University of Surrey

Advanced Geotechnical Engineering

University of Surrey

Course overview

The MSc Advanced Geotechnical Engineering at the University of Surrey focuses on the advanced study and research of the behaviour of Earth's materials for use in major construction projects. It aims to address a global skills shortage by equipping graduates with expertise in areas like advanced soil testing, foundation design, and finite element modelling for ground engineering challenges.

The course is taught in highly specialised facilities, including the Surrey Advanced Geotechnical Engineering (SAGE) Lab, by leading academics and industry guest speakers. Assessment includes an Engineering Dissertation on a geotechnical topic, and there is an option for a two-year full-time route, which includes an industrial placement year to gain essential work experience.

Entry requirements

Candidates need to submit a personal statement and a relevant academic and/or employer reference. They also have the option to upload their CV along with their applications to demonstrate their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants need a first degree equivalent to at least a UK second class (2.2) honours degree. This qualification should be in a relevant subject such as civil engineering, geology, engineering geology, or other closely related subjects.

  • Those with extensive, relevant professional experience may also be considered on an individual basis.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in the Writing section and 5.5 in all other elements (Reading, Listening, Speaking), or they may submit equivalent test scores such as TOEFL or PTE Academic.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000

  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000

  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

Career opportunities

This degree prepares graduates for roles that address ground engineering challenges in critical sectors, opening up opportunities with major consultancies and contractors.

  • Geotechnical Design Engineer

  • Ground Engineering Consultant

  • Offshore Geotechnics Specialist

  • Tunnelling and Foundations Engineer

  • Earthquake Geotechnical Specialist

Cost of study

The tuition fee for the one-year full-time MSc Advanced Geotechnical Engineering is £24,900 for overseas applicants. This tuition fee is subject to change.

Admission

Applications for this course are submitted directly to the university. Please speak with our experienced counsellors for help.

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