HNC CIVIL ENGINEERING

Overview

The engineers that made the world

From the rebuilding of inner cities to remarkable constructions like the Channel tunnel, the world is full of building and infrastructure projects that couldn’t happen without civil engineers. This course has been developed with input from our Industrial Advisory Panel to give a practical design-orientated course which will equip you with the skills and qualifications you need to join the construction industry.

If you intend to do a part-time degree at LSBU, we advise taking the HNC route, as it is closely integrated into our degree programmes. Year 2 of the HNC is also designed for graduates from other fields, now working in civil engineering.

The Shard London

Why Civil Engineering at LSBU?

Ranked 3rd for teaching quality in the UK (Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020).

Approved by JBM the Joint Board of Moderators as fully satisfying the educational base for an Engineering Technician.
Industry relevant: Our Industry Advisory Panel advises on course content.
Ranked 2nd for overall satisfaction in Civil Engineering (National Student Survey 2019).
Academic progression: Progress to degree level via a part-time route.
Day release route: Allows for completion of course while maintaining work commitments.
Mode Duration Start date Application code Application method
ModePart-time Duration2 years Start dateSeptember Application code2314 Application method Direct to LSBU
ModePart-time (Jersey) Duration2 years Start dateSeptember Application code5367 Application method Direct to LSBU

Location

London South Bank University student union is located at 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA.

If you are visiting our Southwark Campus, you may wish to use our downloadable campus map (PNG File 466 KB). For information on accessibility, see our DisabledGo access guides. See our location page for more details.

Entry Level Requirements

Want to start your course this September? call 0800 923 8888 for entry requirements.

  • A Level EEE or;
  • BTEC National Diploma MPP or;
  • Access to HE qualifications with 45 Passes  or;
  • Equivalent level 3 qualifications worth 48 UCAS points
  • Level 3 qualifications must include Maths and Physical Science
  • Applicants must hold 5 GCSEs A-C including Maths and English or equivalent (reformed GCSEs grade 4 or above).
  • We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.0 or Cambridge Proficiency or Advanced Grade C.

Missing English and Maths qualifications?

If you do not have the required English and Maths qualifications needed to satisfy the entry requirements for this programme, we have courses available at our partner College that you can take to upskill in these areas. Find out more at South Bank College.

United Kingdom

£4767.5

Tuition fees for home students

International

£7750

Tuition fees for international students

Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.

  • Part-time

    part-time

    HNC Civil Engineering (PT) - Year 1

    The fee shown is for entry 2025/26
    UK fee: £4767.5 International fee: £7750
    AOS/LSBU code: 2314 Session code: 1PS00
    Total course fee:

    * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

    UK: £9535
    International: £15500

    HNC Civil Engineering (PT) - Year 2

    The fee shown is for entry 2025/26
    UK fee: £4767.5 International fee: £7750
    AOS/LSBU code: 2314 Session code: 2PS00
    Total course fee:

    * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

    UK: £9535
    International: £15500

International students

International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.

Home

Mode Duration Start date Application code Application method
Mode Part-time Duration 2 years Start date September Application code 2314 Application method Direct to LSBU
Mode Part-time (Jersey) Duration 2 years Start date September Application code 5367 Application method Direct to LSBU
The course explores the fundamentals of civil engineering, leaving you well prepared for advanced entry (subject to HNC grades) at level 5 on to the degree programme on a full-time basis, or part-time basis, or apprenticeship basis. It covers the mandatory JBM civil engineering threads for approval of the course on behalf of the Engineering Council allowing the cited progression at level 5 of the degree programme.

Year 1

  • Materials and geology
    This module will introduce you to the properties and applications of a variety of engineering materials, including some innovative materials. In addition, it will introduce you to engineering geology and geomaterials (rock and soils). Whilst traditional lectures and laboratories will be used as a means of delivering the course content, there will also be emphasis on the teaching in the field through site visits. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
  • Construction practice
    This module aims to provide you with the knowledge of the interrelationships between industry, professional bodies and education, and an understanding of key professional and research requirements. It will provide you with a roadmap for your professional career, and will enable you to prepare for employment in the construction discipline. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
  • Fluid Mechanics B
    This module teaches fundamental principles of fluid mechanics, and their practical applications. The student will be able to understand the fundamental principles of fluid mechanics relating to hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces, sediment transport, measurement of pressure, the stability of floating bodies, coastal and flood engineering, air flow around structures and flow in simple pipes and open channels. The student will perform fluid flow laboratory tests, workshops and prepare reports and presentations. Assessment Methods: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam.

