Structural Engineering and Architecture MEng
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
School of Architecture
You are viewing this course for 2021-22 entry. 2022-23 entry is also available.
Key details
- A Levels AAA
Other entry requirements - UCAS code HK21
- 4 years / Full-time
- September start
- Accredited
- Find out the course fee
Course description
This dual course combines the essentials of an architecture and a structural engineering degree so you could become an architect or an engineer.
The course develops architectural and engineering skills in an integrated manner. Your unique understanding of both disciplines makes you highly skilled and employable. You'll be capable of appreciating competing considerations, while able to balance the professional opinion of both disciplines.
Your first two years of study cover the fundamentals of each profession, including engineering maths, mechanics, geotechnics, materials, and structural design. Your initial architectural modules cover humanities and a history of architecture and the basics of architectural design.
Your final two years allow you to study specialised and advanced modules that focus on structural analysis and design, alongside studio-based practical architectural design projects, project management, and environment and technology modules. You'll also develop and carry out a research project.
During your third year, you'll spend a full semester doing the Integrated Design Project. The project encourages you to unleash your creativity on a grand scale by devising plans for an entire urban regeneration project based on a real site in Sheffield. You'll investigate new design methods and construction materials while developing detailed designs such as elegant bridges, sustainable and environmentally sensitive multi-storey buildings, or state-of-the-art sports venues. It'll give you invaluable project experience and a feel for the kind of issues you may encounter in your career.
This course is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators, which includes the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Institute of Highway Engineers under licence from the Engineering Council. This degree is accredited as fully satisfying the educational base for a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Accreditation by the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Institutions of Civil and Structural Engineers means the course provides sufficient Architecture content to meet the Part I requirements for becoming a Registered Architect and also the MEng requirements to progress to Chartered Engineer without further educational qualifications.
Modules
The modules listed below are examples from the last academic year. There may be some changes before you start your course. For the very latest module information, check with the department directly.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: HK21
Years: 2021
Core modules:
- Civil Engineering Mathematics
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This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department.
20 credits - Civil Engineering Skills
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This module aims to give students the tools to become excellent engineers. This begins with the ability to communicate their designs through hand sketches and through the use of software. Students are then expected to use peer assessment to assess their drawings so they can understand how not only to create drawings but also how to effectively present information on them too. Basic skills in computer programming are also introduced to give students the ability to solve complex problems. In second semester the module concentrates on surveying skills, including an outdoor group surveying exercise and the development of a surveying plan report.
20 credits - Civil and Structural Engineering Mechanics 1
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This module is delivered in both the Autumn and Spring Semesters. Teaching in the first semester is designed to provide a basis of knowledge and understanding of elastic structural analysis and will be applied to two key structural forms - trusses and beams. The focus of the second semester is on the analysis of stress, strain and elastic deformation of beams, qualitative structural analysis of beam-like structures and the fundamentals of plasticity.
20 credits - Environment and Technology 1
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This module is the first in a series on building environment and technology. It introduces the constructional and structural principles of small buildings and the ways in which buildings modify the thermal aural and visual environments.
10 credits - Environment and Technology 2
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A continuation from ARC107, this module describes the constructional and structural principles of small buildings and the way in which buildings modify the sensory environment.
10 credits - Geotechnical Engineering 1
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This module is an introductory module to the use of soils in engineering practice. As soils are a naturally varying material, the creation of different soil types is first discussed giving the student a background in why soils differ. This then progresses into the engineering classification of soils followed by the design of simple geotechnical structures. These include retaining walls and earth embankments.
