MSc Civil Engineering (Water Management)

The MSc Civil Engineering (Water Management) at the University of Exeter helps students develop practical skills to address real-world water and environmental challenges through sustainable engineering solutions. The programme combines research-led teaching with project work, computer simulations, case studies, industry-focused activities and independent research, allowing students to apply their knowledge to modern water infrastructure problems. Students also benefit from Exeter’s specialist research environment, including expertise from the Centre for Water Systems, and gain experience with advanced digital technologies used in water management and environmental engineering.

Students gain practical skills through specialist facilities, digital tools and research environments, including:

• Gain practical experience with advanced surveying technologies such as drones and LiDAR, developing skills in modern approaches for mapping, monitoring and managing water infrastructure.

• Apply engineering knowledge through modules including Clean Water Supply, Water and Wastewater Treatment, Environmental Risk and Resilience, Digital Mapping and Survey, and AI for Environmental Management.

• Develop problem-solving abilities through computer simulations, project work, case studies, industrial presentations and industry visits, helping students connect academic knowledge with real engineering challenges.

• Learn within the research environment of the Centre for Water Systems, which focuses on areas such as water supply networks, wastewater systems, urban drainage, integrated modelling, risk analysis and sustainable water solutions.

• Explore digital approaches for environmental decision-making through AI-based environmental management techniques, data analysis and computational methods.

• Complete an MSc Dissertation, where students undertake independent research into a water engineering or environmental challenge while working with academic supervisors.

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

• Benefit from Exeter’s engineering research community, where academic expertise and industry engagement support the development of solutions for real-world environmental challenges.

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

• Gain professional experience through the optional year in industry, allowing students to apply their water management knowledge in a workplace environment.

The MSc Civil Engineering (Water Management) at the University of Exeter prepares graduates to address major global challenges related to sustainable water systems, environmental protection and resilient infrastructure. The programme develops specialist expertise in areas such as clean water supply, wastewater treatment, flood management, digital technologies and sustainable engineering, helping students build careers in industries where water and environmental expertise are increasingly important. Graduates can pursue roles such as Water Engineer, Civil Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Flood Risk Management Specialist, Water Resources Engineer and Sustainability Consultant.

The programme supports your transition into a successful career through professional development opportunities, industry engagement and dedicated university support:

• Access support from the University of Exeter Career Zone, which provides personalised career guidance, one-to-one advice, employability workshops, employer events, skills training and resources to help students prepare for future careers.

• Benefit from Exeter’s strong employer reputation and connections with a wide range of national and international organisations, giving students opportunities to engage with employers and explore career pathways.

• Gain professional experience through the optional year in industry, where students can apply their water management knowledge in a workplace setting and gain valuable insight into real engineering projects.

• Develop specialist skills valued by employers, including water supply management, wastewater treatment, flood risk assessment, environmental resilience, digital surveying and sustainable infrastructure planning.

• Learn from experts within the Centre for Water Systems, which focuses on research and innovation in areas such as water distribution networks, wastewater systems, urban drainage, modelling and risk management.

• Build long-term professional value by developing advanced engineering knowledge that supports careers in water utilities, engineering consultancies, environmental organisations, infrastructure companies and sustainability-focused sectors.

• Strengthen transferable skills in communication, teamwork, project management, data analysis, computational methods and independent research, helping graduates progress into technical and leadership positions.

• Explore career opportunities in areas such as hydraulic modelling, sustainable drainage systems, climate adaptation, water resource planning, environmental consultancy and infrastructure development.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Civil Engineering (Water Management), graduates can continue their academic journey through a PhD or doctoral research programme in areas such as water systems engineering, environmental engineering, sustainable infrastructure, flood management, climate resilience or advanced modelling of water networks. The research experience gained through the MSc Dissertation provides a strong foundation for students interested in academic research, specialist consultancy, engineering innovation or careers in research and development.