What can you do with a civil engineering degree?

Civil engineers play a vital role in shaping our world.  

If you’re considering a civil engineering degree or have recently graduated with one, you may be wondering about your next steps. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of civil engineering careers, from designing innovative new structures to protecting the environment and improving infrastructure. 

So, let’s take a look at the opportunities that await you as a civil engineering graduate. 

Why choose a civil engineering degree? 

Civil engineering is the backbone of modern civilization, shaping the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. Civil engineers design and build structures and infrastructure that define our world while providing solutions to challenges like sustainability, connecting communities, and protecting natural habitats. 

Becoming a civil engineer offers a stable career and great financial prospects, but there’s also the satisfaction you will gain from seeing your designs come to life and knowing they will improve the communities where they stand. Whether your dream is to create iconic landmarks, protect the environment, or ensure the safety of future generations, a civil engineering degree gives you the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful difference. 

How to become a civil engineer 

There are various routes you can take to become a civil engineer, and ideally your first steps begin at school. Students with good grades in the sciences and maths will be better prepared for some elements of the civil engineering industry, and English qualifications can also be beneficial due to the detailed reports you will need to write throughout your career. 

Many universities offer degrees in engineering or specifically in civil engineering, including the University of Wolverhampton. Finding an internship while you are still completing your qualification will give you some valuable hands-on experience. 

For those who want to reach the highest level of professional qualification, you can demonstrate your long-term commitment to the industry and take a Master’s degree, such as the University of Wolverhampton’s MSc in Civil Engineering.  

If you would prefer to start your career immediately after graduating with your civil engineering degree, you could join a relevant industry body and find an entry-level role straight away. 

Careers in civil engineering 

Civil engineering is a diverse field with many different career paths. Some of the most common careers in civil engineering include:

Infrastructure development: Civil engineers design and develop roads, bridges, tunnels, airports, and more besides. They collaborate with architects and urban planners to create efficient, sustainable, and attractive structures. 

Environmental engineering: If you're passionate about preserving the environment, a civil engineering degree can open doors to a career in environmental engineering. These professionals tackle issues like water pollution, waste management, and air quality, contributing to a greener future. 

Geotechnical engineering: Geotechnical engineers focus on soil and rock behaviour, ensuring that structures like buildings and dams are stable. They analyse ground conditions to ensure safe and durable structures. 

Structural engineering: Structural engineers design and construct buildings, ensuring they can have strength and durability. They help create safe, functional, and beautiful structures. 

Transport engineering: Transport engineers improve transportation systems such as roads, railways, and public transit. Their work improves network efficiency, reduces congestion, and enhances overall transportation quality. 

Construction management: Construction managers oversee project planning, budgeting, and execution, coordinating efforts to ensure projects stay on time and budget. 

Project management: Project managers ensure that civil engineering projects meet their goals, timelines, and budgets. 

Town planning: Town planners collaborate with architects, civil engineers, and policymakers to create sustainable, liveable cities and communities, addressing challenges to transportation and the environment. 

Research and development: Many civil engineers find their passion in research and development, finding innovations in construction materials, techniques, and environmental solutions. 

What do civil engineering graduates go on to do?

Civil engineering graduates were found to overwhelmingly (over 72%) work in the construction, engineering, and R&D industries, according to Prospects Luminate. Job options directly related to the degree include:

• building control surveyor
• structural engineer
• site engineer
• consulting/contracting civil engineer
• CAD technician
• water engineer
• estimator

Other jobs where a civil engineering degree would be useful include:

• quantity surveyor
• construction manager
• engineering geologist
• sustainability consultant

Study a civil engineering degree at the University of Wolverhampton 

A civil engineering degree at the University of Wolverhampton, the BEng (Hons) civil Engineering, is an accredited course taught at the £45 million School of Architecture and Built Environment at Springfield Campus. 

The course is accredited by four professional bodies: the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE), and the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE). 

It is important to build up your work experience, so the University of Wolverhampton offers the degree with a sandwich placement in industry, or a Civil and Transportation Engineering Degree Apprenticeship for a more hands-on learning experience. You can also study a degree with a foundation year, a civil engineering management degree, and a Master’s in civil engineering. 

Conclusion: Career opportunities with a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

A civil engineering degree opens doors to a diverse range of career opportunities, making it one of the most versatile fields in engineering. Whether you want to design iconic buildings, protect the environment, ensure infrastructure safety, or make urban areas more sustainable, civil engineering has a path for you.  

Choose the right specialisation for your interests, and you can make a meaningful impact on the world during a rewarding and fulfilling career.  

Your skills will always be in demand in the ever-evolving world of civil engineering.