Programme specification

CORPORATE AND ACADEMIC SERVICES

PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

Part 1: Basic Data

Awarding Institution University of the West of England, UK
Teaching Institution Northshore College of Business & Technology, Sri Lanka
Delivery Location Colombo, Sri Lanka
Faculty responsible for Faculty of Environment and Technology
programme
Department responsible for Department of Geography and Environment Management
programme
Modular Scheme Title FET UG Modular Scheme
Professional Statutory or NCBT will seek professional accreditation for the programme
Regulatory Body Links from Institute of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL) following approval.
Name of PSRB
Type of approval
Dates
Highest Award Title MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
Default Award Title
Interim Award Titles CertHE Civil Engineering
DipHE Civil Engineering
BEng Civil Engineering
BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
UWE Progression Route N/A
Mode(s) of Delivery Fulltime
Codes UCAS: N/A JACS: N/A
ISIS2: N/A HESA: N/A
Relevant QAA Subject Engineering
Benchmark Statements
CAP Approval Date
Valid until Date April 2017
Version
 Part 2: Educational Aims of the Programme

The MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering programme is designed to provide a thorough grounding in
the science and practice of Civil Engineering. Systems thinking will be developed through the
use of problem based learning focusing on increasingly complex design scenarios. In the
broadest terms, this programme aims to assure, that we offer a world-class Civil Engineering
degree; hence world-class graduates to the industry and society.

The programme aims to provide an academically rigorous and intellectually stimulating

environment in which to develop graduates:

1. Who have a thorough understanding of Engineering Science and well developed practical
skills to allow progression to Chartered Civil Engineer status with further Professional
Development (design and construction work experience);

2. Who are imaginative and inquisitive with a Systems Thinking approach to problem solving,
independent technical judgment and an appreciation of management needs;

3. Who are with enhanced teamwork and leadership skills and thus equipped to deploy their
skills to play a leading role when dealing with current and emerging technologies;

4. Who have an understanding of environmental issues, in particular the intelligent use of

natural resources, and an awareness of social and professional issues relevant to their work in
Civil Engineering;

5. Who are able to communicate effectively and confidently with professionals from a variety of
disciplines, and with clients and the public; and who have understanding and respect for the
objectives and values of a diversity of stakeholders.
 Part 3: Learning Outcomes of the Programme
The award route provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge
and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas:

Learning Outcomes Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Strategies

A: Knowledge and Understanding

A: Knowledge and Understanding Teaching/learning methods and strategies:

By the end of the programme, the student Acquisition of these outcomes will be primarily
should be able to demonstrate: through lectures, laboratory work and formative
work associated with each module.
A1) Awareness of technical, social,
environmental, ethical and commercial Candidates will consolidate their knowledge
implications of the civil engineering base through a variety of techniques including
profession. tutorial and studio work, the study of specified
library texts and a variety of IT applications.
A2) Knowledge and understanding of Formative work will also be designed to
mathematics, physics and surveying that are consolidate students' learning.
relevant to civil engineering practice.
The approach will be to offer intensive
A3) An in-depth knowledge and understanding technically based sessions in the subject-based
of structural engineering/geotechnical modules and to integrate and apply the
engineering/ hydraulics engineering, both knowledge base in the project and work based
analysis and design and their applications. learning modules. The problems posed in the
projects will require elements of engineering
A4) A competence in student’s chosen specialist judgment in developing solutions to technical,
areas (e.g. structural & building engineering, implementation and management problems.
water & environmental engineering,
transportation engineering). Health and Safety issues will be integrated into
all aspects of the course and put into practice
A5) An appreciation of project management and in the laboratory and on the field course.
its importance for their technical role. Special emphasis will be placed on these
issues in the management, professional issues
A6) Knowledge and understanding of principles and design modules.
of information technology and
communications for civil engineers.
Mathematics is developed in subject focused
A7) Awareness of operational practice, including modules at Level 1 and 2 with techniques
health and safety issues in civil engineering. applied in core modules throughout the course.
Students are encouraged to follow sessions on
A8) An understanding of the role of the “Research Methodologies”, which are
professional engineer within the broader necessary for project based modules at Level 3
social context and of environmental issues and M-Level.
 Part 3: Learning Outcomes of the Programme
relating to their work as a Chartered
Engineer.
B: Intellectual Skills
B: Intellectual Skills
By the end of the programme, the student
should be able to:
B1) Apply theoretical knowledge to the solution
of practical problems, to support current civil
engineering practice.
B2) Analyze situations and problems critically,
objectively and logically and postulate and
implement realistic solutions, integrating
knowledge and skills from a range of
modules.
B3) Analyze and evaluate information from a
range of sources and communicate
quantitative information effectively and
objectively.
B4) Develop conceptual designs which relate to project modules.
the theory and practice of civil engineering,
relating it to current literature, precedents, Projects develop students’ awareness of the
engineering principles and experimental
methodology as appropriate.
B5) Define, plan, conduct and report on an
original research project.
B6) Bring a broad ethical perspective to the
profession including environmental and
social awareness.
Assessment:
The knowledge base is tested by examination,
oral presentations, experimental work in the lab
and assessed coursework including both
reports and drawings.
Teaching/learning methods and strategies:
These skills are developed through individual
and group project work, seminar discussions
and individual tutoring for example, the
dissertation and project modules.
Analytical and evaluation skills are developed
by using projects based on real life
development sites or case studies with client
briefs. Students will consider spatial, structural
and environmental design and management
options to meet clients' requirements and
discuss their conclusions with tutors or in peer
groups. Tutors provide feedback on formative
work (via oral tutoring, the virtual learning
environment or written feedback based on
criteria) and in group seminars.
Research skills are also developed in the
different objectives and values of the built
environment professionals and give students
the opportunity to evaluate issues and roles in
small peer groups.
Assessment:
A variety of assessment methods are used
which test intellectual skills including
examination but the use of oral presentations,
and project reports will be particularly
important.
 C: Subject, Professional and Practical Skills

