MEng Civil Engineering

At Bristol, you won’t just be sitting in lectures—you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience that brings civil engineering to life. You’ll work in some really impressive labs where you can test materials and structures, including one of the biggest earthquake simulation facilities in the UK. This practical approach means you’ll develop the kind of skills that employers are really looking for, all while working on real engineering problems.

Facilities and Tools You’ll Use

• The Earthquake and Large Structures Laboratory (EQUALS) is a standout feature, with its massive shaking table that lets you see how structures behave during earthquakes.

• You’ll get stuck into lab work with soil and water testing, material strength analysis, and fatigue testing, which really helps solidify your learning.

• You’ll also have access to specialist software for simulations and digital modelling, helping you get comfortable with the latest engineering tech.

Teamwork and Industry Exposure

• Collaborative group design projects are a big part of the program, so you’ll build your teamwork and project management skills by tackling realistic engineering challenges together.

• You can also take advantage of industry placements and internships through Bristol’s strong connections, giving you valuable professional experience before you even graduate.

Beyond the Classroom

• Expect trips to construction sites and infrastructure projects, so you can see civil engineering in action outside the university.

• Plus, you’ll have access to cutting-edge research facilities like the Bristol Robotics Laboratory and dynamic testing labs, where innovation happens.

• The university’s libraries and digital resources will support you throughout your studies whenever you need to dive deeper into your topics.

All these experiences come together to make sure that when you finish your degree, you’re not just knowledgeable—you’re ready to hit the ground running in your career as a civil engineer.

Graduates from the MEng Civil Engineering program at the University of Bristol are highly sought after, stepping into a variety of rewarding roles such as structural engineer, project manager, geotechnical engineer, and transport planner. This degree opens doors to careers across consultancies, construction firms, utility companies, public transport organizations, and environmental management.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of future support and prospects:

• University Careers Service: Offers tailored guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to exclusive job fairs and employer networking events focused on engineering sectors.

• Employment Stats & Salary: 15 months after graduation, Bristol civil engineering graduates earn an average salary of around £30,000, with many securing roles relevant to their degree.

• Industry Partnerships: Strong links with leading civil engineering firms, construction companies, and public sector bodies provide opportunities for internships, industrial placements, and networking.

• Accreditation Benefits: The program is accredited by major professional institutions (ICE, IStructE, CIHT), giving graduates exemptions from professional exams and a smooth path to becoming chartered engineers.

• Graduation Outcomes: Many graduates secure positions at top employers including consultancies, utility providers, and governmental organizations, often with high graduate satisfaction in skills and career readiness.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MEng, students can advance into specialized postgraduate studies such as MSc or PhD research in civil engineering and related areas including environmental engineering, structural dynamics, or transportation engineering. This pathway supports those aiming for research, academic careers, or senior technical roles.