BEng (Hons) Civil and Transportation Engineering

This module introduces the fundamental principles of soil mechanics and their practical application in ground engineering. You will explore the engineering behaviour of soils and their role in supporting civil engineering structures such as foundations, retaining walls, embankments, and slopes. Key topics include soil composition and classification, compaction, permeability, consolidation, shear strength, and soil testing methods. The module also covers site investigation techniques and the interpretation of geotechnical data for safe and effective design. Laboratory work is an important part of the module, giving students hands-on experience in testing soil properties and analysing results. Emphasis is placed on understanding ground-related risks and selecting appropriate foundation solutions for different soil conditions. By the end of the module, you will be able to apply soil mechanics principles to solve routine geotechnical problems and make informed engineering decisions, supporting your professional development and progression toward Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status within the civil and transportation engineering sector.

This module builds on Level 4 mechanics to introduce you to the fundamental principles of structural design used in civil engineering. It focuses on the behaviour and design of common structural elements such as beams, columns, and slabs. You will learn to analyse structural systems and apply appropriate design methods using current industry standards, including Eurocodes. Key topics include loading types, load combinations, bending, shear, axial forces, deflection, and structural stability. The module also introduces design concepts for structural materials such as steel, reinforced concrete, and timber. You will develop calculation and problem-solving skills while also learning how to present design solutions clearly and professionally. Practical workshops and design exercises will reinforce understanding through real engineering scenarios. By the end of the module, you will be able to carry out structural analysis and design of simple elements safely and effectively, demonstrating competence aligned with professional expectations for progression toward Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.

This module combines two major elements of transportation, traffic engineering and highway design. As part of traffic engineering, the module introduces fundamental principles, focusing on those that underpin the operation of road transport systems. You will explore traffic stream models to understand congestion dynamics and roadway performance. The module examines the design and analysis of intersections, with emphasis on traffic signal control, signal phasing, and capacity evaluation. In terms of highway engineering, the module covers the geometric, operational and safety considerations that shape modern road infrastructure. The module examines key elements, including horizontal and vertical alignment, cross‑section design, sight distance, and design speeds, supported by relevant standards and guidelines. The module explores the integration of environmental, geographical and human‑factors constraints into the design process.

The Final Year Dissertation module enables students to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the programme by undertaking an independent investigation into a specialist area of Civil Engineering. The module provides an opportunity to explore a topic of personal and professional interest while developing research, analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills relevant to contemporary engineering practice. Students will define the scope of their investigation, undertake a critical review of the relevant literature, select and apply appropriate research methods, collect and analyse data, and evaluate their findings to address a clearly defined engineering problem. Dissertation topics will reflect current challenges and developments in Civil Engineering, with industrial relevance where appropriate. Throughout the module, students will demonstrate independent learning, project planning, technical analysis, and professional communication by presenting their work in a well-structured academic dissertation. By the end of the module, students will be able to undertake an independent engineering investigation, critically evaluate evidence, develop well-justified conclusions, and communicate their findings effectively, supporting the academic requirements for progression towards Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.

This module develops advanced understanding of water engineering principles and their application to civil and environmental engineering projects. You will analyse open channel and pipe flow, hydraulic structures, and water distribution systems using practical engineering methods. Key topics include fluid flow theory, energy and momentum principles, pump selection, storm drainage, flood estimation, and river engineering. The module also explores environmental aspects of water engineering, including urban drainage design, flood risk management, water quality, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), and the impact of climate change on water resources. Students will use industry guidance such as CIRIA SuDS Manual and Environment Agency standards to inform design solutions. Practical problem-solving, data analysis, and design exercises are used to develop professional competence. By the end of the module, you will be able to design and assess hydraulic systems and apply environmentally responsible engineering approaches, balancing technical, sustainability, and safety considerations in line with Incorporated Engineer (IEng) professional standards.

The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge and practical expertise in both transportation planning and transport system modelling. The transportation planning component introduces you to the assumptions and applications of the four-step travel demand model, covering trip generation, trip distribution, mode choice and route assignment. You will explore the theoretical foundations of these steps and the requirements for producing reliable planning outputs. Emphasis is placed on understanding how the four-step model supports appraisal in modern transport networks. In parallel, the modelling component equips you with hands-on experience in traffic simulation and analysis tools, enabling you to design and assess transport systems at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. You will learn to evaluate network performance, test operational scenarios, and assess the impacts of traffic control strategies, geometric design changes and demand variations. Through practical exercises, you will learn to translate planning outputs into operational performance assessments, bridging the gap between strategic planning and real-world engineering practice.