Civil Engineering (with Foundation Year)

Created as a unique gateway to our degree courses, this course prepares you for degree-level study through hands-on experience and core knowledge. You'll explore construction processes, surveying, sustainability, materials science, structural principles, and engineering maths. Live site visits, real-world projects, and team-based design challenges give you the skills and confidence to thrive in civil engineering.
You'll become equipped with the abilities to develop sustainable and cost-effective design ideas. Through industry-facing projects, site visits and the opportunity to undertake a work placement year, this course will give you the skills needed to begin a successful career in Civil Engineering. You'll learn about structures, materials, geotechnics, mathematics and develop an applied understanding of practical engineering techniques to find innovative solutions to real-world built environment challenges.

Key features


- Industry-Standard Facilities | Experience hands-on learning in our specialist facilities and workshops, including dedicated concrete, materials, hydraulics, geotechnical labs and structural testing equipment.


- Professional Status | Take the first step in gaining Incorporated Engineer status – this course is accredited to fully satisfy the educational base for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).


- Progression Opportunities | Tailor your studies to suit your strengths and interests, with opportunities to transfer on to the BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering course, from which you could progress to our MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering Design and Construction course.


Key Statistics


- Top 2 Ranking | NTU is the 2nd most sustainable university in the world (UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2024).


- Student satisfaction | 100% of BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering students find their course intellectually stimulating (NSS, 2024).

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is recognised as one of the UK's top three universities, ranking 1st for Course Quality and top five for Student Life and Employability (University Compare 2027).

Nottingham is one of the UK's top student cities and is located in one of England's most affordable regions. With more than 15,000 student rooms within walking distance of campus, there's accommodation to suit every budget. NTU also guarantees first-year accommodation for students studying in Nottingham (T&Cs apply).

Across five campuses in Nottingham and London, students benefit from world-class facilities, innovative learning spaces and a vibrant community. Whether you live on campus or commute, NTU offers an accessible and supportive student experience.

At NTU, you'll graduate with experience, not just a degree. Every course includes at least eight weeks of professional experience, backed by strong employer links, placement opportunities and long-term career support. NTU also offers Gold-rated teaching (TEF 2023) and is recognised for its high-quality teaching, excellent learning resources and student support.

Join NTU this September for academic excellence, career-focused learning and a thriving student community.