MSc Civil Engineering
- Entry year:
- 2026/27
- Start date:
- September, January
- Study mode:
- Full-time
- Course duration:
- 1 year
- Campus:
- City
About this course
LJMU's Civil Engineering MSc provides a route to Chartered Engineer status. You will learn the skills required to excel in and lead a civil engineering team.
- Study on a course informed by internationally recognised research from our Built Environment and Sustainable Technologies (BEST) Research Institute
- Enjoy excellent career opportunities in design and site-based roles
- Meet the requirements for Chartered Engineer status
Civil Engineering is a popular branch of engineering relating to the design and construction of large structures, such as bridges, roads, tunnels, tall buildings and flood defences. The overall aim of this programme is to produce Chartered Engineers who play a significant role in society as professional civil engineers. LJMU supports its students in developing the necessary skills to take on future leadership roles. The programme builds on foundational engineering knowledge and skills with a stimulating and challenging postgraduate programme of study that will advance your understanding and analytical skills. You will develop a critical awareness of current issues in the field, as developed by ongoing research from LJMU's Built Environment and Sustainable Technologies (BEST) Research Institute.
You will also evaluate the latest research and design methodologies, increase your understanding of ethical issues related to civil engineering, and your responsibilities in regard to sustainable construction.
In addition, you will develop a greater understanding of management principles and management strategies and be able to critically evaluate design, construction and operation within the context of both regulation and current developments.
Khalid's story
With an undergraduate and Masters-level qualification from the University of Babylon in Iraq, Khalid Hashim came to LJMU to study for an MPhil leading to a PhD.
"I chose to study at LJMU as the university came highly recommended by friends who had already studied here. I also found the staff extremely friendly and helpful during the application process and Liverpool is, of course, a multi-cultural city with people from all over the world.
When I began my studies I had certain goals but, over time, the University gave me more and more knowledge so that my achievements have way outstripped my original expectations. LJMU really does support you to achieve. It provides all the equipment, facilities and resources you need, and the technicians are always ready to help however they can. During my time here I have even been lucky enough to attend three fully-funded international conferences.
Of all the great experiences the University has given me, however, I think the golden opportunity has been the chance to teach at undergraduate level. To be able to say that you have taught for a year in a great UK university like John Moores is very important.
I would absolutely recommend Liverpool as a place to study, it is very easy to settle here and make friends. The prices are reasonable, the location is great and there are good transport connections.
LJMU has improved my knowledge and research skills so much that I would now be happy to work in any research centre and would not hesitate to apply for any job. The university has been exactly the right place for me to undertake my project."
Course modules
Discover the building blocks of your programme
This course is currently undergoing its scheduled programme review, which may impact the advertised modules. Programme review is a standard part of the University’s approach to quality assurance and enhancement, enabling us to ensure that our courses remain up to date and maintain their high standard and relevancy.
Once the review is completed, this course website page will be updated to reflect any approved changes to the advertised course. These approved changes will also be communicated to those who apply for the course to ensure they wish to proceed with their application.
Your programme is made up of a number of core modules which are part of the course framework. Some programmes also have optional modules that can be selected to enhance your learning in certain areas and many feature a dissertation, extended report or research project to demonstrate your advanced learning.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Core modules
Research Project
60 credits
60 credits
This module will develop and test your ability to prepare a dissertation based on a study in appropriate depth, of a subject of some significance in relation to your own discipline within the built environment.
Research Methodology
10 credits
10 credits
This module will provide you with an understanding of the academic research process understanding the differing techniques, strategies and methods used to undertake research in the built environment.
Advanced Materials
10 credits
10 credits
This module will develop your understanding of the behaviour of Civil Engineering Materials under a wide range of service conditions. This will improve your ability to evaluate new developments in Materials Technology and to compare critically the choice of materials for specific applications.
Sustainable Infrastructure
20 credits
20 credits
This module will help you develop an understanding of the operation, design and management of infrastructure in both the Developing World and the Developed World. From this you will develop the capability for critical assessment of the sustainability of infrastructure in a wide variety of situations.
Energy and Carbon Management
20 credits
20 credits
This module develops students' ability to undertake a comprehensive review of energy supply, use and efficiency measures, in order to make informed decisions on energy use in the construction industry and business.
Applied Finite Element Analysis
20 credits
20 credits
The module will introduce you to the finite element method and you will explore the underlying theory of finite element methods. You will investigate the performance and reliability of finite element methods in civil engineering applications, such as structural problems including material nonlinearity. The theoretical aspects of the method will be covered in lectures - the module is intended to be practical in nature so that you have the opportunity to practice via a range of tutorials and assignments using commercial finite element software.
Advanced Structural Design and Bridge Engineering
20 credits
20 credits
This module expands student knowledge from the design of relatively small structures to the design of large structures such as large span roof trusses, cable bridge structures, composite, reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge decks. Students will develop critical understanding of the philosophies of current Codes of Practice and in using appropriate methods for the design of steel, composite, prestressed concrete, tensile cables and bridge elements/deck structures.
