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Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering
Course Details
CAO Code | AU538 |
---|---|
Level | 7 |
Duration | 3 Years |
CAO Points | 302 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Galway City – Dublin Road |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
Have you ever wondered how clean water gets to the tap? Or how 15-storey buildings and 3 km long suspension bridges stay standing? Or What caused the Tower of Pisa to lean?
Civil engineering is probably the best-known type of engineering because the work of the civil engineer is clearly visible to us every day. Civil engineering is all about creating, improving and protecting the environment in which we live. It involves the planning, design and construction of facilities that we require for everyday living, industry and transport. As a civil engineer, you will have a creative, diverse, and challenging career and will be making a real contribution to the needs of both modern and developing societies all over the world.
If you like variety, civil engineering offers a huge range of projects on which you could be employed: roads, bridges, pipelines, buildings, sewage treatment plants, dams, jetties, etc.
Students will be liable for an additional materials fee of €100 per year for certain full time programmes. This fee is not covered by Granting Authorities. Material Fees are not applicable to either Erasmus, Part-Time or Full time Non-EU students.
Students will carry out a 6-week industrial placement in the third year.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
Year |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:EN)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Develop academic writing skills, recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Construction Technology and Building ServicesThis module introduces learners to the materials, methods and technologies involved in the design and construction of residential buildings using traditional masonry cavity walls and timber framed construction. All stages of construction are dealt with from foundations up to roof level, along with drainage, wastewater treatment, access and planning. There is a particular emphasis on sustainable methods of construction. The Building Services element will introduce the student to the basics of water, space heating and electrical power services for buildings, but service design will only be covered insofar as it is necessary for safety awareness. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe allstages inthe construction of a traditional masonry cavity wall and a timber framed domestic dwelling. 2. Describe and Sketch typical construction detailsin the design of a domestic dwellingfornZEB and all relevant Building Regulation compliance. 3. Assess building construction details for compliance with the Building Regulations, TGD, Parts A – F, H, L and M. 4. Understand the concepts fundamental to mains water, cold water, hot water and waste water services. 7. Be Aware of the relevant health and safety considerations of the above services. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
CADThis module provides a comprehensive understanding of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology, equipping students with the skills to create precise 2D models. Students will develop expertise in drafting and the creation of technical drawings, with a focus on accuracy, detail, and practical application. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise practical skills in the area of Computer Aided Drawing |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Engineering Science and ChemistryIn this module the student will realise the role science plays in common civil engineering problems and be able to apply appropriate scientific principles to solve them. In chemistry, the student will learn the chemistry of matter and realise that the chemical composition of materials have profound effects on their reactivities, strengths and stabilities. Learning Outcomes 1. Have a knowledge of the fundamental principles of science appropriate to civil engineering. 5. To distinguish between different types of compounds and how bonding affects properties |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Construction Materials and Concrete TechnologyThis module introduces students to the full range of materials that are commonly used on construction projects. The module will instruct students on the engineering properties of concrete, its constituents and their effects. A basic level of understanding of the chemistry of cement, concrete and admixtures will be provided. Students will learn about specification, design and production of concrete mixes, including associated quality control and statistical procedures. Students will also conduct the most common laboratory tests on concrete and aggregates in accordance with current practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify materials and products associated with construction and civil engineering projects |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Surveying for Civil EngineeringIn this surveying module, the student will learn the basic principles of surveying and setting out with an emphasis placed on demonstrating proficiency with the tape and the automatic level. Work with the automatic level dominates the module, covering all aspects from using the instrument to book readings, reducing those readings, determining the accuracy of the readings and applying the readings to an engineering problem (e.g. preparing a longitudinal section, contouring a small area of land and setting out sight rails to control heights). Using a tape to measure distance accurately and setting up a theodolite for use are other elements covered in the module. