Civil Engineering - BEng (Hons)
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Want to become a Civil Engineer? Study our Civil Engineering BEng (Hons) degree course at Birmingham City University. This course is designed to meet the requirements of relevant professional bodies to give your career in civil engineering a head start. Much of your learning activity will be hands-on, with access to our strong industry links....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BEng (Hons)
- Start date September 2023
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Engineering and the Built Environment
- Faculty Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment
Overview
Want to become a Civil Engineer? Study our Civil Engineering BEng (Hons) degree course at Birmingham City University. This course is designed to meet the requirements of relevant professional bodies to give your career in civil engineering a head start.
Much of your learning activity will be hands-on, with access to our strong industry links. You’ll also be provided with the latest CAD software, meaning you’ll be well equipped to make an impact in an important industry.
You will study in a unique simulated workplace environment. This experience, and our outstanding industry links, will give you a competitive edge, enabling you to progress to a successful career when you graduate.
What's covered in this course?
You’ll be provided with knowledge of the scientific, technical, environmental, economic, and managerial aspects of civil engineering, so that you will be able to apply yourself to both the design and management of civil engineering projects.
You will also develop the key transferable skills that modern employers require, such as problem solving, project planning, presentation and communication. Our strong links to industry enable you to apply your learning to problem-based scenarios, ensuring your intellectual and practical competencies are fully developed.
Civil Engineers design and construct anything from buildings and bridges, to dams, power stations, and motorways. This course will prepare you to work on these projects. You will focus on structures, materials, geotechnics, and hydraulics, and your studies will be enhanced with site visits, field trips, and guest lectures.
Professional Placement Year
This course offers a professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, between the second and third years of your degree, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.
The University will draw on its extensive network of local, regional and national employers to support you in finding a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. If you do not find a suitable placement, you will be automatically transferred back to the standard, non-placement version of the course.
Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year (£1,850 for UK students).
Accredited By
This degree is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of the Engineering Council.
As part of the Civil Engineering course, I spent one year on a placement as a ‘Setting Out Student Engineer’ with Dyer & Butler. I worked on a £10m Highway scheme project in Brighton – Valley Gardens. The time spent during my placement was an eye-opener to how exciting, purposeful and fulfilling the industry is. Thus, I’m very pleased to have had such opportunity and to have come back a year later as a full-time Graduate Civil Engineer for Dyer & Butler.
Mohamed Kamara, Civil Engineering Graduate
Heena Rani
After moving from Italy to England, Heena struggled to understand the education system and the application process. With a background in foreign languages, she’d often been put off following her passion, but after attending an Open Day at BCU and chatting to a Head of School, she was soon on her way to becoming a Civil Engineer.
Read in fullWhy Choose Us?
- Professional placement option – Gain employability skills with the option of a professional placement.
- Employable graduates - Our graduates work for companies such as Balfour Beatty and Cancer Care, in management roles such as Construction Manager and Design Engineer.
- Study in the heart of the UK's second city - Some of the UK’s most exciting infrastructure projects such as HS2, are taking place right on our doorstep.
- A well-established provider - The faculty has a reputation as the West Midlands' chief hub of knowledge, technology and skills-transfer into industry. The course is supported by dedicated teaching staff and expert industry speakers.
- State-of-the-art course facilities - You will be based at our Millennium Point campus in City Centre, where our facilities have undergone a £6.5 million investment to provide you with the best learning experience.
- We are an Autodesk Training Centre (ATC) - This national and international recognition will give you access to on-campus training by certified Autodesk instructors, providing you with digital skills that will be highly sought after by employers. Autodesk applications play an important part in supporting the digital transformation of Architecture, Engineering and Construction.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to meet us in person. You'll get the chance to learn about courses in subject talks, chat to students and explore our campus and accommodation. We'll post you a detailed event programme to help plan your day and find your way.
