1. Courses
  2. MSc Civil Engineering
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering

MSc Civil Engineering

MSc Full-time 12 months, Part-time 2 years

Advance toward Chartered Engineer status. Our JBM-accredited MSc Civil Engineering builds advanced structural and geotechnical design skills at our Springfield site, backed by strong industry links.

Register your interest
Apply now

Advance toward Chartered Engineer status. Our JBM-accredited MSc Civil Engineering builds advanced structural and geotechnical design skills at our Springfield site, backed by strong industry links.

Award
MSc
Start date(s)
14 September 2026
Course specifications
View course spec
Course length
Full-time (12 months),Part-time (2 years)
Campus location
University: Springfield Campus
School
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering

Why choose this course?

If you’re a civil engineering graduate ready to move from Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status to Chartered Engineer (CEng), this MSc gives you the advanced technical grounding to get there. It’s not a general top-up – it’s a focused, technically demanding programme built specifically to meet the further learning requirements for CEng registration.

What sets the course apart is the breadth of its professional recognition. It’s accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) on behalf of five leading professional bodies – Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE),  Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT),and the Railway Engineering Institution (RailEL) Very few UK civil engineering masters carry recognition across all four, which means your qualification is respected right across the profession, whichever specialism you go on to pursue.

You’ll be taught by a mix of active researchers and practising Chartered Engineers who bring live industry experience into the classroom, and you’ll study at our Springfield site, home to modern laboratories and industry-standard analysis and modelling software.

At a glance:
•    JBM-accredited pathway meeting the academic requirements for CEng registration
•    Recognised by ICE, IStructE, IHE and CIHT – accreditation across four professional bodies
•    Taught by practising Chartered Engineers and research-active academics
•    Full-time (12 months) or part-time (2 years) study at our Springfield site
•    Starts September 2026

This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE),  Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT),and the Railway Engineering Institution (RailEL) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

See www.jbm.org.uk for further information. 

JBM Logo

Joint Moderators Board logos.

What's unique about this course?

A handful of things mark this MSc out from other civil engineering masters degrees on the market:

  • Quadruple professional accreditation. Very few UK courses are recognised by ICE, IStructE, IHE and CIHT simultaneously. That breadth means you’re not locked into one specialism – your qualification supports CEng progression whether your career takes you into structures, highways, geotechnics or transportation.
  • Purpose-built as a CEng “top-up.” This isn’t a general civil engineering masters – it’s designed specifically for IEng-qualified graduates who want the fastest, most focused route to Chartered status, so every module maps directly onto CEng further learning requirements.
  • Taught by practitioners, not just academics. Modules are delivered by a blend of
  • Real autonomy over your specialism. From your design project through to your dissertation, you choose the technical focus, topics and case studies that align with your intended CEng pathway.

What happens on the course?

The course is built around 180 credits of advanced study, split across two semesters plus a year-long dissertation. In your first semester you’ll go deep into two core technical disciplines – structural analysis and geotechnical/foundation engineering – building the advanced analytical skills that underpin CEng-level practice. In semester two, the focus shifts to application: a substantial integrated design project and a module on sustainable engineering and management, where you’ll weigh up the environmental, economic and ethical trade-offs engineers face on real projects.

Across the year, you’ll:

  • Sharpen advanced technical skills in structural and geotechnical analysis, using industry-standard computational and modelling tools to solve problems that go well beyond undergraduate level.
  • Work on live, industry-informed briefs through the Integrated Engineering Design Project, shaping your own project scope in response to a real-world engineering challenge.
  • Build professional skills employers expect at Chartered level – leadership, teamwork, project management and clear technical communication – through group-based and design-studio work.
  • Complete an independent dissertation: the Civil & Structural Engineering Dissertation lets you investigate a topic aligned to your own specialist interests and career plans, in depth.

Teaching blends face-to-face lectures, tutorials, laboratories and design workshops with online resources on the virtual learning environment, so you can revisit worked examples and materials in your own time. Assessment reflects the demands of professional practice too – you’ll produce technical reports, design coursework, presentations and case-study evaluations rather than relying on exams alone, mirroring the way engineers actually communicate their work in industry.

Employability on the course

Every module on this MSc is designed with your progression to Chartered Engineer – and your next career move – in mind. Employability isn’t bolted on at the end; it’s embedded in how you’re taught and assessed throughout the year.

