If you're someone who enjoys both technical problem-solving and creative design, this degree is a great fit. Civil Engineering with Architecture at Glasgow blends the precision of engineering with the creativity of architecture — giving you the skills to design structures that are not only safe and sustainable but also look and feel great for the people who use them.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll get a broad introduction to both engineering and architecture. You'll study core topics like Statics, Dynamics, Materials, Environmental Engineering, and Engineering Maths, while also diving into Architecture C1, where you’ll start exploring the design process. There’s a strong focus on teamwork and hands-on learning, so you’ll start building both technical and creative confidence from day one.
Years 2 & 3
These years go deeper into structural design and geotechnical engineering, and you'll continue to develop your architectural skills. You’ll take modules like Soil Mechanics, Geology & Surveying, Structural Design, and Architecture C2 & C3. In Year 3, you'll work on a multidisciplinary design project, collaborating with students from other fields — a great way to get experience of real-world team dynamics.
Year 4 (BEng)
If you choose the BEng route, your final year focuses on pulling everything together. You’ll work on an individual project, a major design project, and continue with Architecture C4. This year is all about applying what you've learned in a practical, meaningful way.
Years 4 & 5 (MEng)
If you’re on the MEng path, you’ll take things further with advanced topics like Geotechnical Engineering, Finite Element Analysis, and Advanced Steel & Concrete Design. Year 5 is very project-focused — you'll do a Conceptual Design Project, a big individual research or design project, and continue into Architecture C5. There’s a lot of real-world context and industry input at this stage, so it's excellent preparation for professional life.
Focus Areas
Structural design, architectural design studios, geotechnics, environmental engineering, advanced materials, conceptual design, real-world engineering projects.
Learning Outcomes
You’ll graduate with the ability to design safe, efficient, and beautiful structures — understanding everything from materials and mechanics to environmental impacts and aesthetics. You’ll be comfortable working across disciplines, solving complex challenges with both creative thinking and technical skill.
Professional Alignment
This degree is professionally accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators, meaning it puts you on track to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng) if you complete the MEng, or an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) with the BEng. That’s key for working in the UK or internationally in civil engineering roles.
Reputation & Employability
Glasgow has a strong track record — 94.8% of science and engineering graduates are working or in further study within 15 months. Civil Engineering is ranked among the top 15 in the UK in multiple national league tables, and the university itself is a member of the prestigious Russell Group.
The MEng Civil Engineering with Architecture program at the University of Glasgow ensures students gain hands-on practical experience through a variety of innovative learning methods and cutting-edge facilities. Students work on real-life, multidisciplinary design projects and benefit from studio-based architectural design work in collaboration with the Glasgow School of Art. Practical skills are developed through laboratory work, site visits, and computational modelling exercises, supported by expert supervision and state-of-the-art equipment.
These hands-on opportunities include:
Collaborative multidisciplinary design projects partnering with architecture and quantity surveying students to solve real-life structural and design problems.
Studio-based architectural workshops focused on sketches, drawings, and physical model production.
Extensive laboratory sessions involving materials testing, soil mechanics, and structural analysis.
Field trips to construction sites and surveying projects to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments.
Use of digital design and analysis software such as Finite Element Analysis tools and CAD applications.
Access to dedicated research laboratories and the specialist collections of the University’s library and the Glasgow School of Art.
Opportunities for industry placements and case study work in the final year, linking academic study with professional practice.
Student societies like Glasgow University Civil Engineers (GUCE) providing networking and practical experiences outside the classroom.
Graduates of the MEng Civil Engineering with Architecture program at the University of Glasgow are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding careers, combining engineering expertise with architectural creativity. Typical roles include civil engineer, structural engineer, project manager, and architectural technologist, providing strong employability in construction, infrastructure, and design sectors. The program seamlessly integrates professional skills with academic knowledge, opening doors to innovative and interdisciplinary roles.
Supporting your career growth:
The university's dedicated Careers Service offers tailored support including CV workshops, interview coaching, and employer networking events specifically for engineering and architecture students.
Graduate employment data shows a median salary of approximately £29,500 within 15 months of graduation, rising to about £35,500 after 5 years.
University-industry partnerships include close collaboration with major engineering firms and the Glasgow School of Art, featuring industry-led case studies and guest lectures.
The program holds long-term accreditation from the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), including the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), essential for Chartered Engineer status.
High graduate satisfaction and employability rates reflect successful outcomes and strong professional reputation.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MEng, students can pursue specialized master's degrees or research opportunities in civil engineering, architecture, or related fields. This includes professional development courses recognized for Chartered Engineer status and potential doctoral studies to further enhance expertise and career prospects.
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