Civil Engineering BEng

London, Bloomsbury

Our Civil Engineering BEng equips you with the skills to tackle real-world engineering challenges through hands-on, multidisciplinary learning. Covering structural design, transport systems, earthquake resilience, and environmental engineering, this programme prepares you for a dynamic career shaping the built and natural environments in an ever-evolving world. 

UK students International students
Study mode
Full-time
Duration
3 academic years
UK tuition fees (2026/27)
£9,790
Overseas tuition fees (2026/27)
£42,700
Programme starts
September 2026
Application deadline
14 Jan 2026
UCAS course code
H200

Entry requirements

Grades
A*AA
Subjects
No specific subjects, but please note the GCSE requirements below if you are not taking A level Mathematics and/or Physics. At least two A level subjects should be taken from UCL's list of preferred A level subjects.
GCSEs
English Language at grade C or 4. Mathematics and Physics (or Double Award) at grade A or 7 if not offered at A level.

Contextual offer information

Grades
AAB more about contextual offers
Subjects
No specific subjects. At least two A level subjects should be taken from UCL's list of preferred A level subjects.
GCSEs
English Language at grade C or 4. Mathematics and Physics (or Double Award) at grade A or 7 if not offered at A level.
Points
39
Subjects
A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects, with no higher level score below 5. Physics must be offered at either higher or standard level.

Contextual offer

Points
36 more about contextual offers
Subjects
A total of 17 points in three higher level subjects, with no higher level score below 5. Physics must be offered at either higher or standard level.

UK applicants qualifications

For entry requirements with other UK qualifications accepted by UCL, choose your qualification from the list below:

Equivalent qualification

Not acceptable for entrance to this programme.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF - teaching from 2016) with Distinction*, Distinction*, Distinction*, with all units passed with Merit or better.

D2,D3,D3 in three Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects

A1,A,A at Advanced Highers (or A1,A at Advanced Higher and A,A,A at Higher)

Not acceptable for entrance to this programme.

Not acceptable for entrance to this programme.

International applications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.

If you do not meet the entry requirements for direct entry to this undergraduate programme, you may be eligible to apply for the Engineering Foundation Year at UCL. Designed for individuals from non-traditional educational backgrounds who do not meet standard entry requirements for UCL's undergraduate engineering degrees, this pre-degree programme helps you develop confidence, academic and study skills, and subject specific knowledge. On successful completion of the Engineering Foundation Year, you can gain access to a selection of the engineering undergraduate degree programmes at UCL. Find out more about the Engineering Foundation Year.

 

Access and widening participation

UCL is committed to widening access to higher education. Access UCL is our contextual offer scheme for applicants from groups that are underrepresented at UCL. We assess your eligibility for Access UCL based on the information contained within your UCAS application. We review and update our Access UCL eligibility criteria and datasets every year, so please check the requirements for the year you plan to apply.

Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates

The Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates (UPC) prepare international students for a UCL undergraduate degree who don’t have the qualifications to enter directly. These intensive one-year foundation courses are taught on our central London campus.

Typical UPC students will be high achievers in a 12-year school system which does not meet the standard required for direct entry to UCL.

For more information see: ucl.ac.uk/upc.

English language requirements

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

Information about the evidence required, acceptable qualifications and test providers can be found on our English language requirements page.

A variety of English language programmes are offered at the UCL Centre for Languages & International Education.

Course overview


The Civil Engineering BEng equips you with the technical expertise and practical experience to tackle real-world engineering challenges. Led by award-winning researchers and industry experts, this programme combines hands-on, multidisciplinary projects with a strong foundation in core civil engineering principles. You’ll develop key skills in structural design, transport systems, environmental engineering, and construction management, preparing you to shape the built and natural environments in a rapidly evolving world.

This degree is part of the Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP), an innovative teaching framework that allows you to:

  • Tackle practical engineering challenges
  • Develop transferable professional skills
  • Tailor your studies by choosing an IEP Minor
  • Collaborate with students from other engineering disciplines.

