How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role.
How to become a civil engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in civil engineering.
Many universities specialise in particular areas of civil engineering like:
- transport engineering
- environmental engineering
- coastal and maritime engineering
Some courses include a work placement, which can be useful for making industry contacts to help find work after university.
You can apply to do a postgraduate master's qualification in civil engineering if you've got a degree in a related subject like maths, science or geology.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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College
You could take a course at college, which might help you to get work as a trainee civil engineer, or to apply for further study at university.
Subjects include:
- civil engineering
- maths, physics or geography
- construction and the built environment
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national certificate or higher national diploma
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Apprenticeship
You can do a Civil Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This takes around 5 years to complete.
You might also start by doing an apprenticeship to qualify as a civil engineering technician, then go on to do the Civil Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as a civil engineering technician and study part time for a degree or apprenticeship while you work.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) for professional development opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a civil engineer from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of building and construction
- maths knowledge
- design skills and knowledge
- thinking and reasoning skills
- complex problem-solving skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
What you’ll do
Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a civil engineer, you could:
- work closely with clients to understand what they need
- map and analyse data using mathematical modelling methods
- create design plans and models with computer software
- assess the risks and environmental impact of projects
- monitor progress at each construction stage
- lead a team of engineers, co-ordinate work and manage a budget
Working environment
You could work on a construction site or in an office.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.
Career path and progression
It's important to continue your professional development while working as a civil engineer.
For example, you could look to get incorporated or chartered engineer status. This would allow you to get positions with more responsibility, such as senior management roles on large scale projects.
With experience, you could also:
- specialise in a particular engineering field
- work in research
- become an engineering consultant
- work with international development organisations or disaster relief agencies
Current opportunities
Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
Civil Engineering Apprenticeship - Level 4 (Technical Apprenticeship)
- Wage: £19,000.00 Annually
- Location: Slyfield Industrial Estate, Guildford
Civil Engineering Apprentice – Flood Risk & Drainage
- Wage: £22,737.00 Annually
- Location: Wokingham, Berkshire
Courses In England
HNC Civil Engineering
- Provider: MID-KENT COLLEGE
- Start date: 02 September 2024
- Location: Maidstone
Civil Engineering HNC (Yr1)
- Provider: BATH COLLEGE
- Start date: 09 September 2024
- Location: Radstock
Jobs In the United Kingdom
The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.
I bring extensive knowledge and expertise to the topic of becoming a civil engineer. My background includes a deep understanding of the educational paths, practical experiences, and skills required for this profession.
Educational Paths:
-
University:
- Foundation degree, higher national diploma, or a degree in civil engineering.
- Specializations in areas such as transport engineering, environmental engineering, or coastal and maritime engineering.
- Some courses offer work placements, facilitating industry connections.
- Postgraduate master's qualification available for those with related degrees like maths, science, or geology.
-
College:
- College courses in civil engineering, maths, physics, or geography.
- Options to work as a trainee civil engineer or pursue further university study.
- Entry requirements typically include GCSEs and A levels.
-
Apprenticeship:
- Civil Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship (around 5 years).
- Option to start as a civil engineering technician and progress to the Degree Apprenticeship.
- Entry requirements include GCSEs and A levels.
-
Work:
- Work as a civil engineering technician while studying part-time for a degree or apprenticeship.
Entry Requirements:
- University: 2 or 3 A levels (including maths and science) for a degree.
- College: 5 GCSEs (grades 9 to 4) including English, maths, and science; 1 or 2 A levels for higher education.
- Apprenticeship: 4 or 5 GCSEs (grades 9 to 4) and A levels for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Engineering science and technology knowledge.
- Building and construction knowledge.
- Strong math skills.
- Design skills and knowledge.
- Critical thinking and reasoning skills.
- Complex problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal communication skills.
- Computer and software proficiency.
Day-to-Day Tasks:
- Work closely with clients to understand their needs.
- Map and analyze data using mathematical modeling.
- Create design plans and models with computer software.
- Assess risks and environmental impact.
- Monitor progress at each construction stage.
- Lead a team of engineers, coordinate work, and manage budgets.
Working Environment:
- Construction site or office.
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Protective clothing may be required.
Career Path and Progression:
- Continuous professional development.
- Attain incorporated or chartered engineer status for more responsibility.
- Specialize in a particular engineering field.
- Research, become an engineering consultant, or work with international development organizations.
Current Opportunities:
- Apprenticeships, courses, and jobs available in England.
- Examples include Civil Engineering Apprenticeships and HNC Civil Engineering courses.
For more information, individuals can explore opportunities through the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and stay updated on current job openings and courses.
