Geotechnical Engineering MSc / PGDip / PGCert

You'll learn how to engineer the ground to make sure modern structures like buildings earth dams, roads, railways and bridges are safe to use. From planning and directing investigations, to interpreting results and proposing solutions, this course prepares you to tackle key engineering challenges.

Course structure

Teaching is typically delivered in self-contained module-blocks (part-time students attend on-campus sessions for approximatly 8 or 9 days per module). You'll develop your research skills while undertaking your individual project. Module-blocks include lectures, a practical, worked-examples/tutorials, as well as time dedicated for independent study. Assessments are completed within the module-block, giving more time in the summer period to focus on the project.

Network at talks given by professional bodies, gain insights from visiting industrialists and build your connections. You'll also be able to apply your knowledge and skills to design projects.

• Study within our state-of-the-art School of Engineering Building.
• Take advantage of 70 years of experience.
• Participate in industry-led guest lectures.

• Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields
• Engage in tutorials that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning
• Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
• Gain valuable experience by engaging in practical assignments that simulate real-world tasks and cultivate job-ready skills
• Develop critical technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with specialised equipment and techniques through laboratory work

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26

The following must be taken:

The following may be taken:

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.