Civil Engineering MSc
Subject and course type
- Construction and surveying
- Postgraduate
Our Civil Engineering MSc is ideal if you are a graduate engineer starting your career in the construction industry.
Please note: this course was previously named Management in Construction (Civil Engineering) MSc. The delivery and content of the course remain the same.
You are reading:
Prepare for a successful career managing civil engineering contracts
Combine structural engineering with advanced construction management
At our Penrhyn Road campus, you will have access to a modern environment with the latest technology and industry-standard equipment, including:
- extensive materials and structures for concrete, masonry, steel and timber
- geotechnical and hydraulics testing facilities
- surveying equipment, such as satellite global-positioning systems
Dedicated computer-aided design facilities include:
- a range of CAD/CAM packages, such as Ideas, SolidWorks and AutoCad
- finite element analysis‚ computational fluid dynamics
- virtual instrumentation
You can use the dedicated Graduate Centre on campus. This includes:
- IT facilities
- seminar rooms
- social spaces and a canteen
- a learning resource centre with specialist libraries
Students studying this course will also benefit from the John Galsworthy Building. This is a £20 million teaching and learning facility which brings lecture theatres, flexible teaching space and information technology suites together around a landscaped courtyard.
This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators and by the Chartered Institute of Building. It also meets the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng), if you already have an accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) or IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons).
This course was originally designed to satisfy the Engineering Council's SARTOR 3 requirements. We have now developed it to appeal to students who do not require a Matching Section as well.
Why choose this course
This industry-accredited course offers a strategic overview of civil engineering and management issues. It addresses the challenges facing the construction industry and successfully combines structural engineering with advanced construction management.
This course will develop your professional, analytical and management skills, as well as improving your technical skills and knowledge. For example, you will gain communication, teamwork, IT and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, you will study subjects that are specific to civil engineering. In particular, a structural design module will broaden your technical knowledge of specialised civil engineering areas. This course also features an industrial project review and analysis module, which is designed to be taken in industry. This gives you the chance to address a real-world problem in an engineering environment.
Through a research thesis, you will be able to choose an area of specialisation. This can be an excellent selling point when looking for a job or promotion.
Throughout this, you will be supervised by a member of our research active academic staff. This ensures our staff are in touch with the latest industry thinking and bring best practice to your studies.
The research groups within the Sustainable Technology Research Centre cover a wide range of topics, including:
- land use
- building design and construction
- recycling waste materials
- efficient energy use and distribution
- water resources (hydraulics)
- monitoring using remote sensing
Further Learning Programme - MSc (non-technical)
This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), which comprises the Institution of Civil Engineers, the 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 meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired a partial CEng accredited undergraduate first degree.
It should be noted that candidates completing the MSc who hold an underpinning accredited IEng degree or a non-accredited bachelor degree will need to apply for an academic assessment to determine whether they will meet the educational base for CEng registration.
See www.jbm.org.uk for further information
This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.
Course content
There are four taught modules and a thesis. Three of the modules will provide you with an understanding of the core management skills needed to make a major contribution within the industry, while one structural design module will enable you to broaden and deepen your technical knowledge of specialised civil engineering areas. You will also cover subjects that are both specific and complementary to civil engineering. In addition, you will develop the ability to resolve the broader problems that arise in civil engineering.
The advanced concrete design module is assessed by coursework based on the national university competition organised by The Concrete Centre, the trade body representing the concrete industry in the UK.
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Work placement scheme
Many postgraduate courses at Kingston University enable students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. Although the University supports students in finding a placement and organises events to meet potential employers, the responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; we cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. You may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. It is very important to prepare and apply yourself if this is the route you wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.
Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Modules
Core modules
15 credits
This module focuses on equipping you with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate legal issues inherent in construction projects, with an in-depth comprehension into the fundamental legal considerations associated with construction contracts. The module aims to enable you to critically analyse professional liability, assess strategies for expanding or constricting liability, and to appraise the scope of liability beyond the confines of contractual obligations. Furthermore, the module endeavours to provide you with a profound comprehension of matters pertaining to construction disputes, along with an exploration of the frequently employed methods for resolving such disputes, as well as acquiring knowledge on the importance of the law of evidence. The module also accentuates the development of relevant graduate attributes highly sought after in the construction industry, such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, initiative, and creativity.
15 credits
This module provides you with an in-depth comprehension in using the Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Construction information Management System (CIMS) in the construction industry. It covers various topics related to BIM and CIMS, including their current application, benefits, challenges in the industry sector, and future developments.
The module will begin by recapping the fundamental concepts of BIM and CIMS, including the evolution of BIM and its importance in the construction industry. It will then delve into the different stages of BIM and CIMS, including modelling, collaboration, documentation, risk management, and collision avoidance and energy efficiency analysis. The module will cover various software tools that are commonly used in BIM and CIMS, such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, and BIM 360.
In addition, you will learn how digital construction has revolutionised the construction industry and how BIM and its closely related digital technologies are employed as tools for the realisation of the Construction Industry 4.0.
This module will enable you to apply and evaluate the key principles of BIM, and you will undertake a collaborative interdisciplinary project to apply and develop your skills in a scenario-based group project. The module will discuss the future trends and developments in BIM and CIMS, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Virtual Reality (VR) in construction.
15 credits
Steel structures are known for their strength, durability, and versatility. This module covers the latest developments in specification, design and detail of steel framed structures. Methods of analysis and structural design are in accordance with Eurocode 3 (EC3) for steel structures.
30 credits
The overall aim of the module is to allow you to develop research skills and gain an appreciation of a subject area of your own choosing. In undertaking the work that is required you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and competence in reviewing existing published literature and data and through the use of your own efforts apply one or more of a range of research methods to collect and analyse data and draw well-founded conclusions as a result of your research. The module allows you to study an area of interest in significant depth and allows you to demonstrate a clear understanding of what has been learnt through a variety of means; a literature review, a research proposal, an oral presentation and a substantial dissertation.
15 credits
This module covers the latest developments in material specification, structural design, and detail of concrete framed buildings. Methods of structural analysis and design in accordance with Eurocode 2 (EC2). Sustainability considerations are also integrated into the module and assessment.
30 credits
This module starts with a general introduction into the management of projects, and then goes more deeply into the technical aspects of project management techniques and project risk. Risk analysis and the identification and mitigation of risk events are dealt with in a construction project context, including human aspects. It covers many aspects of health and safety legislation and practice, starting from the history of health and safety in the UK, the Health and Safety at Work Act, risk assessment, and covers major sets of regulations that impact on construction work. The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations are dealt with in depth, as this is a key piece of statutory legislation that relates to the construction industry. Good practice and the importance of advice and guidance are emphasised. Quality management is dealt with in relation to the requirements of the latest edition of ISO9000, and the process leading to registration under this standard. Modern Practices in quality and the use of various quality management techniques are covered.
30 credits
This module provides you with the experience of performing a group investigation to develop the necessary skills in planning and designing a building project. You will apply and demonstrate your capabilities in engineering knowledge, numeracy, initiative, communication, self-learning, and creativity to plan, carry out, and control a sustainable open-ended design project. You will review the aspects of a client's brief and the feasibility of engineering and economical choices with regards to conceptual designs, structural systems, and materials. Methods of structural analysis and design will be in accordance with Eurocodes 2 (EC2), 3 (EC3), 4 (EC4), 5 (EC5), and 7 (EC7). You will enhance their communication skills through engineering drawing, oral presentation, and writing a technical report. Design thinking, innovation, and engineering judgment will be developed, building your confidence to solve multi-complex problems in your future workplace.
Professional placement
120 credits
The Professional Placement module is a core module if you're following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in your chosen discipline. You may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for a major project or your future career.
It is your responsibility to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by your Course Leader prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. You will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by the Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.
