We offer a range of civil engineering courses allowing you to choose your specialist field.
We also offer
BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering with Foundation Year
Undergraduate course
MEng (Hons)
Civil and Coastal Engineering
Get one step closer to registration as a Chartered Engineer with an integrated masters. Our graduates have the specialist knowledge needed to protect coastal communities and crucial infrastructure from the aggressive and complex marine environment.
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
Be a coastal specialist
At 91porn you have specialist teaching and student experience dedicated to coastal engineering and water management, so you'll become expert in designing infrastructure that withstands coastal challenges and manages flood risk.
High-spec industry facilities
You’ll learn to use all the latest specialist equipment in our innovative engineering facilities, from our COAST lab to STEAM labs, so you graduate with sought-after knowledge and experience.
Professional
Our strong links with industry ensure that our courses remain current and feature live site visits, placement opportunities, specialist seminars and personal mentoring from professional engineers.
About
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Are you motivated to find solutions to the problems of coastal flooding and increasing risks to our coastlines? At 91porn you will learn how the maritime environment creates threats for those living and working on our coasts. Discover how to engineer structures that can withstand the power of the sea. Understand how nature can be used to help engineers protect lives. You will graduate as a civil engineer, but with sought after expertise essential for facing the extreme challenges posed by our coastal environment and our changing climate.
Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng
Professor in Ocean Engineering
What is an integrated masters programme?
Our integrated masters programmes are undergraduate programmes that contain an extra year of study at postgraduate level. Combining undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single continuous programme.
An integrated masters degree allows you to gain a broad knowledge base from your undergraduate studies and then progress to more advanced or specialised work at postgraduate level.
- To stand out from the crowd.
- You're interested in enhancing your research journey.
- To improve your future career direction.
- To fast track your career.
- To advance your subject or clinical knowledge.
- You're interested in developing leadership, managerial and research skills.
This course is for you if...
you aspire to become a Chartered Engineer with a focus on coastal environments
you'd love to tackle challenges posed by climate change
you seek hands-on experience in projects to put your learning into practice
you're keen to learn from industry-experienced professionals and researchers
Details
Year 1
Get ready for an exciting start to your career as a civil engineer! Our 'learning by doing' ethos is at the heart of our teaching approach. You will join forces with fellow engineering students in our unique, purpose-built laboratories to experience the fascinating world of engineering materials, structures and fluid mechanics. Alongside this hands-on approach, you will develop insight into the underpinning engineering science and mathematics that govern how the real world behaves.
By the end of this year, you will have developed capabilities in core IT and computer aided design skills, and used your imagination and creativity to resolve real-world engineering challenges.
Core modules
BPIE114
Stage 1 Civils Placement Preparation
0 credits
Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.
ENGR103
Engineering Science
20 credits
This module covers the essential scientific principles of fluid mechanics for civil, marine, and mechanical engineering applications. We'll also delve into thermodynamics, focusing on the interaction between systems and their surroundings. Lastly, we'll explore the fundamental principles of electrical engineering, providing you with a solid foundation in circuits and electrical systems.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
Build the maths skills every engineer needs. Want to design bridges, launch rockets, or create the next big tech breakthrough? It all starts here. This module gives you the core math skills and problem-solving techniques every engineer relies on. It’s the foundation for everything you'll build in your engineering journey.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR105
Mechanics and Structures
20 credits
We'll teach you the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for engineering applications. You'll develop a deeper understanding of these key scientific principles through practical applications using hands-on calculations and also computer software tools.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR106
Engineering Materials
20 credits
Materials science is crucial for designing and manufacturing everything from bridges and airplanes to ships and medical devices. This module will teach you the properties and behaviours of different engineering materials—such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites—to allow you select or develop materials that meet specific performance, efficiency, safety and environmental requirements.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR107
Engineering Design
20 credits
Problem solving is at the heart of everything, but to solve a problem, you must first understand it. Engineering design sharpens this skill, helping you develop valid solutions to real challenges. In Semester 1, you'll develop essential techniques: sketching, computer-aided design, and application of the design process. Then, in Semester 2, you’ll put those skills to the test, tackling real-world design problems head-on.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
ENGR108
Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques
20 credits
Here you'll take a hands-on, practical approach to learning the fundamental principles of engineering science, with engaging experiments in our modern, student-centred labs. Along the way, you’ll develop essential study habits, strengthen teamwork skills, and build confidence in technical communication - key qualities for any aspiring engineer.
