Makes sure buildings and bridges stand up safely, calculating the loads and choosing materials and sizes.
What the job involves
- Analysing loads and forces
- Choosing beams, columns and foundations
- Working with architects
- Checking work on site
Useful school subjects
Engineering Science. Higher Maths and English help with most routes.
How to get in
Degree in civil or structural engineering.
Scottish courses
Grades checked October 2026. Requirements change every year, so always check the course page.
University · University of StrathclydeCivil Engineering
BEng (Hons), 4 yrs · UCAS H200
StandardAAABWidening accessBBBB
- Subjects
- Maths at A, or at B with a science; N5 English (Higher preferred)
- Notes
- AABBB also accepted. A Foundation Apprenticeship can replace a non-essential Higher.
University · Heriot-Watt UniversityCivil Engineering
BEng (Hons), 4 yrs · UCAS H200
StandardAABBWidening accessBBBC
- Subjects
- Maths or a relevant technological subject; N5 English
University · Edinburgh Napier UniversityCivil Engineering
BEng (Hons), 4 yrs · UCAS H203
StandardBBBCWidening accessBCCC
- Subjects
- Maths (Applications of Maths not accepted)
Graduate Apprenticeship · Heriot-Watt, Strathclyde, Napier, GCU, UWS and UHICivil Engineering (Graduate Apprenticeship)
BEng/BSc (Hons)
- Subjects
- A GA job with a civil engineering employer
- Notes
- Offered by several universities. Employers advertise GA vacancies on apprenticeships.scot.
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