Civil, Structural and Geotechnical Engineering

Program Overview

Civil, Structural and Geotechnical Engineering

MSc by Research, MPhil, PhD

Overview

This is a potential research degree area, subject to the approval of the University. If you are interested in undertaking a research degree in this area, please contact PGRS Recruitment.

The Engineering Division is home to the University’s leading specialist centre - the Urban Water Technology Centre (UWTC) that has a unique focus on the interface between scientific and technological research addressing the challenges of building resilient and sustainable communities. Our strengths derive from valuable links established between academia and industry at a national and international level in the construction and civil engineering, water, waste, manufacturing, food and drinks sectors.

Apply technological and sustainable solutions to contemporary problems

Our research focuses on applying technological and sustainable solutions to contemporary problems. Our knowledge transfer expertise and management supporting tools assist a wide range of industrial and non-industrial stakeholders such as national and local government, a wide range of private sector organisations, regulatory bodies, water and waste companies, Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and health boards.

We have a formidable track record in combining academic skills and commercial expertise with our research approach being very much multi-disciplinary and industry-facing resulting in the expertise of our staff being much sought after by businesses and professionals in the field operating at an International Level. We are a member of SAGES network, a collaboration of Scottish Universities whose goal it is to provide the highest quality/world-leading postgraduate education and research experience.

What does a research degree involve?

As a postgraduate research student, you will carry out an original, independent research and/or practice-based project, whilst being guided and supported by a team of expert academic supervisors. As you do this, you will benefit from an extensive programme of researcher development tailored to your background, needs and future ambitions. This will in turn help you develop the skills required to deliver research excellence.

Your progress will be monitored throughout the year and via an annual review. The final assessment is by examination of your submitted thesis and a viva voce (oral examination).

With the help of your supervisors, you will be encouraged to publish your research during and after your studies.

Our research degrees

You have the option of studying an MSc by Research, an MPhil or a PhD.

When deciding which degree is right for you, you should consider the level of commitment required, the duration, cost and your career aspirations.

That being said, our research degrees are flexible. You can begin an MSc by Research or an MPhil and then seek to transfer to a PhD without having to start your project all over again. You can also switch from full-time to part-time study, and vice versa.

MSc by Research

• The award of Master of Science by Research (MSc by Research) demonstrates a practical ability to undertake research studies, a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or the application of original thought.
• If you are studying full-time, you will be expected to complete the award in 12 months. The minimum period to receive this award is 10 months and the maximum is 14 months.
• If you are studying part-time, you will be expected to complete the award in 24 months. The minimum period to receive this award on a part-time basis is 20 months and the maximum is 28 months.

MPhil

• The award of Master of Philosophy demonstrates a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or the application of original thought, much of which is at (or informed by) the forefront of your field of study or area of professional practice.
• If you are studying full-time, you are expected to complete the award in 24 months. The minimum period to receive this award is 12 months and the maximum is 48 months.
• If you are studying part-time, you are expected to complete the award in 48 months. The minimum period to receive this award on a part-time basis is 24 months and the maximum is 72 months.

PhD

• The award of the Doctor of Philosophy demonstrates that the main focus of your work is your personal contribution to knowledge in your discipline or field, through original research or the original application of existing knowledge.
• If you are studying full-time, you are expected to complete the award in 36 months. The minimum period to receive this award is 24 months and the maximum is 48 months.
• If you are studying part-time, you are expected to complete the award in 48 months. The minimum period to receive this award on a part-time basis is 72 months and the maximum is 96 months.

Fees and funding

The fees you'll pay depend on factors such as your nationality, location and personal circumstances.

• Postgraduate student fees - Scottish Students
• Postgraduate student fees - UK Students (outside Scotland)
• Postgraduate student fees - International & EU Students

More information

Find out about potential bursaries, student loans and scholarships in our postgraduate research fees and funding section.

Your Application

1. Meet the academic entry requirements

• The minimum entry requirement for all our research degrees is an Upper Second Class Honours degree (or equivalent) at undergraduate level in an appropriate discipline and/or a Master’s degree. Degree studies must include an independent research component evidenced in the degree transcript, such as dissertation, project, or thesis.

2. Meet the visa and English language requirements

• Visa requirements: If you're not from the European Economic Area (EEA) and/or Switzerland, you may need to apply for a visa.
• English language requirements: We accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.

3. Check Abertay researcher expertise

• You can view academic researcher profiles by searching keywords, names or publications in the Staff Explorer, to ensure that we have appropriate expertise within Abertay to support your research proposal.

4. Secure funding

• There are two different routes to studying a research degree at Abertay – you can apply for one of our funded studentships or propose your own area of research.

5. Write your research proposal

• This is your opportunity to state your research objectives, to grab the reader’s attention and highlight your suitability for research degree study.
• The proposal should be around 6-8 pages in length (including references) and follow the section headings below.
  • Title
  • Abstract (summary)
  • Introduction/background
  • Hypotheses, objectives or research question
  • Proposed methodology
  • How will you disseminate your findings (pathways to impact)
  • Ethical considerations
  • Summary and conclusions
  • References
  • About you: briefly describe your relevant experience and how it will help you achieve your objectives, explain why you are an excellent candidate for a research degree, and identify your additional professional development and training needs.

6. Apply online by the relevant deadline

• You can start a research degree at Abertay in February, June or October of each year.
• Unless otherwise stated, the deadlines for submitting a full application are:
  • Applications for February entry by 15 December (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 30 November)
  • Applications for June entry by 30 April (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 31 March)
  • Applications for October entry by 31 August (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 31 July)