Civil Engineering

Course overview

Civil engineering is at the forefront of creating a more sustainable world. At Aston University, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to design and build the infrastructure of the future, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

This program is designed to provide a well-rounded education, focusing not only on technical skills but also on the interpersonal and ethical aspects of the profession. However, at Aston University, we don't just teach theory; we emphasise practical, real-world experience. Our partnerships with industry leaders mean you'll have the opportunity to work on live projects and gain hands-on experience from day one.

This practical approach ensures you graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your career.

"My time at Aston University has been a great stepping stone between education and the engineering profession I wish to pursue; having access to such great lecturers who provide practical lessons on real-life equipment helps to bridge the gap between the theoretical and applied aspects of my course".

Timothy Nightingale

Civil Engineering

Current student

Why Civil Engineering at Aston University?

Excellent student experience

Civil Engineering was ranked 5th in the UK for student experience 2023 Sunday Times

Gold standard teaching

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Thriving student life

Aston Students’ Union was rated 8th in the UK in the 2022 What Uni League Table

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.

AI & Digital

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Inclusive Leadership

Environmental Sustainability

Discover Power Skills

Course description

BEng Civil Engineering

The BEng Civil Engineering degree at Aston University boasts an advanced curriculum, practical experiences, world-class faculty, and strong industry connections, this course will equip you with a wide range of valuable skills that are essential for a successful career in the civil engineering field.

What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK's second-largest city, delivered by accredited academics, who have worked in the industry or involved in collaborative industry research, that will bring the subject to life. Use of world-class facilities to delve into practical lab sessions, including access to civil engineering labs with state of the art building and testing equipment. Safety is paramount in civil engineering, so we cover the course and exam fees for you to get an associated accreditation for health and safety training from CITB.

It is not mandatory to bring your own device for this course, however if you choose to do so please note will need laptop specifications of i5 or above (or AMD equivalent).

What you will provide
In the realm of civil engineering, creativity and innovation are highly valued. You'll be encouraged to think outside the box, come up with groundbreaking ideas, and develop solutions that were previously unimaginable. If you're an innovative thinker, with an analytical and technical mind, civil engineering is the ideal platform for you.

What skills we teach
This new course examines the societal, economic, and operational issues related to construction. You will master the core subjects at the heart of this degree – structures, materials, geotechnics, transport, infrastructure, engineering, construction management, and Building Information Modelling (BIM). Along with fundamental transferable skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and project management, you will gain advanced knowledge in BIM, a transformative tool in modern construction that enhances collaboration, efficiency, and sustainability. These skills and expertise will significantly enhance your employability and prepare you for a dynamic career in the construction and civil engineering sectors

Placement year
A placement year is a fantastic opportunity and compulsory on the Aston University’s Civil Engineering course. Our award-winning careers and placement team and strong industry ties will provide you with exciting placement opportunities. Previous students have gained experience with leading companies, such as Mott McDonald, KPMG, and The Ministry of Transport.

Career prospects
On graduation, you could work for UK or global organisations such as building and project management consultancies. The transferable management and technical skills developed during your studies will also be attractive to other professions and there is potential for graduates to go into diverse fields such as finance, logistics and general management. Recent graduates from similar courses at Aston have joined companies including Alstom, BAM Construction, Mott McDonald and the Department for Transport.

Professional accreditation
*This programme is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM): the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) and the Permanent Way Institution (PWI). As part of the standard process, it is currently undergoing re-accreditation, with confirmation expected before November 2025.

How you will learn

Your learning will take place in our single-site campus in the heart of Birmingham. As well as traditional lectures and seminars, you will immerse yourself in team and individual project work, Problem-Based-Learning (PBL) sessions, civil engineering laboratory practicals, and site visits. Students take approximately four modules each term. Each Module will have at least two hours of lectures, two hours of laboratory practicals and two hours of Problem Solving Tutorial / lectorial classes and sessions.

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor throughout your studies to provide support and guidance. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in PAL sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

You can join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in our Civil Engineering Society.
Let your creativity run wild in our Design Challenge, whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions.
Join our Formula Student team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

Civil Engineering Now and Then

Dr Haris Alexakis talks about changes in Civil Engineering

Find out more

Facilities

Complete your practical work in our brand new, state of art laboratory facilities in highway engineering, materials and structures, and the latest industry-standard engineering software packages.

Our modern campus is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, software, and equipment that mirror what you'll encounter in the industry. From the latest design and analysis software to cutting-edge testing facilities, you'll have access to the tools you need to excel in your studies.

Civil Engineering Facilities Tour

Course objectives

Provides a thorough grounding in the basic principles and associated practices required by the Built Environment professions with particular emphasis on relevant civil engineering skills.
Provides you with the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience through a sandwich year; and provides you with a working knowledge of the techniques and an understanding of the skills required by civil engineers within the built environment.
Produces graduates with the qualities and skillset that are expected from the relevant Professional Engineering Institutions (PEIs), societies, professional bodies and industry, aligned with the PEIs codes of conduct and the Engineering Council’s professional registration levels
Provide an opportunity for advanced levels of study and a focus on skills and appreciation of the changing nature of civil engineering
Provide students with appropriately structured curricula, combining teaching and learning in theoretical issues with practical, experimental, and digital skills training applicable to civil engineering and the built environment
Provide an up-to-date and professionally focussed curriculum in line with the requirements of the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) which includes Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), The Institution of Structural engineers (IStructE), the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transport (CIHT), the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) and the Permanent Way Institution (PWI)
Offer students the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience and mentoring from practitioners through the sandwich placement year
To produce capable graduate civil engineers who are highly valued by employers

