The Civil Engineering Infrastructure programme at University College Dublin (UCD) prepares you to design and assess infrastructure where structural performance and ground conditions must be considered together. You’ll learn to interpret site investigation data, apply limit state design to foundations, and communicate solutions through industry-style reports and case studies.
- Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
- Award focus: Civil engineering infrastructure with applied geotechnics and foundation design
- Delivery: On-campus at UCD (confirm the latest timetable and delivery details on the official programme page)
- Credits/ECTS: Bachelor’s programme structure (confirm the exact credit/ECTS total for your intake on UCD’s listing)
- Language of instruction: English
- Tuition fees: Tuition varies by student category—check UCD fee information for your status
- Application: Apply through UCD’s application system (deadlines vary by intake and applicant type)
- Intakes: Typically aligned with the main academic intake (verify start dates for your year)
Programme Structure
The programme combines core civil engineering foundations with applied infrastructure design and geotechnical learning. Teaching is supported by case studies, engineering reporting, and team-based scheme work that mirrors professional practice.
- Civil Engineering Systems
- Geotechnics
- Applied Hydrology (water-related processes relevant to infrastructure performance)
- Design of Structures (structural response and design under load)
- Infrastructure Case Studies (applied design scenarios and solution development)
- Engineering Report & Calculations (technical writing, documentation, and design rationale)
Typical learning activities:
- Team scheme design tasks with defined briefs, assumptions, and deliverables
- Written engineering reports supported by calculations and referenced technical sources
- Oral presentations and structured feedback sessions
- Case study reviews that develop interpretation, justification, and communication skills
Typical assessment approach:
- Coursework and design submissions
- Technical reporting and documentation
- Presentations linked to case study schemes
Professional skills you develop:
- Interpreting investigation data and translating it into design parameters
- Producing clear, auditable engineering documentation
- Evaluating design options and communicating recommendations
Academic requirements
Entry requirements depend on the qualification you hold and the subjects studied. UCD will assess your prior education to confirm it meets the programme’s academic prerequisites.
There is no GRE/GMAT requirement for this programme, and entry is not based on a GPA score.
English requirements
- IELTS (Academic): overall score 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 90
- PTE Academic: 63
- Duolingo English Test: 120
- Oxford Test of English (OTE): 140
Minimum scores and accepted test types can vary by applicant category. Please check the latest UCD requirements for your situation.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Irish Leaving Certificate (established): six recognised subjects are required. You must achieve Grade H5 or better in two subjects and Grade O6/H7 or better in the remaining four subjects. English must be included.
- A level / GCSE: a minimum of 2 grades C at A level and 4 grades C at GCSE is required, including English. Specific subject requirements may apply depending on the programme prerequisites.
Post-study work permission (Ireland)
After completing your degree in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission (often referred to as the Third Level Graduate Programme).
- Typical duration: up to 24 months, depending on the level of your award and the rules in place when you apply.
- Eligibility (general): you must have completed an eligible programme in Ireland and meet the immigration requirements applicable at the time of application.
- Timing: applications are usually submitted after graduation and within the timeframe set by the Irish immigration authorities.
- Work conditions: you may be able to work without a separate employment permit, subject to the conditions attached to the permission.
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always confirm the latest guidance with the Irish Department of Justice and/or your university’s international student office before applying.