Civil Engineering

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Higher National Certificate (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Four

What's it all about? 

Civil engineers help to create the structures and systems that sustain society. They are responsible for designing, building, maintaining and improving bridges, roads, canals, docks, office buildings, hospitals, schools, airports, power stations, railways, flood defences, and water-treatment facilities everywhere.The course is designed for those who are already working in the civil engineering industry in a range of roles including trainee site engineers, quantity surveyors and computer-aided design technicians. Completion of this course may lead to membership of professional institutions such as the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Progression 

Upon successful completion, you may be eligible to progress to:

This qualification can be used for progression towards chartered status and advancement to higher levels within the civil engineering industry.

Entry Requirements 

Dependent upon the course, we welcome applications from people who have:

  • 60-120 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Business Benefits 

It gives students' skills in the professional construction industry.

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, in-class assessments and presentations.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

Year 1

  • Mathematics 1 - Develops basic mathematical and statistical methods for students with an interest in construction and civil engineering.
  • Mathematics 2 - Builds upon the mathematical concepts introduced in Mathematics (1) and moves on to cover more complex concepts related to civil engineering.
  • Construction materials - Explores the principles and properties of a range of construction materials.
  • Introduction to computer aided design (CAD) and ICT - A practical introduction to CAD using industry standard software for producing 2D detail and assembly drawings.
  • Health, safety and the law - An introduction to the English legal system in relation to the legal responsibilities in areas such as employment, the environment, planning and building control. In particular the module will study health, safety and welfare legislation in the construction sector.
  • Civil engineering - Provides an understanding of the processes used in a range of civil engineering activities.

Year 2

  • Site surveying - A basic introduction to surveying techniques and the methods used to set out and control construction works.
  • Structural analysis and design 1 - Introduces basic structural concepts and develop the ability to analyse structures and design simple structural elements in accordance with relevant British and European Codes of Practice.
  • Research project - Develops research skills into the design, construction and analysis of construction activities with a presentation in a written and oral form.
  • Civil engineering management and applications - Investigates the processes of management, the methods of procuring civil engineering works and the management processes used in the construction industry.

When can I study? 

Weekday, 9.00am - 6.30pm
Course Facts

Although we are not yet able to confirm dates or fees, applications for the next course are now welcome. For further information please contact the Customer Services team on 01752 305300 or e-mail info@cityplym.ac.uk.

Click here to request an application form be sent to you through the post or download a printable copy.

Case Studies

George Adaway

George Adaway

The course was well taught and broad, which meant that I learnt a variety of topics for my course area. The College has great facilities including the computers, libraries and innovation centre.

Engineering Students

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