Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science

The BSc Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science at University College London offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary undergraduate program designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge to address modern engineering challenges. This program uniquely combines traditional civil engineering principles with advanced Geographic Information Science (GIS) techniques, enabling graduates to excel in areas such as infrastructure development, environmental management, urban planning, and sustainable construction.

Throughout the course, students will engage with core topics including structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, water resources, and environmental engineering, providing a solid foundation in civil engineering fundamentals. Complementing this technical knowledge, the program emphasizes the importance of spatial data analysis, GIS mapping, remote sensing, and spatial data management, fostering expertise in geospatial technologies crucial for effective planning and decision-making in the built and natural environment.

The curriculum balances theoretical lessons with practical experiences, including laboratory work, field projects, and industry placements, ensuring students gain real-world insight and practical skills. Students will also develop proficiency in relevant software tools such as ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and other modeling and simulation platforms, preparing them for diverse careers in infrastructure design, environmental consultancy, urban development, and GIS-based analysis.

The program is delivered by experienced academics and industry professionals, fostering an innovative learning environment that encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative working. Emphasis is placed on sustainable development practices and the ethical responsibilities of engineers in addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource management, and urbanization.

Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue further studies in civil engineering or GIS-related fields, or to embark on professional careers in consultancy, government agencies, infrastructure companies, and environmental organizations. With its blend of technical expertise and spatial data analysis skills, the BSc Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science at UCL prepares students to become leaders in developing resilient, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure systems worldwide.

The programme provides students with a strong academic background in a broad range of civil engineering topics and advanced skills in problem-solving, which are necessary for a successful career in the sector. This route will also offer you the opportunity to gain specialist knowledge in your chosen area of geographic information science and provide a clear path to a professional career in civil engineering.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules including three specialist modules and one professional development module (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma, four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) is also offered.

Core modules

• GIS Principles and Technology
• Principles of Spatial Analysis
• Web and Mobile GIS
• Project Management (Professional Development Module)

Optional modules

Students choose four from the following:

• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Advanced Structures
• Anatomy of the Railway
• Applied Building Information Modelling
• Building Engineering Physics
• Coastal Engineering
• Data Analysis
• Engineering and International Development
• Environmental Systems
• Finite Element Modelling and Numerical Methods
• Introduction to Seismic Design of Structures
• Natural and Environmental Disasters
• Principles and Practices of Surveying
• Roads and Underground Infrastructure
• Structural Dynamics
• Systems, Society and Sustainability
• Urban Flooding and Drainage
• Please note: combinations of different modules will be limited by timetable constraints.

Please note: combinations of different modules will be determined by timetable constraints.

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10–15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratory classes and field trips. The research project includes laboratory, computational or fieldwork depending on the nature of the project. Assessment is through examinations, coursework, project reports and the research project.

A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering or a closely related subject, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry criteria may be asked to provide a portfolio demonstrating existing engineering and design skills. For non-civil or structural engineering candidates we offer a Graduate Diploma in Civil Engineering, recognised by our accrediting body (the Joint Board of Moderators), which can be used as a pre-qualifying year for the Civil Engineering MSc and its specialist routes.

The Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science program at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive educational pathway that combines traditional civil engineering principles with advanced geographic information science (GIS). Regarding financing studies for this program, students have access to a variety of funding options aimed at supporting both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. UCL provides information on £9,250 annual tuition fees for UK students, with international students typically facing higher fees, which can vary year to year. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options available through UCL’s website, as well as external funding sources such as government loans, private scholarships, and international educational grants. UCL offers several scholarship programs specifically aimed at international students, including the Global Partnership Scholarship and the UCL Graduate Support Scheme, which can contribute significantly to tuition costs or living expenses.

In addition to scholarships, students can consider student loans available through government schemes for domestic students, which may cover tuition fees and living costs; however, international students usually rely more on external funding sources or private loans. UCL also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities within the university and London area, enabling students to supplement their income while studying. The university’s location in London offers numerous employment opportunities, and international students often find part-time roles in hospitality, retail, or research assistant positions. Some students may also apply for fellowships or research grants if enrolled in research-based pathways or advanced degree options within the program.

Financial planning is an important aspect of preparing for university studies, and UCL’s admissions and student finance offices offer resources to help students understand costs, repayment options, and budgeting strategies. The university emphasizes equity and access, aiming to support students from diverse economic backgrounds through various financial aid programs. Overall, financing a Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science program at UCL involves a combination of scholarships, loans, part-time employment, and external funding sources, tailored to meet the needs of each student.

The Civil Engineering with Geographic Information Science program at University College London offers a comprehensive education that combines traditional civil engineering principles with advanced geographic information science (GIS) technologies. This interdisciplinary course is designed to equip students with the skills required to address complex infrastructural and environmental challenges through innovative solutions that leverage spatial data and analysis. The program integrates core civil engineering topics like structural design, fluid mechanics, and construction management with GIS concepts such as spatial data acquisition, GIS software applications, remote sensing, and geospatial data analysis. Students benefit from the university's cutting-edge laboratories, industry collaborations, and research centers that focus on sustainable urban development, transportation systems, and water resource management. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience, with opportunities for fieldwork, project-based learning, and internships with leading engineering firms and government agencies. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in a broad range of sectors including infrastructure planning, environmental consultancy, urban and regional planning, and GIS technology development. The program aims to develop not only technical expertise but also critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills needed for leadership roles in the evolving field of civil engineering integrated with geographic information science. The duration of the course is typically three to four years for a full-time undergraduate degree, with options for part-time or combined studies depending on the student's needs. Overall, this program provides a unique combination of engineering and spatial analysis skills, making graduates highly sought after in the rapidly growing field of smart infrastructure and sustainable urban development.