Structural Engineering MSc / PGDip

Consolidate your knowledge on structural engineering and meet the educational requirements to become a chartered structural engineer. Opening doors to exciting careers in consultancy, on-site and beyond.

Course structure

The MSc is a 1 year full-time advanced course, comprising lectures, laboratory work, short experimental projects and a research project. The course can also be taken on a part-time basis over two or three years.

• Take advantage of our state-of-the-art School of Engineering building as well as our laboratory facilities.
• Learn from world leaders in their fields, granting you a qualification that is respected around the world and making you an attractive prospect in a very competitive job market.
• Benefit from research that is current and impactful on areas such as sustainable energy structures (wind turbine towers), additive manufacturing in construction, sustainable and resilient infrastructure and digital engineering.
• Network with global industry leaders involved in the programme, including guest lectures and industry project supervisors.
• Thrive in a stimulating research environment.

• Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts.
• Receive immediate feedback from lecturers during seminars, enabling you to deepen your understanding and offer critique and analysis.
• Enjoy learning from industry professionals including guest lectures and the opportunity to undertake final projects with companies.
• Experience active learning and engagement in the lab including various testing and reporting which will develop skills such as data interpretation, critical thinking and independent problem-solving when conducting experiments.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2026/27

In order to be awarded an accredited degree a you must have achieved 100 credits in taught modules given that the pass mark at this level is 50.

Core modules

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Birmingham Masters scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Gain the transferable skills and independent learning ability essential for continuous professional development and a thriving career in civil/structural engineering. Plus, your MSc counts towards achieving Chartered Engineer accreditation, setting you on the path to professional status.

Our MSc Structural Engineering graduates are making an impact across a wide range of sectors such as Civil Engineering, Management Consulting, Construction and Executive Office. They have gone on to work for leading employers including Mott MacDonald, BL Harbert International, Barratt Developments, Jacobs and VolkerFitpatrick.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.