Introduction to Civil / Structural Engineering Postgraduate Study in the UK
Civil and Structural Engineering is a constantly evolving field, and it is crucial for engineers to remain updated with the latest advancements in the industry. It is important for engineers to develop their knowledge and gain the relevant qualifications for becoming chartered. One way to do this is through postgraduate study. A postgraduate degree provides an opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills and become a more effective and knowledgeable professional. In this article, we explore the reasons why civil and structural engineers should consider postgraduate study in the UK and the importance of choosing a postgraduate degree approved by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM).
Better Employment Opportunities
One of the most significant advantages of pursuing postgraduate study as a civil engineer is the improved employment opportunities. With a postgraduate degree, you can specialize in a particular area of civil engineering and become an expert in that field. This expertise will make you more attractive to potential employers and increase your chances of securing a higher-paying and more rewarding job.
Additionally, a postgraduate degree can open doors to opportunities for advancement in your current job. It will demonstrate your commitment to the industry and your eagerness to improve your skills and knowledge. Many employers value these qualities in their employees and are more likely to promote those who have demonstrated these characteristics.
Requirement for Becoming Chartered
Another reason why postgraduate study is important for civil engineers in the UK is that it is a requirement for becoming chartered. Chartered status is the highest professional qualification in the field of civil engineering and is highly regarded by employers and clients alike. It demonstrates that the engineer has met the highest standards of professionalism and competence.
To become chartered, civil engineers must complete a period of professional development and pass a professional review. Prior to the review, a postgraduate degree in civil engineering is one of the ways to meet the academic requirements for chartered status.
Importance of Choosing an Approved Postgraduate Degree
If you decide to pursue a postgraduate degree in civil engineering, it is essential to choose a course that is approved by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM). The JBM is the regulatory body responsible for accrediting civil engineering courses in the UK. The JBM comprises four professional engineering institutions: the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), and the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE).
The JBM accreditation ensures that the course meets the highest academic standards and covers all the essential topics required for a career in civil engineering. The accreditation process involves a rigorous assessment of the course's content, teaching methods, resources, and assessment methods. It ensures that the course meets the JBM's requirements for academic standards, graduate skills, and industrial relevance. Courses that are approved by the JBM can be found by searching through the recognised course search on the engineering council website: Engineering Council (engc.org.uk)
In the UK, the regulatory body for the engineering profession is the Engineering Council. It sets and maintains the standards of professional competence and ethics that engineers and technicians must meet in order to register as a professional engineer or technician. The Engineering Council also works with professional engineering institutions to ensure that engineering education and training programmes meet the necessary standards. By upholding high standards of competence and ethics, the Engineering Council helps to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and sustainability of engineering projects and advances the engineering profession.
Institutions that are part of the JBM
The four institutions that make up the JBM are responsible for accrediting civil engineering courses at universities across the UK. Each institution has its own set of requirements for accreditation, but they all share the same goal of ensuring that civil engineering courses meet the highest standards.
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)
The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)
The Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE)
Choosing a course
There are a number of postgraduate degree programmes available for civil engineers in the UK, and it can be difficult to choose the right one. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
Consider your career goals: Before choosing a postgraduate degree programme, it is important to consider your career goals. What do you want to achieve with your degree? Do you want to specialize in a particular area of civil engineering? Do you want to become chartered? These are important questions to ask yourself before making a decision.
Research programmes: Once you have a clear idea of your career goals, you can start researching postgraduate degree programmes. Look for programmes that are accredited by the JBM; and read about the course content and teaching methods. You can also speak to current or past students to get an idea of what the programme is like or contact the university for more information.
Consider the reputation of the university: The reputation of the university you choose to study with is important. Look for universities that are highly respected in the industry and have a good track record of producing successful graduates.
Look for funding opportunities: Postgraduate study can be expensive, so it is important to look for funding opportunities. Many universities offer scholarships or bursaries to help students cover the cost of their studies. You can also look for external funding opportunities, such as grants or loans, but ensure that this is the right choice for you. Some employers will offer the opportunity to fund you through a course.
Conclusion
In conclusion, post graduate study is an important step for civil engineers who want to advance their careers and become chartered. It is important to choose a degree programme that is accredited by the JBM and to consider your career goals before making a decision. By taking the time to research programmes and institutions, and by looking for the right funding opportunities, you can ensure that you make the right choice and set yourself up for a successful career in civil engineering.
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