Civil and Structural Engineering MEng

2024-25 entry
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering

You'll be given a strong grounding in the core disciplines of structures, water engineering and geotechnics. The second half of the course focuses on more specialised and advanced structural engineering modules.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Engineers on site in hard hats

    Give yourself the best possible grounding in the principles behind civil and structural engineering, leaving your options open for a range of careers in the industry.

    Research-active academics and teachers with extensive industrial experience give you a broad-base understanding in this Civil and Structural Engineering MEng – making it perfect if you're not sure which area of civil engineering you want to go into.

    The course integrates a strong focus on civil engineering analysis and design with the latest research on sustainable development – equipping you to tackle challenges in the built environment and design innovative solutions that minimise impact on the environment.

    Years one and two will see you concentrate on the core disciplines of structural engineering, water infrastructure engineering, fluid mechanics, and geotechnical mechanics, from both an analysis and design perspective.

    The second half of the course follows more specialised and advanced structural engineering areas such as bridge engineering, multi-storey building design, sustainability, geotechnics and your independent research project.

    During your third year, you'll spend a full semester doing the integrated design project. You’ll unleash your creativity on a grand scale: devising plans for an entire urban regeneration project based on a real site in Sheffield. You'll investigate new design methods and construction materials while developing detailed designs such as elegant bridges, sustainable and environmentally sensitive multi-storey buildings, or state-of-the-art sports venues.

    The course challenges you to solve increasingly complex problems – building on your core knowledge with specialist modules in the final year so that you'll graduate as a skilled, competent and well-rounded engineer.

    Why study this course?

    • Semester-long integrated design project - explore both concept and detailed design for a range of real-world built-environment problems.
    • World-leading researchers - our department has one of the only blast and impact research groups in the UK, delivering unique research-led specialist modules and research projects.
    • Industry-led teaching - learn how to reduce the impact of construction on the environment with our Reuse of Existing structures module.
    • Specialist teaching facilities - 'Learning by doing' is the reason The Diamond was built. Dedicated to engineering, this is where you’ll apply the theory you learn in lectures – consolidating your understanding alongside students from other disciplines, and beyond the bounds of the curriculum.
    • Professional skills development - supported by a team of staff with industry experience, our programmes empower and support you to take responsibility for your own development and develop skills and attributes that prepare you for a future as a professional civil or structural engineer.

    This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

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    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Civil and Structural Engineering MEng course structure 2022 and 2023
    UCAS code: H210
    Years: 2022, 2023
    First year

    Core modules:

    Practical Application of Civil and Structural Engineering

    Civil and Structural Engineering programmes provide their students with the knowledge and skills to shape the world. However, with this power, also comes huge responsibility. This module focuses on developing the attitudes and behaviours that engineers require to apply their new-found knowledge appropriately in the context of the 21st century.

    The module will draw very heavily on a broad range of interactive projects and workshops, providing the context on which their other academic modules are founded. 

    Short practical exercises will be used as the framework to introduce reflective practice, developing students' ability to solve engineering problems, and to also take ownership of their own educational development. Small groups projects will also provide a lens for students to start developing an awareness of the complex human relationships at the heart of any engineering project.

    Through lectures and workshops students will be introduced to the historical context of their profession, and will debate the evolving ethical challenges facing modern civil and structural engineers.History will be used as the lens to explore: the moral basis for civil and structural engineering; the link between they physical world and evolving theoretical models; and engineers' relationship to risk.

    The module will next explore the relationship between physical structures and the various theoretical mental models that engineers can use to describe and analyse them. Practical make-and-break exercises will explicitly expose the power, and limitations, of our theoretical methods, whilst site-visits will allow students to internalise the impact and scale of their design decisions.

    The module will introduce students to the concept of systems thinking, initially in its broadest sense, and then considering infrastructure as part of complex environmental and societal systems. Students will then be introduced to the concept of risk, and understand how risk management underpins all engineering decision making.

    Working in small-groups the students will conduct a project to develop a solution to a real-world civil or structural engineering challenge, consolidating their learning from this module, and providing practical application for their wider programme learning outcomes.

    The module assessment will consist of mandatory non-graded activities, and graded work.

    20 credits
    Engineering Surveying

    In this module you will learn basic engineering surveying skills and the role spatial data plays in civil engineering design and construction. You will gain hands-on experience in using different types of surveying equipment and in basic manipulation of spatial data. You'll gain key transferable skills in metrology and checking data accuracy.

    10 credits
    Civil and Structural Engineering Mechanics 1

    This module is delivered in both the Autumn and Spring Semesters. Teaching in the first semester is designed to provide a basis of knowledge and understanding of elastic structural analysis and will be applied to two key structural forms - trusses and beams. The focus of the second semester is on the analysis of stress, strain and elastic deformation of beams, qualitative structural analysis of beam-like structures and the fundamentals of plasticity.

    20 credits
    Hydraulic Principles and Flow in Pipes

    This module is designed to address areas of mechanics, which you may have covered in pre-university physics or applied mathematics courses. It aims to build a common understanding of the principles of fluid mechanics, progressing from statics such as pressure and force on objects, through properties and laws of hydro-dynamics including continuity, energy and momentum principles of fluid in motion, leading to the ability to understand and analyse fluid flows in pipes including simple networks and the operation of pumps. Overall, you will gain the essential understanding of fluid mechanics and application to pipe flows. This will be achieved through a series of lectures, building to practical real world examples, laboratory classes and tutorial sheets. Theory is reinforced through practical experimentation and problem solving.

    20 credits
    Mathematics and Python Programming

    This module aims to reinforce and extend students' previous knowledge of mathematics studied before university, and introduces the use of computer programming to solve engineering and mathematical problems. 