Optional: Year in Industry

Students can transfer to the Civil Engineering BEng (with Year in Industry) if they secure an industry placement, gaining real-world experience and professional connections before graduating. 

What this course will give you

Learn from leading academics and industry experts in UCL Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, specialising in structural design, transport, environmental systems, and systems engineering and engage in multidisciplinary, project-based activities, working with peers to tackle real-world engineering challenges such as earthquake resilience and transport optimisation. 
 
Tailor your studies to your career goals and choose from specialised modules, interdisciplinary IEP Minors, and advanced study options, allowing you to shape your degree to match your ambitions whilst benefiting from personalised support alongside tutorial schemes, subject-specific clinics, and mentorship opportunities (if available) to help you thrive academically and professionally. 
 
Take advantage of our research and industry links with opportunities to collaborate with prestigious industry partners like ARUP, TfL and Network Rail and access the department's start-of-the-art and award-winning facilities across London such as Person-Environment-Activity Research Laboratory (PEARL), Controlled Active Ventilation Environment (CAVE), and Structural & Environmental Testing at Here East (StrEnTHE). 

Teaching and learning

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, adding up to a total of 120 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 30-credit module is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Upon successful completion of 360 credits, you will be awarded a BEng (Hons) in Civil Engineering.

Modules

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

In year 1 you will build a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, applied mathematics, and real-world problem-solving through Engineering Scenarios and Challenges. Gain hands-on experience during a residential field trip to Wales. 
 
In year 2 you will deepen your expertise with advanced civil engineering topics while choosing an IEP Minor from a diverse range of subjects. Enhance construction and project management skills through a bespoke field trip. 
 
In year 3 you will specialise further with advanced core modules and continue your IEP Minor. Undertake an independent research project, applying your knowledge to solve a complex engineering problem. 
 

All modules on this programme are compulsory with the exception of the three minor modules (one module in Year 2 and two modules in Year 3) which can be selected from any of the available IEP minor subjects. Students also carry out a research project in Year 3, the topic of which can be agreed from a wide variety of research areas.

Your learning

Our Civil Engineering BEng combines lectures, tutorials, lab sessions, and hands-on projects, with a strong focus on practical, problem-based learning. From day one, you will apply engineering theory to real-world challenges through group projects, design workshops, site visits, and industry-led guest lectures, ensuring a learning experience grounded in professional practice. 

Fieldwork takes place at the end of Year 1 and Year 2, offering hands-on experience in surveying, construction, and environmental impact assessment. Fieldwork locations can vary year to year and these trips are heavily subsidised by the department, though students may be required to make a small financial contribution. 

Opportunities for summer placements within London-based civil engineering companies are available, helping students gain practical work experience. While securing a placement is the student’s responsibility, the department provides extensive support, including CV writing workshops, career guidance, and access to industry connections. Some placements may also be formally recognised through the Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR). 

Typical contact hours vary between 8-12 hours per week, depending on the year of study and module choice. This includes lectures, workshops, lab work and more. Students should also display around 25-30 hours of independent study, at their own discretion. For example, engaging with required readings in preparation for the discussions and projects promoted in the programme.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods to evaluate your knowledge and progress, including written exams, coursework, video submissions, practical tests, lab reports, online quizzes, group projects, dissertations, and poster presentations. Assessment methods may vary based on your optional and elective module choices. 

Accessibility

The department will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities, including those with long-term health conditions, neurodivergence, learning differences and mental health conditions. This list is not exhaustive. If you're unsure of your eligibility for reasonable adjustments at UCL, please contact Student Support and Wellbeing Services.

Reasonable adjustments are implemented on a case-by-case basis. With the student's consent, reasonable adjustments are considered by UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services, and where required, in collaboration with the respective department.

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information about support available can be obtained from UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services.

