Higher Certificate in Civil Engineering

Course Summary

Course Description:

This course is a blend of formal lectures, relevant practical classes to enhance understanding of topics and projects to apply the information learnt to typical Civil Engineering applications. The early part of the course develops an understanding of science and technology which are the underlying principles of engineering. Gradually the students are introduced to the core Civil Engineering areas of structural, hydraulic, geotechnical, water and wastewater engineering. Written and verbal communication skills are continuously developed through presentations and technical writing. At the end of this course graduates have the skills demanded by current employers.

This programme offers ideal preparation for employment as a Civil Engineer. The programme is accredited as meeting the educational standard required for Engineering Technician Membership of Engineers Ireland. Engineering Technicians work alongside and support Chartered Engineers in the successful implementation of Civil Engineering schemes.

As a result of Engineers Ireland accreditation your IT Sligo qualification is recognised through the Sydney Accord in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, China, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States, thus offering exciting opportunities for work and travel abroad.

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Please note that programme content may be subject to change

Key Skills:

The early part of this course is primarily concerned with developing a good understanding of the underlying science and technology of engineering. Subjects studied include:

• Engineering Graphics and Computer-aided design
• Engineering Physics and Chemistry
• Human Relations and Personal Development
• Mathematics
• Engineering Mechanics
• Introduction to Programming

In the second year the emphasis moves to the core Civil Engineering topics. Subjects include:

• Civil Engineering Materials
• Construction Technology
• Building Information Modelling
• Environmental Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Hydraulic Engineering
• Structural Mechanics, Analysis and Design

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for CAO courses at ATU Sligo are available for download below:

• Download Entry requirements for just Level 6 programmes
• Download Entry requirements for all programmes

Career Opportunities

After you graduate and the future?

Graduate employment opportunities for you will include positions as an Engineering Technician in the drafting, design, specification, supervision, construction and maintenance of Civil Engineering projects.

Various bodies have an interest in employing Civil Engineers, both nationally and internationally – Government Bodies, Semi-State Bodies, Local Authorities, Consultancies, Contractors, Insurance firms and Financial Institutions.

Ongoing development of infrastructure needs is a major concern for every country worldwide and Civil Engineers are leaders in this field. In addition, Civil Engineers can go on to work in the renewable energy sector which is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world.

Civil Engineering is a broad and diverse profession offering an almost endless range of potential career opportunities. Graduates may become involved in everything from planning and designing transport systems to improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

In addition, demand for civil engineers, both in Ireland and abroad is continuing to grow with Engineers Ireland recording in their Engineering 2019 - A Barometer of the Engineering Profession that civil & building engineers are among the most in demand with 59% of organisations surveyed currently looking to hire these engineers.

Accreditation of the Higher Certificate in Engineering in Civil Engineering by Engineers Ireland means that your qualification is recognised in major world economies such as Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, China, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States, thus offering the potential for work and travel abroad.

An accredited degree, as offered by IT Sligo, also gives you a distinct advantage over those who do not have accredited degrees and will put you at the cutting edge of Civil Engineering.

Further Study

Graduates can progress to the third year of the BEng degree in Civil Engineering at IT Sligo or other third level colleges. Further information can be obtained from Dr Tomas O’Flaherty

Civil and Environmental Engineering L7 & L8 Course Brochure

Did you know?

For some interesting videos and information to explain more about Civil Engineering visit –

Engineers are cool by ARUP

Are you ready to build a better world? by the Institution of Civil Engineers (UK)

Engineering || Design your world by ACE (Australia)

About Civil Engineering by the Institution of Civil Engineers (UK)

Civil Engineering TV by the Institution of Civil Engineers (UK)

The Little Book of Civilisation by the Institution of Civil Engineers (UK)

Chartered Engineers by Engineers Ireland

A Chartered Civil Engineer by Engineers Ireland

A Chartered Environmental Engineer by Engineers Ireland

Course Format

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Semester 4