10 credits - Humanities 1
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The overall aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of how the field of architecture is positioned in relation to contemporary as much as to past issues. It will provide basic knowledge of particular moments in the recent history of the architecture and will familiarise you with some of its figures, concerns and events. Though the emphasis is on western architecture, it will include and encourage discussion of the way the architecture has been shaped and is being shaped around the world. As an Architectural Humanities module, it will not only focus on the history and theories of architecture but will also emphasise a more interdisciplinary approach that mobilises the knowledge and methods of the humanities. The module will look at ‘situating’ as the way in which the position, voices, agendas of, and issues concerning architecture are expressed and represented. It is a means to invite you to define your personal interest and take on architecture discipline and practice and to develop your own agenda within this wide open-field. This module will contribute to your development as a critical thinker and researcher who can evolve informed and rigorous arguments in both words and images.
10 credits - Humanities 2
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ARC104 concerns the reciprocal relationship between architecture, the built environment and society, exploring the issues through a broad range of case studies. It will focus on a range of buildings, mainly dwellings. Through a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach, cases will include, for instance, vernacular, indigenous and everyday buildings to show how architecture worked when people built for themselves directly without recourse to building specialists and mechanised technology. The course seeks to establish that architecture works through different categorisations, such as style, symbolic references, typologies, use, materiality, meaning, structure, layout, form, but also through the framing of human activities and rituals. The cross-cultural approach prompts the question if there are aspects that remain specific to a local context and if in some cases, some of these can be regarded as universal, or not.
10 credits - Introduction to Structural Materials Engineering
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This lecture course covers all the main classes of materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, natural materials and composites), describing the properties that they show, the root cause of their properties, the structure, and how we can affect this by processing to get the properties we want. The course will also introduce some ways that the best material for a purpose can be selected.
10 credits - Global Engineering Challenge Week
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The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.
*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.
Core modules:
- Architectural Design 2
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A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: widen perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design
30 credits - Architectural Design 1 (Dual Architecture and Engineering)
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A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: introduce the perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design.
20 credits - Structural Analysis I
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This module is designed to improve your knowledge understanding of how elastic and plastic methods of structural analysis can be applied to various structural forms. The module will be delivered via lectures, supported by problem-solving, and computer and laboratory classes. You will develop your ability to analyse structures under working and ultimate loads, by hand and via computer.
20 credits - Structural Engineering Design and Appraisal
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This module will discuss the fundamental principles of structural engineering philosophy and design. The theories and concepts of analysis and design of structural elements will be presented for the most commonly used structural materials and discussed along with the more prescriptive design rules included in the relevant Eurocodes.
20 credits - Further Civil Engineering Mathematics and Computing
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This module is part of a series of second-level modules designed for the particular group of engineers shown in brackets in the module title. Each module consolidates previous mathematical knowledge and new mathematical techniques relevant to the particular engineering discipline.
10 credits - Geotechnical Engineering 2a
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This module is aimed at extending your knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering. The focus is on applying fundamental understanding of mechanics to geotechnical problem solving with an emphasis on fluid-soil interaction. The approach is designed to link soil mechanics theory (e.g. seepage, consolidation and settlement) to practical application (e.g. deformation of foundations) through the use of physical models and case studies. The course will encompass lectures, tutorials, group work including laboratories, and directed and independent reading.
10 credits - Materials for Structural Engineering
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This module looks at the role of materials and materials properties used for structural design. The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures, on-line learning initiatives and group-based practicals.
10 credits - Engineering - You're Hired
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The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project. The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.
Core modules:
- Architectural Design 4
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ARC226 follows on directly from ARC225. Together they form an integrated sequence of projects for the second year design studio course. ARC226 continues the practical architectural design work of ARC225, but concentrates on the design of a medium-sized public building, including the integration of technical and environmental elements.
30 credits - Project Design 53
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ARC275 is a course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the experience of the first year design studio. The scale of projects addressed increases from those encountered in the first year architectural design with more complex briefs. Consideration is given to the issues of sustainability, the relation of buildings to their urban context and the design of outside spaces. The technical aspects of the work aim to further develop an understanding of building structure, construction, materials and serivces in relation to the overall design concept.