C: Subject, Professional and Practical Skills Teaching/learning methods and strategies:

By the end of the programme, the student A number of practical skills can be learnt by the
should be able to: study of syllabus topic material and the
completion of formative activities supported by
C1) Apply mathematical concepts and principles feedback from staff. These include the effective
to the solution of engineering problems. use and manipulation of numbers and physical
quantities, interpretation of plans and drawing
C2) Use technical equipment (including of three dimensional objects, the use of
surveying and laboratory equipment) surveying equipment, the use of laboratory
competently in practical engineering equipment and experimental method, the
activities. appropriate use of Information &
Communication Technology, the requirements
C3) Employ laboratory based experimental needed for work in a professional environment,
methods to enhance their understanding of the production and evaluation of viable design
engineering principles and produce research solutions to technological problems.
based results.
Coursework tasks require the use of specialist
C4) Apply a range of ICT tools to the solution of analytical software, spreadsheets and CAD. As
engineering problems. students have a wide range of ICT experience,
support is provided at the point of need to
C5) Apply a range of design ideas and develop and apply skills. All students receive
techniques. instruction in the use of GIS.
C6) Prepare technical drawings manually &
using CAD and communicate effectively
using those engineering sketches and
drawings.

C7) Identify the need to manage and organize at Assessment:

both a business and operational level to
achieve engineering objectives.
C8) Identify the role of the professional engineer undertaken through laboratory experimental
and consider the present and future role of
the engineering profession.
C9) Demonstrate a clear appreciation of the
health and safety responsibilities for a
professional engineer working in industry.
C10) Undertake safety and environmental risk
assessments.
The assessment of the use of equipment and
the application of experimental method is
practical and coursework. The assessment of
management and organization is by group
work.
The other skills are assessed through essays,
observations of skills demonstrations,
examinations under controlled conditions and
oral presentations.
 D: Transferable Skills and other attributes

D: Transferable Skills and other attributes Teaching/learning methods and strategies:

By the end of the programme, the student Principles of ICT will be taught within core
should be able to: modules. IT applications are used throughout
the course embedded in the modules starting
D1) Communicate information and ideas clearly with engineering analysis. Computing teaching
and coherently and influence the views of and tutorials takes place in labs with dedicated
others through written, graphical and oral software applications. People management skills
means. and team working are taught in interactive
seminars using indicators, role play and
D2) Bring creativity and innovation in simulation as well as discussion to interpret
identification and solution of problems. outcomes.

