If studying civil engineering is for you, but you’re not sure where to go, our list pulling together some of the top unis in the UK for the subject is for you.
Updated: 24 Sept 2025Civil engineering focuses on the design, construction and maintenance of the built environment. That includes large public structures such as bridges, roads, airports and railways. It’s a significant part of daily life, especially for those living in urban areas. As a civil engineering graduate, you could find yourself working as a designer, on-site investigator, risk assessor, project manager and more. If this subject is for you, then you’re probably wondering where to go to study it. Using Complete University Guide’s league tables, we’ve put together a list of some of the best unis across the UK for civil engineering based on different key criteria.
For over 100 years, the University of Reading has been driving positive social change and transforming lives. Founded in 1885 as an Oxford University extension college, the University of Reading has built a legacy of inclusive education, social innovation and academic excellence. From the university’s support of the suffragette movement to its advocacy for the decriminalization of homosexuality in the UK, Reading has fought for social equality and access to education throughout its history.
NEXT: Read what students think of civil engineering at University of Reading.
Imperial College London is world-renowned for its research, so it’s no surprise that it’s topped the UK civil engineering league tables for research quality. As a university focusing on science, engineering, medicine and business, you’ll have access to plenty of specialist facilities and be learning alongside students with similar academic interests. Located in central London, you’ll be able to benefit from everything the UK’s capital has to offer if you choose to study here.
NEXT: Read what students think of civil engineering at Imperial College London.
It’s a tie at the top of the tables for graduate outcomes in civil engineering! The University of Surrey, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh and University of South Wales received brilliant marks when it comes to students finding work after studying one of their civil engineering courses.
One of the oldest universities in the UK and indeed the world, the University of Cambridge has a long and illustrious history. Not only is it one of the oldest universities, but also one of the most well-respected, with an outstanding international reputation for teaching and research quality. With its picturesque location, great transport connections and incredible reputation, you can be sure that you’ll be getting a world-class education in a fabulous location.
The University of Edinburgh is situated in a prime location within what is often considered one of the most desirable cities to live in the UK. It’s the sixth oldest university in the UK and is organised around several campuses in Edinburgh. For centuries a hub of ideas and innovation, the inventors of the steam engine, the telephone, colour photography, and x-ray technology were all born in Edinburgh, and the university continues in its long tradition.
NEXT: Read what students think of civil engineering at the University of Edinburgh.
With a history dating back to 1833, Cardiff University has had plenty of time to refine its craft, and as a result it’s now a highly respected university with a diverse student population. As a part of the Russell Group, the university is research-intensive, and has academics working on cutting-edge research across a huge variety of disciplines. As Wales’ capital city, there’s plenty to keep student busy in Cardiff, as well as a strong sporting scene and great transport connections.
NEXT: Read what students think of civil engineering at Cardiff University.
Located in the heart of Northern Ireland’s capital city, Queen’s University Belfast is a great pick if you’re thinking of studying in Northern Ireland. It’s a member of the Russell Group and publishes internationally recognised research across a wide range of different topics. The stunning architecture here is perfect for civil engineering students, as you’ll be able to admire the buildings while learning how to design and plan structures yourself. With its central location, you’ll easily be able to get around Belfast.
And the top university overall in the UK for civil engineering in 2026 is the University of Cambridge. A huge congratulations for this achievement!