Civil Engineering Stellenbosch University

Overview

The four-year Bachelor of Civil Engineering programme (BEng) at the Stellenbosch University equip students with a broad knowledge base. In the first year all students take the same compulsory subjects; thereafter they start specialising in the specific programme in which they are interested. 

Why to study

Civil engineers are responsible for large, permanent works such as irrigation systems, bridges, dams, harbours, canals, airports, roads and streets, pipelines, sewerage systems, railways, structures of various kinds and structure foundations, stormwater systems, tunnels, towers, water supply systems, and various kinds of heavy construction work. Through their work they re-create, improve and conserve the environment, and provide the facilities required for efficient community life.

Following the sound foundation in mathematics, chemistry and the engineering sciences that is laid during the first two years of study, the third and fourth years of the programme progress to specialist subjects such as Water Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Geotechnical Engineering. Subjects such as Environmental Engineering and Engineering Management give students a wide frame of reference. In Civil Engineering Informatics, students' abilities are developed to use the computer as a powerful aid in solving civil engineering problems.

Civil engineers are responsible for the development, planning, design, construction, maintenance and/or operation of large-scale projects. There are various career opportunities in the public and private sectors, from local authorities to government departments, and from consulting firms to construction firms. Several South African civil engineering firms are active internationally, and some are part of large global companies.