TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BEng (Hons)

Civil Engineering

From transport networks to housing developments, bridges to energy security; our hands-on degree will build the knowledge, practical experience and industry connections you need to make a real impact on the world around you.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Hands-on projects from day one

You’ll build valuable problem-solving and team-working skills before you know it, working on real-world engineering challenges that get you thinking, designing and constructing.

Industry-aligned teaching

You’ll join a course co-designed with industry partners ensuring that we deliver a course that is closely aligned with future industry needs, making your degree truly future-proof.

Stand-out work experience

Work as a paid student engineer in an optional placement, applying your knowledge in real-world settings and building helpful industry contacts to kickstart your career.
BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

85 future students discovered this course in the last week

About Details Experience Careers Fees and funding Apply Register for open day

About

Civil Engineering. Practical session where students learn how to cast and test concrete beams.

Are you passionate about designing and building resilient bridges and buildings that transform people’s lives—now and for future generations? As a civil engineering student at the University of Plymouth, you’ll imagine, design, and create the structures and technical solutions that bring large-scale infrastructure projects to life. Be a civil engineer of the future, helping society make life-changing progress in areas such as shelter, clean water, transportation, energy security, and protection from natural hazards.

Dr Shanshan Cheng
Dr Shanshan Cheng Associate Professor in Structural Engineering
 

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about designing and constructing infrastructure that benefits society
Engineer in hard hat holding document in front of building
you aspire to address sustainable development challenges
Hand holding trees
you're eager to get hands-on experience from site visits and in the lab
Two engineers in hard hats holding a drawing
you aim to become a Chartered Civil Engineer with global opportunities
Ticklist depicting goal setting for graduates

Details

Year 1

Get ready for an exciting start to your career as a civil engineer! Our "learning by doing" ethos is at the heart of our teaching approach. You will join forces with fellow engineering students in our unique, purpose-built laboratories to experience the fascinating world of engineering materials, structures and fluid mechanics. Alongside this hands-on approach, you will develop insight into the underpinning engineering science and mathematics that govern how the real world behaves. 
By the end of this year, you will have developed capabilities in core IT and computer aided design skills, and used your imagination and creativity to resolve real-world engineering challenges.
Engineering students listening to academic

Core modules

BPIE114
Stage 1 Civils Placement Preparation 0 credits

Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.

ENGR103
Engineering Science 20 credits

This module covers the essential scientific principles of fluid mechanics for civil, marine, and mechanical engineering applications. We'll also delve into thermodynamics, focusing on the interaction between systems and their surroundings. Lastly, we'll explore the fundamental principles of electrical engineering, providing you with a solid foundation in circuits and electrical systems.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics 20 credits

Build the maths skills every engineer needs. Want to design bridges, launch rockets, or create the next big tech breakthrough? It all starts here. This module gives you the core math skills and problem-solving techniques every engineer relies on. It’s the foundation for everything you'll build in your engineering journey.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR105
Mechanics and Structures 20 credits

We'll teach you the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for engineering applications. You'll develop a deeper understanding of these key scientific principles through practical applications using hands-on calculations and also computer software tools.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR106
Engineering Materials 20 credits

Materials science is crucial for designing and manufacturing everything from bridges and airplanes to ships and medical devices. This module will teach you the properties and behaviours of different engineering materials—such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites—to allow you select or develop materials that meet specific performance, efficiency, safety and environmental requirements.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR107
Engineering Design 20 credits

Problem solving is at the heart of everything, but to solve a problem, you must first understand it. Engineering design sharpens this skill, helping you develop valid solutions to real challenges. In Semester 1, you'll develop essential techniques: sketching, computer-aided design, and application of the design process. Then, in Semester 2, you’ll put those skills to the test, tackling real-world design problems head-on.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

ENGR108
Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques 20 credits

Here you'll take a hands-on, practical approach to learning the fundamental principles of engineering science, with engaging experiments in our modern, student-centred labs. Along the way, you’ll develop essential study habits, strengthen teamwork skills, and build confidence in technical communication - key qualities for any aspiring engineer.

100% Coursework

Year 2

In your second year, you will deepen your core understanding of Civil Engineering required for the creation of infrastructure essential for our society. This will include structural design, geotechnics, fluid dynamics and the management of large-scale projects.  You will grow your creative skills with advanced CAD tools and industry-standard software, while learning to think like a civil engineer. In parallel, an extensive programme of career development support will supercharge your professional and transferrable skills in readiness for the workplace, helping you to find the perfect placement. 
You will be introduced to Coastal Engineering, a specialism of the University of Plymouth. You will start to explore how engineers protect coastal communities from the impacts of climate change, developing the expertise to tackle some of the world's most urgent challenges. 
Civil ENgineering students on a boat trip in Plymouth Sound.

