Program Overview

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Civil Engineering PhD

Overview

The University of Nottingham offers a Civil Engineering PhD program that covers a wide range of subjects, including structures, geotechnics, fluid mechanics, transportation, GPS surveying, road materials, and more. The program is recognized for its supportive learning environment and excellent facilities.

Research Overview

Research topics within civil engineering can be based around various aspects, including:

• Structures
• Geotechnics
• Fluid mechanics
• Transportation
• GPS surveying
• Road materials
• Many other aspects

Entry Requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis, and the university accepts a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements for 2025 entry are as follows:

Home / UK Students

• Degree: 2.1 (or international equivalent) and/or a master's at merit level or above in a relevant subject
• Additional information: Candidates are encouraged to get in touch with a member of academic staff about their research proposal before submitting an application

EU / International Students

• Degree: 2.1 (or international equivalent) and/or a master's at merit level or above in a relevant subject
• International and EU equivalents: The university accepts a wide range of qualifications from all over the world
• Additional information: Candidates are encouraged to get in touch with a member of academic staff about their research proposal before submitting an application
• IELTS: 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in each element)
• English language requirements: The university also accepts other English language qualifications, including TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB, and O level English

Meeting English Language Requirements

If candidates need support to meet the required level, they may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach academic skills in addition to English language. The university's Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

Visa Restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The university does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses.

Applying

The university's step-by-step guide contains everything candidates need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Fees

• Home / UK: £5,006
• International: £30,750

Funding

There are many ways to fund a research degree, from scholarships to government loans. The university's guide provides more information on funding options.

Support

Researcher Training and Development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers and staff who support them. The academy works together to promote a healthy research culture, cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Graduate Centres

The university's graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates. Each space has areas for studying, socializing, computer work, seminars, and kitchen facilities.

Student Support

Candidates will have access to a range of support services, including:

• Academic and disability support
• Childcare services
• Counselling service
• Faith support
• Financial support
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Visa and immigration advice
• Welfare support

Students' Union

The university's Students' Union represents all students. Candidates can join the Postgraduate Students' Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer.

Careers

The university's careers advice and support services are available to help candidates explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies. Expert staff will work with candidates to develop their interview skills and meet employers.

Where You Will Learn

The university has two campuses: Jubilee Campus and University Park Campus. Both campuses offer a range of facilities, including libraries, shops, cafes, and sports centres.

Research Excellence Framework

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• 90% of the university's research is classed as 'world-leading' (4) or 'internationally excellent' (3)
• 100% of the university's research is recognised internationally
• 51% of the university's research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact

Discover Our Research

The university's research changes the world around us. Candidates can discover more about the university's research within civil and surveying engineering.