Information Technology and Study Skills
Civil Engineering with Foundation Year
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Full-time
With placement
Four year
Five year
September 2021
In a nutshell
Civil engineers create, improve and protect the environment and facilitate our day-to-day life.By gaining the skills to successfully plan, manage and implement major civil engineering projects, you can open up some exciting career opportunities throughout the world.
The Foundation Year pathway is an excellent route if you’re from a non-industry background, new to higher education, or seeking to develop your career in a new direction. Providing immersion in engineering principles and techniques, the pathway is designed to help you meet the prerequisites to study our BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree.
Led by our award-winning civil engineering team, with strong links with industry, this course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to create the future infrastructure, buildings and facilities that improve our quality of life.
The Foundation Year is not endorsed by accrediting bodies for the full BEng Civil Engineering degree.
Our Civil Engineering courses scored 95% for overall satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2020 (University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data)
You will:
- Develop competence in essential areas of engineering and mathematics
- Build the technical skills and confidence ready to progress to the full civil engineering undergraduate degree
- Gain essential analytical and problem solving skills so you can study engineering
- Develop practical and I.T skills, as you strengthen communication and study skills
options available
This is for you if...
You enjoyed studying mathematics or physics, and like using technology to find solutions
You're looking for a change of direction into engineering, or you're looking to formalise your current experience
You're looking for a degree that can open up a professional role with global career opportunities
All about the course
Civil Engineering with Foundation Year entry provides a broad introduction to engineering. It is ideal if you’ve not reached the required A levels or BTEC grades, or if you’ve chosen a new direction for your studies. The year aims to build your understanding of engineering situations and solving problems, alongside developing practical and study skills, so you are ready to advance to the full undergraduate degree.
On successful completion of the Foundation Year, you'll have the opportunity to progress to our full BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree. Across three further years of study, you'll cover topics that include structures, surveying, geology and geotechnical engineering, highway design, soil mechanics, fluid mechanics and construction management. You'll also complete experiments and projects, culminating in your final individual project.
INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS
Industry placements are a great opportunity to get some hands-on experience and make those early career connections. If you decide to progress to the full BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering, you'll have the option to take an industry placement between years two and three. Although you’ll be responsible for securing your placement, our tutors will support you, monitor your progress and assess your final placement report. By successfully completing a placement year, you can also add 'with professional experience' to your final degree award.
Information technologies and the use of software is increasingly being used in engineering design. In this module you will be introduced to some of the elements of information technologies and advanced manufacturing technologies which will be meanwhile provide you with the necessary skills to use in learning and research including academic reading, writing reports and presentations.
Mechanical Systems
You’ll be introduced to the basic concept of mechanics. You’ll learn about the principle of stress and strain, solve problems in statistics and build knowledge for problems associated with simple beams.
Engineering Methodology 1 and 2
Studied in both trimester one and trimester two, these modules will provide an introduction to mathematics and its application to engineering. Module content is designed to help you understand and apply mathematics in engineering. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus.
Energy and Power
Module content will introduce the concepts of power and energy within the context of engineering systems and conservation. You’ll learn the fundamental laws of thermodynamics and the technologies which can generate energy and power for domestic and commercial consumption.
Experimental Methods
Module content will provide you with an understanding of the basic units used in engineering and their practical significance. You’ll learn to apply engineering analysis to design experiments and develop skills in producing technical reports. You’ll also build a range of engineering measurement and computational analysis skills.
Civil Engineering Mathematics 1
An understanding and ability to use mathematics are essential skills for success in engineering. This module will review and expand on the following subjects: algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus, with emphasis on their applications to engineering.
Civil Engineering Materials and Geology
Civil engineering employs the use of a wide range of materials, in this module you will develop your understanding of those materials and study their fundamental behaviour. Subjects include construction materials, geology, soil mechanics and laboratory testing.
Structures E3
You will further develop your ability to analyse statically indeterminate structures and design complex structures. Subjects include moment distribution with sway, plastic section properties, Hillerborg strip methods, and design of timber structures including glulam timber members.
Civil Engineering Communication
As a successful civil engineer it is important to have a wide range of well developed communications skills allowing you to communicate effectively not only with other engineers but also clients, contractors and labourers. This module will develop your drawing, written reports and presentation skills.
Civil Engineering Surveying
You will develop your understanding and ability to undertake a range of civil engineering surveying tasks, such as setting out, land surveying and quantity surveying. The main subject areas are land surveying techniques, setting out techniques, modern surveying techniques and quantity surveying. You will cover subjects and learn techniques such as setting up a level, theodolite and total station, construction lasers, GPS, EDM, co-ordinates, bearings and contract pricing.
Civil Engineering Construction
There are a broad spectrum of elements involved with civil engineering construction. This module will develop your understanding of those elements from effective engineering construction techniques to contract law. Subjects include site safety, sustainability, resource efficiency, consulting engineers and contractors, client's requirement and financial planning and control.
Civil Engineering Mathematics 2
This module will build on the engineering mathematics module in year one and develop more advanced knowledge and skills in mathematical analysis, to enable you to tackle more advanced engineering problems. Subjects covered include partial differentiation, determinants and matrices, vector analysis, Laplace transforms and functions of a complex variable.
Soil Mechanics E2
All structures are dependent on the ground they're built on, in this module you will be introduced to the principles of soil mechanics including the general behaviour of different soil types under loading and unloading conditions and how this behaviour may be predicted. Subjects include geotechnical investigation, soil strength and transient groundwater flow.
Structures E2
The module builds on your structural analysis knowledge from year 1 and develops it to consider simple statically determinate structures. On the design side Reinforced concrete structures are considered in detail. The design of slabs, beams, columns and foundations are looked at. Overall stability of RC structures is also described.
