MSc Civil Engineering (Structural Design)

The MSc Civil Engineering (Structural Design) at the University of Exeter gives students the opportunity to develop practical expertise in analysing, designing and improving complex structures through research-led teaching, engineering projects and advanced digital tools. Students gain experience in applying structural engineering concepts to real-world challenges through computer simulations, case studies, industry-focused activities and their MSc Dissertation. The programme is supported by specialist laboratories and research facilities, allowing students to explore structural behaviour, advanced modelling techniques, sustainable design solutions and modern engineering practices.

Students gain practical skills through specialist facilities, engineering software and research activities, including:

• Develop advanced structural analysis skills through finite element modelling and digital analysis techniques to understand how structures respond to different loading conditions.

• Apply engineering knowledge through modules such as Digital Structural Analysis, Performance Based Design Under Dynamic Loading, Design of Reinforced Concrete and Steel Structures, and Advanced Geotechnical Engineering, focusing on practical structural design challenges.

• Use specialist engineering software available through the Structures Laboratory, including ANSYS, ARTeMIS, FE-Map, LUSAS, MATLAB, SIMULINK, MATHEMATICA and Plaxis for modelling, simulation and structural analysis.

• Gain practical experience in the Structures Laboratory, which supports research and industry projects involving structural testing, vibration analysis, monitoring systems and advanced engineering investigations.

• Work with structural monitoring equipment, vibration testing tools and data acquisition systems used to study the performance and safety of civil engineering structures.

• Take part in computer simulations, project-based activities, case studies and industry-related learning, helping students connect engineering theory with professional practice.

• Complete the MSc Dissertation, where students conduct independent research on a structural engineering topic and develop advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Learn from research-active academics working in areas such as structural mechanics, seismic design, computational modelling and resilient infrastructure.

• Access Exeter Engineering facilities, including materials laboratories, fabrication laboratories, electronics laboratories, imaging facilities and specialist research spaces that support practical engineering development.

• Develop professional skills in engineering analysis, research methods, computational techniques, teamwork and decision-making through applied learning activities.

The MSc Civil Engineering (Structural Design) at the University of Exeter prepares graduates with the advanced technical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the structural engineering and infrastructure sectors. By developing expertise in areas such as structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, digital modelling and sustainable design, students are equipped to contribute to complex engineering projects around the world. Graduates can pursue careers as Structural Engineers, Civil Engineers, Structural Design Consultants, Geotechnical Engineers, and Infrastructure Engineers.

The programme supports your transition from postgraduate study into a successful engineering career through a range of professional development opportunities:

• Access support from the University of Exeter Career Zone, which provides personalised career guidance, employability workshops, CV and application support, interview preparation, employer events and resources to help students achieve their career goals.

• Benefit from Exeter’s strong reputation among employers, with the university recognised for producing highly employable graduates and maintaining connections with a wide range of national and international organisations.

• Gain professional experience through the optional MSc Industrial Placement, where students can apply their structural engineering knowledge in a workplace environment and gain insight into how engineering solutions are developed for real projects.

• Develop specialist skills that are highly valued by employers, including structural analysis, finite element modelling, seismic design, sustainable construction and resilient infrastructure planning.

• Learn from research-active academics who bring expertise in structural engineering, computational modelling and advanced infrastructure solutions into the classroom.

• Build long-term professional value by gaining knowledge and technical skills that support progression towards professional development and future chartership opportunities within the civil engineering sector.

• Strengthen transferable skills in project management, communication, teamwork, computational methods, problem-solving and independent research, preparing you for a wide range of engineering roles.

• Explore career opportunities across engineering consultancies, construction companies, infrastructure organisations, research institutions and technology-driven engineering firms.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Civil Engineering (Structural Design), graduates can continue their studies through a PhD or doctoral research programme in areas such as structural engineering, computational mechanics, sustainable infrastructure, seismic engineering, geotechnical engineering or advanced construction technologies. The research experience gained through the MSc Dissertation provides a strong foundation for students interested in academic research, specialist engineering roles, innovation projects or careers in engineering research and development.