Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme starts with a foundation year that strengthens core numeracy, physical science and ICT skills and introduces engineering practice and technical drawing. After successful completion you progress to the three-year BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering curriculum which combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications.

• Foundation year: mathematics for engineers, introductory mechanics and materials, computing and CAD fundamentals, academic study skills and basic surveying and drawing.
• Year 1 (Level 4): engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural behaviour, construction materials, surveying and measurement, introduction to civil engineering systems, and CAD/BIM basics.
• Year 2 (Level 5): structural analysis, geotechnical fundamentals, fluid mechanics and hydraulics, construction technology and detailing, sustainability and environmental considerations, and group design projects.
• Final year (Level 6): advanced structural design, infrastructure and transport engineering, project management and procurement, professional practice and ethics, research methods and an individual honours project or design thesis.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, workshops, site visits and studio-based design work. Assessment is by a combination of examinations, coursework, laboratory reports, practical tests and individual or group design projects.

Entry requirements

This foundation route is designed for applicants who do not yet meet the direct-entry requirements for the three-year honours programme but have the potential to succeed in civil engineering. Typical entry is from qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC or equivalent vocational awards, an Access to Higher Education diploma, or relevant work experience. GCSE-level passes in English and mathematics (or recognised equivalents) are normally expected.

Applicants with non-standard backgrounds or mature applicants are welcome; offers are made after an assessment of academic history, references and personal statement. International applicants should hold an appropriate recognised secondary qualification and demonstrate English language ability through a standard qualification accepted by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to a wide range of roles in the built environment and infrastructure sectors. Typical destinations include graduate engineer roles with civil engineering contractors and consultancies, site engineering and site supervision, structural technician roles, highways and transport engineering, water and drainage engineering, and construction project support.

Many students progress to professional graduate schemes and further study — for example an accredited MEng or MSc to meet the academic requirements for chartered status with professional bodies. The course also provides a platform for roles in planning, surveying, materials testing and construction management.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University's civil engineering provision is delivered within a school focused on the built environment, combining technical teaching with design, sustainability and professional practice. Students benefit from hands-on facilities such as materials and structural testing laboratories, surveying equipment and computer suites with CAD and BIM software.

The university maintains links with local and national employers, offering opportunities for site visits, live briefs and guest lectures from industry practitioners. Small-group project work, a focus on employability skills and support from academic tutors help students build the practical and professional capabilities needed for a career in civil engineering.