How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in civil engineering.
Many universities specialise in particular areas of civil engineering, like:
- transport engineering
- environmental engineering
- coastal and maritime engineering
You can search for accredited courses through the Institution of Civil Engineers. Some courses include a work placement, which can be useful for making industry contacts to help you find work after university.
You can also do further study for a postgraduate master's qualification in civil engineering, if you've got a degree in a related subject like maths, science or geology.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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College
You could take a course at college, which might help you to get work as a trainee civil engineer, or to apply for further study at university.
Subjects include:
- civil engineering
- maths, physics or geography
- construction and the built environment
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You can apply to do a Civil Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship with an engineering or construction company.
This takes around 5 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as a civil engineering technician and study on the job for a degree or apprenticeship.
You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science. Employers may also look for 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent qualifications.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) for professional development opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can learn more about how to become a civil engineer from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).