Collaborative BIM Project
20 credits
20 credits
The module is an opportunity for students to follow BIM protocols and practice in a collaborative multidisciplinary project team to achieve project success.
Professional body recognition
The accrediting body for this degree is the Joint Board of Moderators for the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, and the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation. Visit our website for further information.
This degree is accredited as fully satisfying the educational base for a Chartered Engineer (CEng). Visit our website for further information.
Ultimately, with relevant work experience and a masters-level degree, the degree can lead to the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer (CEng) and the equivalent European Qualification of EUR ING
This programme is also accredited by IStructE.
Your Learning Experience
An insight into teaching on your course
Teaching methods
You will learn through lectures, seminars and problem-solving sessions.
Applied learning
You will develop a critical awareness of current issues in the field, as informed by ongoing research from LJMU's Built Environment and Sustainable Technologies (BEST) Research Institute. You will also benefit from site visits to see theory put into practice.
How learning is monitored on your programme
To cater for the wide-ranging content of our courses and the varied learning preferences of our students, we offer a range of assessment methods on each programme.
Where you will study
The Department of Civil Engineering is situated in the Byrom Street complex of LJMU's City Campus. Here you will find high quality lecture theatres, meeting and seminar rooms plus social spaces and a large café. The City Campus Library is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.
Course tutors
Ed's teaching role is in the civil engineering suite of programs where he mainly teaches soil mechanics, geotechnics and project modules on HNC and undergraduate programs along with environmental subjects on the Water, Energy and the Environment MSc program.
His PhD research was a collaboration between industrial partners (Hydro International Plc and United Utilities Plc) focussed on assessment and improvement of a tertiary wastewater filtration process. This project involved combining the findings from laboratory (university based) and practical based fieldwork (United Utilities field site) into a numerical dataset from which he developed a predictive mathematical model of efficiency for the process. The research led to a number of publications and speaking at a number of conferences and is ongoing, with Ed supervising several PhD students.
Postgraduate research opportunities
At LJMU, you can take the next step in your academic journey with a PhD or MPhil, available on a full-time or part-time basis. International students also have the option to study remotely.
- PhD duration: Up to 4 years full-time, or up to 7 years part-time
- Funding options: Choose between funded projects (with supervisors already in place) or self-funded study
Our Doctoral Academy is here to support you every step of the way—from your first enquiry through to successful completion—working closely with Schools, Faculties, and Professional Services.
For more details on postgraduate research and full details on how to apply, visit the Doctoral Academy website.
Career paths
Further your career prospects
LJMU has an excellent employability record with 97% of our postgraduates in work or further study fifteen months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace on graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real world context.
Common roles for graduates of this programme include: Civil Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers, Project Engineers and Structural Engineers at organisations including Carillion, Arup, Tony Gee, Mouchel, Mott McDonald, J N Bentley Ltd, HL Structural Engineers, URS Infrastructure and Environment Atkin Global and as General Consultants.
Tuition fees and funding
- Full-time per year:
- £10,850
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as library membership and student IT support with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources including programme-appropriate software and on campus wifi.
Financial Support
There are many ways to fund postgraduate study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you’ll find all of the information you need on our specialist postgraduate funding pages. The University offers a range of financial support for students. You'll find all the information you need on our specialist financial support pages including details of the Student Support Fund and other activities to support with the cost of living.
Additional Costs
In addition to fees, students should also keep in mind the cost of:
- Accommodation
- Travel costs and field trips unless paid for by LJMU
- Stationery, IT equipment, professional body membership and graduation gown hire
- Full-time per year:
- £18,250
International Scholarships and payment plans
Liverpool John Moores University is committed to supporting international students by providing a range of scholarships and flexible payment plans to help students manage their tuition fees.
Scholarships
LJMU provides a variety of postgraduate scholarships to support international students. Scholarships are available to self-funded students who have accepted their offer and met all the conditions outlined in their offer letter. Students must also demonstrate that they can cover living costs, travel, and other expenses associated to studying at the university. Postgraduate scholarships include tuition fee reductions and are often offered in partnership with external funding organisations such as the British Council and Chevening.
All self-funded international students are eligible for an automatic scholarship worth up to £4,000. For more details and to view our full list of scholarships, visit the international scholarship webpages.
Deposit
All students must pay a £5,000 deposit before they can receive their CAS letter.
For more information view our deposit page.
Tuition Fee Payment Plan
After paying their £5,000 deposit, students have the option to pay their fees in full or in three equal instalments minus any internal scholarships and discounts. There are two payment options available for international students. You can either pay your tuition fees in full before enrolment or opt for a payment plan. With the payment plan, you can pay your fees in three instalments after making your £5,000 deposit. The first instalment is due before enrolment.
All payments should be made through Flywire. Full details can be found in the How to Pay Guide.
Entry requirements
You will need:
Qualification requirements
Undergraduate degree
a minimum 2:2 in civil, structural or another type of engineering
or
considerable relevant work experience
Further information
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
International requirements
IELTS
- IELTS English language requirement: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each component)
Further information
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
How to apply
Securing your place at LJMU
To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.
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The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.