Enter OTP
5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of BrightonThe University of Brighton’s BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year offers a supportive and comprehensive pathway for students who need to build foundational skills before progressing to degree-level study. This four-year program is ideal for those who are changing careers, returning to education, or do not yet have the traditional qualifications for direct entry into civil engineering, providing the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed professionally.
Curriculum structure
Foundation Year: Students build core knowledge in Mathematics for Engineers, Physics for Engineers, and Engineering Skills and Practice, developing problem-solving and academic skills for degree-level study.
Year 1: Students gain an introduction to civil engineering through Engineering Mathematics, Structural Engineering, and Civil Engineering Materials, supported by surveying and design projects.
Year 2: Technical knowledge develops through Geotechnical Engineering, Hydraulics, and Structural Design and Detailing, with fieldwork and laboratory classes to apply theory in practice.
Year 3: Modules such as Transportation Engineering, Soil Mechanics, and Construction Management expand expertise, with emphasis on sustainable engineering and real-world projects.
Year 4 (Final Year): Students undertake an Individual Research Project while studying Advanced Structural Analysis, Water Engineering, and Professional Engineering Practice, preparing for graduate careers and professional accreditation.
Focus areas
Structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulics, sustainable construction, project planning, Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Learning outcomes
Apply engineering principles to design and analyse infrastructure; use advanced software tools; manage projects sustainably; communicate technical information effectively; demonstrate professional and ethical responsibility.
Professional alignment (accreditation)
Accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), including the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), meeting educational requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and partially Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Reputation (employability rankings)
Brighton is ranked 12th in the UK for civil engineering (Guardian University Guide 2024), offering project-based learning, excellent industry links, and specialist facilities such as concrete, dynamics, hydraulics, and soils labs that enhance graduate employability
This programme is expertly designed to build your practical engineering skills and confidence from the ground up, creating a solid pathway into degree-level studies regardless of your previous background. Your foundation year will introduce you to hands-on learning at our Moulsecoomb campus in the School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering, where you'll use modern laboratories and workshops to develop core skills before progressing to more advanced facilities. This supportive approach ensures you gain the practical experience and technical understanding needed to progress confidently into the main degree programme and ultimately excel in your civil engineering career.
Here’s how you’ll develop your practical engineering skills:
Foundation Year Workshops: You'll begin with practical sessions in our engineering laboratories, developing essential hands-on skills through targeted projects and experiments that build engineering intuition.
Introductory Software Training: You'll learn fundamental engineering software including AutoCAD for technical drawing and basic modelling tools, building digital skills that prepare you for degree-level studies.
Laboratory Introduction: You'll gain early access to our civil engineering facilities, with introductory sessions that help you understand testing procedures and equipment operation in a supported environment.
Materials Testing: You'll work with basic concrete and construction materials testing equipment, learning about material properties through hands-on experimentation.
Project-Based Learning: Your foundation year includes practical projects that develop problem-solving skills and engineering thinking, preparing you for more complex design challenges in subsequent years.
Progression & Future Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in civil and structural engineering, construction management, and infrastructure development, with roles such as Structural Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Transportation Engineer, and Project Manager. The program’s strong industry links and professional accreditation support excellent employability:
Career development through Brighton’s Careers and Employability Service and dedicated engineering placement support.
92% of engineering graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with average starting salaries between £28,000–£34,000.
Industry connections with BAM Nuttall, Mott MacDonald, and regional councils provide placement and job opportunities.
Accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), offering a route to Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and progression to Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Strong graduate outcomes with opportunities in both UK and international infrastructure projects.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may progress to an MEng Civil Engineering or pursue postgraduate study such as MSc Civil Engineering, MSc Sustainable Construction, or doctoral research (PhD).
UCAS tariff 80–72 UCAS tariff points. A or AS-level maths, or its equivalent, is normally a requirement for entry.A-levels CDD–BC or equivalent. Subjects should include maths at A or AS-level.International Baccalaureate 24 points, with two subjects at Higher level and at least Standard level maths at grade 4.India- Higher Secondary School Certificate/Standard XII with an overall average of 60–65% to include a minimum of five subjects at 40% or higher.IELTS: Standard: 6.0 overall, minimum 5.5 in all components.TOEFL: Standard: 72 overall, 18 in writing, 10 in Reading, 10 in Listening and 17 in Speaking.USA- High School Graduation Diploma (HSGD) with a GPA of 3.0 overall. Plus one of the following: a score of 1600/2400 on pre-2016 SAT Reasoning Test (SAT) a score of 1050/1600 on the new SAT Reasoning Test (SAT) an ACT score of 24+ two Advanced Placement (AP) tests with scores of three or above (depending on the course you are applying for)GCSE (minimum grade C or grade 4) At least five subjects including maths and a physical science. Mature students without these qualifications but with relevant industrial experience may be considered.Civil EngineerConsultancyGovernmentContractingResearch
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
