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.This ensures that we can provide 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 Civil and Structural program has an emphasis on engineering problem-solving and design and analysis using modern, computer-based methods. The first and second years of the program develop a 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 also required to complete 12 weeks of approved work experience.

• Bachelor of Engineering (Civil & Environmental)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Architectural)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)
  

Civil and Structural Engineers can build careers in a wide range of areas. 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. Factors which must be considered include tolerable stresses within given safety margins, vibration allowances, size, shape, appearance and economy. They study developments of new materials and methods and their use for design and construction of new structures and the repair of existing structures.

Materials and Testing Engineers conduct research, development tests and evaluation of the quality or suitability or materials and products related to projects such as bridges, dams, roads, airports, railways, waste disposal, flood control and industrial and other large buildings; co-ordinate and direct the research, development and testing of materials such as asphalt, concrete, steel, cement, timber and plastics, considering 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.

Water Resources Engineers work with the natural hydrological cycle to supply water and to collect wastewater from cities and towns for treatment before returning 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, for example, harbours, jetties, wharves, and sea-walls. They also design 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. With the world-wide trend to living on the coastal fringe, the work of coastal engineers is becoming increasingly important.

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 government officials and other specialists 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.

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 work experience outside normal class time. Work experience can be undertaken in Australia or overseas.

• School of Civil, Environmental & Mining Engineering
• Faculty of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences
• Engineering Program Information Leaflet
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• Student Centre Enquiry Form