School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

MSc Civil Engineering

Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location ҹèƵ
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Are you a civil engineering graduate? Do you want to improve your technical knowledge and enhance your career prospects? Our MSc deepens and broadens your understanding of civil engineering and helps you fulfil your professional role in creating, improving and protecting the environment. You obtain advanced analytical skills in the core subject areas of structural analysis, design and finite element analysis.

Postgraduate Opportunities Session
Watch this space for an opportunity to speak to our academic and professional staff - this virtual event will be the perfect chance to find out more about programme details, applications, scholarships, visas, student living, accommodation, and more!
 

Key features
  • Accredited by the (Institution of Structural Engineers, Institution of Civil Engineers, Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation, Institute of Highway Engineers).
  • Be inspired by our £19 million Marine Building , housing the acclaimed Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory which offers facilities for teaching water and coastal engineering as well as conducting world-class research.
  • Students in engineering, science and the arts have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories in our new engineering and design facility . 
  • This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising of 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 as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired a partial CEng accredited undergraduate first degree.* See for further information.
  • Develop advanced level technical capability in structural analysis and design aspects of civil engineering.
  • Learn about management and professional practice at advanced level.
  • Undertake a dissertation relating to the range of ongoing civil engineering research in the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics.
  • Recent graduates work in a wide range of consultant, contractor and client organisations, including: Hyder Consulting, Babcock International Group plc, Manhire Associates Consulting Engineers and Maverick Ventures UK Ltd.
*It should be noted that candidates completing the MSc who hold an underpinning accredited IEng degree or a non-accredited bachelor degree will need to apply for an academic assessment to determine whether they will meet the educational base for CEng registration.

Course details

  • Programme overview

  • You will obtain advanced analytical skills in structural engineering and hydraulic engineering and be introduced to the broader issues of project and process management in civil engineering. You will develop skills in engineering research and have the opportunity to undertake a substantial research project on a topic of your choosing under the supervision of our academic staff.

    Core modules

    ENBS542
    Project Management and Professional Practice 20 credits

    This module combines the examination of project management process and practice together with the essential requirements of both operating as a professional, and operating in, a professional environment. The module focuses on embedding knowledge and understanding issues faced by modern construction professionals in delivering construction projects in a professional and ethical manner.

    85% Coursework

    15% Practicals

    ENGR501
    Engineering Research Methods and Professional Development 20 credits

    Shape your dissertation project with a methodical approach to research, ensuring it is both innovative and impactful. You'll plan practical work in our specialist labs and select appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods to enable you to produce credible findings. Also, you'll map out your personal development pathway toward professional registration, setting the foundation for your future success.

    100% Coursework

    PROJ517
    MSc Dissertation 60 credits

    This module enables students to undertake an independent research project, applying the knowledge and skills developed throughout their MSc studies. Under academic supervision, students will apply appropriate methodologies, carry out in-depth analysis, and present their findings in a well-structured dissertation that demonstrates critical thinking, technical ability, and academic rigour.

    100% Coursework

    STAD506
    Advanced Structural Engineering 20 credits

    This module develops a deeper understanding of structural dynamics and its role in real-world engineering. Students explore how structures respond to dynamic loads such as wind and earthquakes, and learn to design for complex loading scenarios using advanced analysis techniques.

    70% Examinations

    30% Coursework

    ENGR503
    Computer Aided Engineering 20 credits

    You will develop a fundamental understanding of numerical simulation techniques for use in engineering design and analysis. Emphasis is placed on the importance of rigorous interpretation of verified methods in computer-aided engineering (CAE), with a focus on finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), applied to complex engineering problems.

    100% Coursework

    PRCE514
    Sustainable Engineering Scheme Design 20 credits

    This module immerses learners in a real-world interdisciplinary design project, tackling interconnected challenges in Civil and Coastal Engineering. Working in managed teams, students will refine sustainable solutions and present progress in simulated design meetings. The project spans the full lifecycle from concept to construction, equipping students with collaborative problem-solving skills.

