional




Details
Year 1

Core modules
BPIE114
Stage 1 Civils Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
ENGR103
Engineering Science
20 credits
This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of fluid mechanics appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications; the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics relating to the interaction between systems and their surroundings, including both flow and non-flow processes, heat engines, and mechanisms of heat transfer; and the fundamental principles of electrical engineering.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR105
Mechanics and Structures
20 credits
This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. Deeper understanding of these scientific principles will be developed through practical applications using hand calculations and computer software tools as appropriate.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR106
Engineering Materials
20 credits
This module introduces students to a broad range of engineering materials appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. The module will consider the relationship between structure, manufacture and properties, presenting practical applications wherever appropriate. Students will also be introduced to standard material test methods.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR107
Engineering Design
20 credits
This module introduces students to engineering design practice appropriate to civil, marine and mechanical engineering disciplines. Students will develop sketching and technical drawing skills and use computer-aided design (CAD) tools to create digital models of technical systems. Working in a team, students will be tasked to create sustainable solutions to real-world technical design challenges.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
ENGR108
Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques
20 credits
The experimental basis of this module allows students develop their engineering science knowledge and practical skills using a student-centred, laboratory-based approach to learning. The module will help students develop good quality study skills, teamwork, and competency in technical communication.
70% Practicals
30% Coursework
Year 2

Core modules
BPIE214
Stage 2 Civils Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
CIVL201
Civil Engineering Practice
20 credits
This module develops understanding of construction materials and site surveying through lectures and practical work. Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills for Civil Engineers are developed through practical laboratory work. The module provides the opportunity to engage in a range of laboratory work relating to structures, geotechnics and hydraulics.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEEN200
Geotechnical Engineering 1
20 credits
This module introduces Geology, and the properties/ behaviour of soil as relevant to Civil Engineering projects. The concepts of groundwater flow and consolidation are considered, with associated calculations. Methods of analysis for estimation of stability and deformation when the ground is loaded are also introduced.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
HYFM200
Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering
20 credits
This module develops hydraulic engineering concepts introduced in the first year, and introduces hydrodynamic concepts required for coastal engineering. Hydraulic engineering material includes predicting flow in pipes and open channels. Coastal engineering topics include study of waves and tides, and their application to coastal engineering. Learning is supported by laboratory work and a site visit.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATH200
Engineering Analysis
20 credits
This module builds upon the stage one engineering mathematics module, by introducing students to more advanced mathematical ideas, statistical techniques and numerical methods. The methods and techniques studied are used to solve relevant civil engineering applications, with some emphasis on interpreting the results obtained. Industrially recognised software packages are also used where appropriate.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
STAD200
Structural Analysis and Design 1
20 credits
This module extends the theoretical base established by the Stage 1 Mechanics and Structures module. It is intended to combine the basic principles of analysis with design to develop an integrated approach to solving problems in Structural Engineering. The module is supported by the use of computer software and laboratory work.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
MGMT224
Construction Management
20 credits
In this module students will develop an understanding of responsible professional engineering practice, by critically analysing commercial and professional aspects of construction management and project planning systems.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Optional placement year

Optional modules
BPIE340
Civil Engineering Related Placement (Generic)
0 credits
A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study. Help to prepare the student for the final stage and employment after graduation.
Final year

Core modules
GEEN314
Geotechnical Engineering 2
20 credits
This module considers the application of Soil Mechanics to analysis and design of a range of common Civil Engineering structures. This includes shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, and slope stability.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
HYFM300
Water Engineering
20 credits
This module develops hydraulic engineering concepts introduced in the first and second year, and combines them with elements of water engineering and management. The main areas covered are urban drainage, flood management, water resources, and river/channel engineering. Learning is supported by laboratory work and a field trip.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
STAD300
Structural Analysis and Design 2
20 credits
This module focuses on the analyses and design of whole structures, i.e. multi-storey buildings. It includes computer modelling and analysis, and methods of the validation of the obtained results using approximate analysis.
70% Coursework
30% Examinations
PRCE312
Individual Project
40 credits
The individual project allows the student to research an approved topic of interest related to civil or coastal engineering. Guided by an academic supervisor, the student independently conducts an investigation comprising theoretical development, experimental/computational and analytical work.
100% Coursework
COUE320
Coastal Engineering Analysis and Design
20 credits
Natural and engineered coastlines are exposed to loads specific to the marine environment. This module focuses on the design of breakwaters and seawalls and softer, nature based coastal management approaches. Understanding is developed through design, laboratory testing and field data analysis. Assessment relies on the student’s own data to tackle realistic design and analysis challenges. Knowledge is framed by modern practice, sustainability principles and climate change.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
- A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
- Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
- A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
- Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- Compensation of marks
- Passing a module
Experience

Hands-on learning brings theory to life
Building breakwaters

Facilities to inspire the engineering and design pioneers of the future
Final year research project
Using our Coast Lab, Lilly-Mae investigated an oscillating water column (OWC) system and its ability to harness renewable energy.
Research-informed teaching

Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng
Professor in Ocean Engineering

Dr David Simmonds
Associate Professor in Coastal Engineering

Dr Jon Miles
Associate Professor in Coastal Engineering
Plymouth Engineering Society

Life in Plymouth
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Current student

Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer

Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls

Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
My placement year was one of the best choices I made whilst at university, and I really appreciate the encouragement and assistance from the University of Plymouth staff towards acquiring my placement with Dawnus.
BEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering graduate, EA Framework Section Engineer at Kier Infrastructure

Thriving industry connections

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future
I've definitely grown during my placement. KierBAM allowed me to assist multiple teams over the course of the year, so I was always learning and always progressing.
He received the accolade in recognition of his performance as a trainee site engineer with KierBAM while working on the enabling works for a submarine dry dock refurbishment in Devonport Dockyard.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
£9,535 per year
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
£18,650 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Additional costs
Fund your studies
The Tamar Engineering Project
- £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- £1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Supporting students with the cost of living

Apply
Entry requirements
112 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
A levels
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
International Baccalaureate
Irish Leaving Certificate
SQA Advanced Higher
All Access courses
Extended entry requirements
Ready to apply?
H255
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning civil engineering through an additional foundation year.
Entry requirements
112 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
English language requirements
Ready to apply?
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
H255
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth