Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced structural engineering topics with detailed study of construction materials and their behaviour. You will deepen your understanding of structural analysis, design principles and material performance through a mix of taught modules, laboratory work and an independent research project.

• Advanced Structural Analysis and Design — nonlinear behaviour, second‑order effects, limit analysis and modern design approaches for steel, concrete and composite members.
• Materials for Construction — microstructure, durability, degradation mechanisms and testing methods for concrete, steel, masonry and emerging materials (e.g. fibre‑reinforced polymers, high‑performance concretes).
• Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering — vibration analysis, response to dynamic loading, serviceability and design for seismic actions.
• Finite Element Methods and Modelling — numerical techniques for global and local analysis, modelling of nonlinearity, and use of industry‑standard software.
• Rehabilitation, Repair and Strengthening of Structures — assessment of existing structures, repair strategies, retrofit techniques and performance evaluation.
• Construction Materials Testing and Laboratory Practice — hands‑on testing, interpretation of results and linking laboratory data to design and specification.
• Research Project / Dissertation — a substantial independent research study or design project, often linked to industry or the university’s research strengths in materials and infrastructure.

Module availability may vary; optional modules allow you to tailor learning towards design, materials science or computational modelling. Practical sessions and laboratory work are used throughout to reinforce theoretical learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree (or recognised equivalent) in civil engineering, structural engineering, materials engineering or a closely related discipline. A 2:1 is commonly preferred, though candidates with a 2:2 plus relevant work experience or further study may also be considered. International applicants should hold an equivalent academic qualification.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency. Typical English language requirements include a recognised qualification such as IELTS or an equivalent that meets the university’s postgraduate entry standard.

Relevant professional experience, strong references and a clear personal statement explaining your motivations can strengthen an application. Applicants without a formal engineering degree but with substantial industry experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme go on to roles in structural and materials engineering across private consultancies, contractors, asset owners and public agencies. Typical job titles include:

• Structural engineer or structural design engineer
• Materials engineer / materials specialist for construction projects
• Bridge and infrastructure engineer
• Condition assessment and remediation specialist
• Construction project engineer or technical manager
• Researcher in academia or industry R&D

The degree provides a strong technical foundation for progression to chartered status (with subsequent professional experience) and supports careers in design, site engineering, forensic investigation and materials consultancy.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a practice‑focused learning environment with access to dedicated structural testing facilities, materials laboratories and computing resources for advanced modelling. The programme is delivered by staff with industry and research experience, enabling project work linked to real engineering problems and local/regional construction clients.

Students benefit from industry engagement, guest lectures and opportunities for collaborative projects with employers. The university’s support services for postgraduate students include careers guidance, help with placements and networking events that help bridge study and professional practice.

Studying at Nottingham Trent places you within a city with a strong engineering and construction sector, making it straightforward to pursue internships, site visits and employer contacts while you study.