Undergraduate course

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.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Secure your place this September

Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2025.

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 with Foundation Year
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About

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
Lecturer in Civil Engineering
Students using equipment in the STEAM laboratory, Babbage
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
A full list of potential progressions routes is listed under course details
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
 

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

Progression routes
This foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers.
Whilst successful completion of the foundation year (Year 0) will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right, you will be able to confidently progress onto Year 1 of:
Progression is also possible to our other engineering degrees and good performance in the first year entitles you to transfer to the second year of our MEng courses.
 

Foundation year

The course comprises four themes: civil engineering, mathematical methods, applied mathematics (mechanics), and physics. You can expect about 15 hours of contact per week and will be studying independently for at least the same amount of time. Your assessment will be in the form of coursework assignments, in-class tests and examinations at the end of each of the two semesters.
Civil ENgineering students on a boat trip in Plymouth Sound.

Core modules

CIVL050
Civil Engineering

This module provides an introduction to the civil engineering profession and to the types of careers open to graduates in this discipline. Relevant transferable skills are also introduced to support a group project which aims to develop an appreciation of the knowledge and skills required for progression to the civil engineering degree programmes.

MATH051
Mathematical Methods I 20 credits

This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering, science and computing as well as of the world around us. Assuming a base of GCSE grade C, the lectures and assessments are designed to lead to an understanding of the application of mathematics to GCE A Level grade C and above.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MATH053
Mathematical Methods II 20 credits

This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering and science as well as of the world around us. It extends the mathematics taught in MATH051 to include complex numbers, differential equations and numerical methods.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MATH058
Applied Mathematics 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to applied mathematics. The focus of the module is on the use of mechanics to solve basic problems of an engineering and scientific nature in the real world. Topics studied are: modelling; forces; vectors; kinematics in one and two dimensions; Newton's laws; moments and energy.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PHYS050
Physics I 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering. This module assumes little previous knowledge of physics.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

PHYS051
Physics II 20 credits

This module continues the work in Physics I, providing an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

Year 1 - BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

Study the fundamental principles that underpin technical subjects which are studied throughout the course. You will develop your mathematical skills and study engineering materials, structural mechanics and fluid mechanics. You will learn about generic design and computer-aided design, and work in a team to undertake a real-world design challenge. Laboratory sessions will form an important part of your learning.
Students using equipment in the STEAM laboratory, Babbage

Core modules

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

Optional modules

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

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

 
 
 

Related courses

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.

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. .

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
 
 
 

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.

Nilesh Jeetah
 
 
 

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 Lecturer in Civil Engineering


Lecturer in Civil 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

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

Ajen Limbu, 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 full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
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
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
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 .
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 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

Secure your place this September

Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Check what you need to do
Three students sitting on a wall at the Barbican eating fish and chips
 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 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
32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above.

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: PPP
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma: MP
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
24 overall– English and mathematics must be included.

All Access courses
pass Access course (any subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent). For candidates that do not have a science or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.

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
H203
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

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

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
    Our typical offer
    32 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
    H203
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 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.
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    *These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Unistats is updated annually in September.