BEng Hons in Civil with Environmental Engineering

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Brighton

Program Overview

The BEng (Hons) Civil with Environmental Engineering at the University of Brighton prepares students to design sustainable infrastructure that supports modern society while protecting the environment. This degree is ideal for students who want to combine creativity with problem-solving and gain the technical expertise needed to tackle global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and sustainable construction.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in core engineering principles, covering modules such as Engineering Mathematics, Structural Mechanics, and Materials, Energy and the Environment. Through hands-on lab work and design exercises, students start applying theory to real-world engineering problems.

In the second year, the course expands into advanced areas like Fluid Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, and Sustainable Construction Technologies. Students work collaboratively on group design projects that simulate professional engineering practice, enhancing both teamwork and communication skills.

In the final year, learning becomes more specialised and application-based. Modules such as Water and Wastewater Treatment, Environmental Impact Assessment, and Advanced Structural Design allow students to focus on sustainable solutions to modern infrastructure challenges. The year culminates in an individual engineering research project, giving students the opportunity to develop innovative ideas and apply their skills to a topic of their choice.

Focus Areas: Sustainable infrastructure, environmental protection, structural analysis, water resources management, geotechnical design.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop the ability to design and manage civil engineering projects that meet environmental standards, apply scientific and mathematical principles effectively, use digital design tools, and evaluate the environmental impact of engineering solutions.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): This program is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) on behalf of the Engineering Council, meeting the academic requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status and partially fulfilling Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Brighton is recognised for its strong practical approach and industry links, with Civil Engineering graduates consistently achieving high employability rates across the UK engineering sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BEng (Hons) in Civil with Environmental Engineering at the University of Brighton ensures students develop the hands-on technical and professional skills needed to thrive in the civil and environmental engineering industry. Learning goes far beyond the classroom, as students engage with real-world design challenges, laboratory testing, and industry-standard software. From field investigations to live construction projects, the course integrates applied learning that mirrors the demands of professional practice. Students also benefit from Brighton’s strong industry links, providing opportunities for placements, guest lectures, and site visits that bring theory to life:

Specialist Facilities: Students use the Heavy Structures Laboratory, Geotechnical Laboratory, and Hydraulics Laboratory, equipped for testing materials, soil behavior, and water flow systems.
Fieldwork Opportunities: Regular site visits to active engineering and environmental projects help students gain experience in surveying, site analysis, and project management.
Industry-standard Software: Training includes the use of engineering tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Civil 3D, as well as environmental modeling software to simulate water and waste systems.
Group Design Projects: Collaborative projects in each year allow students to apply their knowledge to design sustainable infrastructure solutions that balance engineering efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Placement and Industry Links: Students have access to optional work placements and projects with engineering consultancies, local authorities, and environmental agencies through Brighton’s Careers and Employability team.
Research and Sustainability Focus: The School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering integrates the Centre for Earth Observation Science and Centre for Aquatic Environments, encouraging students to engage with live sustainability research.

These immersive experiences ensure graduates leave the program ready to tackle modern engineering challenges — from urban development to environmental protection — with confidence and practical insight.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BEng (Hons) Civil with Environmental Engineering at the University of Brighton are well-prepared for dynamic careers that balance innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure development. The program equips students with the technical expertise and professional understanding needed to design, manage, and deliver sustainable projects in both the public and private sectors. Typical career paths include roles such as civil engineer, environmental consultant, structural engineer, and water resources engineer.

Brighton graduates are highly regarded by employers for their practical experience and applied learning approach. The university’s strong industry partnerships and accredited training open doors to career advancement and chartered status:

Career Support: The Brighton Careers and Employability Team offers tailored career coaching, networking events, and links with engineering firms to support graduate employment.
Professional Accreditation: The course is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) on behalf of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), and Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) — a major advantage for those seeking Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Industry Links: Brighton maintains partnerships with organisations such as Southern Water, Balfour Beatty, and AECOM, providing placement and employment pathways.
Graduate Success: Many alumni progress into graduate engineer roles within major construction, consulting, and environmental firms or local government.
Employment Stats: Engineering graduates from Brighton consistently achieve strong employability outcomes, with many entering professional or technical roles within six months of graduation.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates who wish to deepen their expertise can advance to a Master’s in Civil or Environmental Engineering, such as the MEng Civil Engineering or MSc Water and Environmental Management at the University of Brighton. These programs further enhance professional recognition and prepare students for senior engineering and leadership roles in sustainable infrastructure.