Civil and structural engineers create and maintain much of the physical infrastructure of society while managing and conserving natural resources. The goal is to do this in an environmentally sustainable manner, ensuring the provision of adequate infrastructure and natural resources for current generations without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.

Civil and structural engineers are responsible for the planning, design and construction of bridges, buildings, tunnels, structures, roads, airports, harbours, water supply, dams, pipelines, sewerage treatment facilities, drainage, pollution control equipment and coastal/port facilities.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Civil and Structural) has an emphasis on engineering problem-solving and design and analysis using modern, computer-based methods. The first and second years of the degree develop knowledge of maths and science with fundamental engineering and design courses. Third and fourth years include professional engineering courses, specialisations, communication and management courses and project work within the main areas of structural, geotechnical and water engineering.

Students are required to complete 12 weeks of approved practical experience.

Civil and structural engineers can build careers in a wide range of areas and often find employment in private consulting engineering practices, construction companies, civil engineering service providers, and Federal, State and local government departments in Australia and abroad. Some of the more common careers in civil engineering include:

Structural engineers design the framework of buildings, towers, bridges, tunnels and other structures to ensure strength and safety. They study developments of new materials and methods and their use in the design and construction of new structures and repair of existing structures.

Water resources engineers work with the natural hydrological cycle to supply water and to collect wastewater from cities and towns for treatment prior to its return to the environment. Water resources engineering also looks at flow in natural river channels.

Coastal engineers design and implement solutions on the coast that provide for society's needs and desire to live and work by the ocean. They design harbours, jetties, wharves, and sea-walls, as well as schemes to protect and maintain beaches, both for recreation and as a way of protecting population centres against some of nature's most energetic forces.

Geotechnical engineers are involved in the design and construction of foundations, dams, earth retaining structures, embankments, tunnels, pavements and landfills. They are also involved in the engineering assessment of the ground, landslides and remediation of contaminated ground.

Transportation and highways engineers specialise in analysing population and growth statistics, and traffic patterns and volume to project future requirements; consult with specialists and government officials to design efficient and safe traffic systems including public transport; and study roadway and embankment design, the geometry of highway interchanges and the maintenance of facilities such as culverts and overpasses.

Materials and testing engineers conduct research, develop tests and evaluate the quality or suitability of materials and products related to projects such as bridges, dams, roads, airports, railways, waste disposal, flood control and industrial and other large buildings; coordinate and direct the research, development and testing of materials such as asphalt, concrete, steel, cement, timber and plastics, consider factors such as stresses and strains, estimated load, water pressures, wind resistance and temperature fluctuations; and advise contractors and others on materials most suited to meet individual construction problems.

The objective of the undergraduate Civil and Structural Engineering program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in the University Calendar.

Graduates qualify for professional membership of Engineers Australia.

Students are required to complete 12 weeks of approved practical experience outside normal class time. Practical experience can be undertaken in Australia or overseas.

• School of Civil, Environmental and Mining Engineering
• Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• University Contact Centre Enquiry Form