For more information about the department and accessibility arrangements for your course, please contact the department.

Online - Open day

Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering information video

Watch this video to find out more about Civil, Environmental & Geomatic Engineering at UCL, including entry requirements, course structure and other helpful information.

The foundation of your career

Our graduates are highly sought after across a range of industries, including consulting, construction, government, and non-governmental organisations. Many secure roles with leading employers such as ARUP, MACE, the European Space Agency, and the United Nations*. Beyond traditional civil engineering careers, graduates apply their skills in diverse fields such as architecture, financial analysis, web design, management, law, and the Civil Service, demonstrating the adaptability and broad opportunities this degree offers. 

*Graduate Outcomes Survey carried out by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), looking at the destinations of UK and EU graduates in the 2017-2021 cohorts.

Employability

This programme equips graduates with a strong technical foundation, problem-solving abilities, and professional skills essential for success in the global job market. With expertise in project management, teamwork, numerical analysis, and engineering software, graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in a variety of industries. Employers value their ability to work collaboratively, think critically, and apply ethical and sustainable engineering practices. Whether pursuing careers in engineering, management, consulting, or beyond, UCL Civil Engineering graduates leave with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation and create lasting impact. 

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators, 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. This programme fully meets the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and partially meets the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). Candidates must hold a masters or doctorate accredited as further learning for CEng to hold accredited qualifications for CEng registration.

Fees and funding

Fees for this course

UK students International students
Fee description Full-time
Tuition fees (2026/27) £9,790
Tuition fees (2026/27) £42,700

UK undergraduate fees for 2026/27 are subject to parliamentary approval and are for the first year only. Fees for subsequent years may be subject to increase: Student Terms and Conditions. UK fees are in line with the Government announcement on fee cap increases.

International undergraduate students benefit from a cohort guarantee unless indicated below, meaning that their tuition fees will not increase during the course of the programme, but UCL reserves the right to increase tuition fees to reflect any sums (including levies, taxes, or similar financial charges) that UCL is required to pay any governmental authority in connection with tuition fees.

International fees shown are the fees that will be charged to 2026/27 entrants.

Foundation Year fees for UK students are £6,000.

Full details of UCL's tuition fees, tuition fee policy and potential increases to fees can be found on the UCL Students website.

Additional costs

The anticipated cost for field trips is estimated at £500. While exact figures may vary, a general guideline is that books and equipment, including drawing kits, waterproofs, and safety boots, typically amount to around £200 per year for students.

For in-person teaching, UCL’s main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1–2 is £114.50. This price was published by TfL in 2024. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide. If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc., please get in touch with the relevant departmental contact (details given on this page).

Funding your studies

The Errol Yarimer Undergraduate Scholarship is a competitive award available for UK resident undergraduates from low-income households for the duration of a continuous full-time course of study.

Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships and bursaries. UK students whose household income falls below a certain level may also be eligible for a non-repayable bursary or for certain scholarships. Please see the Fees and funding pages for more details.

Scholarships

The Scholarships and Funding website lists scholarships and funding schemes available to UCL students. These may be open to all students, or restricted to specific nationalities, regions or academic department.

Next steps

Your application

In addition to meeting academic requirements, we are looking for applicants with a genuine interest in civil engineering and an understanding of its impact on society and the environment. We value candidates who appreciate the diverse skill sets required in the profession and show enthusiasm for tackling real-world engineering challenges. 

How to apply

Application for admission should be made through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Applicants currently at school or college will be provided with advice on the process; however, applicants who have left school or who are based outside the United Kingdom may obtain information directly from UCAS.

Selection

For further information on UCL's selection process see: How we assess your application.

Selection for our programme is primarily based on the strength of your personal statement, references, and academic achievements. However, we welcome applications from students with alternative qualifications.

For further inquiries about your suitability for the programme, please visit the Undergraduate Admissions Enquiries.

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students.