Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Construction Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Construction Engineering at Curtin University is built for students who want to shape the world around them—designing and delivering everything from roads and bridges to major construction projects. It’s a great fit if you enjoy problem-solving and want a career that combines technical engineering knowledge with real, hands-on project experience.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
You’ll start with a common engineering foundation, where you build essential skills in mathematics, physics, and problem-solving. Units like Engineering Foundations: Principles, Design and Communication and Engineering Mathematics introduce you to how engineers think and work, while also helping you develop teamwork and communication skills.

Year 2:
In your second year, you begin focusing more on civil engineering basics. You’ll explore subjects such as Engineering Mechanics, Materials Engineering, and Structural Fundamentals, giving you a solid understanding of how structures behave and how materials perform in real-world conditions.

Year 3:
This is where your learning becomes more practical and industry-focused. You’ll study Structural Analysis and Design, Geotechnical Engineering, and Hydraulics, while also gaining insight into Construction Engineering—learning how large-scale projects are planned and executed.

Final Year:
Your final year brings everything together with a strong focus on real-world application. You’ll dive into Construction Management, Contract Law, and Cost Estimation, choose advanced electives like Transportation Engineering or Environmental Engineering, and complete at least 12 weeks of industry experience to prepare you for professional practice.

Focus areas (in a string):
structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, construction management, transportation engineering, hydraulics, environmental engineering

Learning outcomes (in a string):
design and deliver infrastructure projects, solve complex engineering problems, apply modern engineering tools, communicate effectively in teams, practice sustainable and ethical engineering

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This program is professionally accredited and designed to meet industry standards, with built-in practical experience to help you graduate job-ready.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Curtin University is known for its strong industry links and practical teaching approach, which helps graduates stand out and find opportunities in construction, infrastructure, and engineering sectors worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin University, the Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Construction Engineering is all about learning by doing. From early on, you’ll step into real engineering environments—working in advanced labs, using industry-style equipment, and tackling practical challenges that reflect what happens on actual construction and infrastructure projects. The facilities are purpose-built for engineering students, so you’re not just studying concepts—you’re testing, building, and applying them in a hands-on way that builds real confidence.

This practical experience is woven throughout your degree, giving you multiple ways to apply what you learn:

Work in specialised civil engineering laboratories, including geomechanics, materials, and geo-environmental labs where you test soil, concrete, and structural behaviour
Use advanced facilities such as large-scale structural testing rigs, water engineering labs, and simulation setups that mirror real-world engineering conditions
Learn in the modern Engineering Pavilion and collaborative project spaces, designed for team-based design and problem-solving
Complete a minimum of 12 weeks of industry experience, giving you direct exposure to construction sites and professional engineering environments
Take part in team projects and design assignments, where you solve real engineering problems just like you would in industry
Get involved in fieldwork and site-based learning, helping you understand how projects come together outside the classroom
Engage with research-active environments, including centres focused on infrastructure and structural performance
Build skills using digital engineering and simulation tools that support design, analysis, and project planning

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Civil and Construction Engineering program at Curtin University puts you in a strong position to step straight into the industry. You’ll leave with a mix of technical skills and real-world experience, opening doors to roles like civil engineer, construction engineer, site engineer, or structural engineer across major infrastructure and construction projects.

As you take that next step, Curtin makes sure you’re supported and well-connected:

Dedicated support from the Curtin Careers team, helping you with resumes, interview prep, and connecting you with employers through career fairs and networking events
Built-in industry experience (minimum 12 weeks), so you graduate with hands-on exposure and practical confidence—not just theory
Strong links with industries such as construction, mining, transport, and infrastructure, giving you access to real projects and potential employers
A qualification accredited by Engineers Australia, which is recognised globally and helps you work not just in Australia but internationally
A clear pathway towards becoming a professionally qualified engineer, as the degree meets Stage 1 competency requirements
Flexible career outcomes across consulting firms, government organisations, and large engineering companies, depending on your interests

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to keep studying, there are plenty of options to grow further. You could move into a Master’s degree in areas like engineering management or specialised civil engineering fields, or even continue into research through a PhD at Curtin University—opening doors to leadership, innovation, or academic careers.