Civil engineers build and maintain the infrastructure of advanced modern living. They plan, design, construct, operate and maintain everything from buildings to bridges, tunnels and dams, highways and airports, power plants, water and sewerage systems.

Using computer technologies and advanced materials, Civil engineers design structures that meet the needs of a growing population while protecting the environment, reducing the dangers from natural phenomena and considering the future needs of the community.

This degree

You will study a common first year allowing you to learn more about engineering and its different fields before deciding which discipline to study. The common first year provides you with sound fundamentals in mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, computing, engineering science and communication, mechanics, materials and fluids. You then focus on your chosen major study from second year.

Your degree includes a 12-week hands-on industry placement. You may gain credit for relevant work experience, either in Australia or overseas, by participating in our Professional Options Program.

Engineers work in a variety of industries, for example, construction, mining, resources, aeronautical, electronics, engineering management, telecommunications, power generation and distribution, renewable energy, aerospace, water resource management, robotics and manufacturing, railroad and shipbuilding.

What you will study

As an engineering student at UOW, you will have access to fully-equipped laboratories and the latest computer-aided software that is used in modern industrial workplaces. Our lecturers encourage you to approach them and get involved in industry projects and learning opportunities so you get the most out of your university education. Our engineering students are trained through practical learning experiences including:

• Laboratory experiments
• Problem-based learning
• Computer simulations
• Teamwork assignments
• Industrial case studies
• Project management
• Site visits to industry

The later years of the Civil Engineering degree cover areas including structural engineering, water engineering, geomechanics, engineering management, engineering applications and design, materials and transport, and surveying.

From second year you also have the option to complete a double major, combining two engineering disciplines. Available double major combinations include:

• Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering
• Civil Engineering and Mining Engineering

• Biomedical Engineer
• Computer Architect
• Computer Systems Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Construction Manager
• Electronics Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Environmental Engineer
• Geotechnical Engineer
• Materials Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Metallurgist
• Mining Engineer
• Network Engineer 
• Production Engineer
• Security Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Structural Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• Telecommunications Engineer
• Transport Engineer
• Water Quality Manager