D3) Practice negotiation, team working and All projects have an element of group research,
motivation of others. negotiation and oral presentation. Individual
research and creative thinking is developed
D4) Manage workloads, resources and time (through individual tutor) in final year project
effectively. work. Data collection, including selection of
appropriate statistical and, experimental
D5) Undertake self-appraisal and reflection and methodology is developed through projects.
formulate plans for continuing professional
development.

D6) Identify, access, research and interpret data

and information required to undertake
engineering analysis.
D7) Apply a range a range of ICT tools to the
solution of engineering problems.
Assessment:
Project reports provide the opportunity to assess
clarity of written presentation and ideas which is
steadily more rigorous at each level. Assessed
oral presentations and group work are used at
all levels. Group team work is assessed in the
group project.

The use of IT will indirectly influence the quality

of assessed work but will not be used as distinct
assessment criteria.
Part 4: Programme Structure

This structure diagram demonstrates the student journey from Entry through to Graduation for a
full time student, including:
level and credit requirements
interim award requirements
module diet, including compulsory and optional modules
Year 1

ENTRY Compulsory Modules Optional Modules Interim Awards

UFMF5E-20-1: Mathematics for Civil N/A CertHE Civil

& Environmental Engineering (20) Engineering
UBGMFS-10-1: Applied Mechanics (exit award)
Year 2

Compulsory Modules Optional Modules Interim Awards

UFMF68-20-2: Applications of N/A DipHE Civil

Mathematics in Civil & Environmental Engineering
Engineering (20)
(exit award)

Year out: Optional placement year.

Year 3

Compulsory Modules Optional Modules Interim Awards

UBGLFP-20-3: Structural Analysis Students must select 20 BEng Civil

(20) credits from the Engineering
UBGLV9-10-3: Ground Engineering following modules. (exit award)
(10)
UBGMPF-20-3: Design of Structural
300 credits with
Elements (20) UBGLU9-20-3: Advanced at least 60 at
UBGMPW-10-3: Project Management Geographical Expedition (20)
(10) UBLLPR-20-3: Investigating level 3 or above,
Best Practice (20) a further 100 at
UBLL5N-20-3: Professional level 2 or above
Students from Sandwich Issues for Engineers (20) and a further 120
programme must select UBGMQW-20-3: Professional
Engineering Practice (20)
at level 1.
UBLLPR-20-3: Investigating Best
Year 4

Compulsory Modules Optional Modules Interim Awards

UFMERY-30-M: MEng Individual Students must select 40 Highest Award

Project Part B (30) credits from the
UFMED7-30-M: MEng Group Project
following modules MEng (Hons)
GRADUATION
Part 5: Entry Requirements

The University’s Standard Entry Requirements apply with the following additions:

All applicants for entry to the first year of the full time programme must have A-level (UK or Sri
Lanka) in Mathematics or equivalent.

At least 240 UCAS tariff points from UK A-levels including Mathematics (at least grade C) and
not including General Studies or three passes from Sri Lanka G.C.E A-levels.

Additionally they must meet the 'UK-SPEC' requirements for CEng accredited programmes.

Candidates will be admitted to Level 2 with,

 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Civil Engineering (or equivalent)

Candidates will be admitted to Level 2.2 with,

 National Diploma in Technology (NDT) in Civil Engineering offered by University of
Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
 National Diploma in Engineering Studies (NDES) in Civil Engineering offered by Institute
of Engineering Technology, Sri Lanka.
 Higher National Diploma in Engineering (HNDE) in Civil Engineering offered by Sri Lanka
Institute of Advanced Technological Education, Sri Lanka.
 Diploma in Technology in Civil Engineering offered by Open University of Sri Lanka.

Part 6: Assessment

A: Approved to University Regulations and Procedures

Assessment Map

The programme encompasses a range of assessment methods including reports,

presentations, practical examinations, written examinations. These are detailed in the
following assessment map:

