About this course
Civil engineering is all around us, from buildings and road planning, to water supply and coastal defence. This BEng Civil Engineering course provides a solid grounding in civil engineering design and application. We'll give you the skills to design and build creative solutions to real-world challenges. You'll develop the skills needed to become a successful engineer.
On this course you’ll learn essential principles, such as:
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mechanics
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structures
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materials and fluids
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geotechnics
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hydraulics
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structural design
You’ll study construction management and the real-world applications of civil engineering. This covers topics such as risk management and health and safety.
You'll have access to our extensive facilities, including:
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National Infrastructure Laboratory
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design studios
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professional manufacturing centre
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hydraulics and geotechnics labs
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heavy structures facilities
Design is integral to our courses, and we offer opportunities for laboratory sessions and design projects. These are based on the requirements of a real site and a real client. Our Design Show blog has examples of our students’ design work.
As part of this course you can:
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apply analytical techniques and problem-solving skills to engineering problems
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develop technical design skills, such as computer-aided design (CAD), model-making, and computer programming
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take part in the Constructionarium challenge, where teams build scaled-down versions of famous structures
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showcase your work in our annual Engineering Design Show
You can take this course with an additional year-long, paid placement. Apply with UCAS code H20P for the Industrial Placement Year option.
This degree partially satisfies the educational base for a Chartered Engineer (CEng). A programme of accredited Further Learning will be required to complete it.
Course locations
This course is based at Highfield and Boldrewood.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
A-levels
A*AA including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
A-levels additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer: A*AB, including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order), plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
AAA including mathematics and an additional required subject or A*AB including A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38 points overall with 18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or 7 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, and 6 at Higher Level in an additional required subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Required Higher Level subjects include mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation) and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A*A in A-level mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order) We do not accept the BTEC Extended DiplomaWe do not accept the BTEC DiplomaApplicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1 and an additional required subject at H1
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics at A1 and an additional required subject at A1
Irish certificate additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D2, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and an additional required subject, one of which must be at D2.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D2 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A* or grade D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A.
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA from 3 A levels including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order) or A*A from 2 A levels including mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order) and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
85% overall, minimum of grade 8.5/10 in mathematics (level 5 or Advanced) and grade 8.5/10 in an additional required subject.
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
A-levels
A*AA including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer:
A*AB, including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
AAB including grades AA in mathematics and an additional required subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38 points overall with 18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics and 6 at Higher Level in an additional required subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Required Higher Level subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A*A in A-level mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1 and an additional required subject at H1
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics at A1 and an additional required subject at A1
Irish certificate additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D2, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and an additional required subject, one of which must be at D2.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D2 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A* or grade D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A.
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA from 3 A levels including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
or
A*A from 2 A levels including mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order) and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable.
European Baccalaureate
85% overall, minimum of grade 8.5/10 in mathematics (level 5 or Advanced) and grade 8.5/10 in an additional required subject.
Required subjects include mathematics and either physics, biology, chemistry, geography, geology or further mathematics.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
You'll learn the fundamentals of the subject across all 3 years of the course. You'll also take design modules, where you'll apply your engineering knowledge.
These modules, along with a major individual project in the third year, allow you to tailor your degree to suit your own interests or career plans. You can also boost your employability by studying a foreign language.
You do not need to select your modules when you apply. We can help you customise your course.
Year 1 overview
The first year provides a solid grounding in engineering science and design, with a focus on civil and environmental engineering.
Core modules cover
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maths
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mechanics
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structures
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materials
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thermofluids
We'll introduce key design skills, such as sketching model-making and computing, through workshops and a design and manufacture project. These will also help you develop skills like:
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observation
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critical thinking
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team work
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communication
At the end of the year you'll take part in the Constructionarium, a week-long activity in Norfolk.
Year 2 overview
You'll further develop your core design and engineering skills.
You'll also study topics that include:
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maths and statistics
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structural analysis and design
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materials
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soil mechanics
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hydraulics
A group design project will help you build on the design skills introduced in year 1.
Year 3 overview
We introduce highway and traffic engineering in your final year, and you'll explore structures, geotechnics and water related-subjects in more depth.
An individual research project will let you focus your engineering to your own interests. In the past, students have considered why concrete floor slabs fail, or investigated the erosion and retreat of coastal cliffs.
You can also broaden your studies and increase your employability by studying a language.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
You must study the following modules in year 2:
You must study the following modules in year 3:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
How you'll spend your course time:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
William Powrie is the course leader.
Careers
This course will put you on the path to becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and is accredited by:
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Institution of Civil Engineers
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Institution of Structural Engineers
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Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation
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Institute of Highway Engineers
You'll graduate from this course with the knowledge and skills for a successful career with civil engineering companies in the industry. You'll find excellent employment opportunities with:
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consultants
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contractors
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local authorities
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regulatory authorities
The transferable skills you'll develop are also valued by many other employers.
Our graduates have gone on to work in roles such as:
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civil engineers
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structural engineers
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transport planners
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coastal engineers
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design engineers
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flood risk officers
First and second year students can apply to our Southampton University Corporate Civil Engineering Scholarship Scheme (SUCCESS). You'll benefit from summer work placements, an industrial mentor and potential, long-term employment on graduation.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You can enhance your career prospects by taking this course with a paid industrial placement year in an engineering organisation.
You'll be able to apply the knowledge and skills you've developed during your degree and gain vital experience to help you become a professional civil engineer after graduation.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK/EU students pay £9,250.
- International students pay £21,580.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: H200
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000