20 credits - Advanced Structural Analysis
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Advanced Structural Analysis aims to teach you the most modern theories suitable for performing the static assessment of structural members subjected to in-service multiaxial loading. Initially, this module focuses on the linear-elastic behaviour of structural members loaded in torsion as well as in bending. The fundamental equations modelling the behaviour of beams under the above loading conditions are derived by following rigorous mathematical procedures. The module examines also those equivalent stresses (such as von Mises, Tresca, etc.) commonly used in situation of practical interest do design structural members against complex systems of forces and moments. Finally, the problem of designing notched structural members against multiaxial static loading is addressed in great detail by considering both ductile and brittle materials.
10 credits - Advanced Structural Design and Appraisal
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This module takes students through the structural design process, based around a case study of a real building.
10 credits
The process initially looks at options for gravity load-bearing elements, (such as floor slabs, beams and columns) as well as options for lateral load resisting systems (such as reinforced concrete shear walls / cores and steel bracing frames), before carrying out analysis and design of the selected options.
The module also looks at key considerations such as fire, robustness and vibration.
This module is intended to prepare students for carrying out the analysis and design of structures in the 'Integrated Design Project' (IDP).
- Construction Project Management
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This module is designed to introduce students to key factors that influence the development and management of construction projects throughout their lifecycle and various key construction management processes/ techniques / tools that can be used to plan, co-ordinate and control project development. It will also introduce professional and legal responsibilities of industry practitioners. The module will involve research, evaluation and discussion of industry information on issues such as construction project procurement, project planning, health and safety risk management, project risks and technological developments in the construction industry. The module will be assessed through group presentations and an individual reflective report.
10 credits - Environment and Technology 3
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ARC207 introduces the technology of medium-scale buildings. It comprises three lecture courses: Construction and materials, Architectural Structures (steelwork) and Environmental Design (thermal analysis and systems).
10 credits - Environment and Technology 4
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A continuation from ARC207, this module describes the technology of medium-scale buildings. It comprises three lecture courses: Construction and materials. Architectural Structures. Environment and Services.
10 credits - Humanities 3
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This module covers a wide-ranging cultural history of architecture and its relationship between changing states of society, the development of urban culture and institutions, and the growth of knowledge and ideas. The module pivots between scientific knowledge and artistic and cultural development, and is intended to help students from both scientific, social sciences and arts and humanities backgrounds to begin to make connections and understand the context within which architecture is set.
10 credits - Humanities 4
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ARC 204/254 consolidates the production of architecture through buildings and designs with the production of disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge, with a particular overall focus on the contemporary condition.
10 credits
Core modules:
- Independent Research Project for Structural Engineering And Architecture
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The MEng individual final year research project is a major piece of investigative research in a subject that is not of a routine nature that will enable students to gain expertise in investigative techniques and understanding research methods. It is intended to be intellectually challenging. It is expected that during their research, students will develop and exhibit competence in the following: defining a problem, researching and critically analysing information and data, problem solving, writing a report, and discussing and defending their findings. Students are also expected to take initiative, to plan / organise their own programme of research, to work independently and to display originality and creativity.
30 credits - Architectural Design 6 (Dual Architecture & Engineering)
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A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.
20 credits - Project Design 55
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A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.
20 credits - Structural Dynamics and Applications to Vibration Design
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This module is designed to provide students with a systematic knowledge and understanding of structural dynamics and its applications in Civil Engineering. On successful completion of this module, students will be able to perform calculation and analyse vibration response of single-degree-of-freedom and multi-degree-of-freedom systems and apply simple structural dynamics theory to solve practical problems in vibration engineering design.
15 credits - Advanced Structural Systems
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This module explores through design work the idea of advanced structural systems - structures that not only carry the loads but also fulfil the intended architectural expression in terms of achieving spatial, aesthetic, social and cultural aspirations. Through guest speakers, tutorials and design work the module aims to investigate the manner in which structural knowledge can be used to achieve design aspirations, and how this influences the design process, the final design outcome, the construction process and the constructed reality.