  • Industry-informed teaching: case studies, design briefs and project work are shaped by current professional practice and staff research, so what you learn maps onto what employers are actually doing.
  • A professional portfolio as you go: your design project and dissertation both produce substantial, presentable work you can take into interviews and CEng applications.
  • Structured opportunities for professional development placements, giving you exposure to real engineering environments alongside your academic study.
  • Academic supervision and careers guidance throughout your project and dissertation work, to help you make informed decisions about your specialism and career direction.
  • A direct line to Chartered status: because the course is JBM-accredited, successful completion meets the academic requirement for CEng registration with ICE, IStructE, IHE and CIHT – a career milestone, not just a qualification.

Graduates go on to advanced roles with contractors, consultants, local authorities and government bodies, working on national and international infrastructure projects across structures, geotechnics, highways and transportation.

Course Modules

Module: 7CV029
Credits: 60
Period: 1
Type: Core

The Level 7 Civil & Structural Engineering Dissertation is your opportunity to bring together everything you’ve learned during your MSc and apply it to a project that really interests you. This 60‑credit module gives you the chance to explore a complex engineering problem in depth, whether it’s related to structures, materials, design, or a wider civil engineering challenge. You will choose a topic, set clear research aims, and decide on the best methods to investigate your idea. Throughout the project, you’ll draw on skills from your previous modules to develop new insights or practical solutions. You’ll engage with current research, use appropriate analytical tools, and reflect on your results in relation to industry standards and professional practice. By the end of the module, you will produce a detailed written dissertation and deliver a presentation that demonstrates your ability to communicate technical work clearly and professionally.

Module: 7CV030
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module provides advanced study in geotechnical engineering, focusing on the analysis and design of foundations and ground engineering solutions to meet Chartered Engineer (CEng) further learning requirements. You will develop expertise in soil-structure interaction, deep and shallow foundation design, retaining structures, slope stability, and ground improvement techniques. The module emphasises the use of analytical, numerical, and computational methods, including finite element modelling, to solve complex geotechnical problems. You will interpret geotechnical data from site investigations, evaluate risks, and apply design codes and industry standards to develop safe, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Case studies and problem-based projects provide opportunities to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical engineering challenges. By the end of the module, you will be able to critically assess soil behaviour, design advanced foundation systems, and apply professional judgement in geotechnical engineering. The module supports progression toward CEng further learning and professional competence in civil engineering practice.

Module: 7CV031
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module develops advanced knowledge and analytical skills in structural engineering, building on undergraduate study to meet the requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) further learning. You will explore complex structural systems, including indeterminate beams, frames, and multi-storey structures, under a variety of loading conditions. Key topics include elastic and plastic analysis, dynamic loading, stability, advanced material behaviour, and the use of numerical and computational methods such as finite element analysis for structural modelling. Emphasis is placed on interpreting and validating results, integrating design codes, and applying professional engineering judgement to practical and innovative solutions. Through problem-based learning, case studies, and design projects, you will develop technical proficiency, critical thinking, and decision-making skills in structural analysis. By the end of the module, you will be able to analyse and evaluate complex structural systems, optimise designs, and demonstrate competencies aligned with CEng further learning requirements, supporting professional progression in civil engineering.

Module: 7CV027
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

his module enables you to apply advanced structural engineering knowledge and research skills to a substantial individual project, supporting progression to Chartered Engineer (CEng) further learning requirements. You will identify, plan, and complete a project addressing a realistic structural engineering challenge, which may include complex building or infrastructure design, assessment of existing structures, or innovative use of materials and techniques. The module emphasises the integration of analytical methods, numerical modelling, and design codes, alongside consideration of sustainability, safety, and professional standards. You will develop problem-solving, project management, and technical communication skills, producing detailed calculations, structural drawings, and a comprehensive written report. Regular supervision ensures professional guidance and development of critical thinking. By the end of the module, you will demonstrate the ability to manage an advanced structural engineering project independently, make informed engineering decisions, and present solutions to professional standards, supporting CEng further learning and readiness for professional practice.

