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Civil Engineering
Course details
- A level requirements: AAB
- UCAS code: H200
- Study mode: Full-time
- Length: 3 years
Course overview
Civil engineers are responsible for the design, project management and construction of the physical infrastructure of our society. Our broad-based, vocational programme covers all the required bases of a civil engineer’s education, with an emphasis on applying your learning in context.
Introduction
You will be introduced to the essentials – everything from structural analysis and design, geomechanics and materials, to the digital built environment and its digitisation. You’ll also study relevant subjects such as maths, computer-aided drawing, and analysis and design.
Site visits are integral to the programme, as are various individual and group design exercises, which provide an opportunity for industrial feedback. Our teaching staff offer projects based on their research expertise.
Students are encouraged to gain relevant work experience to enhance their employability by applying for a summer internship or a year placement with an approved company/organisation.
Civil engineering graduates are in great demand and our programme aims to provide the educational base for graduates who demonstrate ingenuity whilst being practical, articulate, numerate, literate, imaginative, versatile, confident and inquisitive.
What you'll learn
- All bases underpinning the field of Civil Engineering
- Hands-on construction experience
- How to undertake research
- Adapting to a busy hands-on industry environment
- Critical thinking
- Teamwork
- How to present and communicate clearly
Accreditation
These programmes are accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators, which represents the four major civil engineering institutions and accredits civil engineering programmes on behalf of the Engineering Council, which sets and maintains the standards for the engineering profession in the UK. The BEng degree is accredited as: (i) fully satisfying the educational base for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and (ii) partially satisfying the educational base for a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
A programme of accredited further learning will be required to complete the educational base for CEng. See jbm.org.uk for further information and details of further learning programmes for CEng.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
Year one includes an introduction to programming, and a year-long civil and architectural engineering project.
Compulsory modules
CIVIL AND ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING PROJECT (CIVE161)
Credits: 22.5 / Semester: whole session
This module provides students with an introduction to projects within the built environment, the roles of professional engineers, the professions they will interact with, and the skills required by a professional engineer operating in the built environment
DIGITALISATION OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT (CIVE172)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
A significant proportion of the Built Environment exists and consequently Professional Engineers need to interact with existing Buildings or Infrastructure Assets. Aligned with understanding the role that Digital Technology plays in Designing and Constructing the Built Environment, this module introduces the technology and processes the industry uses to determine and monitor existing assets
GEOMECHANICS 1 (CIVE120)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2
The Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for the safe design of how a building or infrastructure asset interacts with the ground. This module introduces students to the role of the Geotechnical Engineer and the fundamental principles and concepts that form the basis of soil mechanics
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS AND PROGRAMMING FOR ENGINEERS (ENGG185)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to the basic concepts and principles of elementary statistics and programming. It explains the purposes and advantages of analysing data collected specifically to solve problems in engineering, reviews available software tools and programming languages used to formulate and answer basic engineering questions. It draws on examples from applications across the range of School of Engineering program areas.
INTRODUCTION TO THE DIGITAL BUILT ENVIRONMENT (CIVE170)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
The world is changing faster than at any time since the first industrial revolution. You will be introduced to the Built Environment as it exists now and how Digital processes and technology will affect the project lifecycle; feasibility, design, construction, operation and demolition/adaptation.
ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS (MATH198)
Credits: 22.5 / Semester: whole session
MATH198 is a Year 1 mathematics module for students of programmes taught in the School of Engineering, e.g. Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical or Industrial Design Engineering. It is designed to reinforce and build upon A-level mathematics, providing you with the strong background required in your engineering studies and preparing you for the Year 2 mathematics module MATH299 (Mathematics engineering II). In the first semester, the foundations are laid: differential calculus, vector algebra, integration and applications. Semester two covers complex numbers, differential equations, Laplace transformations and functions of two variables
SOLIDS AND STRUCTURES 1 (ENGG110)
Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session
This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and theory of how engineering structures work to sustain loads. It will also show how stress analysis leads to the design of safer structures. It will also provide students with the means to analyse and design basic structural elements as used in modern engineering structures.