Core modules

BPIE214
Stage 2 Civils Placement Preparation 0 credits

A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.

CIVL201
Civil Engineering Practice 20 credits

This module deepens understanding of construction materials and site surveying through a blend of lectures and hands-on work, while enhancing Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills through real-world design projects, giving students practical experience in tools and techniques used by professional civil engineers.

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

Clean water is essential for life, and our coast needs to be defended from flooding and erosion. Hydraulic engineering 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

In many civil engineering applications, mathematical methods and techniques are needed to obtain solutions. Building upon the stage one engineering mathematics module, you’ll learn more advanced mathematical topics, statistical techniques and numerical methods. Interpreting the results obtained is an important that you’ll develop. You’ll learn to use industrially recognised software to solve engineering problems.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

STAD200
Structural Analysis and Design 1 20 credits

"Refine your programming skills with advanced features of the Python language and learn about the software development lifecycle for larger programs. You will team up with other students to identify a discipline-specific problem or industrial challenge. You will design, develop and deliver a software solution and analyse the impact of your work in a global context. You can present your application at the Project Showcase. "

70% Coursework

30% Tests

MGMT224
Construction Management 20 credits

Effective management is vital to the success of construction projects. In this module, students develop core construction management skills by critically analysing commercial practices, professional responsibilities, and project planning systems. It equips future engineers with the knowledge to manage projects, make informed decisions, and uphold professional standards.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Optional placement year

The optional placement year is a fantastic opportunity to advance your career as a professional engineer by working in a commercial engineering team. The placement gives you invaluable experience beyond the classroom environment, developing skills crucial to your future employment. This will be your opportunity to experience day-to-day life on a construction site or in a design office, for example, in buildings, railways, bridges, highways, and river engineering schemes.
Engineering students using equipment

Optional modules

BPIE340
Civil Engineering Related Placement (Generic) 0 credits

A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.

Final year

The most significant element of this year is your dissertation project where you will apply all the skills and knowledge that you have learned to explore a topic that you find truly fascinating. This hands-on research challenge allows you to develop deeper insight and knowledge into an area that aligns to your careers aspirations.
Alongside your dissertation you will deepen your understanding of the core technical subjects in civil engineering with a particular focus on designing sustainable infrastructure solutions.
Students in the coast lab

Core modules

GEEN314
Geotechnical Engineering 2 20 credits

Gain a solid understanding of geotechnical analysis and design, learning how to apply key concepts to real-world problems. Develop skills to choose the right mathematical methods for complex geotechnical challenges. Build confidence in using these techniques to tackle practical design and analysis tasks you’ll face in professional engineering practice.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

HYFM300
Water Engineering 20 credits

Building on concepts from the 1st and 2nd years, this module integrates essential elements of water and hydraulic engineering. You will explore urban drainage, flood management, water resources, and river/channel engineering—crucial for shaping resilient and sustainable environments. Hands-on laboratory experimentation and a flood defence field trip bring classroom theory to life.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

STAD300
Structural Analysis and Design 2 20 credits

How do structural engineers design buildings that stand up? This module combines the basic principles of analysis and design to develop an integrated approach to solving structural problems. It is supported by the use of structural analysis and design software and laboratory work.

70% Coursework

30% Examinations

STAD315
Structural Engineering Design 20 credits

This module challenges students to think like practicing engineers and prepares them for the complexities of modern structural design by immersing students in industry-standard design and construction practices. Students will strengthen their conceptual design skills of bridges and multi-storey buildings and adopt a holistic approach to sustainable design by considering the "whole" as well as the individual elements.

50% Coursework

50% Tests

PRCE312
Individual Project 40 credits

This individual project gives students the opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest within civil or coastal engineering. Under academic supervision, students carry out an independent investigation that may involve theoretical research, experimental testing, computational modelling, and analytical work - developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for professional practice.

100% Coursework

 
 
 

Optional pathways

Our flexible courses offer the opportunity to add a specialism in coastal engineering, or choose an integrated masters (MEng) and enrich your undergraduate degree with an additional year at postgraduate level.  

What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?

BEng (Hons)
  • 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.
MEng (Hons)
  • 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:

  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

High-spec industry facilities

You’ll become expert in using all the latest specialist equipment in our innovative laboratories, which at Plymouth, include water and coastal engineering facilities, so you graduate with sought-after knowledge and experience. 

Get hands-on

Learn about hydraulic engineering concepts by getting hands-on building breakwaters in the COAST lab .

Testing to destruction

Breaking, twisting, and snapping metal in the STEAM Material Testing Lab . Conduct a range of tensile, impact, torsion and fatigue tests to determine the characteristics of different metals.

Heavy structures

Concrete practical in our purpose-built Heavy Structures and Geotechnics Lab , include mixing, casting and testing the materials. .