Module: 7CV028
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to equip you with the knowledge and skills to become a sustainability-conscious practitioner, capable of analysing sustainability challenges and formulating practical strategies for sustainable development in business, engineering, and society. Sustainable engineering involves delivering products and services in a way that is economically viable, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable. This requires engineers to optimise the use of energy and materials, minimise environmental, social, and economic impacts, and integrate concepts such as life cycle analysis, value-for-money, socially responsible design, and design for manufacturing and assembly into the engineering process. The module provides a practical framework for meeting industry challenges and closing the “sustainability gap” by: Offering an overview of methodologies, technologies, and management tools that support sustainable practices. Developing awareness of the real causes of environmental degradation and the importance of social responsibility. Exploring the scientific and engineering principles necessary to understand and address environmental and societal impacts effectively. By the end of the module, you will be able to apply sustainable principles to real-world engineering and management problems, preparing you for professional practice and responsible decision-making.

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

Beyond the course itself, you’ll study somewhere built around your success as an engineer and as a person:

  • A dedicated engineering site: Springfield site offers modern teaching facilities, specialist laboratories and industry-standard equipment purpose-built for civil and structural engineering.
  • Staff who know the industry: our teaching team combines respected academics with practising Chartered Engineers with close links to professional bodies.
  • A recognised qualification: JBM accreditation across ICE, IStructE, IHE and CIHT means employers and professional bodies recognise what you’ve achieved.
  • Support that goes beyond the classroom: 24/7 wellbeing support through WLV Student Life Connect, the Library and Skills for Learning service, and tailored advice from our Careers and Enterprise teams.
  • A loyalty discount for our own graduates: Wolverhampton undergraduates progressing to this MSc can access a 20% Postgraduate Loyalty Discount in their first year of study.

By graduation, you’ll be able to:

  • Apply advanced engineering principles to solve complex civil engineering problems, building on your undergraduate learning.
  • Critically evaluate research and technical literature to inform decisions on real engineering projects.
  • Develop advanced engineering designs and solutions that account for societal, environmental, economic and health-and-safety factors.
  • Carry out advanced analysis and investigations, combining multiple methods and recognising their limitations.
  • Demonstrate professional and ethical leadership in engineering practice.
  • Commit to lifelong learning and continuing professional development – a requirement for maintaining Chartered status throughout your career.

Location Mode Sep intake Fee Year
Home Full-time £11015 per year 2026-27
Home Part-time £5508 per year 2026-27
International Full-time £18645 per year 2026-27

These fees relate to new entrants only for the academic year indicated for entry onto the course, any subsequent years of study may be subject to an annual increase, usually in line with inflation.

A minimum of a 2:2 classification from a Civil Engineering degree course. Preferably one that has IEng accreditation.

International Applicants

International students with a cognate degree and applicants with relevant work experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

Non-native speakers will be required to hold IELTS with an overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each element.

Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)

Accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)

Accredited by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)

Accredited by the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE)

Accredited by the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Postgraduate Loan (Home Fee Status):

You may be able to get a postgraduate student loan from Student Finance England of up to £13,206 to help pay for a Master’s degree. Applications are made through Student Finance England and more information on the regulations and eligibility criteria can be found at Masters Loans gov.uk.

* Any RPL will invalidate your eligibility as you must study a minimum of 180 credits


Changes for EU students:

The UK government has confirmed that EU students starting courses from 1 August 2021 will normally be classified as Overseas (International) students for fee purposes. More information about the change is available at UKCISA:

EU citizens living in the UK with 'settled' status, and Irish nationals living in the UK or Ireland, will still be classified as Home students, providing they meet the usual residency requirements, for more information about EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)


Postgraduate Loyalty Discount:

You can get 20% discount on a taught on-site postgraduate course if you’re a University of Wolverhampton Graduate.

The University offers a generous 20% Loyalty Discount to students progressing from an undergraduate programme to a taught postgraduate programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree as long as this is your first Masters level qualification.

The discount applies to the first year of enrolment only. Students who receive a loyalty discount are not entitled to any further tuition discount or bursary. For full terms and conditions click here.


Self-funded:

If you are paying for the fees yourself then the fees can be paid in 3 instalments: November, January and April. More information can be found by clicking here.


Sponsored - Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

Your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Charitable Funding:

You might also want to explore the possibility of funding from charitable trusts. Please contact Association of Charitable Foundations, Directory of Social Change or Family Aid. Most charities and trust funds offer limited bursaries targeted to specific groups of students so you will need to research whether any of them are relevant to your situation.


You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

Order a prospectus

Make it happen

Order a prospectus Visit an Open Day
Ask a student about University Life

Related Courses

MSc Project Management
MSc Construction Project Management
MSc Cyber Security
MSCTR26 Construction Project Management
MSCPTR26 Construction Project Management with Professional Practice Placement

Your recently viewed courses Recently Viewed