Spring 2026

This module will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of fluid mechanics, focusing on the principles that govern fluid behaviour and their applications in civil engineering. You will develop knowledge of fluid statics and dynamics, including the equations that describe fluid flow and their use in designing pipes, open channels, and hydraulic machines.

You will explore fluid mechanics principles in real-world engineering contexts, learning how to analyse fluid behaviour and apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. The module also focuses on designing systems for fluid transport, emphasizing problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical skills essential for professional engineering roles.

By engaging in laboratory work, computational modeling, and site visits, you will apply your knowledge to real-world case studies. Assessment will be through in-class tests and laboratory reports, ensuring that you can demonstrate both conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills.

This module will equip you with transferable skills in mathematical analysis, problem-solving, and technical reporting, which are essential for future employment in civil engineering and related industries.
Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 40% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 30% or above in each separate assessment.

This module is focusing on the integration of advanced engineering technologies with innovative practices. It aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the current and emerging trends in engineering technology, alongside the strategies and methodologies for fostering innovation in this field. The module combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights, preparing students to tackle complex engineering challenges and to lead technological advancements in a variety of sectors.

In this module, you will explore three key themes: procurement, contract administration, and professional development. You will learn how procurement plays a vital role in securing goods and services to meet client requirements in construction projects. Through case studies and industry examples, you will analyze contract administration principles that define the roles and responsibilities of project stakeholders. You will develop problem-solving skills by evaluating procurement strategies and applying contract management techniques. You will engage in hands-on activities, including industry-aligned projects, contract analysis, and professional development exercises. The module will introduce you to standard construction contracts, such as JCT, NEC, or FIDIC, which you will study in the context of real-world projects. Additionally, you will be introduced to property and employment law, broadening your understanding of legal considerations in construction. In the professional development component, you will enhance your career prospects by improving your ICT skills, project planning techniques, and knowledge of 4D BIM (3D CAD + scheduling). You will also develop a personal career strategy, including CV writing, creating a professional portfolio, and practicing interview techniques. By the end of the module, you will have gained practical knowledge and skills that will prepare you for future roles in construction procurement, contract management, and professional practice. You will be supported to develop a personal strategy for employment, including a personal marketing strategy which will include CV writing, a professional portfolio in a range of possible formats, and interview skills.

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the composition and properties of materials used in buildings and structures. This module covers broadly inter-related areas namely: common engineering materials used in construction; laboratory measurement of physical properties of materials and science of the building in relation to its performance. Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the properties of materials such as density, strength, ductility, hardness, toughness, thermal conductivity etc. Key materials covered will be timber, masonry, steel, alloys, concrete, glass and ceramics. Considerations will be given to the nature of materials in their finished state and their workability during construction processes. Problem-based approach will be used in the delivery of learning and teaching, which includes the seminars, group work activities, and laboratory work. Students are expected to take part in several hands-on activities with consideration given to health and safety. This module also introduces students to the concept of environmental science in relation to the design and construction of built facilities. Students will learn about basic scientific application to buildings performance in heat, light and sound. Students will be given case studies that are based on real industrial project and they will review the properties of materials through the literature resources and use of relevant research data. References will be made to international standards and trade literature for specifying materials. Laboratory experiments will be used to develop the understanding of processes used for the measurement of properties of selected materials. Case studies and site visits, interactions with industry practitioners will be used to provide exposure of real-world situations for appropriate selection of materials. In class exercise will be used to calculate the environmental performance of the building fabric.

This module will provide you with an interdisciplinary exploration of innovation management, technology development, and entrepreneurship within an engineering context. It is designed to equip you with the strategic and practical skills necessary to drive innovation, working collaboratively in a team. The module covers the management of technological innovation and new product development, and the entrepreneurial process, demonstrating how engineering solutions are successfully commercialised. You will engage with key concepts such as business model development, value creation, sustainability, financial planning, intellectual property, and risk management. You will also examine human factors, branding, and user experience as integral components of successful engineering innovations. This module integrates experiential learning pedagogy and research-informed teaching by engaging students with real-world case studies, industry-led projects, and applied problem-solving activities. Effective collaborative working, good communication skills, and the ability to think outside the box are essential skills you will develop, enhancing your employability. By the end of the module, you will understand how to manage engineering innovation and develop market-driven solutions, preparing you to lead and contribute effectively within engineering environments.

