It's a good idea to get some relevant work experience during your studies.

Employers
place great importance on experience, and it'll give you an insight into the working
practices of an engineering firm.
If your course doesn't include an industrial placement, look for relevant summer
internships and placements. Any kind of role in a construction or civil engineering
setting will allow you to build your understanding of issues related to the planning and
execution of projects. Use this experience to expand your knowledge and to develop
contacts and network.
Casual, hands-on construction work and administrative jobs may be available, but many
employers offer structured work experience opportunities.
Search for placements and find out more about work experience and internships.

Related case studies

Ioana Price
Structural engineer

Typical employers
As a qualified civil engineer, you can find work in a range of sectors, particularly in the
construction sector, on buildings and large structures of all kinds, transport and
communications infrastructure.
You can also work for employers involved in the production, storage and distribution of
electricity, gas and water.
Vacancies arise across the UK and overseas, with a range of contractors and
consultancies.
There are also opportunities to work in-house for a variety of national and multinational
organisations, particularly within the public sector. Local authorities, government
departments and environmental organisations, for example, employ civil engineers to
set up project specifications and draft tender documents.
Find information on employers in engineering and manufacturing, property and
construction, and other job sectors.