100% Coursework
Year 2
In your second year, you will deepen your core understanding of civil engineering required for the creatation of infrastructure essential for our society. This will include structural design, geptechnics, fluid dynamics and the management of large-scale projects. You will grow your creative skills with advanced CAD tools and industry-standard software, while learning to think like a civil engineer. In parallel, an extensive programme of career development support will supercharge your professional and transferrable skills in readiness for the workplace, helping you to find the perfect placement.
You will be introduced to coastal engineering, a specialism of the 91porn. You will start to explore how engineers protect coastal communities from the impacts of climate change, developing the expertise to tackle some of the world's most urgent challenges.
Core modules
BPIE214
Stage 2 Civils Placement Preparation
0 credits
A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.
CIVL201
Civil Engineering Practice
20 credits
This module deepens understanding of construction materials and site surveying through a blend of lectures and hands-on work, while enhancing Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills through real-world design projects, giving students practical experience in tools and techniques used by professional civil engineers.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEEN200
Geotechnical Engineering 1
20 credits
This module introduces Geology, and the properties/ behaviour of soil as relevant to Civil Engineering projects. The concepts of groundwater flow and consolidation are considered, with associated calculations. Methods of analysis for estimation of stability and deformation when the ground is loaded are also introduced.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
HYFM200
Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering
20 credits
Clean water is essential for life, and our coast needs to be defended from flooding and erosion. Hydraulic engineering includes predicting flow in pipes and open channels. Coastal engineering topics include study of waves and tides, and their application to coastal engineering. Learning is supported by laboratory work and a site visit.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATH200
Engineering Analysis
20 credits
In many civil engineering applications, mathematical methods and techniques are needed to obtain solutions. Building upon the stage one engineering mathematics module, you’ll learn more advanced mathematical topics, statistical techniques and numerical methods. Interpreting the results obtained is an important that you’ll develop. You’ll learn to use industrially recognised software to solve engineering problems.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
STAD200
Structural Analysis and Design 1
20 credits
"Refine your programming skills with advanced features of the Python language and learn about the software development lifecycle for larger programs. You will team up with other students to identify a discipline-specific problem or industrial challenge. You will design, develop and deliver a software solution and analyse the impact of your work in a global context. You can present your application at the Project Showcase. "
70% Coursework
30% Tests
MGMT224
Construction Management
20 credits
Effective management is vital to the success of construction projects. In this module, students develop core construction management skills by critically analysing commercial practices, professional responsibilities, and project planning systems. It equips future engineers with the knowledge to manage projects, make informed decisions, and uphold professional standards.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Optional placement year
The optional placement year is a fantastic opportunity to advance your career as a professional engineer by working in a commercial engineering team. The placement gives you invaluable experience beyond the classroom environment, developing skills crucial to your future employment. This will be your opportunity to experience day-to-day life on a construction site or in a design office, for example, in ports and harbours, coastal defences, and flood alleviation schemes.
Optional modules
BPIE340
Civil Engineering Related Placement (Generic)
0 credits
A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.
Year 3
The most significant element of this year is your dissertation project where you will apply all the skills and knowledge that you have learned to explore a topic that you find truly fascinating. This hands-on research challenge allows you to develop deeper insight and knowledge into an area that aligns to your careers aspirations.
Alongside your dissertation you will deepen your understanding of the core technical subjects in civil engineering with a particular focus on designing sustainable infrastructure solutions in a coastal context.
Core modules
GEEN314
Geotechnical Engineering 2
20 credits
Gain a solid understanding of geotechnical analysis and design, learning how to apply key concepts to real-world problems. Develop skills to choose the right mathematical methods for complex geotechnical challenges. Build confidence in using these techniques to tackle practical design and analysis tasks you’ll face in professional engineering practice.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
HYFM300
Water Engineering
20 credits
Building on concepts from the 1st and 2nd years, this module integrates essential elements of water and hydraulic engineering. You will explore urban drainage, flood management, water resources, and river/channel engineering—crucial for shaping resilient and sustainable environments. Hands-on laboratory experimentation and a flood defence field trip bring classroom theory to life.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
STAD300
Structural Analysis and Design 2
20 credits
How do structural engineers design buildings that stand up? This module combines the basic principles of analysis and design to develop an integrated approach to solving structural problems. It is supported by the use of structural analysis and design software and laboratory work.