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify features and details on Ordnance Survey maps. 6. Apply the expertise gained with the level to produce longitudinal road sections, contour plans (indirect method) and to set out sight rails. 7. Complete the temporary adjustment of the electronic theodolite. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Structural MechanicsStructural Mechanics is the first stage in the structural design of beams, columns, foundations and all elements of a structure. In this module, learners will learn how to calculate building loads due to the self-weight of structural elements as well as the loads that are imposed on them due to the building type. They also investigate the bending and shearing effects those loads have on simple beams. Frame structures will also be investigated using both analytical and graphical methods. Stress, strain and elasticity calculations will be carried out. Section properties and the Engineers Equation of Bending will be used to carry out simple beam design. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and calculate the various types of forces applied to structural elements 2. Apply the Equations of Equilibrium to calculate reaction forces at the supports of simple structures 3. Discuss the application of bending and shear forces on structural elements and draw shear force diagrams and bending moment diagrams for simply supported beams 5. Describethe relationships between stress, strain and elasticity and calculate stress, strain, elongation and compression of structural members 6. Describe and calculate properties of structural sections. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Mathematics for Civil Engineering 1First year Mathematics for Civil Engineering covers fundamentals of arithmetic and algebra, co-ordinate geometry and graphing, algebraic and trigonometric functions, introduction to complex numbers and matrices, differentiation and some applications, integration and some applications, sequences and series and statistics. Functions can be used to model environmental systems; linear and exponential. Series can determine the cumulative effect of changes within our environment. Calculus analyses rates of change, students look at practical examples such as sustainability of wildlife, forestry and clean air. Learning Outcomes 1. Manipulate algebraic expressions. Solve linear, quadratric, simultaneous, exponential and logarithmic equations, including worded questions. Graph standard functions and solve equations graphically. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Health and Safety in The Built EnvironmentThis Module is designed to provide students in the Civil and Building Environment with an understanding of the duties and obligations of clients, employers and employees in relation to Health and Safety Operations in the Built Environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the principle duties and Obligations of employers and employees as outlined in Health and Safety Act 2005, General Applications Regulations 2007,Construction Regulations 2013 and relevant legislation to the Industry. 2. Identify and recognise the important issues of Management Health, Safety and Wellbeingin the Built Environment. 3. Understand and explain the Principles of Prevention in the Built Environment. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
2 |
Water Analysis and ProtectionAfter studying this module the learner will appreciate why water is a precious resource and the role of the civil engineer in protecting the resource. He/she will learn what the important factors are in protecting water for beneficial uses such as human consumption, commercial and non-commercial aquatic life, industry and amenity. Aspects of several disciplines relevant to water pollution control will be studied in the module such as, hydrology and chemistry. The learner should be able to identify the main types of water pollution and be conversant with the analytical techniques in testing polluted and potable water. The module provides a building block for further environmental modules on this and other programmes. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and describe the beneficial uses of water and discuss the anthropogenic threats to water resources. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Infrastructural EngineeringInfrastructural Engineering refers to the design, construction and management of transportation and utilities infrastructure. This module will introduce learners to the topics of design and construction of stormwater, wastewater, foul water and water supply management systems as well as planning, design and construction of roads. Learners will work in groups carrying out design calculations for pipe networks and researching the various stages involved in the route selection / scheme appraisal / feasibility of a major road infrastructural project under the headings of Environmental, Socio-economic and Cost implications. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and apply the fundamental theoretical and mathematical principles ofthe design and construction of water supply systems 2. Describe and apply the fundamental theoretical and mathematical principles ofthe design and construction of surface water and foul sewer systems 3. Describe and apply the fundamental theoretical and mathematical principles ofthe design and construction of highway design and construction. 4. Outline and apply the relevant concepts that pertain togeometric and structural design of road systems 5. Summarisethe details considered in the execution of ascheme appraisal for amajorroad infrastructure project under the relevant criteria. 6. Describe and apply the fundamental theoretical and mathematical principles of traffic analysis. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