INTRODUCTION TO STRUCTURAL MATERIALS (ENGG108)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to important mechanical properties of metallic alloys, polymers, ceramics, construction materials and composites used in engineering industry. It also introduces the mechanical testing techniques used to measure such properties, the common mechanisms of materials and component failure in use, and some appreciation of materials processing. The laboratory sessions are designed to familiase students with engineering laboratory methods and procedures, as well as providing an experience of hands-on mechanical testing techniques.
Year two
In the second year of our programme, students have the option to take a week-long residential course at the Constructionarium. This provides real, hands-on construction experience at a six-hectare site, specifically designed and built to provide a range of challenging teaching and learning conditions for students. There is an additional cost of up to £250 for the Constructionarium.
Compulsory modules
ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS II (MATH299)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
To introduce some advanced Mathematics required by Engineers, Aerospace Engineers, Civil Engineers and Mechanical Engineers. To assist students in acquiring the skills necessary to use the mathematics developed in the module.
Field Theory, Partial Differential Equations & Methods of Solution (MATH282)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
For XJTLU Students Only Maxwell’s equations elegantly describe the physical laws governing such things as electrodynamics. Related problems may be posed in terms of vector calculus, or in terms of differential equations. In this module, we revise vector calculus and field theory in three dimensions, using Stokes’ theorem and Gauss’ theorem to solve explicit physical problems; we evaluate path, surface and volume integrals, and derive general electrodynamic laws. We also consider both the ordinary and partial differential equations arising from real world problems related to Maxwell’s equations, and introduce some advanced methods for solving these (i.e. Fourier series, Fourier transforms, Laplace transforms), and further methods for approximating solutions (central difference methods in one and two dimensions).
GEOMECHANICS 2 (CIVE220)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to the theoretical framework of geotechnical engineering. It emphasizes soil as a material and provides an introduction to the application of the theory to practical geotechnical engineering problems including bearing capacity of foundations, earth pressures on retaining walls and slope stability.
GROUP DESIGN PROJECT (CIVE263)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
The students are provided with a realistic design brief that needs to be met over the course of the semester. This is achieved via a defined set of realistic work stages which enables the students to produce an open-ended structural design within a group working environment, thus promoting teamwork and industrial awareness. The final deliverable will be the submission of structured design portfolio/sketchbook and oral presentation to academic members of staff and relevant industry partners.
HYDRAULICS (CIVE210)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
Hydraulics belongs to applied fluid mechanics and covers hydrostatics and hydrodynamics of liquid such as water. The module focuses on pipe flows and open channel flows, which occur in a wide range of science and engineering problems. It is delivered via lectures, laboratory class and tutorials.
REINFORCED CONCRETE AND STEELWORK (CIVE241)
Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session
This module introduces students to the structural design concepts and applications of structural steelwork and reinforced concrete. The basic principles are covered and design examples for design to the relevant sections of the Eurocodes are given.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT 2 (CIVE233)
Credits: 22.5 / Semester: whole session
This module builds on the first year with further exploration into topics introduced in "Structural Engineering in the Built Environment 1". Students are introduced to advanced and emerging materials used in Civil and Architectural Engineering, deeper theoretic and applied understanding of structural behaviour and systems and continue to develop their knowledge and understanding of industry standard structural design tools. All within the context of ensuring structures are constructed to ensure buildings and infrastructure assets are safe, resilient, sustainable, economical and buildable
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT (CIVE261)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
This module provides students with an introduction to thecontexts of transport and infrastructure, and the skills required by aprofessional engineer operating in this sector.
EXPERIMENTAL METHODS (ENGG201)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
The module focusses on the essentials of data analysis and interpretation, engineering experimentation, measurement techniques and principles of instrumentation.
PROGRAMMING FOR CIVIL ENGINEERS (CIVE286)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2
Students will be introduced to the basic concepts of computer programming and Excel to solve engineering problems. Gain knowledge of basic procedural programming concepts. Become proficient in the use of Excel and Excel Macros. Enhance problem solving skills. Gain experience in solving engineering problems using a software tool.