70% Coursework
30% Examinations
PRCE312
Individual Project
40 credits
This individual project gives students the opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest within civil or coastal engineering. Under academic supervision, students carry out an independent investigation that may involve theoretical research, experimental testing, computational modelling, and analytical work - developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for professional practice.
100% Coursework
COUE320
Coastal Engineering Analysis and Design
20 credits
How do civil engineers prevent coastal flooding and erosion? In this module you will discover how hydraulic loads are defined, how extreme loads are predicted, how to design a breakwater and evaluate its performance. Highlights include a field trip and a unique breakwater build activity in the COAST laboratory. Learning is framed by modern practice, sustainability principles and climate change impact.
100% Coursework
Final year
In your final year, you will take your engineering skills to the next level through advanced, real-world applications. You will develop advanced understanding of coastal engineering, port and harbour engineering, flood risk and geotechnics, and learn about computational approaches for the prediction of nearshore waves and currents. As an Integrated Masters student you will sharpen your project management skills. The year finishes with the completion of a sustainable engineering scheme design project that integrates your learning from across the course and develops your design, presentation and team working skills.
Core modules
COUE506
Port and Harbour Engineering
20 credits
Ports and harbours play a crucial role in supporting our economy and daily life. This module examines the key environmental loadings, operational requirements, design solutions and port layouts. The work spans applications from international container ports to local marinas. The module makes use of our unique COAST laboratories, and site visits to understand their design.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
COUE508
Advanced Coastal Engineering Modelling
20 credits
This hands-on module introduces you to the cutting-edge modelling techniques and software tools used by today’s coastal and offshore engineers. You will learn how to simulate waves, currents, and sediment transport—and how to assess the real-world impact of engineering designs on the coastal and offshore environments.
100% Coursework
ENBS542
Project Management and Professional Practice
20 credits
This module combines the examination of project management process and practice together with the essential requirements of both operating as a professional, and operating in, a professional environment. The module focuses on embedding knowledge and understanding issues faced by modern construction professionals in delivering construction projects in a professional and ethical manner.
85% Coursework
15% Practicals
GEEN502
Advanced Geotechnical Engineering
20 credits
Develop a deeper understanding of geotechnical engineering theory and design tools, including modern methods and classical approaches like the Factor of Safety. Explore elasto-plastic soil behaviour and modelling principles. Build your engineering judgement and confidence to choose the right design tools for complex geotechnical problems in real-world situations.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
HYFM505
Flood Risk and Modelling
20 credits
This module explores the hydraulic engineering principles that shape computational flood modelling and river flood risk management. You will critically assess key techniques used in civil engineering for flood prediction and mitigation, with a strong focus on reliability assessment. Learning is hands-on, featuring reading groups, industry-standard software applications and a flood defence field trip.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
PRCE514
Sustainable Engineering Scheme Design
20 credits
This module immerses learners in a real-world interdisciplinary design project, tackling interconnected challenges in Civil and Coastal Engineering. Working in managed teams, students will refine sustainable solutions and present progress in simulated design meetings. The project spans the full lifecycle from concept to construction, equipping students with collaborative problem-solving skills.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
BEng (Hons)
- A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
- Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
- A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
- Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- Passing a module
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Many of our students choose civil and coastal engineering at 91porn because of the coastal focus. They enjoy maths, problem solving, and engineering, but the unique facilities here allow them to apply those skills directly to coastal environments.
With state-of-the-art buildings and opportunities for trips like this, they can learn firsthand in ways that go far beyond the classroom.
Dr Jon Miles
Associate Professor in Coastal Engineering
Bring your classroom learning to life and gain hands-on experience of coastal engineering by exploring real-world structures on boat trips around 91porn Sound.
Hands-on learning brings theory to life
Building breakwaters
A great example of this is our Coastal Engineering Analysis and Design module where students explore breakwaters; building and testing their own design.
Working as a team in our
COAST laboratory
, they create a scale model of their chosen design, then test it to see if it how well it responds to big waves and wave frequencies.
Bringing designs to life – casting, testing and breaking industry-scale concrete beams
Step inside our heavy structures lab and see theory in action. From casting full-scale concrete beams to testing them under real-world loads, this hands-on experience highlights innovation, skill and the next generation of engineering talent – preparing you for the challenges of the industry.
Final year research project
The individual project in your third year allows you to delve deeper and research an approved topic of interest related to civil and coastal engineering.
