Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Civil Engineering)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) at UNSW is designed for students who want to create the infrastructure that shapes our communities — from bridges and roads to water systems and transport networks. You’ll study the fundamentals of engineering alongside specialised civil topics like structural analysis, geotechnical design, transport planning, and water engineering, preparing you for a hands-on, impactful career.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll focus on building a strong foundation in engineering and science. With courses like Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Physics, and Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation, you’ll learn to think like an engineer, solve problems creatively, and analyse real-world systems with confidence.

Year 2
In your second year, your civil engineering journey begins in earnest. Subjects such as Mechanics of Solids, Soil Mechanics and Engineering Geology, and Hydraulic Engineering give you the technical skills to understand how materials behave, how water systems function, and how the ground beneath structures supports them.

Year 3
Year three is where your learning becomes more applied. You’ll tackle courses like Structural Analysis, Transport Planning and Engineering, and Environmental Engineering, helping you design resilient infrastructure while considering environmental and societal impacts. Project-based work also develops your teamwork and leadership skills.

Year 4
In your final year, you’ll bring everything together through advanced electives and a research-linked project, applying your knowledge to real engineering challenges. You’ll also complete 60 days of industrial training, giving you valuable workplace experience and insight into professional practice.

Focus areas

Structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transport and traffic engineering, water and environmental engineering, construction and project management

Learning outcomes

Creative problem-solving, technical design and analysis, systems thinking, professional practice, and practical application of civil engineering methods

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The degree is fully accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised internationally under the Washington Accord, giving your qualification global credibility.

Reputation (employability rankings)

UNSW Engineering is ranked #1 in Australia and #25 globally for Engineering and Technology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). The Civil and Structural Engineering school is recognised as the top in Australia, meaning you’ll graduate with a degree that’s respected worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UNSW, studying Civil Engineering is all about learning by doing. You won’t just sit in lectures — you’ll gain hands-on experience, work on real-world projects, and use world-class facilities that bring engineering concepts to life. From collaborative design projects to industry placements, labs, and research hubs, you’ll build practical skills that prepare you for a career in civil engineering:

Here’s how you’ll get hands-on experience:

ChallENG Program: Work in multidisciplinary teams on real engineering challenges, from sustainable infrastructure to innovative design projects, with guidance from academics and industry mentors.
Work Integrated Learning & Industrial Training: Complete at least 60 days of professional experience in real workplaces, giving you insight into industry practices and preparing you for your future career.
Water Research Laboratory (WRL): Engage with one of Australia’s leading hydraulics and water engineering facilities, using large-scale physical models and specialised equipment to tackle real-world water and environmental challenges.
Specialised Civil & Environmental Engineering Labs: Access facilities like the Water Quality Laboratories, Odour Laboratory, and Travel Choice Simulation Lab to explore infrastructure, environmental systems, and transport behaviour.
Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre: Use advanced instruments for materials and engineering research, giving you hands-on analytical experience with cutting-edge tools.
Digital tools & software: Work with industry-standard engineering software through project-based learning, so you gain skills that are directly relevant to professional practice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from UNSW with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) gives you the skills and confidence to step straight into exciting, impactful careers. You’ll be ready to design and manage infrastructure that shapes communities, with typical roles including Civil Engineer, Structural Designer, Transport Planner, or Project Manager:

How UNSW helps you get there:

Career support services: The UNSW Careers & Employment team is there to guide you, with help on resumes, interview preparation, job fairs, networking events, and access to the STEM Career Launchpad — all designed to connect you with employers and opportunities.
Employment outcomes and earning potential: UNSW graduates are highly employable, with many civil engineering graduates reporting strong salaries above the national median just a few years after finishing their degree.
Industry partnerships and training: The program includes 60 days of industrial training and connections with over 400 industry partners, giving you real-world experience and professional contacts before you graduate.
Accreditation and long-term value: Fully accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised under the Washington Accord, your qualification is trusted by employers globally, opening doors to careers in Australia and overseas.
Graduation destinations: Alumni work across consulting firms, government agencies, infrastructure and construction companies, transport organisations, water utilities, and environmental consultancies — giving you a wide range of career options.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to specialise further, you can continue your studies with a Master of Civil Engineering or a Master of Engineering Science (Civil Engineering) at UNSW. Postgraduate study allows you to focus on advanced technical skills, research, or leadership roles, and can also enhance your opportunities for international work and long-term career growth.