10 credits - Advanced Structures and Environment
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The module investigates the technology and environment of buildings, mainly at medium-scale and also introduces the technology of urban-scale environments. It consists of component lecture courses: Sustainability, Lighting, Structures and Acoustics. The emphasis is on the integration of the different aspects of building technology with each other and with architectural and engineering design in its entirety. This includes: environmental impact of specifications, sustainable technologies, infrastructure, structures and aspects of comfort. The module provides knowledge required in level 4 studio work and in architectural practice.
10 credits - Environment and Technology 6
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This module describes the technology and environment of medium-scale buildings. It is to be taken in association with a design scheme or case study. Acoustics, lighting, environment, services and sustainability are examined in the context of the complete architectural design.
10 credits - Civil Engineering Research Proposal
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This module consists a self-contained 5 credit element on research skills. The primary learning objective to produce a research proposal to support the semester 2 (MEng) individual research projects. This module is essentially 5 credit of time for you to prepare this research proposal. There is no taught content but you should meet regularly with your supervisor and refer to the relevant handbooks and briefs. Module assessment is based on a research proposal.
5 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. We are no longer offering unrestricted module choice. If your course included unrestricted modules, your department will provide a list of modules from their own and other subject areas that you can choose from.
Learning and assessment
We've academic staff who are world-leaders in their respective fields and some have over 20 years' experience in industry. Our staff experience demonstrates how engineering fundamentals are applied in practice through project work that mimics real-life situations. We also bring in leading industry experts to enhance and support our teaching and advise on our curriculum.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAA
including Maths
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Maths
A Levels + additional qualifications | AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths AAB, including A in Maths + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate | 36, 6 in Higher Level Maths 34, 5 in Higher Level Maths
BTEC | DDD in Engineering + A in A Level Maths DDD in Engineering + B in A Level Mathematics
Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher | AAAAB + A in Maths AAABB + B in Maths
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels | A + AA in Maths B + AA in Maths
Access to HE Diploma | 60 credits overall in a relevant subject with 45 at level 3 including 39 credits at Distinction to include Mathematics and Science or Engineering units, and 6 credits at Merit + Grade A in A-level Mathematics. Applicants are considered individually. 60 credits overall in a relevant subject with 45 at level 3 including 36 credits at Distinction to include Mathematics and Science or Engineering units, and 9 credits at Merit + Grade A in A-level Mathematics. Applicants are considered individually.
Mature students - explore other routes for mature students
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
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General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted
- Our guidance on submitting a portfolio
GCSE Physics or Dual Award Science or GCSE Additional Science at grade 6 or grade B, or equivalent, if not offered at A or AS Level. Evidence of artistic ability in the form of a portfolio.
We also accept a range of other UK qualifications and other EU/international qualifications.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
What is civil engineering?
Civil engineering is at the forefront of improving the way we live. Whether it's providing the facilities that keep our day-to-day lives running smoothly - from roads and railways to clean water supplies - or working to meet the ever-changing needs of our society in the areas of sustainability, renewable energy and climate change, you'll be helping to create and protect the world we live in.
Civil engineering at Sheffield
Our courses will make you the kind of engineer the world needs right now; forward-thinking, interdisciplinary, environmentally conscious, and capable of the kind of complex thinking our rapidly changing society needs. Wherever you choose to start your career, you'll be in demand.
We're eighth in the UK for civil engineering, according to the Times Good University Guide 2020, and seventh according to the Complete University Guide 2020. Our research is internationally recognised. Industry and government value our expertise.
Our industry partners contribute to teaching through lectures, design classes, projects and site visits. We work with leading consultants, contractors and specialist civil engineering companies to provide industrial opportunities for a number of students each year. We also have industrial tutors and professionals who mentor our first-year students.