    100% Coursework

    HYFM505
    Flood Risk and Modelling 20 credits

    This module explores the hydraulic engineering principles that shape computational flood modelling and river flood risk management. You will critically assess key techniques used in civil engineering for flood prediction and mitigation, with a strong focus on reliability assessment. Learning is hands-on, featuring reading groups, industry-standard software applications and a flood defence field trip.

    100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Civil Engineering programme specification September 2025_2367

Entry requirements
You’ll need a minimum of a lower second-class BEng honours degree (2:2) in civil engineering or an upper second-class BSc honours degree (2:1) in civil engineering.
If you have considerable professional experience and can evidence an academic ability to undergraduate degree levels you may also be considered.
If you have overseas qualifications you can check your comparability with the UK equivalent through , who provide an advisory service.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying.
The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. 

Fees, costs and funding
2025-2026 2026-2027
Home £11,350 £11,700
International £20,400 £21,000
Part time (Home) £630 £650
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits.

Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

PLEASE NOTE:

The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.

We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.

Find out more about your eligibility for a postgraduate loan

You may now be eligible for a government loan of over £11,000 to help towards the cost of your masters degree.

Tuition fee discount for ҹèƵ graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at ҹèƵ, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 

How to apply

Applications will be open soon.
Please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1752 585858 to register your interest in applying for this programme.
Please include your name, contact details, email and telephone number, the programme that you are interested in and the year you wish to start your studies.
You will be sent further details on how to apply as soon as possible.

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.  

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page). 

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to ҹèƵ degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

Engineering 

MSc Civil Engineering

The skills of the civil engineer have long been recognised as providing the tools for the solution of engineering problems to benefit society. However, the role of the civil engineer is rapidly changing as society changes. 
You are responsible for being proactive and proposing and seeking funding for engineering schemes, not just the technical aspects of the scheme.

Babbage Building: where engineering meets design

Situated on the western edge of our city centre campus, the landmark new facility provides a new home for engineering in ҹèƵ, providing the environment and foundations for our teaching and research into the next decade.
“This new building offers a state-of-the-art setting to inspire the engineers of tomorrow, giving us the ultimate place to bring together students, academics and industry in an environment that not only benefits them but also society as a whole.” Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng , Head of school.
The ҹèƵ's new engineering and design facility - aerial view
COAST Laboratory, Marine Building

Facilities and resources

From dedicated computer laboratories to a wealth of electronic information, you’ll benefit from a range of facilities and resources that will help your learning and development.
Our facilities include our £19 million Marine Building and dedicated engineering laboratories equipped with industry standard software.

Marine Station 

Our students have access to the Marine Station, a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility that serves all our marine-based courses including civil engineering, earth sciences and marine biology. 
Situated on the shores of ҹèƵ Sound as part of our ‘Waterfront Campus’, the facility offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment, a wet lab for sample examination and analysis, a seawater aquarium, field equipment storage and changing facilities. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving. 
 
Marine Station

Why Civil Engineering at ҹèƵ?

University features in film celebrating ҹèƵ’s engineering prowess

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) presents Engineering ҹèƵ. A film celebrating how civil engineers have helped to shape ҹèƵ over the last 500 years. The film tells the story of ҹèƵ through its engineering milestones. From laying the foundations for a new town to the introduction of the Great Western Railway and the impressive Royal Albert Bridge. Through the Blitz bombs and on towards new horizons – Robotics , artificial intelligence and the use of drone technology – we see how engineers are tackling problems and safeguarding the future for generations to come. 
Joylyn Cherotich, international student

After I had completed my undergraduate degree in Kenya, I wanted to pursue a postgraduate programme which would give me the confidence to practice in the field. I knew that ҹèƵ was the place that would mould me into the engineer I have always wanted to be. 

Chloe Dean
Nicola Robins

Related research groups

Athena SWAN Silver Award logo

Athena Swan Silver

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics was awarded an Athena Swan Silver award in September 2024 which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and success for all.
 

People

Meet our school technical staff  

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.