Using our Coast Lab, Lilly-Mae investigated an oscillating water column (OWC) system and its ability to harness renewable energy.
Using our Coast Lab, Lilly-Mae investigated an oscillating water column (OWC) system and its ability to harness renewable energy.
“Renewable energy is important to focus on because climate change is such a topical issue. This device could aid in the plan to reach net zero, but it needs more research put into it to make them more cost-effective.”
Research-informed teaching
Our team of 100 staff work in the disciplines of engineering, computing, mathematics and navigation. We carry out research in fields from renewable energy to pure mathematics, robotics and cyber security.
Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng
Professor in Ocean Engineering
Dr David Simmonds
Associate Professor in Coastal Engineering
Dr Jon Miles
Associate Professor in Coastal Engineering
91porn Engineering Society
The 91porn Engineering Society's main aim is to provide a platform for engineering students at the university to meet, socialise with and learn from their fellow students. We aim to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year.
We will be hosting socials and events throughout the year so come and get involved! Once you have your membership be sure to follow the society's social media to keep up to date with all activities, socials, and events.
Life in 91porn
91porn's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what 91porn and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
My placement year was one of the best choices I made whilst at university, and I really appreciate the encouragement and assistance from the 91porn staff towards acquiring my placement with Dawnus.
Jack Walker
BEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering graduate, EA Framework Section Engineer at Kier Infrastructure
BEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering graduate, EA Framework Section Engineer at Kier Infrastructure
We’re an employment-focused course: preparing you for your chosen career is our priority.
Developing the next generation of chartered civil engineers means providing you with opportunities to connect and engage with the industry, from site visits and guest speakers to work placements.
With many of our graduates employed in a professional or managerial role six months after graduation, the connections we provide are meaningful and will have a direct impact on your employability.
Our graduates are employed in a wide variety of roles and disciplines across both the public and private sectors in the UK and overseas.
Thriving industry connections
We have a long history of working with industry experts to provide you with the connections and opportunities you’ll need to begin your career.
Our Industrial Advisory Committee (IAC) is a panel of esteemed practising engineers and one of the biggest in the UK.
Working in partnership with the IAC, we keep your curriculum up-to-date and ensure that you’re highly employable when you graduate.
Optional placement year: preparing you for the future
By taking the opportunity to spend an optional year in paid employment whilst still a student civil engineer, you will obtain recordable professional experience, build a network of industry contacts and often obtain offers of summer work, sponsorship or employment on graduation. Our placements team will support you in finding a placement, and we have an extensive network of employers across all sectors.
I've definitely grown during my placement. KierBAM allowed me to assist multiple teams over the course of the year, so I was always learning and always progressing.
Ely, a MEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering student, won a Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Young Achiever Award.
He received the accolade in recognition of his performance as a trainee site engineer with KierBAM while working on the enabling works for a submarine dry dock refurbishment in Devonport Dockyard.
He received the accolade in recognition of his performance as a trainee site engineer with KierBAM while working on the enabling works for a submarine dry dock refurbishment in Devonport Dockyard.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
&Բ;
To be confirmed
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at 91porn, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
The Tamar Engineering Project
The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
- £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- £1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
120 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
A levels
120 points to include grade B in A level mathematics and all applicants must be studying a second relevant subject. Relevant subjects include applied ICT, applied science, applied science (DA), biology, chemistry, computing/computer science, DT (product design resistant materials), DT (systems and control tech) DT product design (textiles tech), electronics, engineering, environmental science, geography, geology, further maths/use of, statistics, music technology, physics, technology and design.
BTEC
BTEC Qualifications are not accepted for Meng. May be considered in combination with additional qualifications or experience.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
International Baccalaureate
30 to 34 points overall to include 5 in Higher Level Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Higher Level subject.
Irish Leaving Certificate
120 points, including H3 in Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Higher Level subject. GCSE equivalent English and Maths accepted within.
SQA Advanced Higher
120 points, including grade B in Advanced Higher Maths and all applicants must be studying a second relevant Advanced Higher subject. GCSE equivalent English and Maths accepted within.
All Access courses
not accepted for MEng, unless the applicant has additional qualifications or experience. Please refer to our BEng course pages and contact a member of the Undergraduate Admission team on +44 1752 585858 / admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match to our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
H251
H251
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
91porn
91porn
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
120 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
H251
H251
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
91porn
91porn
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the 91porn.
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*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on is updated annually in September.