• Undergraduate

Civil and Environmental Engineering with Foundation Year BEng (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London?
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Why study this course?

Our civil and environmental engineering degree will develop your technical skills alongside your knowledge of contemporary issues.

The course is professionally accredited and informed by the expertise of leading industry consultants and businesses. 

You will gain a full understanding of the key civil and environmental engineering disciplines, including structures, water engineering, highway engineering and geotechnics.

At the end of the course, you will complete a work-based project to gain experience in applying your knowledge in a professional environment.

Accreditation

This course has been accredited by the following professional bodies:

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

Foundation Year

The foundation year course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to continue onto your Honours degree. You will study a range of subjects that will underpin your future study and also gain valuable experience of university life, with full access to campus facilities. Successful completion of the year allows you to progress straight onto Level 4 of this course. Please note that a £2000 Path to Success bursary is available to all UK foundation year students, which is non-repayable.

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
Without Foundation Year
Duration: 3 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Civil and Environmental Engineering with Foundation Year with us?

Why study Civil and Environmental Engineering with Foundation Year with us?

A collage of students

What our students say…

The course is challenging but fun at the same time. The lecturers are helping with my personal development and always make time for me.

Ahmed Baraka
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Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

This professionally accredited course will provide you with the key analytical and practical skills and knowledge you need to become a chartered civil or structural engineer. We will show you how to think about problems from a sustainability point of view. This approach will help to prepare you for the ever-changing needs of the building sector.

You will benefit from being taught by industry experts at the forefront of civil and environmental engineering research. Their expertise will give you access to current knowledge of issues and developments in the field.

Year 1: In your first year, you will study core areas such as structural mechanics, civil engineering practice and mathematics for civil engineers, as well as computer-aided design (CAD).

Year 2: The following year you will move on to fluid mechanics, highway engineering, soil mechanics, design of steel/masonry structures and other important aspects of construction.

Year 3: In your final year, you will complete a work-based structural design project. Employers often seek graduates with hands-on experience, so by taking on these challenges, you will enhance your career prospects in engineering.

Alongside your analytical skills and core knowledge of engineering principles, we will help you to develop the qualities you need to succeed in your chosen career.

Our course has multiple accreditations from professional bodies which ensures that your qualification will be valued throughout the industry. 

Foundation year 

There are many reasons for joining a foundation year course; you may not have the exact subjects or grades at A level to meet the entry requirements, you may have been living abroad or want to change direction with your career. Whatever your starting point, the foundation year offers a firm grounding in the skills and knowledge that you will need to get the most from your studies and thrive at University. Successful completion of the foundation year allows you to progress straight onto Level 4 of this course.

Compulsory modules

  • Study Skills for Success

    This module will enable you to read critically, present an argument, and distinguish between the quality and suitability of materials. It will prepare you to use and evaluate a range of evidence sources throughout your degree.

  • Building Appreciation

  • Design Studies

  • Personalised Learning

    The Personalised Learning module is intended to equip you with the study skills needed to successfully progress onto level 4, the first year of undergraduate study. Tutor group sessions are an integral part of the module, where you will consolidate your learning and frame it in the context of your subject area. The module will focus on various aspects of study skills, such as those skills related to reading and writing, learning approaches, problem-solving techniques, critical thinking, researching, referencing, plagiarism, legal research and time management.

  • Mathematical Studies

  • Applied Project - Built Environment

Compulsory modules

  • Civil Engineering Materials

    You will advance knowledge on the use of concrete as a building material including its properties, application in different environments and safety precautions.

  • Structural Mechanics

    This module covers a core subject of civil and structural engineering courses. It will help you to understand the fundamental principles that determine how structures are analysed. You will learn to analyse the forces and stresses that normally act on the parts of structures.

  • Civil Engineering Construction

    The module aims to give you a clear appreciation of the physical reality of civil and environmental engineering, so that your designs and proposals can be constructed as efficiently and safely as possible.