In this module you will apply the knowledge and skills acquired at Level 4 and during Level 5 to a multi-faceted design problem of a building or part of one, develop holistic design thinking, further embed approaches to design that are sustainable and carbon neutral, in particular novel materials, timber and reused or recycled steel and carbon accounting for construction, and to continue with self-reflection and collaborative practices with other disciplines. Further, the project will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration. Further, where appropriate, you will also work with other students in ‘vertical’ cross-cohort disciplinary groups where you are given the opportunity for peer-to-peer learning. The content is delivered in the context of a design project in which you play the role of a professional within your discipline within a broader design team. This module employs an experiential learning approach, integrating problem-based learning (PBL) and collaborative, interdisciplinary teamwork to simulate professional practice. You will present your design appropriately using hand-drawn sketches, computer generated graphics, computer aided drawings, physical models, calculations, specifications, and bills of materials/ quantity. You will be developing your knowledge of computer assisted design and engineering in context and its value in terms of optimisation and parametric design. The project has an individual component and a groupwork component. A combination of tutorial and design studio sessions will be used to generate the designs and track progress. You will continue your planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning / CPD. This will be continued within each Interdisciplinary Design Project at each level of the programme. Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 40% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 30% or above in each separate assessment.

This is the first in a series of Interdisciplinary Design Projects that continue in each year of the programme. The module integrates the skills and knowledge acquired on the programme to date. However, it goes beyond that in terms of integration in as much as the students work within interdisciplinary groups from across the SETEC undergraduate programmes. Further, as the programme gains new cohorts, students will also work with students in vertical cross-cohort disciplinary groups where students are given the opportunity for peer to peer learning. The Interdisciplinary Design Project modules at each level are designed to give students from multiple disciplines an opportunity to work together and resolve problems as a team, in much the same way that team projects work in the real world. The level of complexity for these projects necessarily increases at each level, so there are significant advantages to a cohort of students in having support from students the year above who will have completed this module the previous year. This support will take the form of peer support in workshops, interim reviews and crits, and as observers in final presentations. It is possible that the same broad project will be a significant themed project across multiple years, even the whole school, but this will be very dependent on what opportunities are available any particular year. In this case, they will still be opportunities for vertical cross cohort groupings, and appropriate elements of the project will be carefully selected for each level / year of students. The aim is to begin developing skills in design through a series of design tasks that require the development of a range of options that would satisfy the design problem, and introduce the ways that professionals work collaboratively in design. These projects will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration. The modules, and the ensuing design modules provide the basis for a continuing process of self-reflection and personal development. A design brief will be set that introduces students to challenges that provide context for design, construction and operation/maintenance of built environment artefacts. They will work in inter-disciplinary (and vertical cohort disciplinary where appropriate) teams, to identify and produce a concept design. Students will learn about creativity in design, effective processes for rationalising ideas and solutions, how to integrate and balance professional roles and perspectives, and effective teamwork and communication of possible design solutions. It will involve elements of design including form, function, space texture, balance, rhythm, emphasis, proportion and unity. It will involve producing designs expressed in hand drawings and computer aided drawings and physical models. It will also require plain language concise descriptions of the problem, the design process and the outcome design. There will be taught elements by either lecture or seminar/ workshops which include an introduction to ethics, equality and diversity, project planning, risk management, environmental assessment, Health and Safety management techniques, searching for relevant literature, summarising literature, writing of technical prose and critical thinking. Students will begin their planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD. This will be continued within each Interdisciplinary Design Project at each level of the programme.

