Civil engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction and maintenance of the human-made environment, including buildings, roads, bridges, tunnels, dams and other large physical structures.

The course is designed to equip graduates with industry relevant skills across a full range of core civil engineering subject areas including surveying, soil mechanics, engineering geology, structural analysis and design, hydrology, and transportation engineering, as well as construction technology and site management. The program focuses on the development of knowledge and skills relevant to professional engineering practice, and along with a sound theoretical base, it includes strong elements of practical problem solving, team work and project development. As well as having multiple technical and transferable skill competencies, graduates will gain strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead complex projects. The course provides a sound basis in mechanics, mathematics, and the principles of engineering design in the first two years of study, along with core areas of engineering science including materials and manufacturing, engineering drawing and computer aided design, foundational electrical engineering, and thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. In the final two years of study, a range of more specialist civil engineering topics are covered to prepare students to enter their chosen profession with relevant knowledge and skills. The first year of this course includes a set of eight units that are common across all engineering honours courses. This allows students the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the various engineering disciplines on offer and the flexibility, if desired, to switch to another engineering discipline/course without penalty after the first year of study.

Graduates will have competencies in all major areas of civil engineering, and be able to participate in and lead complex, multidisciplinary projects. Civil engineers have strong employment opportunities in many sectors of industry, including road and transport, construction, mining and resource, public utilities, defence, and consulting.

Possible future job titles

Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Transportation Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Water Resource Engineer

Professional Recognition

Accredited by: Engineers Australia