Year 2

  • Structures and construction technology B
    This module will teach you the fundamentals of structural mechanics and strength of material, and you'll use numerous worked examples to complement your understanding. You'll be introduced to a computer aided analysis package. You'll reinforce your understanding of structural concepts by studying some well known historical failures. Finally, you'll develop introductory principles of structural engineering design though open-ended exercises and case studies. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
  • Engineering surveying
    This module will introduce you to the basic theory and practice of land surveying, particularly as it applies to civil engineering. You'll learn or revise the main concepts of three-dimensional geometry and relate them to practical surveying exercises. You'll be taught to use various pieces of surveying equipment, including tape, level, theodolite and total station. You'll learn how measurements are taken and booked, and how to carry out various relevant computations, including the assessment of error and the calculation of reduced level, coordinates and bearings. You'll use the knowledge you've acquired to carry out a field project. This project will involve tape and offset survey, levelling, traversing and calculation of volume. In addition you'll learn to carry out simple setting out procedures, including the analysis and setting out of curves, and you'll be introduced to the concepts of GPS and its associated technology. You'll learn the associated surveying calculations, adjustment and analysis of survey observations. Finally, you'll gain an appreciation of the need for a quality management process/system in undertaking practical work. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
  • Mathematics B
    This module consolidates the mathematical skills that underpin the Civil Engineering degrees. It's specifically designed to cater for the wide differences in mathematical background of students to reach an equivalent A-level maths and then extending it by introducing the main mathematical techniques that are required in the early stages of Civil engineering degrees. The module is delivered over two semesters. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

Careers

Employability Service

At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:

  • Free employability workshop and events for student all year round, more details can be found on our event section.
  • Online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
  • LSBU Careers Hub offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and support, guidance on future careers, as well as loads of career resources, connecting you with employers, exciting events, 1-1 support and relevant workshops.

Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.

You'll  develop a wide range of employability skills through our vocational approach to teaching and a focus on a range of technical knowledge and skills.

Graduate success stories

Recent students from this course have gone onto jobs such as: Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor, Senior Structural Technician, Civil Engineer and Network Maintenance Manager.

Continuing to degree level qualifications

If you complete this course, you will be able to apply for further study at undergraduate level.

If you excel at HNC level, you may be offered advanced entry to the Honours degree programme, subject to meeting minimum professional experience levels.

Accreditation

This qualification is approved by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers,  Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, and the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation on behalf of the Engineering Council as fully satisfying the educational base for an Engineering Technician (EngTech).

See the JBM website for further information.

Institute of Civil Engineers Logo
The Institution of Civil Engineers is a qualifying body, a centre for the exchange of specialist knowledge, and a provider of resources to encourage innovation and excellence in the profession.
Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation logo
The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation is concerned specifically with planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of land-based transport systems and infrastructure. It has 12,000 members.
Institute of Structural Engineers
The Institution of Structural Engineers is the world's leading professional body for qualifications and standards in structural engineering.
Institute of Highway Engineers logo
The Institute of Highway Engineers (formerly the Institute of Highway Incorporated Engineers) is the professional institution for practitioners in highway and traffic engineering, offering Engineering Council registration and professional development support.

Teaching and Assessment

Personal Tutoring

As a Built Environment and Architecture student, you will be allocated a named tutor during your first three weeks at LSBU.  The role of your tutor is to be your primary contact for academic support. Your personal tutor will be the same person throughout your course.

Your tutor will support you to get the most of your time at LSBU, providing advice and signposting to other sources of support in the University.

Your tutor should be the first person at the university that you speak to if you are having any difficulties that are affecting your work. These could be academic, financial, health-related or another type of problem.

You will have meetings with your personal tutor periodically.  One-on-one meetings can be arranged on request.  You can contact your tutor for additional support by email or in person.

People profiles

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Contact information

Course Enquiries - UK

Tel: 0207 815 7500

International team enquiry

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7815 6189