Assessment Map for MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

Type of Assessment*
Part 6: Assessment

Unseen Written Exam

Open Book Written Exam

In-class Written Test

Written Assignment

Report / Project
Practical Exam

Oral assessment and/or presentation

Dissertation

Portfolio
Practical Skills Assessment
A B
Compulsory UFMF5E-20-1 (60) (40)
Modules A
Level 1 (100
UBGMFS-10-1 )
A
UBGLVA-10-1 (100)
A B
UBGLVN-20-1 (40) (60)
A B
UBGLFQ-10-1 (25) (75)
A B
UBGLSJ-10-1 (70) (30)
A B
UBGLTX-20-1 (50) (50)
UBGLDM-20- A B
1 (50) (50)
A B
Compulsory UFMF68-20-2 (50) (50)
Modules A B
Level 2 UBLLCL-20-2 (70) (30)
A B
UBGLV6-20-2 (50) (50)
A B
UBGLV5-10-2 (50) (50)
A B
UBLLD4-20-2 (50) (50)
A B
UBLLCN-20-2 (60) (40)
A
UBGLSH-10-2 (100)
A
Compulsory (100
Modules UBMERX-30-3 )
Level 3 A B
UBGLT4-30-3 (30) (70)
A B
UBGLFP-20-3 (60) (40)
A
UBGLV9-10-3 (100)
UBGMPF-20-3 A B
(70) (30)
UBGMPW-10- A B
3 (60) (40)
UBGMQF-10- A B
3 (60) (40)
A
UBGLVP-10-3 (100)
Optional A A
Modules UBGLU9-20-3 (40) (60)
Level 3 A
(100
UBLLPR-20-3 )
UBLL5N-20-3 A B
(60) (40)
Part 6: Assessment
UBGMQW-20- A A B
3 (25) (25) (50)
UBMERY-30- A A
Compulsory M (25) (75)
Modules UBMED7-30- A A
M Level M (20) (80)
UBGMRF-20- A B
Optional M (70) (30)
Modules UBGMSF-20- A A B
M Level M (60) (15) (25)
UBGMRW-20- A A B
M (60) (15) (25)
UBGMSW-20- A B
M (60) (40)
UBGMTF-20- A B
M (60) (40)
UBGMTW-20- A B
M (70) (30)

*Assessment are shown in terms of either Written Exams, Practical Exams, or Coursework as
indicated by the colour coding above.

Part 7: Student Learning

Teaching, learning and assessment strategies to enable learning outcomes to be

achieved and demonstrated.

At UWE, Bristol there is a policy for a minimum average requirement of 12hours/week

contact time over the course of the full undergraduate programme. This contact time
encompasses a range of activities as described below. In addition, a range of other
learning activities will be embedded within the programme which, together with the
contact time, will enable learning outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated.
Northshore College of Business & Technology will also adhere to the same policy.

On the MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering programme, teaching is a mix of scheduled,

independent and placement learning.

Scheduled learning includes lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision,

demonstration, practical classes and workshops; fieldwork; external visits; work based
learning; supervised time in studio/workshop.

Independent learning: includes hours engaged with essential reading, case study
preparation, assignment preparation and completion etc.

Placement learning : includes optional placement year at the end of Level 2.

Description of Distinctive Features and Support

1. Links with Industry

The programme benefits from close links with local industry including:

* The support of an Industrial Advisory Board.

* The scope to undertake an industrial training or work based learning modules.
* Input from local professional engineers as visiting lecturers
* Student visits and field courses to examine engineering practice.
* Industrial input into the work based learning modules since all students are in employment
at civil engineering practices.

2. Underpinned by staff consultancy, research and professional practice

Staff responsible for the teaching of structures, environmental and management subjects
have an established research and consultancy base. This allows them to bring latest issues
into the syllabus.

3. Understanding of Systems Thinking in Design.

Students design solutions to a range of increasingly complex problems as they progress

through the course.

4. Student choice

At M Level, students have a choice of technical and contextual options allowing them to
select a specialist route way. Routes available will include a selection from Building &
Structures, Transportation Engineering, Water and Environmental Engineering, Project
Management.

Part 8: Reference Points and Benchmarks

Description of how the following reference points and benchmarks have been used in the
design of the programme:

QAA subject benchmark statements

The programme draws on the benchmark statements in Engineering (QAA).
University strategies and policies
Faculty and University policies on teaching, leaning and assessment including a strong
emphasis on formative work, skills development and innovative approaches to teaching and
learning.

Staff research projects

The programme is underpinned by staff consultancy, professional practice and research.

Employer interaction and feedback

The course team has excellent links with local employers who advise the course team on
the content and structure of the programme through an Industrial Advisory Board.

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the
learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and
demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided.
More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and
assessment methods of individual modules can be found in module specifications, available
on the University’s website.