Civil Engineering Operations - University Advanced Diploma

You can also start this course in January

What is Learning Through Work?

Learning Through Work is based on the fact that people don't always need to attend college or university to learn, because learning is part of everyday working life. You study mainly through distance learning and take courses which directly help your career.

Why choose this course?

You gain a university qualification by studying part time while you're working, using your work experience to apply what you've learned on the course and develop your skills.
It's taught by professional, industry experienced civil engineers from the University, as well as current practising engineers, engaged to teach certain elements of the course.
It can be used as a stand alone qualification (Advanced Diploma), but will also bridge between HNC/HND/foundation degree and bachelor degree leading to Institution of Civil Engineers recognition.

About the course

This course covers advanced technical skills in fluids, drainage engineering, surveying, and incorporates advanced mathematics, so you'll improve both your academic and technical skills.

The practical work focuses on day to day civil engineering operations and procedures, so you'll build on the practical management experience you already have in civil engineering.

Find out more about what subjects and modules you'll be studying...

For the University Diploma, you need to pass 60 credits (four modules):

Civil Engineering Management Level 6 (15 credits)
You'll develop your ability to use complex management skills in your workplace. You'll cover: human resources management; civil engineering project design; health and safety procedures and management systems; project management; quality and technical systems management; and a negotiated work based component. In the negotiated work based component, you'll use the knowledge and skills you've gained and apply them to a work based situation.
Advanced Surveying Level 6 (15 credits)
You'll build up an understanding of advanced techniques in construction Surveying. You'll gain practical experience with GPS survey equipment and work with related software. You'll also establish methods to control and amend detailed surveys. You'll critically appraise survey methods that are used to create topographical data. And you'll analyse and diagnose data from fieldwork to ensure that it's compliant with the appropriate requirements. You'll also experience and manage specialist GPS equipment.
Engineering Mathematics and Mechanics Level 5 (15 credits)
You'll develop the knowledge and skill you'll need for technical management and practice. You'll study advanced mathematics applied to civil engineering and the mechanical properties of structures. You'll apply correct mathematical techniques to a range of civil engineering applications and analyse complex models using finite element methods. And you'll also analyse mechanical principles in a range of situations.
Fluid and Drainage Engineering Level 6 (15 credits)
You'll review the basic theories of hydraulics, pipe and open channel flows, static and dynamic behaviour of ideal and real fluids and review the concepts that are used in the design and management of waterways and hydraulic structures. You'll Study the theories of fluid flow in pipes and waterways and assess hydraulic structures and sea defences. You'll also carry out site surveys, visits and laboratory work as part of this module. You'll develop your knowledge and understanding of fluid mechanics and hydraulic equations and analyse the influence of friction on pipe flow and flume, by doing surveys and experiments. You'll also derive equations and design basic pipe spillways and water retaining structures.

Your career

There's currently a shortage of managers in the construction and civil engineering industry. When you've successfully completed this course you'll have the technical skills you need to progress into the management of site and office operations. The advanced technical skills you'll develop will also open up opportunities for you in drainage works and complex surveying.

How you'll learn

For most of the course, you'll need to attend the University for one late afternoon/evening a week with occasional weekends, but some key parts of the course will be based around the work that you do in your own workplace.