Civil Engineering in General

Civil Engineering is the professional practice of designing and developing infrastructure projects. This can be on a huge scale, such as the development of nationwide transport systems or water supply networks, or on a smaller scale, such as the development of individual roads or buildings.

All aspects of building a structure fall under the remit of a civil engineer. This can include planning, design, budgeting, surveying, construction management and analysis, and often Civil Engineering careers encompass a combination of all these elements.

The great thing about civil engineering in the real world is that it’s an industry that perpetually adapts to the demands and desires of society. In recent years civil engineering has adapted to consider many contemporary environmental concerns, helping to address issues of pollution and scarce water supplies, while considering the potential of sustainable energy within the industry.

If you choose to pursue a civil engineering degree, you’ll discover the extent to which civil engineers shape, build, maintain and expand societies. Whether it’s a bridge, space satellite, dam, road or tunnel, civil engineers are the people who design, construct and manage the entire process, from development to evaluation.

Civil engineering graduates are the brains behind all the largest and most essential structures that surround us – buildings, transport networks, energy and water supplies – and so their value within society is great. In recent years, the profession has seen a shortage of experienced graduates, meaning that now, more than ever, civil engineering graduates are highly sought-after.

Job Options

Jobs directly related to your degree include:

• Building control surveyor
• Consulting civil engineer
• Contracting civil engineer
• Design engineer
• Nuclear engineer
• Site engineer
• Structural engineer
• Water engineer

​Jobs where your degree would be useful include:

• Building services engineer
• Engineering geologist
• Environmental consultant
• Patent attorney
• Quantity surveyor

Typical Employers​

Civil and structural engineers work in a range of sectors, particularly the construction sector, on buildings of all kinds, transport and communications infrastructure. This includes bridges, roads, tunnels, canals and other large structures. They also work for employers involved in the production, storage and distribution of electricity, gas and water.

Civil engineers are employed by a range of contractors and consultancies and also work in-house for a variety of national and multinational organisations. There are many opportunities in the public sector, with local authorities, government departments and environmental organisations, where engineers are often involved in setting project specifications and drafting tender documents.