Next Open Day: Saturday 24 June 2023
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2023/24.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
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112 UCAS tariff points from A/AS Level |
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GCSE |
GCSE English Language or English Literature and GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or above. If you do not have these or are not undertaking them, we accept other Level 2 equivalents, or we may ask you to pass BCU's GCSE equivalency tests. |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
See level 3 entry under Irish Leaving Certificate for full details. |
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Scottish National 5 |
English Language or English Literature and Maths at grade C or above. If you do not have these or are not undertaking them, we accept other Level 2 equivalents, or we may ask you to pass BCU's GCSE equivalency tests. |
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A level and Advanced VCE |
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T Level |
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Access to HE Diploma |
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Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
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Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
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If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
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| Additional information for EU/International students | ||
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Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
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IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma (or equivalent, including internationally accredited Foundation courses). |
1. For students who complete the full IB Diploma: a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects. 2. Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. Students must have grade 5 in Maths (Standard Level) |
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International students who cannot meet the direct entry requirements can begin their degree studies at Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC).
Additional Requirements
As part of the application process you will be invited to attend an applicant visit day where you will undertake a short one-to-one interview with an academic member of staff. This is your chance to show us how passionate you are about the subject and it will help us make a decision on your application.
This will provide you with more information about the School and your course. In addition, it will give you a chance to meet and our staff and students to gain a better understanding of what it is like to be a student here.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 in 2023/24
- Apply via UCAS
- Full Time
- 4 years with Professional Placement
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- Study Year (2023/24) £9,250
Professional Placement Fees
The tuition fee for your first year of study at the university is shown here. Full-time courses with a Professional Placement also incur a fee during the placement year. The fee for your placement year will be £1,850, which is equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee.
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £13,980 in 2023/24
- Full Time
- 4 years with Professional Placement
- Show fees
- Study Year (2023/24) £13,980
Professional Placement Fees
Full-time courses with a Professional Placement also incur a fee during the placement year. The fee for your placement year will be equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
- Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
- Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
- Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
- School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
- Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Worried about Personal Statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
First Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Civil Engineering is a discipline that covers wide range of subjects and knowledge, essential to solving real-world problems, such as climate change and the environment impact of infrastructure. This requires a solid understanding of a wide range of Civil Engineering areas such as fluid mechanics, engineering geology, sustainability, and the applied practices of civil engineering science
Mathematics plays a key role in establishing and grounding the skills of an engineer, and the ability to communicate the ideas of engineering that are expected of an engineering graduates.
The primary aim of this module is to provide the fundamental mathematical knowledge and techniques needed in order to enable you to use and apply such mathematical techniques for the evaluation, analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems. Application of these data sets has to include their interpretation both to and from the mathematical language. In addition, this module will introduce students to mathematical modelling software package. This will be used to plot, annotate basic signals and write simple programs to compute mathematical problems.
This module will develop your ability to both work on and communicate engineering realities to a wider audience, at a professional standard.
Civil engineering infrastructures must be designed in order to resist environmental loadings and impacts. This requires fundamental knowledge of structural analysis of civil engineering structures and behaviour assessment of civil engineering materials subject to various types of loadings and stresses.
Civil Engineering is a practical discipline, whose output is typically described in the form of design reports. Civil Engineers are required to analyse competing solutions to engineering problems, often relying on incomplete data and contradicting requirements. Moreover, the environmental impact of civil engineering projects is considerable, and it is our social responsibility to minimise it. Civil Engineers need to communicate and justify their design decisions using a variety of media, such as text, calculations, drawings, models, as well as presentations to clients and other stakeholders. Finally, Civil Engineering is a discipline that typically requires working in teams: effective and transparent teamwork is the key to a successful Civil Engineering project.
This module will focus on introducing and building on well-established techniques for mathematically modelling dynamic systems (systems of interest for engineering) for contextualised engineering applications. The module will include an introduction to sophisticated signal analysis technique, Fourier series which is used to transform time-domain signals into their frequency spectra. The module is structured to include a mixture of lectures, tutorials and PC-based laboratories. The lectures will formally introduce material, in tutorials students will work through questions with tutor. The PC laboratories will involve using mathematical modelling software packages to implement mathematical operations.
Digital construction is an integral component of contemporary design, development and maintenance of modern residential development. Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology is at the forefront of the progressive movement towards total digitalisation of the built environment.
Second Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable students to use problem-based learning to understand the core principles of structural analysis as relating to buildings and other structures.
