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Civil Engineering BEng

London, Bloomsbury

Discover the boundless possibilities of Civil Engineering at UCL. Our BEng programme invites you to delve into hands-on, multidisciplinary projects, tackling real-world engineering challenges head-on. From mastering structural design to navigating transport dynamics, earthquake resilience, and environmental systems, you'll refine your skills across diverse disciplines. Prepare to emerge as an engineering leader, shaping both the natural and built environments to meet the demands of our evolving world.

UK students International students
Study mode
Full-time
Duration
3 academic years
UK tuition fees (2025/26)
£9,535
Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)
£39,800
Programme starts
September 2025
Application deadline
29 Jan 2025
UCAS course code
H200

Entry requirements

A levels IB Diploma Other qualifications
Grades
A*AA
Subjects
No specific subjects, but please note the GCSE requirements below if you are not taking A level Mathematics. 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.

Successful completion of the WBQ Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate plus 2 GCE A levels at grades A*AA.

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. If you are eligible for Access UCL you do not need to do anything in addition to the standard UCAS application. Your application will be automatically flagged when we receive it.
Check your Access UCL Scheme eligibility

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


Our three-year programme is designed to nurture future engineering leaders. Led by esteemed and award-winning researchers, educators, and industry experts, our curriculum immerses you in hands-on, multidisciplinary projects that address real-world challenges. From mastering structural design to exploring environmental systems, you'll develop a robust skill set across diverse disciplines, preparing you to shape both the natural and built environments to meet the evolving demands of society.

Year 1

In the first year, you'll establish a solid theoretical foundation in civil engineering while engaging in practical applications through "Engineering Scenarios and Challenges". These real-world problems allow you to put your knowledge into practice, alongside shared mathematics classes with fellow engineering students. Additionally, you'll participate in two interdisciplinary "Engineering Challenges", fostering collaboration and innovation. The year culminates in a residential field trip to Wales, where you'll gain hands-on experience in surveying, dam design and environmental impact assessment.

Year 2

Building upon your core civil engineering knowledge, Year 2 delves deeper into specialised topics while offering the opportunity to choose an IEP Minor subject from a diverse range of engineering and non-engineering disciplines. This year also includes a residential field trip aimed at enhancing your construction and project management skills on a bespoke construction site, further preparing you for real-world applications.

Year 3

In Year 3, you'll continue your study of the chosen IEP Minor subject while completing compulsory advanced core modules. The culmination of your undergraduate journey is a substantial research project, providing you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to an independent study. This final year solidifies your expertise and prepares you for the next phase of your career in civil engineering.

Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP)

Our degree is part of the Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP), a pioneering teaching framework that fosters specialist and interdisciplinary activities. This approach ensures that you graduate as a well-rounded engineer, equipped with a strong grasp of the fundamentals of your discipline and a broad understanding of the complexity and context of engineering problems.

Optional: Year in Industry

Upon enrolment on the course, students will have the opportunity to transfer into the Civil Engineering (with Year in Industry) BEng programme, contingent upon the student securing a fitting placement.

What this course will give you

Our programme in Civil Engineering offers a dynamic educational experience and a wealth of advantages tailored to your professional journey. Led by esteemed researchers, educators, and industry experts, our world-class curriculum ensures a comprehensive understanding of both traditional civil engineering principles and cutting-edge topics like environmental systems and systems engineering. Supported by personalised tutorial schemes, subject-specific clinics, and mentorship opportunities, you'll receive the guidance needed to thrive academically and professionally.

Central to our programme's ethos is experiential learning through immersive, multidisciplinary project-based team activities. Collaborating with peers, you'll tackle real-world engineering challenges, from enhancing earthquake resilience to optimising transport networks, refining your problem-solving abilities and fostering innovation. These hands-on experiences not only deepen your understanding of theoretical concepts but also equip you with the practical skills essential for success in the field.

Studying Civil Engineering at UCL means immersing yourself in the vibrant engineering ecosystem of London, with its various projects and access to prestigious institutions and industry partners. Furthermore, our flexible programme structure empowers you to tailor your studies to your interests and career aspirations, whether through specialised modules, interdisciplinary minors, or advanced study options. In our programme, you'll emerge not only as a proficient engineer but also as a versatile professional primed for leadership roles in tackling global engineering challenges.

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.

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.

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

Compulsory modules










Compulsory modules









Compulsory modules






Your learning

Our teaching methods are carefully crafted to engage and motivate effective learning. These encompass a variety of approaches such as group projects, interactive lectures, problem-solving sessions, drawing and design workshops, one-on-one tutorials, laboratory sessions and immersive site visits and field trips.

Additionally, we invite external lecturers who are practising engineers to deliver specialised lectures tailored to their areas of expertise, providing invaluable insights and real-world perspectives to enhance your learning experience.

