Prospective Students
What do civil engineers actually do?
What do civil engineers actually do? What tasks do they carry out and in which areas are they employed? What should you bring to the profession of a civil engineer? What is particularly fun in the profession or study programme?
Civil engineers ...
- shape and change the world
- research, conceptualize, plan, calculate and construct
- organize and manage
- are responsible for safety and business efficiency
- work in companies, engineering offices, in academia or the public sector
- are employees, freelancers or civil servants
What are the careeer prospects for perspective civil engineers?
The prospects on the job market for graduate civil engineers remain excellent, for instance the number of vacant positions for civil engineers has more than tripled during the period from 2009 to 2020.
Reasons for these good career prospects are as follows:
- For a number of years a generational shift has been taking place, many civil engineers from the baby boomer generation will be retiring in the coming years and their positions will have to be filled.
- Despite the corona situation, the construction business still remains at a high level and this level will remain the unchanged for the forseeable future.
- The construction industry plays a decisive role in climate change, therefore one of the largest construction challenges in the coming years will be the modification of existing structures and working towards climate neutrality.
- The refurbishment backlog of major elements of the German infrastructure in particular bridges, streets and rail systems require substantial construction measures in the coming decades.
- The digitalization and increased use of AI in the construction industry is leading to increased demand for well educated young engineers.
How do I become a Civil Engineer?
As a general rule you will need to complete a seven semester Bachelor's study program, including a practical experience phase following the sixth semester. By doing this practical experience phase you have a distinct advantage, whereby the knowledge gained in the technical foundation courses will be complemented with hands-on engineering experience.
Should that not be enough, both of the Master's study programs Structural Engineering and Digital Construction Processes as well as Infrastructructure Management – Water and Traffic Engineering (completed in a regular study time of 3 semesters) based on the Bachelor's study program offer further career chances towards management functions in industrial and commercial companies. The Master's programs qualify graduates for senior positions in the public sector and pave the way for opportunities to attain a doctorate.
Further information and details:
- Study Civil Engineering now: Online Registration
The International Office offers information and support for perspective students from abroad
The Central Student Advisory Service of the university offers information regarding general questions on financing your studies