This is the first in a series of Interdisciplinary Design Projects that continue in each year of the programme. The module integrates the skills and knowledge acquired on the programme to date. However, it goes beyond that in terms of integration in as much as you will work within interdisciplinary groups from across the SETEC undergraduate programmes. Further, as the programme gains new cohorts, you will also work with students in ‘vertical’ cross-cohort disciplinary groups where you are given the opportunity for peer-to-peer learning. The aim is to begin developing skills in design through a series of design tasks that require the development of a range of options that would satisfy the design problem, and introduce the ways that professionals work collaboratively in design. These projects will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration. The modules, and the ensuing design modules provide the basis for a continuing process of self-reflection and personal development. A design brief will be set that introduces you to challenges that provide context for design, construction and operation/maintenance of built environment artefacts. You will work in inter-disciplinary (and vertical cohort disciplinary where appropriate) teams, to identify and produce a concept design. You will learn about creativity in design, effective processes for rationalising ideas and solutions, how to integrate and balance professional roles and perspectives, and effective teamwork and communication of possible design solutions. It will involve elements of design including form, function, space texture, balance, rhythm, emphasis, proportion and unity. It will involve producing designs expressed in hand drawings and computer aided drawings and physical models. It will also require plain language concise descriptions of the problem, the design process and the outcome design. There will be taught elements by either lecture or seminar / workshops which include an introduction to ethics, equality and diversity, project planning, site layout, risk management, environmental assessment, Health and Safety management techniques, searching for relevant literature, summarising literature, writing of technical prose and critical thinking. You will begin their planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning / CPD. This will be continued within each Interdisciplinary Design Project at each level of the course. Level 4 modules are designed wherever possible to have a focus on preparing you for university life through various initiatives that foster growth. This module is designed to support you in your transition into Higher Education while developing essential skills to enhance success. There are a number of additional support initiatives which you can engage with, which include induction sessions, academic guidance tutors (AGT), student support coaches, mentoring programmes and various areas of digital support. Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 40% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 30% or above in each separate assessment.

The aim of the module is to introduce the foundational principles of statics, dynamics and mathematics for engineering. It explores the different types of stresses that materials undergo and how these materials respond under the influence of such stresses. The module extends its focus to statically determinate structures, and their behaviour under various stress conditions. Additionally, a crucial aspect covered is the concept of structural stability, exploring the factors that contribute to the equilibrium and robustness of structures.

The module places emphasis on the development of conceptual understanding of the physical world, including engineering artefacts and natural environmental processes, through the language of mathematics. It aims to reinforce and extend your understanding of core mathematical concepts used in the solution of engineering problems. You will develop proficiency in mathematical methods critical for engineering analysis and problem-solving. Recognising the pivotal role of quantitative reasoning in engineering, this module is designed to provide you with the necessary tools to analyse, model, and solve engineering problems
Furthermore, the module goes beyond theoretical frameworks and introduces practical considerations by addressing a variety of commonly used structural forms. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses are employed to describe the behaviour of these structures. Emphasis is placed on understanding complex states of stress within solids, and the intricacies of how materials respond when subjected to diverse and challenging stress patterns.

A significant facet of the module involves an exploration of the failure mechanisms inherent in materials. This includes an examination of the failure modes exhibited by both ductile and brittle materials. By scrutinising these failure mechanisms, the module equips you with the knowledge necessary to design structures that not only withstand various stresses but also maintain their integrity and safety over time. The teaching will include real life example of failure. The module serves as a gateway to the understanding of the principles governing the behaviour of structures under different loading conditions, and preparing you for the challenges of structural engineering.

You will learn through lectures, seminars, examples classes, experimental laboratories and practical applications. Students will be assessed through in-class tests and laboratory activities. You will be introduced to risk assessments for safe working practices in laboratories.
This module develops problem-solving skills critical to engineering practice, equipping you with the ability to analyse structural performance and mechanical behaviour. These skills are directly applicable in civil, architectural, and mechanical engineering industries, preparing you for future roles such as structural analyst, site engineer, or technical consultant.

Level 4 modules are designed wherever possible to have a focus on preparing you for university life through various initiatives that foster growth. This module is designed to support you in your transition into Higher Education while developing essential skills to enhance success. There are a number of additional support initiatives which you can engage with, which include induction sessions, academic guidance tutors (AGT), student support coaches, mentoring programmes and various areas of digital support.

Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 40% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 30% or above in each separate assessment

This module is designed to provide engineering students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability principles and their application in the engineering field. The module emphasizes the integration of environmental, economic, and social considerations in engineering practices to achieve sustainable outcomes. It covers a wide range of topics including sustainable materials and resources, energy efficiency, renewable technologies, water management, sustainable urban development, and climate change. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical case studies, the module prepares future engineers to innovate, design, and implement sustainable solutions in their professional careers.