    Mathematics is further taught to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the level 2 mathematics courses in the department. Combined with the mathematics teaching, this module teaches the opensource programming language, Python, which can be used to efficiently solve a variety of practical scientific and numerical problems. 

    A combination of formal lecture content, tutorials and assisted computer lab sessions, help the students learn and apply mathematical and programming theory. Practice problems are presented showing the links between mathematics and programming learning, to show how the skills learnt can solve practical problems of relevance to the students.

    20 credits
    Geotechnical Engineering 1

    This module is an introductory module to the use of soils in engineering practice. As soils are a naturally varying material, the creation of different soil types is first discussed giving the student a background in why soils differ. This then progresses into the engineering classification of soils followed by the design of simple geotechnical structures. These include retaining walls and earth embankments.

    10 credits
    Introduction to Structural Materials Engineering

    This lecture course focusses on materials for structural applications and covers all the main classes of materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, natural materials and composites), describing the properties that they show, the root cause of their properties, the structure, and how we can affect this by processing to get the properties we want. The course will also introduce some ways that the best material for a purpose can be selected.

    10 credits
    Sustainable Design and Engineering Skills

    This module is designed to ensure students have the skills to design solutions and assess options against sustainability criteria to make evidence based recommendations. Students will be able to look at the bigger picture of a projects impact on our complex systems and society.

    10 credits
    Global Engineering Challenge Week

    The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.

    *The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    The following are the main learning and teaching methods implemented within the programme:

    • lectures
    • tutorials (and example classes)
    • practical activities
    • design classes
    • coursework assignments (including oral, video and poster presentations)
    • Individual Investigative Project (final year)
    • integrative projects
    • online resources

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    We've academic staff who are world-leaders in their respective fields and some have over 20 years' experience in industry. Our staff experience demonstrates how engineering fundamentals are applied in practice through project work that mimics real-life situations. We also bring in leading industry experts to enhance and support our teaching and advise on our curriculum.

    Assessment

    Students are assessed via a mix of the following:

    • examinations
    • coursework assignments
    • online tests
    • reports
    • group projects
    • presentations
    • design work
    • dissertations

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAA
    including Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering + A in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in Engineering + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAAAB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    A + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction (to include Maths and Science or Engineering units), and 6 at Merit + Grade A in A Level Maths
    Other requirements
    • Acceptable Maths subjects include Maths, Maths with Mechanics, Further Maths or Applied Maths, but not Statistics or Use of Maths. Pure Maths is only acceptable when combined with Physics

    • GCSE Physics (or Combined Science) grade 6/B

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    including Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34, with 5 in Higher Level Maths
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering + B in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in Engineering + B in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + B in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Maths and Science or Engineering units), and 15 at Merit + Grade A in A Level Maths
    Other requirements
    • Acceptable Maths subjects include Maths, Maths with Mechanics, Further Maths or Applied Maths, but not Statistics or Use of Maths. Pure Maths is only acceptable when combined with Physics

    • GCSE Physics (or Combined Science) grade 6/B

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    Department of Civil and Structural Engineering

    Our graduates work all over the world, from the UK to Australia and the USA. Recent graduates have gone on to work for AECOM, Arup, Atkins, Buro Happold, Eastwood & Partners, and Kier.

    You'll be able to apply your knowledge and skills to fields as diverse as the built environment, sustainability and improving the environment.

    In addition, architectural engineering graduates might go into a broad range of engineering areas ranging from building services to mechanical, electrical or acoustic engineering.

    Or as a structural engineer, you'll be helping to shape the world around us. Structural engineers design and construct multi-storey buildings, bridges, sports stadiums, tunnels, airports and schools.

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    Aatisha Gupta : Graduate Civil Engineer

    Department of Civil and Structural Engineering

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    Civil engineering is at the forefront of improving the way we live. Whether it's providing the facilities that keep our day-to-day lives running smoothly - from roads and railways to clean water supplies - or working to meet the ever-changing needs of our society in the areas of sustainability, renewable energy and climate change, you'll be helping to create and protect the world we live in.

    Our courses will make you the kind of engineer the world needs right now; forward-thinking, interdisciplinary, environmentally conscious, and capable of the kind of complex thinking our rapidly changing society needs. Wherever you choose to start your career, you'll be in demand.

    We're in the UK top ten for civil engineering, according to The Times UK University Rankings 2024. Our research is internationally recognised, with 96% of our research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent, according to the Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF2021). Industry and government value our expertise.

    Our industry partners contribute to teaching through lectures, design classes, projects and site visits. We work with leading consultants, contractors and specialist civil engineering companies to provide industrial opportunities for a number of students each year. We also have industrial tutors and professionals who mentor our first-year students.

    You'll be taught in The Diamond, one of the best teaching spaces in the UK.

    Facilities

    The Diamond building contains state-of-the-art teaching and lab facilities, and uses cutting-edge, industry-standard equipment.

    Department of Civil and Structural Engineering

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    Department of Civil and Structural Engineering

    UK top 10 for civil engineering

    The Times UK University Rankings 2024

    UK top 12 for civil engineering

    Complete University Guide 2024

    96% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent

    Research Excellence Framework (REF2021)

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Placements and study abroad

     Placement

    You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the four year course to a five-year Degree with Placement Year.

    A placement year will help you to:

    • gain an insight into possible careers
    • develop a range of transferable skills
    • build a professional network
    • get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
    • add valuable work experience to your CV
    • gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
    • apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

    Study abroad

    Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.

    You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually studying abroad between the second and third year at Sheffield. Or you can apply to replace a year of your time at Sheffield with a period abroad without adding an additional year to your course. 

    We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. 

    Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    You'll be given a strong grounding in the core disciplines of structures, water engineering and geotechnics. The second half of the course focuses on more specialised and advanced structural engineering modules.