Civil Engineering with Foundation Year

This course will develop your understanding of the process of civil engineering technical design and management. You'll be introduced to key skills in structures, fluids, geology, soil mechanics, surveying and materials. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you. KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE: - RANKINGS: Our Civil Engineering courses have been ranked in the Top 15 for student satisfaction with the Complete University Guide 2026 and in the Top 20 for learning resources in the National Student Survey 2025. - ACCREDITATION: This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of the Engineering Council as fully satisfying the educational base for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng). - FACILITIES: You'll study in our fantastic facilities at Markeaton Street. Our STEM centre houses a range of equipment which you'll use throughout your studies, including a 10m flume, a state-of-the-art ground penetrating radar and a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) with survey and thermal imaging capabilities. - LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Through the mix of lectures, real-life projects and site visits, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills that employers are looking for in areas such as structures, fluids, geology, soil mechanics, surveying and materials. You'll also put theory into practice via real-world projects, case studies, site visits and field trips, building the skills employers value most and gaining the academic base for Incorporated Engineer status. - WORK EXPERIENCE: We offer a year industrial placement which will take place between the second and final year of your degree. The placement year will help you to develop the essential skills required in the workplace and will help boost your CV. There is a range of support available for students who are looking to enhance their employability whilst studying including internships, placements and graduate roles. - EXPERT TEACHING: You'll be taught by experienced civil engineering practitioners who are highly skilled in this field, ensuring you are taught to a high professional standard. HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED: - You will be assessed through workshop laboratories, surveying field work, group work and individual assignments. Some traditional exams may be involved for design tests. YOUR CAREER. As a BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering graduate, you will have not only the knowledge and skills to embark on your career but also the academic base for Incorporated Engineer status. An Incorporated Civil Engineer is a person with an accredited bachelor degree and professional experience who can maintain and manage applications of current and developing technology, and undertake engineering design, development, manufacture, construction and operation. The qualification is essential to become a practising engineer and to lead a team in a professional organisation. STUDY OPTIONS: - This course is available with a Foundation Year option. - This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.