You'll be taught in The Diamond, one of the best teaching spaces in the UK.
Facilities
The Diamond building contains state-of-the-art teaching and lab facilities, and uses cutting-edge, industry-standard equipment.
Department of Civil and Structural EngineeringSchool of Architecture
Come to Sheffield and join some of the best architecture students in the UK - our students have won prizes at the RIBA Student Awards and the Royal Academy Summer Show. They've been shortlisted in the European Architecture Medals and the Inspiring Graduate Awards. Our staff are doing world-class research, helping to make the school a leader in our field across the UK and internationally.
We believe in architecture that makes a difference. We know that it has the potential to improve the lives of those who inhabit and use it.
Through our internationally-acclaimed teaching and research, we explore the social, spatial and environmental implications of architecture. As a Sheffield student, you will engage with real issues affecting the built environment.
We encourage you to explore ideas and collaborate with other students. Through group tutorials and peer review you'll learn how to express your opinions, and value the opinions of others. Sheffield is the perfect place to develop your personality as a designer.
We provide a balance of theory, design work and professional experience. We have a strong design studio culture. The studio acts as a laboratory for trialling your creative and critical ideas, and for developing fundamental architectural skills. You'll share ideas during group tutorials and review other students' work. This encourages you to express your own opinion and to value the opinions of others, as you begin to develop your personality as a designer.
The School of Architecture sits high up in the Arts Tower, offering unrivalled panoramic views across Sheffield and beyond. This is where you will spend the majority of your time in the design studio.
You'll also attend lectures across the campus and take advantage of our drawing labs and facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.
Facilities
Our generous open-plan studios promote collaboration and you will be able to take advantage of our drawing labs and facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.
You'll have access to the latest digital techniques in our computer labs which host a suite of professional Building Information Modelling and Computer Aided Design software. You can also take advantage of our digital review facilities and will have access to 360 degree capture technology.
Workshops and tutorials are embedded into each course to ensure you have the skills you need.
School of ArchitectureWhy choose Sheffield?
The University of Sheffield
A Top 100 university 2021
QS World University Rankings
Top 10% of all UK universities
Research Excellence Framework 2014
No 1 Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2019, 2018, 2017
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020
The Complete University Guide 2020
School of Architecture
The Complete University Guide Subject Tables 2021
Graduate careers
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
Our graduates work all over the world, from the UK to Australia and the USA. Recent graduates have gone on to work for AECOM, Arup, Atkins, Buro Happold, Eastwood & Partners, and Kier.
You'll be able to apply your knowledge and skills to fields as diverse as the built environment, sustainability and improving the environment.
In addition, architectural engineering graduates might go into a broad range of engineering areas ranging from building services to mechanical, electrical or acoustic engineering.
Or as a structural engineer, you'll be helping to shape the world around us. Structural engineers design and construct multi-storey buildings, bridges, sports stadiums, tunnels, airports and schools.
School of Architecture
Our graduates often go into architectural practice for a year or two before doing a two-year MArch in Architecture - either at Sheffield or another school. Our graduates also pursue careers in the built environment or move on to a specialist masters course.
Employers include AHMM, ARUP, Building Design Partnership, Haworth Tompkins Architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley, Grimshaw Architects, Hawkins\Brown, and Penoyre & Prasad.
Graduates on our Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies degree course are well prepared for a career in the built environment in roles such as: built environment consultant, government and local authority advisor, creative and strategic policy maker, architectural critic and journalist, and arts and heritage manager.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Visit us
University open days
There are four open days every year, usually in June, July, September and October. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Taster days
At various times in the year we run online taster sessions to help Year 12 students experience what it is like to study at the University of Sheffield.
Applicant days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our applicant days, which take place between November and April. These applicant days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Campus tours run regularly throughout the year, at 1pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Apply for this course
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
www.ucas.com
Contact us
Telephone: civilugadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
Email: +44 114 222 5738
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.