Civil Engineering with Transport BEng

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

This specialized degree is perfect for students who are fascinated by how transport systems integrate with and shape the modern world, from designing smart motorways to planning sustainable urban transit. You'll gain a solid foundation in core civil engineering principles while developing expert knowledge in creating safe, efficient, and resilient transport infrastructure.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students build a strong foundation in engineering principles while gaining awareness of the transport sector. Modules such as Civil Engineering Materials, Engineering Surveying, and Mathematics and Structures provide the technical base. Early exposure to Transport Studies introduces the social and economic role of transport in modern society.

Year 2
The second year develops deeper technical skills and introduces transport-specific applications. Students study Design of Steel and Concrete Structures, Soil Mechanics and Engineering Geology, and Transport Engineering. Practical labs and group projects allow them to apply theory to real-world engineering challenges, strengthening problem-solving skills.

Year 3
In the final year, learning integrates advanced transport and civil engineering knowledge. Core modules such as Transport Infrastructure and Operations, Project Appraisal, and Civil Engineering Group Design Project develop both technical expertise and teamwork. Students also undertake an Individual Research Project, applying research and innovation to solve transport-related engineering problems.

Focus areas: Structural Analysis, Transport Planning, Traffic Engineering, Highway Engineering, Public Transport Systems, Sustainable Infrastructure

Learning outcomes: Design and analyse civil engineering structures; Plan and evaluate transport systems; Develop sustainable solutions for infrastructure challenges; Apply modelling software for traffic and transport planning.

Professional alignment: This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM: ICE, IStructE, IHE, CIHT) on behalf of the Engineering Council, fully satisfying the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status and partially satisfying the academic requirement for Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Reputation: The University of Leeds is ranked 5th in the UK for Civil Engineering (Complete University Guide 2024) and is also ranked in the top 100 globally for Civil & Structural Engineering (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Leeds, we believe the best engineers learn by doing. This programme is designed to give you extensive hands-on experience from day one, using our world-class facilities to turn theory into practice. You'll work on real-world transport challenges, using the same specialist software and equipment you'll encounter in your professional career, ensuring you graduate with the confidence and practical skills that top employers are looking for.

Your learning will be brought to life through a variety of practical activities:

Specialist Laboratories: You'll get hands-on in our extensive labs, including the Structures Lab for testing materials and components, and our dedicated fluids and hydraulics laboratories for modelling water flow.
Industry-Standard Software: Develop vital digital skills using professional software central to the transport sector, such as Linsig for traffic signal design, AutoCAD for drafting, and SATURN for traffic assignment and modelling.
Group Design Projects: Tackle authentic, multi-disciplinary challenges through projects like designing a new transport interchange, where you must integrate geotechnical, structural, and transport planning principles.
Field Classes and Site Visits: Apply your learning in the real world through field trips, which have included visits to major infrastructure projects like the Manchester Smart Motorway scheme to see construction and traffic management in action.
The Design Studio: Collaborate and innovate in our purpose-built project space, designed for student-led group work, model-building, and developing creative engineering solutions.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates are equipped for roles in both civil and transport engineering sectors. Typical positions include Transport Planner, Highway Engineer, Structural Engineer, and Infrastructure Project Manager.

University support: The Careers Centre offers placements, internships, CV guidance, and networking with employers.
Employment stats: Over 90% of Leeds civil engineering graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months.
Industry partnerships: Links with Arup, Atkins, Jacobs, and local transport authorities provide real-world experience.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), supporting a pathway to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Salary outcomes: Early career salaries typically range from £28,000–£35,000, with strong growth potential.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue MSc degrees in Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, or related fields, or continue to PhD research in infrastructure and transport systems.