HK21 MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture (4 yrs)
If you have a particular interest in buildings, architectural design and quality of life, urban design and the built environment, this may be the programme for you.
Programme Overview
The MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree programme provides a cross over between structural engineering and architecture and prepares you for a career in the field.
It includes units from the main MEng in Civil Engineering, and it is fully accredited by the ICE and IStructE. Each year also includes a unit on architecture, which is taught by practising architects. There are also many opportunities to apply architectural principles in design projects throughout the degree programme. Specialist units in acoustics, urban design and structural engineering augment the architectural content in the final two years.
We have particular strengths in engineering, the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) places Southampton in an elite top group in the Civil Engineering Unit of Assessment, coming second in the UK on a ‘Medals Table’ basis. This excellence helps us attract funding to maintain low student-to-staff ratios, state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories for undergraduates to use. We have a dynamic, lively and friendly environment for study, with opportunities to work with and learn from research teams at the very forefront of their fields.
Our links with industry are very strong, which means we can benefit from visiting lecturers and can use case studies from engineering practice in our teaching. Many of our students are sponsored by companies. Often there are options to work on projects with real practical relevance to industry in the third and fourth years, and our links also give opportunities for vacation placements, and excellent employment prospects on graduation.
We continue to push at the boundaries of knowledge and understanding in engineering – developing the discipline as well as teaching it!
To Apply
All undergraduate applications for the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree should should be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Click on the How to Apply tab of the navigation menu for detailed information on how to apply and further details about UCAS' website, phone and contact details. Specific application deadlines are available on the UCAS website.
Accreditation
Our MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is accredited as fully satisfying the educational base for a Chartered Engineer.
If you aspire to becoming a professional engineer, you will probably want to obtain a ‘Chartered Engineer’ qualification. This is a professional qualification as opposed to an academic qualification such as the BEng or MEng. You obtain this qualification through full membership of an appropriate professional institution.
The accreditation bodies are the following: Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation, and the Institute of Highway Engineers. We are currently applying for validation course status from the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) which, if successful, would lead to Part 1 ARB exemption.
Programme Structure
The MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is a four year full time programme. The first three years are almost identical to the MEng Civil Engineering and cover all technical aspects of civil engineering. Each year includes additional unit on architecture, which is taught by practising architects. Specialist units in acoustics, urban design and structural engineering augment the architectural content in the final two years. There are also many opportunities to apply architectural principles in design projects throughout the degree programme.
The fourth year of the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree course focuses on design, management and teamwork – key skills that are highly valued by employers. There is the flexibility to transfer between the BEng and MEng, subject to academic achievement, in the first two years of the programme.
Successful completion of all four years of the Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is awarded the degree of MEng. Candidates who successfully complete the 1st year of this programme and elect to withdraw candidature are eligible for the award of the Certificate of Higher Education. Candidates who successfully complete the 1st and 2nd year of this programme and elect to withdraw candidature are eligible for the award of the Diploma of Higher Education. Candidates who successfully complete the 1st, 2nd and 3rd year of this programme and elect to withdraw their candidature are eligible for the award of the degree of BEng Civil Engineering with Architecture on successful completion of all three years.
The teaching on this MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is structured on a semester pattern. You study modules comprising 135 credits in each of Part I (NQF4), Part II (NQF5) and Part III (NQF6), and 150 credits in Part 4. You will be required to undertake an individual project worth 30 credits in Part III.
Key facts
We have particular strengths in engineering, the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) places Southampton in an elite top group in the Civil Engineering Unit of Assessment, coming second in the UK on a ‘Medals Table’ basis. Our Grade Point Average was equivalent to the top 5* rating in the 2001 RAE.
Civil engineering has been taught at the University for more than 60 years.
The University of Southampton has been home to an independent department of Civil Engineering since 1957.
Our graduates also find that the broad nature of our course and its emphasis on problem-solving, teamworking, management and communication skills has also prepared them very well for a choice of other careers, including: Accountancy, Banking, Financial services, Management consultancy, General management, Information technology.
Many companies are keen to establish links with our undergraduate students through work placements or scholarships, with a view to offering long-term employment on graduation.
- This information is based on historical data and may have been aggregated. It is also subject to the University's disclaimer notice
Accredited Logo
Tom Watson, MEng Civil Engineering with Architecture, Working for Faber Maunsell“The course turned out to be even more enjoyable and rewarding than I had expected. Whilst the combined tuition of the two different disciplines was at times hard to grasp, in group projects especially I really felt the architecture students had the edge, and were able to blend into the role of lead designer.”
Beth Barker, MEng Civil Engineering graduate“My favourite aspects of the course were the group design projects, because I felt that they represented “real” engineering where we could put the theoretical bits of the course into practice.”
Peter Herrod-Taylor, MEng Civil Engineering graduate“I applied to Southampton because of its growing reputation as an up and coming university and its status as a top university for civil engineering.”
Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements
GCSEs:
| Qualification | Grade |
|---|---|
| GCSE | English Language, at Grade C or above |
A Levels:
| Qualification | Grade |
|---|---|
| GCE A-level | A*AA. You must have A level Mathematics and an A level in another science subject (such as Physics, Chemistry, Further Maths, Biology, Geography, Geology). The third A level subject is flexible but it cannot be General Studies, Critical Thinking or Use of Mathematics. In exceptional circumstances we might accept AAA. |
BTEC Higher National Diplomas are considered on individual merit. Foundation courses are considered on individual merit, generally around 75% achievement is required overall with a minimum of 75% in Mathematics and Science options.
IB:
| Qualification | Grade |
|---|---|
| International Baccalaureate | 36 points, 18 at higher level to include 6 in mathematics and 6 in a science, preferably physics; standard level 5 English |
| European Baccalaureate | A minimum of 85% with a minimum of 9 in Mathematical options. |
| French Baccalaureate | Typically 15 points required overall. |
English Language requirements
If your first language is not English, we need to ensure that your listening, written and spoken English skills would enable you to enjoy the full benefit of your studies. For entry onto our programmes, you will need an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or an equivalent qualification.
Equivalent Qualifications
We are always happy to receive other UK and international applications from candidates with alternative qualifications, which are assessed on individual merit. If you are unsure about our entry criteria, please contact our admissions staff who would be happy to provide advice in advance of your application.
Selection process:
Intake: 75 across all Civil Engineering programmes
Average applicants per place: 10
Once we receive your UCAS application, it will be considered, and if you are based in the UK you will probably be invited to attend a visit day. The visit day consists of a series of activities including presentations, lab demonstrations, tours, opportunities to meet with present students and an individual meeting with an academic member of staff where you will be asked you about your background and interests and given an opportunity to raise any questions you may have about our courses. Applicants with non-standard qualifications may be asked to attend a formal interview. Our decision on your application will be conveyed to you through UCAS.
The selection process involves consideration of all aspects of your application. The key attributes we are looking for in applicants, as well as academic ability, are interest in civil/environmental engineering, good communication skills, evidence of team working and self-management, awareness of broader social, economic and environmental issues and the potential to contribute to the University of Southampton as a learning environment and as a wider community.
All individuals are selected and treated on their relative merits and abilities in line with the University’s Equal Opportunities Policy. In accordance with the University’s commitment to inclusivity, we welcome applications onto this programme of study from students with disabilities. Disabled applicants will be treated according to the same procedures as any other applicant with the added involvement of the Disability Office to assess their needs. The programme may require adaptation for students with disabilities (e.g. hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility difficulties, dyslexia), particularly any practical laboratory sessions, and we will attempt to accommodate students wherever possible.
Visit our International Office website or the NARIC website for further information on qualifications.
Modules
Typical course content
The first year of the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree provides a background in engineering science, emphasising civil engineering aspects. A further module develops the fundamentals of Architecture.
Year 1
All modules below are compulsory and total 67.5 ECTS (135 CATS). No optional modules will be undertaken in Part 1 All modules in Part I are taught over two semesters with formal examinations at the end of semester 2, except for Architecture 1 which is in Semester 2 only. Feedback on progress is provided throughout the year in many ways including via laboratory work, example sheets, tests and coursework.
Semester One
Optional:
Semester Two
Compulsory:
Year 2
Semester One
Compulsory:
- CENV2024
- Structural Design and Materials
- CENV2026
- Numerical Methods
- CENV2030
- Structural Analysis
- MATH2048
- Mathematics for Engineering and the Environment Part II
Year 3
Semester One
Compulsory:
- CENV3020
- Geotechnical Engineering
- CENV3036
- Individual Project
- CENV3056
- Structural Engineering
- CENV3058
- Architecture 3
- CENV3060
- Highway & Traffic Engineering
Semester Two
Compulsory:
- CENV3015
- Design Project
- CENV3036
- Individual Project
- CENV3057
- Urban Design
- CENV3058
- Architecture 3
Year 4
Semester One
For architecture students only - CENV6097 is replaced by CENV6159
Compulsory:
- CENV6097
- Group Design Project
- CENV6133
- Architectural Engineering Project
- CENV6152
- Project Economics and Management
Optional:
Semester Two
Compulsory:
- CENV6086
- Advanced Structural Engineering
- CENV6097
- Group Design Project
- CENV6106
- Architecture 4
- CENV6161
- Integrated Building Structures
Optional:
Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information can be found in the programme handbook (or other appropriate guide).
Learning and assessment
Educational aims of the programme
The first year of the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree programme aims to:
- Provide a thorough grounding in Civil Engineering together with a proper appreciation of the role and responsibility of the engineer in society, so that you have the skills needed for a wide range of professional careers as a leader in engineering practice and business, technology research and development.
- Provide a degree structure that is relevant to the students, industry and staff and responsive to changes in technology and the needs of the industry.
- Provide a lively, informed learning environment, which gains maximum benefit from the internationally respected research being carried out by the academic staff and which develops independent learning and an ethos of lifelong professional development.
- Provide an attractive programme to students irrespective of their race, background, gender or disability from within the UK or overseas.