The department heavily subsidizes the residential field study courses at the end of Year 1 and Year 2. However, participants are required to make financial contributions. Please be aware that both of these trips are subject to change and may incur certain costs.

There are several opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience through summer placements within civil engineering companies based in London. While it is the responsibility of the student to secure a suitable placement, the department provides extensive support throughout the process. This includes assistance in crafting CVs and cover letters, as well as offering career advice and access to relevant opportunities. Some work placements completed during the summer can be formally recognised and documented through the Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR), further enhancing the student's academic and professional profile.

In addition to departmental support, students benefit from the resources and events provided by UCL Careers and UCL Engineering Careers offers specialised support tailored specifically to engineering students. The dedicated team of career professionals offers a wide range of services, including skills development workshops, sector-specific employer fairs, and personalised one-to-one guidance sessions. These resources help students navigate the job market effectively and develop the skills necessary to excel in their chosen career paths.

UCL ensures that students are well-prepared to transition from academia to the professional world.

A 15-credit module typically entails a learning load of 150 hours, comprising a blend of self-directed study, contact hours with staff (including lectures, workshops, tutorials, laboratories, and field trips), and dedicated time for assessment tasks such as exam preparation and coursework assignments.

Assessment

We employ a diverse array of assessment techniques to evaluate your knowledge and learning progress. These include written examinations, coursework assignments, video submissions, practical tests, laboratory reports, online quizzes, group projects, dissertations and poster presentations.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.

Visit us

All open days and events

Online - Open day

Virtual Open Event: Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering BEng/MEng (April)

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Join us online to meet our staff and students, discover our department, and explore how our world-leading programmes equip future engineers to create real-world solutions—from improving urban mobility to enhancing water access worldwide.

Online - Open day

Virtual Open Event: Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering BEng/MEng (May)

—

Join us online to meet our staff and students, discover our department, and explore how our world-leading programmes equip future engineers to create real-world solutions—from improving urban mobility to enhancing water access worldwide.

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.

Watch on demand event

The foundation of your career

UCL's Civil Engineering graduates are in high demand across a spectrum of sectors, from consulting and contracting to local authorities and non-governmental organisations. Renowned for their versatility and expertise, our alumni have secured positions in prestigious organisations such as ARUP Group Limited, the European Space Agency, MACE Group and the United Nations. These industry connections, combined with the comprehensive curriculum and practical experiences offered by UCL, ensure that graduates are well-equipped to embark on successful careers in civil engineering upon graduation.

While many of our graduates pursue careers in engineering, management, and consulting roles, the opportunities extend far beyond traditional sectors. With the interdisciplinary skills honed during their time at UCL, our alumni carve diverse paths into fields such as architecture, web design, teaching, the Civil Service, financial analysis and beyond. Employers value the problem-solving abilities instilled in UCL Engineering graduates, leading to opportunities for advancement into management roles. Furthermore, our well-rounded graduates are increasingly sought after in professions beyond engineering, including banking, law and advertising, reflecting the adaptability and versatility fostered by their UCL experience.

Employability

Graduates of UCL's Civil Engineering programme emerge as highly sought-after professionals, equipped with a diverse skill set tailored to meet the demands of today's global job market. Beyond mastering core engineering principles, our curriculum places a strong emphasis on fostering transferable skills essential for success in any career path. From project management and teamwork to proficiency in engineering software and effective communication, our graduates possess a well-rounded skill set that enhances their employability across industries.

At UCL, we believe in nurturing holistic engineers who not only excel in technical proficiency but also demonstrate leadership, teamwork and communication skills. Our graduates are prepared to navigate diverse professional landscapes with adaptability and creativity, making them invaluable assets to any organisation. With a robust foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, our alumni are empowered to instigate positive change and drive innovation in their respective fields.

Distinguished by their prowess as adept problem solvers and their proficiency in numerical analysis, UCL's Civil Engineering graduates excel in collaborative work environments. Grounded in an acute awareness of the societal impact of engineering, they demonstrate a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Their wealth of team-based experiences ensures that they seamlessly integrate into various sectors, showcasing their versatility and readiness to tackle complex challenges head-on.

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 (2025/26) £9,535
Tuition fees (2025/26) £39,800

Fees are for Undergraduate 2025/26 entry 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 and are subject to the passing of secondary legislation. Overseas fees shown are the fees that will be charged to 2025/26 entrants for each year of study on the programme, unless otherwise indicated below.

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.

A guide including rough estimates for these and other living expenses is included on the UCL Fees and funding pages. 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.

See all the ways you can fund your studies

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

Successful candidates are those who exhibit a holistic understanding of the diverse skill sets essential for a thriving career as a civil engineer. They demonstrate an appreciation for the multifaceted nature of the profession and possess a keen awareness of the profound impact that engineers can have on society and the environment.

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.

Download prospectus

Got questions? Get in touch

Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering
Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering

cege-ug-admissions@ucl.ac.uk

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