Civil Engineering MEng
London, Bloomsbury
This is the programme information for 2026 entry
If you require details of the previous year's programme, Civil Engineering MEng (2025), click here
Our Civil Engineering MEng is a challenging four-year programme that combines theory, hands-on projects, and multidisciplinary learning. You’ll develop expertise in structural design, transport systems, earthquake resilience, and environmental engineering, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges and shape the built and natural environments in a changing world.
Study mode
Duration
UK tuition fees (2025/26)
Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)
Programme starts
September 2026Application deadline
14 Jan 2026UCAS course code
Entry requirements
- 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.
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.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
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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 MEng is designed to develop future engineering leaders through a combination of theory, hands-on projects, and real-world applications. Led by expert academics and industry professionals, you will build a strong foundation in civil engineering while gaining practical experience across structural design, transport systems, environmental engineering, and construction management.
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
You may choose to take an additional year working in industry between years 3 and 4. This requires UCL approval, and you will submit a comprehensive report reflecting on your experience and learning outcomes.
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.
Undertake a major integrated design project and collaborate in large groups to conceptualise and design significant civil engineering infrastructure, with guidance from industry practitioners providing real-world insights.
Choose from a diverse range of Master's-level modules, allowing you to develop advanced technical skills and expertise tailored to your career aspirations 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 and benefit 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 480 credits, you will be awarded a MEng (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.
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In year 1 you will develop a solid theoretical foundation while applying knowledge to real-world engineering problems through Engineering Scenarios and Challenges. Work collaboratively on two interdisciplinary projects and take part in a residential field trip to Wales, gaining hands-on experience in surveying, dam design, and environmental impact assessment.In year 2 you will deepen your core civil engineering knowledge while selecting an IEP Minor from a range of engineering and non-engineering disciplines. Gain practical skills in construction and project management through a bespoke field trip.In year 3 you will continue your IEP Minor while completing advanced core modules. Undertake an individual research project, applying your knowledge to an independent study.In year 4 you will work on a major integrated design project, collaborating with peers and industry professionals to develop real-world civil engineering solutions. Tailor your studies by selecting from Master’s-level modules aligned with your interests and career aspirations.
All modules on this programme are compulsory with the exception of the 3 module minor (1 module in Year 2 and 2 modules in Year 3) which can be selected from any of the available IEP minor subjects and 4 optional modules in Year 4 which are selected from prescribed lists. Students also carry out a research project in Year 3, the topic of which can be agreed from a wide variety of research areas.
Optional modules
Your learning
Our Civil Engineering MEng combines lectures, tutorials, lab sessions, and hands-on projects, with a strong emphasis on practical, problem-based learning. From the start of the programme, you will engage in group projects, interactive workshops, site visits, and industry-led guest lectures, gaining real-world insights from practising engineers.
Field study courses take 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 by 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
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.
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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
Graduates of our Civil Engineering MEng 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, alumni 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 degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), 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, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Fees and funding
Fees for this course
| Fee description | Full-time |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees (2025/26) | Fees to be confirmed |
| Tuition fees (2025/26) | Fees to be confirmed |
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.
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 page.
Got questions? Get in touch
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