Civil Engineering major

UTS major code: 01
UAC code: 603015
Testamur title: Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Diploma in Engineering Practice
Total credit points: 204

Civil engineering covers a broad range of activities and working styles generally based on a commitment to serve society. Civil engineers may work on the design, construction, management, maintenance, rehabilitation or renovation of all types of industrial or commercial buildings or structures. They may be involved with infrastructure developments such as highways, airports or integrated transport systems; water storage, purification and distribution systems to provide safe drinking water and water for irrigation and industrial use; systems for the treatment and disposal of sewage, domestic and industrial waste; and flood mitigation and harbour protection works, with due consideration of safety and economy.

Graduates may be employed with private sector consultants, contracting companies, mining and process industries, commercial business, research organisations or with public sector federal, State and local government and regulatory organisations. Significant employment opportunities exist in Australia, South-East Asia and internationally.

This major is designed to develop technical skills, experience and confidence in engineering analysis, problem identification and problem solving; and to provide a consistent focus on engineering as a mix of technical skills, logical reasoning, commonsense, judgment and the management of activities and people. It provides a thorough foundation in applied engineering science and progressively develops a basic understanding of the discipline of civil engineering, together with a recognition of the vital links with other professionals and community groups. Emphasis is given to the leadership role that engineers can play, and the need for engineers to be concerned with the social and environmental needs of the community and the impact of their creations on the public.

The program encourages skills in observation, collection and analysis of information, mathematical modelling of processes and behaviour, and thinking particularly in the abstract. It develops ability to communicate ideas, and capacity to listen to and understand the ideas of others. Students are required to take initiatives for their own learning, to develop critical thinking based on technical knowledge and to make rational judgments regarding the application of theory to practical situations. Reflection on tasks undertaken is strongly encouraged.

As well as submission of formal assignments and reports, students participate in class discussion groups, tutorial and laboratory sessions, seminar presentations and project work. The approach is structured to develop written, verbal and audiovisual communication skills. Group-based practical exercises, requiring consideration of engineering and non-engineering viewpoints, develop interdisciplinary skills and an ability to cooperate and liaise with colleagues.

Standard program

C = Core subject
EPP = Engineering Practice Program
FP = Fields of practice subject

Note: Engineering Internship shown in Semesters 4 and 8 is for illustration only.