Design and Construction Management
Project planning and execution are a vital part of the role of a civil engineer. In this module you practice these skills, culminating in a residential field course which will see you working in a team to construct structures from bridges to oil rigs.
Highway design and analysis
Our highways are crucial to our lives, whether that be economic or recreational. In this module you will learn the principles which underlie current UK practice in highway design and construction and analysis, including the application of statistical techniques to transport engineering problems.
Fluid Mechanics E2
You will develop an understanding of civil engineering hydraulics concentrating on flow in pipelines. The subjects covered include fluid properties, hydrostatics, fluid dynamics, flow in pipes, Reynolds experiments, pipe systems and networks, and water distribution systems.
Geotechnical Engineering E3
You will learn to develop approaches to the design and analysis of soil slopes and foundations. The subjects include stability of embankments, stability of earth dams, stability of shallow foundations on fine and coarse grained soils, design based on in situ tests and stability of deep foundations in fine and coarse grained soils.
Water Resources E3
You will develop your understanding of sediment transport, wave theory, pressure transients in closed systems and hydrological science. The subjects covered include surface water hydrology, open channel flow, steady non-uniform flow, hydraulic structures, water waves, and hydraulic models.
Structures E3
You will further develop your ability to analyse statically indeterminate structures and design complex structures. Subjects include moment distribution with sway, plastic section properties, Hillerborg strip methods, and design of timber structures including glulam timber members.
Case Studies in Environmental Engineering
You will develop the ability to identify and deal with environmental issues relating to civil engineering, through a series of case studies. The subjects include environmental risks associated with ground engineering and water resources, transport and the environment, landscape, heritage, and biodiversity impacts, and engineering solutions.
Finite Element Analysis with Seismic Engineering
This module will introduce stiffness and finite element analysis as applied to civil engineering structures, and the fundamentals of seismic analysis and the effects of earthquake activity on the design of ground slopes, earth dams, foundations and structures.
Individual Project
One of the most important parts of your preparation for your future career, whether in industry or research, is the undertaking of an individual project. Projects are based on particular civil engineering themes of industrial relevance.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
The School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a rapidly changing world, our multi-disciplinary courses will shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Shaped by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
You will experience a modern learning environment, enriched with accessible lecture theatres and AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software. As a civil engineering student, you will learn in a range of specialist teaching and research facilities.
The Heavy Structures Laboratory features a range of equipment which can be used to load test almost any structure; including hydraulic actuators, a strong floor, tensile and compression testing machines and a climactic cabinet.
In our Hydraulics Laboratory, you can develop your understanding of how water flows and behaves at different velocities. The Water Quality Laboratory is linked to our plant growing (hydroponics) facility, where you can investigate the ability of different plants and filters to remove ground water contaminants.
In the Geotechnics Laboratory you can learn about soil types, their strengths, permeability and compressibility and how these things can affect the ground conditions under building foundations, dams and embankments.
You will also learn to use a range of surveying equipment and tools, such as digital total stations, levels and theodolites, which combined with digital drawing capability will arm you with industry standard skills demanded by employers. Many students use the Morson MakerSpace to help them complete practical assignments which involve the design and manufacture of an object which will be tested in a laboratory.
What about after uni?
If you successfully complete the Foundation Year and meet the requirements, you can choose to join our BEng Civil Engineering degree programme. By successfully completing this degree programme with Salford, you can open up career opportunities in a wide range of engineering roles.
There is huge demand for civil engineers, both in the UK and abroad. A civil engineering degree with Salford can open up career opportunities careers in a wide range of sectors. You may choose to focus your career in the built environment and construction industries, or you may prefer to work in transport, utilities or information technology sectors, or organisations such as the armed forces. Graduates may expect to reach senior management posts in engineering industries as their careers progress.
Career Links
This course is extensively informed by collaboration between the university’s academics and industry partners from the built environment, engineering and technology fields. The course team has long-standing and professional relationships with industry in the North West and beyond. Continued collaboration with the professions also ensures a stimulating range of external guest lecturers, as well as career networking opportunities and professional memberships.
What you need to know
This course isn’t suitable for international students. If you are an international student and interested in studying a foundation year, please visit our International Foundation Year course page.
APPLICANT PROFILE
We are looking for students who have a keen desire to follow a career in civil engineering. Good interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic are desirable. You should have a good understanding of linking theory to real life applications and an attention to detail.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Where English is not your first language you must demonstrate proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no band below 5.5, is proof of this.
Please note: The entry criteria below are related to entry onto this course in the 2021/22 academic year.
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
64 UCAS points to include the study of Mathematics, a numerate science, or Engineering
A level
64 UCAS points to include minimum grade D in Mathematics or a numerate science
BTEC National Diploma
MPP for Engineering or science subjects, to include Merits in Mathematics modules
Access to HE
Pass with 64 UCAS points from a QAA-approved Engineering or Science programme
Scottish Highers
64 UCAS points, to include grade D Higher level Mathematics or numerate science
Irish Leaving Certificate
64 UCAS points to include Higher Level Mathematics and numerate science
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60%, to include Science, Engineering or Technology
International Baccalaureate
26 points including grade 4 Mathematics or Physics at Higher Level
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme
We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to successfully pursue a programme of study in higher education. Students who do not have formal entry qualifications are required to sit a written assessment to measure their suitability. Please contact Admissions for further information.
How much?
Type of study | Year | Fees |
---|---|---|
Full-time home | 2020/21 | £8,250 for Foundation Year and £9,250 for subsequent years. |
Part-time | 2020/21 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
Full-time home | 2021/22 | £8,250 for Foundation Year and £9,250 for subsequent years. |
Part-time | 2021/22 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Interested in starting university in September 2021? Book your place on our next Open Day.