CAD / BIMThis module builds on the skills and competencies acquired in the first year, with an emphasis on the detailing requirements for structural drawings and the development of 3D models. Upon completion, students will be able to produce high-quality detailed general arrangement drawings. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an ability to use CAD applications for the production of general arrangement and design drawings in 2D and 3D. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Civil Engineering Measurement And ProcurementThis module relates to the measurement of Building and Civil engineering works through CESMM 4 / ARM 4 using current on screen measurement software and the Procurement of Civil & Construction Works. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the finer rules of measurement and the importance of accurate description. 3. Extract relevant information for inclusion in a Bill of Quantitiesfrom detailed drawings. 4. Use current on screen measurement software to measure & generate BoQ. 5. Develop an understanding of procurement and its application on construction projects |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Surveying for Civil EngineeringThis module will develop competency in surveying and setting out for Civil Engineering projects using the Level and Total Station. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand and apply the theory and principles of traditional and modern surveying/setting out techniques including linear and angular measurement, coordinates and feature location, tacheometric techniques. 2. Choose appropriate instrumentation / techniques for a given surveying / setting out scenario. 3. Develop setting out data for horizontal and vertical curves and coordinated developments. 4. Have a basic knowledge of the theory and use of total stations and associated software. 5. Partake in practical field exercises in levelling, sightrails, traversing, coordinate setting out anddetail surveying. 6. Produce longsection and topographical survey drawings on CAD. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Mathematics for Civil Engineering 2This model delves further into calculus and introduces the students to the concept of differential equations. Students will work with practical examples regarding exponential growth / decay & modelling of environmental systems. This module also introduces the students to statistics & probability distributions. Probability & Uncertainty Principles can be used to calculate likelihoods of extreme weather patterns such as flooding, heat waves etc. Learning Outcomes 1. Calculate theoretical and empiral probabilities. Determine probability distributions using the Poisson and Binomial. Test for normality, associated probabilites and determine confidence intervals. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Structural Design and DetailingThis module deals with the design and detailing of multi-storey building structures both in structural steel and reinforced concrete. Steel angles, both in tension and compression, steel columns and steel beams are designed in semester 1 in accordance with the guidelines recommended in Eurocode 3. Semester 2 deals with the design of reinforced concrete beams and slabs in accordance with the guidelines recommended in Eurocode 2. Reinforced concrete detailing of both slabs and beams is covered, in addition to the preparation of bar schedules using industry standard structural drawings. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain structural frame analysis and design. 2. Assess loading magnitudes and arrangements on structural elements. 4. Analyse, design and detail structural steel members and connections using appropriate codes of practice and the member resistance tables. 5. Analyse, design and detail reinforced concrete members using appropriate codes of practice. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Geomechanics and Ground Construction TechnologyThis module will provide the learner with a basic knowledge of soil mechanics and the methods commonly used in various types of ground construction. Students will learn soil origin, basic behaviour, and mechanics relevant to engineering applications. They will study the main ground engineering constructions such as basements, caissons, piling, excavations, retaining structures, and groundwater control. Safe and environmentally sound construction practices will be emphasised. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss and describe geology and origin of soils (composition, origin, mineralogy) 2. Have a basic understanding of the mechanical behaviour of soils and be able tocarry out and interpret the most commonly used tests on soils 3. Use phase relations to work out basic soil mass and volume parameters. 4. Understand the principles of effective stress,permeability and soil strength, 5. Interpret information from the most commonly used site investigation methods. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Hydraulics 1This module aims to (1) understand the general hydraulic principles of free surface flow in pipes and channels; (2) solve practical engineering problems related to free surface flows. The module will provide a grounding for level 8 Hydraulics. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain, derive and apply the continuity, momentum and energy equations to basic problems in pipe flow. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Public Health EngineeringThis module deals with a description and explanation of municipal water treatment systems, municipal wastewater treatment systems and municipal waste management systems. A municipal water treatment system is designed and a site layout of a water treatment plant is prepared as part of the work on water treatment. A comprehensive overview of the activated sludge wastewater treatment system is covered (which includes some laboratory analysis of wastewater). The effectiveness of municipal waste management in Ireland is assessed through examination of the most recent waste management statistics. Visits to a water treatment plant and a wastewater treatment plant are arranged as part of the module. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss and describe the requirements of the current legislative standards appropriate to water treatment, wastewater treatment and municipal solid waste management. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Surveying and Digital Terrain ModellingThis module builds on earlier surveying modules on the programme, to develop a high-level knowledge of skills, tasks and concepts involved in modern land surveying, setting out and digital terrain modelling. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand and apply the theory and principles of modern surveying and setting out techniques |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Structural Analysis and DesignThis module deals with the analysis, design and detailing of multi-storey building structures both in structural steel and reinforced concrete. Design in accordance with Eurocode 2 and Eurocode 3 is covered in the module. Qualitative analysis of beams and sustainable design strategies are also covered in the module. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss structural frame analysis and design |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Construction Management, Law and ProcurementThe aim of this module is to provide the student with the knowledge, ability and awareness of all key aspects in relation to construction procurement procedures, construction law and the key principles of sustainable management in the Built Environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply management methods and best practice examples to variousstages of a building and civil engineering project. 2. Formulate decisions and solutions after consideration of options applicable to site management related problems. 3. Demonstrate anawareness and understanding of Irish Constructionlaw and the legal system in relation to the role of the civil engineer. 4. Demonstrate Knowledge of Private and Public Procurement for buildingand civil engineering projects including Green Procurement. 5. Understand the main duties, rights and obligations imposed upon the parties to building and civil engineering projects under Private and Public Contracts. 6. Critically appraise the procurement and tendering options for building and civil engineering projects. 7. Appraise, evaluate and give reasoned advice on the suitability of contracts to a specific building and civil engineering project. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Mathematics for Civil Engineering 3In this module students learn to solve and model higher order differential equations which allow for further applications to sustainable systems. Further Integration covers the calculation of work, force and energy. Learning Outcomes 1. Implement the method of LU decomposition to solve a system of equations, Determine the rank of a matrix and hence determine the nature of the solutions of a system of equations. Recognise homogenous systems and calculate eigenvalues and eigenvectors. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
PlacementA 14-week period of practical and professional work experience with an employer, which is undertaken as part of the programme. It is intended to develop transferable and/or subject specific skills in a practical environment, to increase the student's awareness of the real opportunities and challenges of the work place, and thereby to increase their employability on graduation. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply the skills, knowledge and theories they have learnt on their degree programme in real-life industry situations. |
25 | Mandatory |
Progression
Graduates can progress to the Level 8 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Degree in Civil Engineering at ATU.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 5 subjects at O6/H7 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | 5N1833 or 6N3395 or 5N0556 or 5N18396 or C20139 or C20174 or C20175 or Leaving Certificate Maths at 04/H7 |
Testimonial
Upon the completion of the Civil Engineering Honours Degree, I joined J Murphy and Sons as a large scale utilities project was at the early stages of development. This presented new and interesting challenges which allowed me the opportunity to apply what I had studied during my time in ATU Galway City.
Experience in using BIM software packages proved very beneficial in establishing workflow processes and the capturing of live information on a project which makes use of many new and innovative technologies in data capturing and operations.
My experience and qualifications gained from studying Civil Engineering at ATU has allowed me to work in many different roles from the design stages of projects right through to monitoring on site activities, both in Ireland and the UK.
Mark Kilkelly , Civil Engineering Graduate
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)
Further information on feesProfessional Accreditation
The programme has been accredited by Engineers Ireland to enable graduates to apply for associate member grade and gain the title of ‘Associate Engineer’.
Careers
Graduates will have the ability to take responsibility at a higher technician/middle management level with engineering projects either in a design office or on a construction site. The most common areas of employment are with civil engineering consultancies and local authorities where most of the work is office-based but with opportunities to spend time on site as well, and with civil and building contractors, where most of the work is site-based.
Further Information
Contact Information
Wayne Gibbons
Programme Chair
T: +353 (0) 91 742429
E: wayne.gibbons@atu.ie
Building & Civil Engineering