Universiti Tenaga Nasional

What you'll study

The MSc in Civil Engineering by Research is a predominantly thesis-based programme. Students undertake an original research project under the supervision of academic staff, culminating in a written thesis and oral viva. Typical components of the programme include:

• Research project and thesis – an extended piece of independent research in a specialist area such as structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulic and environmental engineering, materials and construction technology, or infrastructure asset management.
• Research methods and literature review – training in research design, experimental and numerical methods, data analysis, and systematic literature synthesis tailored to the chosen topic.
• Seminars and progress reports – regular presentations of research progress to supervisors and research groups, which develop communication and critical appraisal skills.
• Optional coursework – where appropriate, a small number of advanced-level modules or short courses may be taken to support the research (for example advanced structural analysis, finite element methods, soil-structure interaction, transport modelling, or environmental assessment techniques).
• Laboratory, fieldwork and numerical simulation – practical experimental programmes, instrumented field investigations or computational modelling, depending on the research topic and methodology.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Typical applicants present one of the following:

• A bachelor's degree with honours in civil engineering (or equivalent) and a satisfactory academic record.
• A relevant professional qualification plus appropriate work experience for candidates from industry who can demonstrate capability to undertake research.

All applicants must submit a research proposal that outlines the intended area of study and methodology, and identify potential supervisors within the School of Engineering. Admission also depends on the availability of supervision and laboratory facilities for the proposed topic. International applicants may be asked to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or prior study in English, where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc (by Research) in Civil Engineering are prepared for roles that require advanced technical knowledge and research skills. Common career paths include:

• Research and development positions in industry, consultancies and specialised engineering firms.
• Senior design and technical leadership roles in structural, geotechnical, transport and water resources engineering.
• Positions in public sector agencies and local authorities responsible for infrastructure planning, asset management and regulatory compliance.
• Continuing to doctoral study (PhD) with a view to careers in academia or high-level research institutions.
• Technical specialist or project manager roles in companies engaged in construction, energy, utilities and environmental management.

Why study at Universiti Tenaga Nasional

Universiti Tenaga Nasional offers a research environment with strong links to industry and practical infrastructure projects, benefiting from engagement with energy and utility-sector partners. The university provides access to well-equipped laboratories and computing facilities that support experimental, field and numerical research in civil engineering. Students benefit from supervisory teams with applied research experience and opportunities to collaborate on interdisciplinary projects addressing real-world infrastructure challenges. The programme’s flexibility allows experienced professionals to pursue part-time study while maintaining links with their employers.