  • Construction Materials

    This module will give you an overview of the principal materials used by the construction industry. By studying various materials' engineering performance characteristics, their impact on users and their sustainability factors, you will learn how the most appropriate materials are chosen.

  • CAD for Civil Engineers

  • Land Surveying for Civil Engineers

    In this module, you will gain both theoretical understanding and practical skills through hands-on land surveying exercises. The curriculum focuses on mastering key surveying techniques, using essential equipment such as level and theodolite instruments. Regular practice will help you develop core competencies, preparing you for real-world surveying challenges.

  • Applied Mathematics

    On this module you will gain the mathematical background you need to study engineering. You will work with algebra and trigonometry principles, specifically matrix algebra, the essential principles and applications of differential calculus and the use of associated functions. In addition, you will learn how to apply mathematics to engineering problems involving vectors and statistics.

  • Mathematics for Engineers

    On this module you will study the mathematical background needed for undergraduate engineering studies. Topics include integration, separation of variables to solve first order differential equations, applications of calculus in areas such as maxima and minima, velocity and acceleration, centroids, volumes and solids of revolution, root mean square and average values. An introduction to statistics and probability will cover studies of measures of central tendency, mean, median and mode, measures of dispersion (standard deviation and variance), variables and graphs, elementary probability theory, binomial and normal distribution, elementary sampling theory and curve fitting.

Compulsory modules

  • Fluid Mechanics

    On this module, you will gain the understanding of fluid in the civil engineering structures such as pipelines, reservoirs, rivers and channels. This module will improve your technical knowledge and analytical skills to calculate forces and pressures in hydraulic structures based on a few well-known relations such as Archimedes Principle and energy equations.

    You will be able to calculate hydrostatic forces on hydraulic structures such as weirs, dams and calculate pressure and velocity of venturi meter and orifice.

     

  • Structural Design

    This module enables you to enhance your knowledge of structural analysis and structural design to:

    1. determine loads and material properties on structural elements
    2. apply hand calculation methods for the analysis and distribution of loads
    3. apply the code requirement for design of structural elements and
    4. develop skills in modelling engineering problems.

     

  • Highway Engineering

    On this module you will gain knowledge and understanding of traffic control systems and analysis, as well as the processes for designing and evaluating roads and road junctions. The module also covers the principles and practice of highway engineering.

  • Geology

    This module will focus on the significance and influence of geological history on the formation and behaviour of soils. It should also enhance your understanding of the engineering properties and behaviour of soil as an engineering material.

  • Soil Mechanics

    This module will help you gain a basic understanding of soil engineering and the behaviour of soil as an engineering material. Through practical laboratory work, you will develop your knowledge of basic soil mechanics tests, as well as the basic concepts and theories of soil mechanics and associated experimental tests.

  • Construction Laboratories

    On this module you will investigate and examine various material and structural properties, along with human comfort factors. You will do this through a series of laboratory experiments.

  • Concrete Design

    This module enables you to:

    1. understand and analyse how structures behave under load and why they fail
    2. apply design standards and codes to reinforced concrete
    3. make judgements on the choice of materials and their engineering properties as well as the effect of environmental conditions.

  • Sustainable Civil Engineering

    In this module you will study how civil engineering projects have been designed and built in response to sustainability objectives.

Compulsory modules

  • Construction Project Management

    During this module you will gain knowledge and understanding of the issues that need to be considered during construction projects and the procurement process.

  • Environmental Protection Engineering

    By building on your knowledge of fluid mechanics, this module will teach you to critically analyse existing areas of environmental protection.

  • Geotechnical Design

    This module will teach you how to analyse the variables involved in designing soil structures. You will also learn how to evaluate the interaction of soils with structures placed in or on soils. Furthermore, you will be introduced to the use of Eurocode 7 for basic geotechnical design.

