Civil engineers originally sought to maximise the use of natures resources to the benefit of humanity.
Today, concern about the protection of the environment means that civil engineers are involved in minimising the impact on the environment of construction and development projects, and in controlling pollution. As a result, civil engineering covers a wide variety of activities.
These range from development projects in the third world, such as water supplies, irrigation, pollution control, roads and bridges to major projects in the UK, such as the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the Waterfront Hall in Belfast, the City of Manchester Stadium and the Tate Modern. Civil engineers also play a key role in the drive for the regeneration of inner cities and areas of urban decay.
The broad nature of civil engineering means that there is an area of specialism to suit most preferences. There are also lots of opportunities for working abroad from Europe, the USA, Australia, and Hong Kong, to all parts of the developing world. Engineers gain tremendous satisfaction from being involved in a project which makes a major contribution to a countrys social and economic well-being.
You will study such diverse subjects as geology, mathematics, structural analysis, environmental engineering, economics, surveying, computing, hydraulics and systems analysis. At Imperial we can offer you a civil engineering education with an excellent reputation around the world. This is reflected by the strong interest shown by industry in recruiting our graduates.