This course includes a range of studies in civil engineering with a secondary focus towards the management of environmental concerns that confront an engineer working in civil engineering. Many engineering projects, especially those that may impact on the quality of land, water and air, require detailed environmental analysis to identify and mitigate any chances that the project will adversely affect the environment. It is essential to consider both the short and long-term sustainability of such projects and their environmental consequences.

The program focuses on the development of knowledge and skills relevant to professional engineering practice, and along with a sound theoretical base, includes strong elements of practical problem-solving, teamwork and project development resulting in strong analytical skills and the ability to lead complex projects.

Areas of study within the course include a foundation in physical and engineering sciences along with computer aided design, engineering materials, surveying, and other core civil engineering topics. This is followed by more specialist civil and environmental engineering content areas including structural analysis and design, hydrology and hydraulics, and construction technology and site management, and project management.

The course also includes advanced studies in environmental risk assessment and management, water and wastewater treatment, water distribution systems and wastewater collection systems, waste disposal and management, air-borne pollution control and the principles that ensure long-term sustainable engineering design solutions. The first year of this course includes a set of eight units that are common across all engineering honours courses. This allows students the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the various engineering disciplines on offer and the flexibility, if desired, to switch to another engineering discipline/course without penalty after the first year of study.

Applicants from South West WA will be able to study only the first year (up to eight foundation units) of this degree at ECU's Bunbury Campus, which may include attending a short set of lab sessions at Joondalup Campus by the end of each semester.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Apply systematic engineering synthesis and design processes to conduct and manage civil and environmental engineering projects, with some intellectual independence.
• Demonstrate a global outlook and knowledge of contextual factors impacting the engineering discipline, including respect for cultural diversity and indigenous cultural competence.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the underpinning natural and physical sciences and in depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the civil and environmental engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrate effective team membership and team leadership to implement engineering projects according to relevant standards of ethical conduct, sustainable practice and professional accountability.
• Think critically, and apply established engineering methods and research skills to complex civil and environmental engineering problem solving.

Employment opportunities

Graduates will have competencies in both civil and environmental engineering, and be able to participate in and lead complex, multidisciplinary projects. Civil and environmental engineers have strong employment opportunities in many sectors of industry including infrastructure development projects (roads and transportation, urban development), public utilities (water supply, waste disposal), mining (planning and operations), and consulting (project management).

Possible future job titles

Civil Engineer, Environmental Engineer, Water Resource Engineer.