  • Integrated Group Design

  • Individual Project (Civil Engineering)

    This module is designed to provide you with the chance to investigate an area of civil and built environment which is directly related to your course. This will enable you to develop research and written communication skills while you gain a greater understanding of the profession.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

72 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A-Levels at grades B and C (if you have two A-Levels) or grades D, D and D (if you have three), or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Merit, Merit, Pass
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T-Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Looking for BEng (Hons) Civil and Environmental Engineering without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BEng (Hons) Civil and Environmental Engineering without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
5.5 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents. 

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BEng (Hons) Civil and Environmental Engineering without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BEng (Hons) Civil and Environmental Engineering without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Foundation year bursary

If you are a UK student joining a foundation year course with UWL, you will receive a £2000 Path to Success bursary to support your studies. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. You will receive £500 per year subject to your attendance, engagement and progression through your studies. 

To find out more, explore our Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page.

Funding your studies
{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year*

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Spyros is wearing an open collared light blue shirt

Dr Spyridon Paschalis

Spyridon has industrial and academic experience. He specialises in the area of Structural Engineering and Construction Materials; he holds a PhD in the area of Strengthening of Structures Using Advanced Construction Materials, an MSc in Earthquake Engineering and Seismic Resistant Structures, an MEng in Structural Engineering and a PgCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher and Professional Education. Spyridon is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which is the highest grade in the institution, as a recognition of his outstanding contributions to civil engineering. He is also recognised as a Chartered Civil Engineer, and he acts as a professional reviewer for the ICE. In addition, Spyridon is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Spyridon has seven years of experience in industry as a structural civil engineer. His duties included seismic design of structures, structural evaluation and strengthening of old structures and structures affected by earthquakes. Spyridon has also worked at the University of Bolton and the University of Brighton.

Spyridon’s research focuses on strengthening and retrofitting existing reinforced concrete and masonry structures, advanced materials, sustainable materials and earthquake engineering

Spyridon has industrial and academic experience. He specialises in the area of Structural Engineering and Construction Materials; he holds a PhD in the area of Strengthening of Structures Using Advanced Construction Materials, an MSc in Earthquake Engineering and Seismic Resistant Structures, an MEng in Structural Engineering and a PgCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher and Professional Education. Spyridon is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which is the highest grade in the institution, as a recognition of his outstanding contributions to civil engineering. He is also recognised as a Chartered Civil Engineer, and he acts as a professional reviewer for the ICE. In addition, Spyridon is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Spyridon has seven years of experience in industry as a structural civil engineer. His duties included seismic design of structures, structural evaluation and strengthening of old structures and structures affected by earthquakes. Spyridon has also worked at the University of Bolton and the University of Brighton.

Spyridon’s research focuses on strengthening and retrofitting existing reinforced concrete and masonry structures, advanced materials, sustainable materials and earthquake engineering

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

Two Engineers in hi-vis jackets looking at in turbines

Once you graduate you could go on to work with:

  • structural engineering consultancies
  • utility companies
  • transportation authorities
  • materials science and engineering research centres
  • civil engineering companies
  • local and national government
  • geotechnical engineering consultancies. 

Alternatively, you may choose to explore a related area of study. Please see our postgraduate courses.

How to apply

How to apply

Search for courses

Research grants

Atiyeh Ardakanian profile pic

Grant from COST

Atiyeh Ardakanian recently secured a highly sought-after grant from COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology), an EU funding organisation for research and innovation networks.  

This grant funds one of eight short-term scientific missions (STSMs) in support of the work of NexusNet – an international network of researchers collaborating with universities, research institutions, policymakers and the business sector to consider the links between water, energy and food in the quest for a low-carbon economy throughout Europe and beyond.

“My STSM is about developing the actor network in terms of who is doing what and where,” Atiyeh says. “Water, food and energy are interconnected, and my mission is about looking at the available resources as a whole to support and enhance the successful implementation of NEXUS research in policies and sustainable development strategies.” 

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.