The module follows the Civil Engineering programme philosophy of developing the intellectual and practical competence of students in technical, economic and theoretical aspects of civil engineering. Similarly the learning and teaching philosophy incorporates learning through formal lectures including presentations, seminars, tutorials and problem based scenarios, backed up by visits to construction sites and exhibitions when appropriate. Learning is practice-based, knowledge applied, work related and includes project based activities.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable you to use problem-based learning to understand the geological materials and effects of soil mechanics on Civil Engineering and relate it to information about the geotechnical tests and reports. It includes opportunities to complete laboratory tests to define certain properties of soils.
The module follows the Civil Engineering programme philosophy of developing your intellectual and practical competence in technical, theoretical and environmental aspects of civil engineering. Similarly the learning and teaching philosophy incorporates learning through formal lectures including, seminars, tutorials, laboratory tests and problem based scenarios. Learning is practice-based, knowledge applied and work related including project based activities.
The module introduces the mathematical concepts such as transform calculus and matrix theory used to solve systems of first and second order differential equations underpinning the engineering disciplines undertaken within the Faculty.
This provides you with the capability of modelling systems using both the transfer function and statespace paradigms. In particular, you will be able to model linear systems in continuous and discrete time as well as by frequency response methods.
Teaching and assessment will comprise not only traditional lectures and tutorials but also provide training in industry standard software for problem solving within coursework assessment.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable students to use problem-based learning to understand the properties, behaviour, and uses of materials of Civil Engineering. The module follows the Civil Engineering programme philosophy of developing your intellectual and practical competence in technical, theoretical and environmental aspects of civil engineering.
The learning and teaching philosophy emphasises practical work. Laboratory activities consist a major part of the module, covering all common Civil Engineering materials. These are supplemented by seminars, group work activities, and problem-based scenarios. Students are encouraged to plan their own work schedules, manage their time and extend their presentational skills.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable you to use problem-based learning to understand the Technology of Civil Engineering and innovations now being applied. It investigates a civil engineering project from its inception to its construction and identifies the methods and techniques used in constructing a range of structures and infrastructure.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that provides built environment professionals with the insight and tools to help plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. In this module, you will be encouraged to explore the potential of BIM in helping to understand the social, economic and environmental benefits associated with co-ordinated infrastructure and complex structure development.
Professional Placement (Optional)
In order to qualify for the award of BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering with Professional Placement Year you must successfully complete the following module.
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree.
The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
Final Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable learners to use problem-based learning to understand the theories and applications of hydraulics in civil engineering, including flow of fluids and theories relating to pumps, many demonstrated through laboratory experiments. Theories are then practically applied drainage system design.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable you to use problem-based learning to understand theories of geotechnics and their application to design and construction of civil engineering projects. It will enhance their knowledge and ability to work in teams and lead teams including the aptitude to work independently and understand the importance of being a reflective and innovative professional.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable students to use problem-based learning to understand the Structural Design process and relate it to information previously learned in Structures 1 and Civil Engineering Materials.
The module covers both analytical and numerical modelling of structures in order to provide the background for the students to produce the structural design of a small building. The effect of loading combinations is addressed utilising the approach specified in British Standards and European Norms. Aspects of analytical modelling are considered for structural design to the Eurocodes, utilising the UK National Annexes, for the common structural materials. Numerical aspects are covered via the Finite Element Method (FEM) and related software.
In accordance with the programme philosophy and aims, this module has been designed to enable students to use problem-based learning to understand the philosophy and application of a range of advanced methods employed in the analysis and design of Civil Engineering projects.
The module follows the Civil Engineering programme philosophy of developing the intellectual and practical competence of students in technical, economic, theoretical and environmental aspects of civil engineering. Similarly the learning and teaching philosophy incorporates learning through formal lectures, seminars, tutorials, and problem-based scenarios, backed up by guest speakers when appropriate.
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, you will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.
At this level, you will be expected to work independently but you will receive additional one-to-one support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your chosen topic area. As you progress on the module, extra support will be available and this may take the form of group seminars, workshops and online materials that will help to develop your project.
Download course specification
Download nowThe course combines innovative teaching with a stimulating workplace environment. You’ll be assessed through a mix of coursework, examinations, portfolio and presentations.