Furthermore the integrated masters programme aims to
- Provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate enhanced ability through the higher achievement required in these programmes
- Provide enhanced development of skills and knowledge particularly through group design
- Provide additional knowledge and understanding of project economics/management and the opportunity to broaden and/or deepen your technical understanding through additional modules with a focus on Structures and Architecture.
The educational objective of this MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is to develop graduates who within 2 to 5 years are:
- expected to obtain jobs in industry and apply their knowledge and skills to business, technology, or postgraduate study, to solve problems for society in the civil engineering and architectural fields.
- able to respond to changes in the environment and changes in society to best serve the needs of society of today and of the future.
- able to engage in independent scholarship and lifelong professional development.
- global professionals who can engage with other professionals and the public irrespective of, nationality, race, background, gender or disability for the benefit of society.
Teaching and learning methods
Here in Southampton, we are committed to high standards in teaching and learning. Teaching on the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree takes place over two semesters: the first runs from October to February and the second from February to June. The teaching is delivered in a variety of formats: lectures, laboratory and design classes, project work and field trips.
The teaching is delivered in a variety of formats: lectures, laboratory and design classes, project work and field trips.
Lectures
Lectures on the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree provide an overview of a topic, helping you to understand the key concepts and issues. Students are expected to undertake further reading beyond lectures to enhance their knowledge and understanding. Laboratory classes provide opportunities for students working in small groups to conduct experiments that demonstrate and support the theory taught in lectures.
Design & Project work
There is a strong emphasis on design and project work throughout the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree programme. In the first year, students take part in design classes and, in subsequent years, work in small groups, organising their time to meet deadlines under the guidance of our academic staff. Projects often involve input from external organisations.
Field trips, Site Visits and Laboratory Experiments
We regard hands-on experience of the engineering topics that you will study as very important to gaining an understanding of the practical issues involved.
In the first two years of the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree, the teaching of the core subjects of structures, hydraulics and geomechanics is supported by lab classes. Subjects such as geology and maritime/coastal engineering include field trips. Throughout the course, visits to construction sites are arranged where possible, to illustrate the ultimate application of knowledge in civil and environmental engineering.
Field trips take place to support geology and specialist optional modules. In addition, we have recently introduced a six-day residential field course, known as the Constructionarium, for first-year students. On this course, students gain first-hand experience of construction by working with professional contractors and consultants to build reduced-scale versions of well-known structures, such as the Millau viaduct, at the National Construction College in Norfolk.
Assessment methods
Modules on this MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree are normally examined at the end of each semester, and an element of coursework usually contributes to the final grade for the module.
Satisfactory performance is required in each year to progress to the next stage. Feedback is an essential part of the learning process, and students receive verbal and written feedback on their work and progress.
Expert staff
Southampton is a research-led university with academic staff who are working at the forefront of their fields. The 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) places Southampton in an elite top group in the Civil Engineering Unit of Assessment, coming second in the UK on a ‘Medals Table’ basis. Our Grade Point Average was equivalent to the top 5* rating in the 2001 RAE. RAE measures the quality of research in UK universities and colleges and the results determine the allocation of research funding.
Many optional programme units are taught by staff who have specific research interests in these areas. This research is focused in four divisional areas: Environment, Energy and Coasts, Infrastructure and Transportation. In addition, a number of cross-disciplinary research centres have expertise in areas such as coastal and offshore engineering, rail research and sustainable energy. Students have opportunities to collaborate with researchers working in these fields, particularly through project work. Many staff have extensive experience of providing expert advice and consultancy to external organisations such as government agencies and commercial companies, and this is reflected in their teaching.
The tutorial system
Every student on the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is assigned a personal tutor when they start their university degree. Your course tutor changes every semester, but your personal tutor will stay the same throughout your time here. Your personal tutor will meet you when you enrol, and you will see him/her three or four times a term in the first year, for academic as well as pastoral support. Your personal tutor is accessible throughout your time in Southampton.
Administration
We have our own team of administrators who act as a point of contact for day-to-day advice and information for undergraduate students. They are also responsible for collecting assignments and issuing the documents and forms which are required during your period of study.
Programme leader
Career Opportunities
The civil engineering industry and architecture professions provide excellent employment opportunities for graduates from our MEng programme.
The MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree is accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Institution of Structural Engineers, providing the first stage towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status. We are currently applying for validation course status from the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) which, if successful, would lead to Part 1 ARB exemption. We have supported graduates aiming for a career in architecture to apply for validation on an individual basis; all cases have so far been successful.
We work closely with employers in the civil engineering industry and in architecture to give students industrial experience during the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree. This includes the Southampton University Corporate Civil and Environmental Scholarship Scheme (SUCCESS), which provides industrial sponsorships to students studying Civil and Environmental Engineering. The industrial sponsorship includes an annual bursary, summer work placements and possible long-term employment after graduation. All first- and second-year Civil and Environmental Engineering students are eligible to apply. Once awarded, the sponsorship is normally effective until you graduate.
Our close ties with the ICE ensure that you receive expert guidance on employment opportunities, and many of our final-year students are sponsored with employment guaranteed on completion.
When you graduate from the MEng Civil Engineering and Architecture degree, you will have established connections with employers in the industry and you will have gained valuable industry experience.