The aim of the module is to cultivate a diverse range of skills, equipping students with a robust set of skills centred around surveying, setting out, data analysis and drawing. The module encompasses both manual and digital aspects of surveying, providing a comprehensive skill set for aspiring professionals in civil engineering and related fields. Students are immersed in the intricacies of data collection, mastering techniques that go beyond basic measurements. These include methods for handling data including digital models and GIS. The module covers understanding and implementing precise methodologies for setting out buildings, drains, and curves, amongst other construction features; crucial components in the preliminary stages of construction projects. The module places a strong emphasis on accuracy and attention to detail, ensuring that students develop the competency to contribute effectively to the execution of construction plans. In the context of drawing, the module aims to cultivate a diverse range of skills. Hand-drawn sketching is introduced as a fundamental tool for communication and visualization in the early stages of design. This fosters the ability to convey complex ideas in a tangible and accessible manner. Additionally, students delve into the world of 2D and 3D computer-based data handling and presentation. This includes the utilisation of cutting-edge software to manipulate and represent survey data, enabling students to create visualisations that are not only accurate but also dynamic and interactive. The students are introduced to GIS as a tool for handling data within a mapping based context. This is linked also with the used of spreadsheets for effective and efficient data handling and calculation. The module discusses the potentialities of artificial intelligence in data handling. Furthermore, the collaborative dimension of the module underscores the importance of effective teamwork in the engineering profession. Students engage in collaborative projects, where they apply their surveying and drawing skills in a team setting. This not only simulates real-world working conditions but also instils the interpersonal and communication skills necessary for successful collaboration on construction projects. The module not only imparts technical proficiency but also cultivates a holistic understanding of the role these skills play in the broader context of civil engineering projects. Students will learn through practical demonstrations, seminars, and practical application in context. Students will be assessed through drawing, sketching, surveying and setting out tasks. Students will be introduced to risk assessments for safe working practices in the field.

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the methods, tools, and principles used in assessing the environmental impacts of engineering projects. It emphasizes the integration of sustainability and environmental stewardship into engineering practices, particularly in the context of construction and infrastructure development. The module will equip students with the knowledge of environmental assessment techniques and their application in the built environment and will foster an understanding of the principles of sustainable engineering and design. It will also develop knowledge and skills in Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) and other environmental impact analyses. The module will explore the regulatory, social, and economic aspects of environmental assessments in engineering projects and encourage critical thinking about emerging trends and future challenges in environmental assessments.

In this module, you will extend your design capabilities to the highest levels by engaging with complex engineering problems. You will work on real-world projects that require managing uncertainty, using engineering judgment, and evaluating the sustainability and ethical implications of design solutions. You will develop skills in critical analysis, creative problem-solving, and stakeholder communication. Throughout the module, you will apply emerging technologies and innovative design methods to create solutions that align with industry standards and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By working in teams and independently, you will enhance your ability to collaborate across civil engineering disciplines and reflect on your professional development. The design brief will allow you to develop skills in critical analysis and managing ambiguity. The solution will need to address client and stakeholder requirements and project risks. Through the design process you will have an opportunity to apply creativity, innovation and technical knowledge to produce design concepts and develop a design solution. The solution should meet current and future needs and consider both current and emerging technologies. It should also take into account the appropriate UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. You will work in groups and individually to produce a design solution for a design brief, which fully considers issues in connection with sustainability, ethics and equality, diversity and inclusion. The engineering problem allocated to each group will be selected to allow collaborative working across different civil engineering disciplines. It will involve producing designs expressed in hand drawings and computer aided drawings and physical models. It will also require plain language concise descriptions of the problem, the design process and the outcome design. You will continue their planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD. This will be continued within each Integrated Design Project at each level of the programme. Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 50% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 40% or above in each separate assessment.