Year three
In year three, you can choose optional modules based on areas of specialisation of the staff. You will also have the opportunity to undertake an individual research project.
Compulsory modules
Geotechnical Engineering (CIVE320)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the theory and methods that underpin geotechnical engineering practice. It covers the design of shallow and deep foundations, retaining walls, slopes and other structures according to Eurocode 7. In addition, it provides a comprehensive introduction to modern finite element methods and their application to geotechnical engineering.
INDIVIDUAL PROJECT (ENGG341)
Credits: 30 / Semester: whole session
The Year 3 individual research project; 300 hours student work over 2 semesters; 3 assessment stages (proposal 5%, interim 20%, final 75%).
INTRODUCTION TO FINITE ELEMENTS (ENGG302)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
In this module the students will gain a basic understanding of the Finite Element method and learn to use some Finite Element software. This software will then be used to analyse a variety of different problems which are relevant to both mechanical and civil engineers.
STRUCTURES 3 (CIVE344)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to plastic structural analysis. At the member level the principle and method for assessing the load carrying capacity of a section is discussed. Topics covered at the structural level include principle and method behind collapse mechanisms, determining collapse loads by incrementally increasing load magnitude (incremental load analysis), and by investigation of the final incipient collapse state (plastic limit state analysis). Implications on limit state design are also discussed.
SUSTAINABLE WATER ENGINEERING (CIVE316)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
In the face of growing populations, increasing demand from agriculture and industry, unsustainable use of water reserves and on going environmental change, water engineers face enormous challenges. This module will study the natural water systems, which underpin our use of water resource. Furthermore, it will apply fundamental hydraulic principles to predict flood risks, estimate water demand and supply, design and optimise water storage, transfer and supply infrastructure as well as set out the basic principles and practical measures to deal with these challenges.
Sustainable Design and Construction Management (CIVE350)
Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session
Sustainability and Management are areas of professionalism that are very important within the construction industry and wider built environment sector. Both areas are also emerging as new and exciting career paths for many graduate civil engineers plus architectural engineers. On completion of this module, students will understand a range of approaches to designing for climate change adaptation and net-zero carbon implementation, as well as appreciate diverse management practices associated with modern methods of construction plus industry innovation. In addition, skills will be gained by students in career evaluation, market analysis, design appraisal, options review and project judgements, all linked to enhanced graduate employment and responsible decision-making as a professional engineer.
Optional modules
(Y3) COASTAL AND ESTUARY PROCESSES (CIVE387)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to the basic theory of surface waves, the nearshore morphological process and estuary processes.
EARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING (CIVE342)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
(Y3) MATERIALS FOR DURABLE AND SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION (CIVE311)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
The materials used in construction contributes considerablyto CO2 emissions and therefore climate change. This module introduces students to the advances made in conventional constructionmaterials and alternative construction materials with regard to sustainabilityand durability. The students will also beintroduced to emerging materials and the potential they have for a more resilientand sustainable future.
PRESTRESSED CONCRETE DESIGN (CIVE343)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module builds on the knowledge and skills gained in CIVE241 Reinforced Concrete and Steelwork and extends them to the design of prerstressed concrete. The modules gives a background to the history and principles of prestressed concrete design and construction. This is all illustrated will extensive practical examples. All the concepts required to design simple prestressed concrete elements are covered
STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS (ENGG301)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces essential principles necessary for the understanding of vibrations in Civil Engineering structures.
UNCERTAINTY, RELIABILITY AND RISK 1 (ENGG304)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
This module covers broad aspects of uncertainty quantification methods, reliability analysis and risk assessment in engineering applications. It also provides understanding of statistical analysis of engineering data and computational methods for dealing with uncertainty in engineering problems.
How you'll learn
We are leading the UK’s involvement in the international Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate (CDIO) initiative – an innovative educational framework for producing the next generation of engineers.
Our degree programmes encompass the development of a holistic, systems approach to engineering. Technical knowledge and skills are complemented by a sound appreciation of the life-cycle processes involved in engineering and an awareness of the ethical, safety, environmental, economic, and social considerations involved in practicing as a professional engineer.