Bringing designs to life – casting, testing and breaking industry-scale concrete beams

Step inside our heavy structures lab and see theory in action. From casting full-scale concrete beams to testing them under real-world loads, this hands-on experience highlights innovation, skill and the next generation of engineering talent – preparing you for the challenges of the industry.
 
 

Thriving industry connections

We have a long history of working with industry experts to provide you with the connections and opportunities you’ll need to begin your career.
Our Industrial Advisory Committee (IAC) is a panel of esteemed practising engineers and one of the biggest in the UK.
Working in partnership with the IAC, we keep your curriculum up-to-date and ensure that you’re highly employable when you graduate.
People networking at an event
 
 
 
Nilesh Jeetah

I hope my research will significantly contribute to advancing renewable energy, promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering socio-economic benefits on both local and global scales.

Nilesh Jeetah came top in the final of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West Emerging Engineers Award 2023 for a research project which could have important implications for the future development of floating offshore wind energy.

 
 
 

Research-informed teaching

Learn from professionals with industry and research expertise.
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research. 
Our collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers is focused upon the creation of knowledge and innovative solutions that have a positive impact upon society. 
Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng Professor in Ocean Engineering


Professor in Ocean Engineering

Dr Shanshan Cheng Associate Professor in Structural Engineering


Associate Professor in Structural Engineering

Dr Edward Ellis Lecturer in Civil Engineering (Education)


Lecturer in Civil Engineering (Education)

Show all
 
 
 

Make friends and meet like-minded people

With a choice of two dedicated student societies for passionate engineers, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with a range of activities including site visits, guest lectures from industry experts, networking events, workshops, and hands-on projects. 
These events not only complement your studies but also provide valuable insights into the civil engineering profession. 
Civil Engineering Society (CivSoc)
Plymouth Engineering Society (EngSoc)
Plymouth Engineering Society
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

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.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city

Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options

Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Group of female members of cheerleading society
Get involved with one of our many student groups

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

Ajen Limbu, MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

The best and most exciting milestone in my career has been starting my role in the structural dynamics and numerical modelling field. I am able to apply my technical knowledge and utilise a variety of engineering skills, as well as work on exciting projects that involve energetic events.

After a year as an Associate Project Manager for the Ministry of Defence, Ajen Limbu transitioned into a role as a Structural Dynamics Engineer.
MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

We’re an employment-focused course: preparing you for your chosen career is our priority.
Developing the next generation of chartered civil engineers means providing you with opportunities to connect and engage with the industry, from site visits and guest speakers to work placements. 
With many of our graduates employed in a professional or managerial role six months after graduation, the connections we provide are meaningful and will have a direct impact on your employability.
Our graduates are employed in a wide variety of roles and disciplines across both the public and private sectors in the UK and overseas. 

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Preparing the next generation of civil engineers means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and tackling real-world projects. The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel as a highly employable graduate.

The placement has definitely helped me define where I want to go – working in the transportation division and on world-class bridge design projects.

After her industrial placement with AECOM designing an underground station, Harriette Scowen was offered sponsorship and a full-time graduate position.

When I got my placement, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I started doing hydraulic modelling and water infrastructure, it was really great! I feel like I’ve grown so much in the last year and I’ve been offered a job for when I graduate.

Alex Phillips
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

The Tamar Engineering Project

The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
  • £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

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
112 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

A levels
112 points to include grade C in A level mathematics and all applicants must be studying a second relevant subject. Relevant subjects include applied ICT, applied science, applied science (DA), biology, chemistry, computing/computer science, DT (product design resistant materials), DT (systems and control tech) DT product design (textiles tech), electronics, engineering, environmental science, geography, geology, further maths/use of, statistics, music technology, physics, technology and design.

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
To include all mathematics units with Distinction. Level 3 Engineering Principles (Mandatory Module), Level 3 Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems (Mandatory Module) and Level 3 Further Engineering Mathematics (Optional Module).
Or, where A or AS level mathematics has been achieved: DMM to include all mathematics units with Merit. (Core Maths not accepted).
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

International Baccalaureate
28 to 32 points overall to include 4 in Higher Level Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Higher Level subject.

Irish Leaving Certificate
112 points, including H4 in Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Higher Level subject. GCSE equivalent English and Maths accepted within.

SQA Advanced Higher
112 points, including grade C in Advanced Higher Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Advanced Higher subject. GCSE equivalent English and Maths accepted within.

All Access courses
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 33 Level 3 credits at Merit or Distinction, including 12 Level 3 credits at Distinction in Mathematics and 12 Level 3 credits at Merit in a second relevant subject.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
H200
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering with Foundation Year

    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

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    112 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    H200
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) . 
     
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
    Book your place
    Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
     
     
     
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.