This module offers a comprehensive exploration into the potential and limits of geotechnical models. The primary objective is to develop a deeper understanding of soil stress and strain modelling, enhance skills in numerical methods, and extract valuable lessons from geotechnical engineering failures. This module further extends its scope to encompass geo-environmental engineering, considering the interaction between geotechnical processes and the environment. Building on skills and knowledge gained in earlier geotechnical modules, this course equips you with advanced tools to tackle complex challenges in geotechnical engineering. You will analyse and extract valuable insights from geotechnical engineering failures, to understanding the contributing factors and lessons learned. From this you will learn to apply failure analysis to improve future geotechnical design and decision-making. Looking beyond the geotechnical modelling and analysis, you will be introduced to the principles of geo-environmental engineering, examining the interaction between geotechnical processes and the environment. You will also address challenges related to the impact of geotechnical projects on environmental sustainability. The module is designed to align with contemporary industry practices in geotechnical engineering. The incorporation of case studies and learning from failures ensures that you are prepared to navigate the complexities of geotechnical projects in the professional field. The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshop/laboratory sessions. Practical exercises, case studies, and exposure to industry practices will provide you with hands-on experience in assessing and selecting materials based on advanced behaviours and sustainability criteria. You will be assessed through in class tests and real world geotechnical modelling and analysis tasks and case studies on geotechnical and geo-environmental case studies. This module enhances your ability to critically evaluate geotechnical models, apply advanced numerical methods, and interpret geotechnical failures. Through engagement with real-world case studies, you will develop problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills highly sought after in industry. Additionally, the module strengthens transferable skills, such as teamwork, communication, and project management, which are essential for careers in geotechnical and geo-environmental engineering. Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 50% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 40% or above in each separate assessment.

As engineering professionals, you will need to integrate sustainability into your decision making process and this module will equip you with the knowledge, analytical tools and critical thinking skills necessary to assess and implement sustainable engineering solutions. You will explore core sustainability concepts, including the triple bottom line, life cycle assessments (LCAs), and environmental impact assessments (EIAs), as well as practical applications in areas such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy, sustainable water management, and circular economy principles. Emphasis is placed on standards and certification systems (eg BREEAM, LEED, Passivhaus), regulatory frameworks, and industry best practices. By critically evaluating the economic, social, and environmental impacts of engineering projects, you will develop the ability to assess sustainability performance using established methodologies and propose alternative solutions that enhance environmental outcomes. You will also examine the future of sustainability, with the increasing impact of climate change and inevitability of the increase in regulation, anticipating emerging challenges and the role of engineers in shaping a more sustainable world.

In this module, you will explore a range of topics that are essential for your professional development as you begin your career in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. The module introduces you to some of the important roles carried out by professionals in order to create the built environment. You will learn about the typical professional activities, professional code of conduct and explain how these integrate with all stakeholders, processes, and practices in the built environment industry. You will research and discuss the structure of the industry, understanding the construction market and observing the importance of the construction industry to the UK and global economy. The module introduces management theories, stages of development projects, management of design and construction processes and the different organisation structures, sizes and operations within the marketplace. You will explore legal aspects covered within the English legal system, health & safety, quality, environmental systems and the importance of managing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) on construction. The lectures will be supported by interactive workshop sessions which will be facilitated by the tutors with industry input where appropriate. You will take part in role play, scenario analysis and research in developing knowledge and understanding. Level 4 modules are designed wherever possible to have a focus on preparing you for university life through various initiatives that foster growth. This module is designed to support you in your transition into Higher Education while developing essential skills to enhance success. There are a number of additional support initiatives which you can engage with, which include induction sessions, academic guidance tutors (AGT), student support coaches, mentoring programmes and various areas of digital support.

The aim of the module is to introduce you to architectural history and theory through modern and contemporary architectural history, theory, and practice, with a particular focus on architectural movements and key architects. You will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that are essential for both academic study and future employment in architecture and related fields.

Through lectures and seminars, you will be introduced to a selection of significant architectural movements and case studies, learning how to interpret architectural narratives and buildings. This module will develop your ability to research, write critically, and present ideas effectively - key skills for architectural practice, journalism, heritage conservation, and academia.

The module incorporates structured tutorials and group discussions to enhance your learning experience and you will explore architectural topics through both visual and written formats.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to analyse and understand the basic principles of histories and theories of architecture.

Level 4 modules are designed wherever possible to have a focus on preparing you for university life through various initiatives that foster growth. This module is designed to support you in your transition into Higher Education while developing essential skills to enhance success. There are a number of additional support initiatives which you can engage with, which include induction sessions, academic guidance tutors (AGT), student support coaches, mentoring programmes and various areas of digital support.