The way you are assessed is split into 50 per cent exams and 50 per cent coursework.
We will enhance your knowledge and understanding through formal lectures, presentations, seminars, tutorials, hands-on experience and problem-based scenarios. Guest speakers, as well as visits to construction sites, manufacturers and exhibitions, will give you valuable insight and experience of the industry.
You will be assessed through work-related learning and problem solving, in-class tasks, seminar work, peer assessment and learning sets, while summative assessment is provided in projects, presentations, time-controlled assignments and end examinations.
In your final year, you will conduct an individual project, where you will hone and enhance your organisational, research and time management skills.
Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation
CIHT is a respected, chartered professional body that provides transportation professionals with recognition, support and business insights through access to information, intelligence, training and qualifications that they need to accelerate their careers and influence the future of the sector.
Institute of Highway Engineers
IHE have been registering engineers and technicians with the Engineering Council since 1972 and accrediting academic courses since 1989.
The Institution of Structural Engineers
IStructE work with other professional bodies and their members to identify and remove barriers to anyone becoming a structural engineer.
The Institution of Civil Engineers
ICE has been working hard to promote the profession of civil engineering for over 200 years.
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
We will develop the skills, understandings and personal attributes that will help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to securing employment.
We will ensure you are professional, work-ready and enterprising, with a global outlook and the ability to solve problems creatively.
This course has been mapped against the UKSpec subject benchmarks for engineering, and we will support you to work towards a range of competencies linked to these benchmarks. We will also support your readiness for work by offering placements, where you can gain vital work experience in a real-life business.
Birmingham City University also has the Graduate+ scheme, an extracurricular programme which has been designed to hone the subject-based skills you develop throughout the programme alongside broader employability skills. You’ll develop skills in CV writing, presentations, a portfolio and more.
You could also gain work with OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus, which ensures our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
Placements
With the advantage of a construction site right on our doorstep as the University grows, students and graduates have benefited from placements and hands-on experience.
You will also benefit from the innovative Building Birmingham Scholarship programme. Launched by Birmingham City Council, it supports young people wishing to pursue a career in construction.
The Faculty has committed to ensuring that all students who would like to take out a third year in industry will be provided with that opportunity. This is not compulsory, but certainly is recommended since this can have positive implications for your future employability and sometimes even provides sponsorship.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here.
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies.
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country.
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies.
Facilities & Staff
Our Facilities
The facility our students value most is not actually on campus, but is the location of the campus in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside opposite the new High Speed 2 station construction, and minutes from dozens of fascinating live projects within the city centre.
Birmingham as it changes constantly on our doorstep really is our ‘living lab’. By simply looking out the window of our classrooms you’ll be able to witness live projects as they’re happening around us. You’ll constantly be inspired by dozens of fascinating case studies just from walking from the station to the campus.
The facilities on offer to our students reflect the work environment you will enter as you start your career. Learn more about what we have to offer below.
Our staff
Mr Panagiotis Patlakas
Panagiotis is a structural engineer with further qualifications in architecture and a strong interest in information technology. His research interests cover a range of topics in these fields, such as structural timber design, digital civil engineering, and sustainability. He is particularly interested in the development of software technologies to...
More about PanagiotisDr Ehsan Ahmadi
Lecturer in Civil Engineering
Prior to working at BCU, Ehsan was a Research and Teaching Fellow within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at UoS, and worked as a PhD Researcher and Teaching Associate in Structural Engineering at Monash University, Australia
More about EhsanForoogh Hajiseyedjavadi
Lecturer
Foroogh is a lecturer in Civil Engineering at the Department of Built Environment and a visiting research fellow at the University of Leeds. She has a PhD in Civil Engineering with the focus on Transportation Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA, where she also worked as a research and teaching assistant.
More about ForooghMohammad Salami
Assistant Lecturer
Mohammad graduated from Arak Azad University, Iran, with a BSc in Civil Engineering in 2007. He undertook a Master’s programme (Geotechnical Engineering) and obtained his MSc in Civil Engineering in 2010. After one year in industry, working in structural design, he decided to continue his education and started his PhD research at the University of...
More about Mohammad