Read more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Career opportunities
Graduates from this course go on to roles such as construction manager, civil engineer, site engineer and sustainability consultant.
Careers and recruitment advice
The Faculty has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.
The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.
Work placement scheme
This course, like many postgraduate courses at Kingston University, enables students to integrate a 12-month work placement into their course. You are responsible for finding and securing your own professional placement, which can be highly competitive but also incredibly rewarding. It is very important to prepare yourself if this is the route you wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a Student Route visa.
Industrial partners
Our excellent industrial links have developed over many years and throughout many countries. Some industrial partners we have worked with in the past are:
- Matra-Marconi Space Ltd
- Ericsson
- Balfour Beatty
- The National Health Service
- British Gas
Our Industrial Advisory Committee reviews and advises industrial activities. The Committee acts as a forum for discussing teaching, research and consultancy to industry.
Teaching and assessment
When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.
As a student at Kingston University, we will make sure you have access to appropriate advice regarding your academic development. You will also be able to use the University's support services.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 180 credits across a year (typical for a postgraduate course) would equate to 1,800 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- 16% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation). The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this course is as follows, though depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose
Type of assessment - Year 1
- Coursework: 76%
- Exams: 20%
- Practical: 4%
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £11,900 |
| Part Time | £6,545 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £18,300 |
| Part Time | £10,065 |
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £11,400 |
| Part Time | £6,270 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £17,600 |
| Part Time | £9,680 |
Fees for future course years
Part time
If you start your second year straight after Year 1, you will pay the same fee for both years.
If you take a break before starting your second year, or if you repeat modules from Year 1 in Year 2, the fee for your second year may increase.
Funding support for postgraduate students
If you are a UK student living in England and under 60, you can apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree. Find out more through the government's website.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying Civil Engineering MSc at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support:
The Inspire the Future Scholarship offers a 40% reduction in fees for taught masters or postgraduate diploma courses with September start dates. 20 scholarships are available for progressing Kingston University graduates.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the Inspire the Future Scholarship page.
International postgraduate students could receive up to £5,000 towards tuition in their first year of study.
For more information on how to apply for these scholarships, visit the International Scholarship page.
If you are a Kingston University undergraduate student progressing to a postgraduate degree (taught or research), you could get a 15% reduction in tuition fees.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the Postgraduate Progression Scholarship page.
Kingston University offers a 10% discount on full and part-time postgraduate degree course tuition fees to our alumni.
For more information on how to apply for this discount, visit our alumni discount page.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
If you choose to do a placement year, travel costs will vary depending on your location. These costs could be up to £2,000.
Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat, hard hat and safety goggles at the start of the year. A £10 voucher will be supplied to help cover the cost of the safety boots when purchasing with our supplier Activity Work Wear. Safety boots can range between £25 and £100. You may also need to purchase equipment, such as safety gloves, when going on site visits. This may cost up to £50.
How to apply
Before you apply
Please read the entry criteria carefully to make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
How to apply online
Use the course selector drop-down at the top of this page to choose your preferred course, start date and mode, then click 'Apply now'. You will be taken to our Online Student Information System (OSIS) where you will complete your application.
If you’re starting a new application, you’ll need to select ‘new user’ and set up a username and password. This will allow you to save and return to your application.
Application deadlines
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Applications will close when the course is full.
Information required to confirm your place
If English is not your first language, we will require proof of your proficiency to allow us to confirm your place on the course. This will generally be either an IELTS or TOEFL test certificate, which can be forwarded to us after you have submitted your application. If you do not hold a formal English language qualification, please indicate how you have acquired your proficiency in written and spoken English.
After you have applied
If the postgraduate admissions tutor requires further information or wishes to invite you to interview, they will contact you directly. You will then hear whether your application has been successful.
If you do not clearly meet the standard entry requirements and the admission tutor wishes to see a portfolio from you, you will be sent an email asking you to upload your portfolio to your Kingston University OSIS account. Further details on how to do this will be provided at the time.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