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Introduction to Civil Engineering	15
Engineering Surveying	15
Construction Materials	15
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Engineering Science 1	15
Power Skills	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Apply the principles of science and mathematics required for civil engineering
Explain the fundamental concepts, technology and principles of construction within a civil engineering context
Acquire data and apply analytical skills employing problem-solution methods applicable to the civil engineering profession
Explore the situational position of basic civil engineering tasks within an economic, social and environmental context
Demonstrate different forms of communication; practicing writing, verbal and graphical presentations
Demonstrate professional skills practised in the laboratory and design practice
Create a solution as part of (interdisciplinary) teams to a design problem subject to identified constraints, evaluate the design and make improvements, using appropriate design tools and techniques
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Structural Analysis and Numerical Modelling	30
Sustainable Materials and Design	30
Fluid Mechanics	15
BIM for Construction	15
Transport Infrastructure Engineering	15
Geotechnics 1	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notations to engineering problems
Analyse key engineering processes and principles using modelling and analytical methods
Design components of a structure to relevant professional standards identified in construction
Recognise the impact of commercial, financial, economic, environmental and social choices affecting the selection of a project
Examine construction related materials and products employing engineering processes and related equipment
Structure and present ideas employing group focused creative problem solving approaches.

Placement year modules

You will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
EPS Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Identify the relevance of the programme's discipline-specific and generic content to the world of work.
Practice your team-working skills.
Develop Independent learning skills to facilitate professional development.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Independent Civil Engineering Project	30
Civil Engineering Design Project	30
Hydraulics	15
Geotechnics 2	15
Civil Engineering Project Management	15
Sustainable Infrastructure Systems	15
Total	120

Final year outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Select, manage and apply appropriate professional principles for civil engineering projects encompassing all stages of project life cycle
Demonstrate and apply the required Civil engineering technical knowledge to the appropriate standard
Design and deliver an individual Civil Engineering project
Demonstrate professional graduate employability skills
Audit a planned engineering activity, identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
Reflect on their knowledge, skills and competencies to formulate a personal development plan in line with their chosen engineering career
Plan, conduct, evaluate and report on a major individual programme of work initiated from a technical brief

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.
As an Aston student, you will develop expertise in four key areas:

AI & Digital

Join the rise of the humans. Don't fear AI, master it and use it for good. Develop digital skills for the future, whatever career you want to pursue.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Don't follow the rules, rewrite them. Today’s fast-changing world needs original thinkers. Creators. Innovators. Risk takers. So get ready to think smart and reach the next level.

Inclusive Leadership

Make space for every voice to be heard. Be the one who brings people together with a shared vision. Learn to break down barriers and be the leader the future needs.

Environmental Sustainability

It's not game over for our planet. It's game on. Together we can create a greener tomorrow. The world urgently needs graduates who can shape more sustainable and ethical ways of working. The future depends on it.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC to include Maths and one other STEM (a) subject*
BCC to include Maths and one other STEM (a) subject* (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at Grade B)
CCC to include Maths and one other STEM (a) subject* (contextual offer)

List of STEM (a) subjects: Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology and Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

If BTEC is in Engineering:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Engineering): DDM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (Engineering): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (Engineering): DM, plus 1 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (Engineering): DM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics, plus 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (Engineering): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction if one A level is not in Mathematics: (QCF) Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction, with the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Distinction, plus an A-Level in any subject at grade C. This must include the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

If BTEC is in any other subject:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (any subject): DDM, and A Level Maths at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B in Mathematics and another STEM (a) subject listed above.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B including Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

29 points overall with 5, 5, 4 in Higher Level, including Mathematics and another STEM (a) listed subject.

We accept the QAA-recognised Access Diploma which must consist of at least 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits at level 3; including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics units and at least 15 credits at Level 3 in STEM (a) subject units.

Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement.

The following T levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction Grade D
Building Services Engineering for Construction Grade D
Onsite Construction Grade D
Design and Development for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D
Engineering Manufacturing Processing and Control Grade D
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement each applicant must meet a GCSE (level 2) requirements:

GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4
GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,535*
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses). The fee for the placement year is £1,250.

International students (Overseas Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £21,500. The fee for the placement year is £2,500.

All students:

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

The BEng Civil Engineering programme is structured with approximately 6-7 modules split over two terms. You will be assessed through a combination of exams, coursework, design projects, and laboratory reports. The majority of modules have a balance of 40 % coursework and 60% exam, however, several modules are assessed entirely on coursework.

The assessment methods will reflect the most effective and relevant way to review your performance for each module. Therefore, each module will be assessed in a variety of ways to reflect your knowledge from that module and how you would apply it in the real world.

Career prospects

Civil engineering is a diverse field, with opportunities in infrastructure, transportation, environmental engineering, and more. Whether you aspire to build iconic structures, improve transportation systems, or address environmental challenges, our program will empower you to make a real difference in the world.

Some of your future career opportunities include:

Contractors
Consultant Engineers
Local Authorities
Service Industries
Major Industrial Organisations
Government
Academic Institutions

Our world-class education, industry connections, and commitment to your success will ensure that you graduate with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build your dream career.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study civil engineering at Aston University?

Civil engineers are in high demand as the construction industry continues to grow and thrive. This course will give you all the skills and experience you need to lead a successful and fulfilling career as a civil engineer.

You will learn the key techniques and skills you need to become a civil engineer including materials, transport and engineering. You’ll gain knowledge and experience based on real life examples and companies, giving you the skills you need to begin your career in this exciting area.

Why is the placement compulsory?

We think that the knowledge you gain through your studies are best applied to real life and the most effective way to do this is by working in a company. As well as the opportunity to apply the technical knowledge you’ve learned, you’ll also gain invaluable communication and team skills.

We have excellent links with industry and can help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham