Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is the profession responsible for designing, constructing, operating and maintaining the physical infrastructure that supports everyday life. Roads, bridges, railways, airports, dams, tunnels, flood defences, water supply systems and sewage treatment works are all the work of civil engineers, as are the foundations of buildings and the design of urban drainage systems. The discipline combines rigorous scientific and mathematical analysis with creative problem-solving and the practical knowledge needed to turn design into reality in the real world, where conditions are always more complex than any model can fully capture.
At the University of Portsmouth, this three-year programme is professionally accredited and develops your ability to design, construct, operate and maintain the essential infrastructure that supports modern society. You will study structural analysis, geotechnics, hydraulics, materials, project management and environmental engineering, developing both the theoretical understanding and the practical skills needed for civil engineering practice. A sandwich placement year provides substantial professional experience in a civil engineering organisation, and a year abroad and work placement opportunities extend the programme further, giving you a strong foundation of practical and international experience before you graduate.
Civil engineers are in demand worldwide, with careers available in consulting engineering, contracting, local and central government, infrastructure clients, utility companies and international development organisations. Common roles include structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, project manager, site engineer and highway engineer. Professional accreditation supports the route towards chartered status with the Institution of Civil Engineers or other relevant professional bodies.
Postgraduate study in a specialist area of civil or structural engineering is a common route for those seeking advanced technical expertise or preparing for registration at the highest level.