Birmingham City University

BEng Civil Engineering with a Foundation Year

Birmingham City University

Course overview

The BEng Civil Engineering with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University is ideal if you want to become a civil engineer and need a supportive introduction to university-level study. This four-year course starts with a foundation year that gives you the core knowledge and skills to progress with confidence.

You will learn how civil engineers design and build important structures such as bridges, power stations, and motorways. You will also study hydraulics, which means learning how water moves and how it can be used to create energy. The course includes hands-on activities like site visits, field trips, and talks from guest speakers. These activities help you see how civil engineering works in the real world.

You will use computer programmes like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and build useful skills such as planning projects, solving problems, and communicating clearly. These are important skills that employers want.

While studying Civil Engineering at Birmingham City University, you will benefit from the university’s strong links with companies. You will also take part in activities that are similar to real jobs. This course will help you begin your journey to becoming a chartered civil engineer. With support from expert teachers and practical training, you will be ready to start your engineering career after you graduate.

Entry requirements

Grade Requirements:

  • 80 UCAS Tariff points at A-Level (e.g. CDD or equivalent) and Pearson BTEC. 

English Proficiency:

  • International applicants will be required to show proof of proficiency in English by having an IELTS overall score of 6.0 with nothing less than 5.5 in each of the four bands. 
  • If you do not meet this requirement, you may opt in for one of the university’s pre-sessional English courses.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000
  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • International Postgraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.

    Up to £3,000
  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000
  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

A BEng in Civil Engineering with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University opens doors to a variety of careers, including roles such as the following: 

  • Civil Engineer 
  • Structural Engineer 
  • Geotechnical Engineer 
  • Design Engineer
  • Construction Engineer 
  • Nuclear Engineer

Cost of study

For the 2025/2026 academic session, the tuition fee to study BEng Civil Engineering with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University is £17,960. Fees are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change.

Admission

You have to apply for this course online through the online application platform provided by the university. Should you have any questions about this process, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced counsellors at AHZ.

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