You will be taught through a combination of face-to-face teaching in group lectures, laboratory sessions, tutorials, and seminars. Our programmes include a substantial practical component, with an increasing emphasis on project work as you progress through to the final year. You will be supported throughout by an individual academic adviser.
How you're assessed
Assessment takes many forms, each appropriate to the learning outcomes of the particular module studied. The main modes of assessment are coursework and examination. Depending on the modules taken, you may encounter project work, presentations (individual and/or group), and specific tests or tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Your experience
Your course will be delivered by the School of Engineering, which is home to world-class teaching and learning facilities, designed to provide for the distinctive way engineering students engage actively with their learning process. The school’s impressive specialist engineering research facilities also provide the setting for practical work and many student projects.
Explore our facilities
Virtual tour
What students say...
In Year Two of the course we went to the constructionarium in Norfolk and built a scale model of the Millau viaduct. It was quite a big scale model - about 20 metres across – but those are the sort of things I like, instead of just sitting in a lecture doing sums. It’s a really well-respected University. It’s a really well-respected course. It gives you everything you need for the future.

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Careers and employability
We are committed to developing the modern professional engineers for the future, ensuring that learning environments reflect future working environments. The skills gained through studying a degree in Civil Engineering equip our graduates with the knowledge necessary to excel in an ever-changing industry.
4 in 5 of our engineering students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Many graduates have moved on to have careers with employers such as:
- Airbus
- BMI
- British Airways
- Highways Agency
- Jaguar Land Rover
- National Nuclear Laboratory
- Network Rail
- Pilkington
- Rolls Royce
- Siemens.
Preparing you for future success
At Liverpool, our goal is to support you to build your intellectual, social, and cultural capital so that you graduate as a socially-conscious global citizen who is prepared for future success. We achieve this by:
- Embedding employability within your , through the modules you take and the opportunities to gain real-world experience offered by many of our courses.
- Providing you with opportunities to gain experience and develop connections with people and organisations, including student and graduate employers as well as our global alumni.
- Providing you with the latest tools and skills to thrive in a competitive world, including access to Handshake, a platform which allows you to create your personalised job shortlist and apply with ease.
- Supporting you through our peer-to-peer led Careers Studio, where our career coaches provide you with tailored advice and support.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, how to pay, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, operating University facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
UK fees | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £9,250 |
Year in industry fee | £1,850 |
Year abroad fee | £1,385 |
International fees | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £24,500 |
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes a lab coat, safety boots, and a residential construction course.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.
Scholarships and bursaries you can apply for from the United Kingdom
Entry requirements
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.
Your qualification | Requirements |
---|---|
A levels |
AAB including Mathematics. Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is ABB with A in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course. Available foundation years: |
GCSE | 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
Subject requirements |
Mathematics. For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required. |
BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma |
Acceptable at grade Distinction* alongside BB at A level including A Level Mathematics. |
BTEC Level 3 Diploma |
Distinction* Distinction* in relevant BTEC considered alongside A Level Mathematics grade B. Accepted BTECs include Aeronautical, Aerospace, Construction, Mechanical, Mechatronics and Engineering. |
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma |
D*DD in acceptable BTEC, plus B in A level Maths (not accepted without B in A level Maths) |
International Baccalaureate |
35 overall, including 5 at Higher Level Mathematics. |
Irish Leaving Certificate | H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H3, including H2 in Higher Maths. We also require a minimum of H6 in Higher English or O3 in Ordinary English |
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher |
AAB including Maths |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Acceptable at grade B alongside AA in A Levels including A Level Mathematics. |
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma | D3 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade A M2 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade B Global Perspectives and Short Courses are not accepted. |
Access | Considered if taking a relevant subject. Check with Department or Admissions team. |
International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
Alternative entry requirements
- If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
- Applications from mature students are welcome.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
- Send us a message and we'll get back to you via email with an answer
Live chat is available Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm.
- Live Chat (Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm)
- Phone: +44 (0) 151 794 5927 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)
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Last updated 24 June 2022 / See what's changed / Programme terms and conditions