This course is available through the following application route(s)
Studying this Masters, you will cover a wide range of topics not traditionally covered in undergraduate degrees; the programme includes specialist modules in structural dynamics, bridge engineering, structural design and professional engineering. You will also learn how to work in a multidisciplinary setting through combined modules with Architecture students. Structural engineering is a continually evolving profession, and through the third Trimester Research Project you will learn how to apply this specialist knowledge to develop new concepts and ideas under the supervision of research active academic staff. This programme will distinguish you as having specialist knowledge in the area of Structural Engineering and provide you with a competitive edge over your peers in the job market. Modules are taught by a combination of experienced academic staff and senior industry practitioners to provide students with the conceptual and managerial perspectives vital to a successful career in structural engineering.
Please note for the part time version it is the full-time programme taken over two years. Lectures take place during the working week; however, the schedule allows more flexibility for those working. Typically, in Year 1, a student would take 4 modules in Trimester 1 and 4 modules in Trimester 2. In Year 2, a student would take the Structural Research Project module and the remaining taught modules.
The programme provides advanced learning in the field of Structural Engineering and will provide you with an ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex structural engineering problems and also to develop the requisite skills to design and conduct experiments and to apply standard and specialised research tools and methods of enquiry to solve problems in new and emerging areas of Structural Engineering. These skills are key attributes for lifelong learning and continued professional development in an ever evolving society.
Our graduates would typically follow careers in structural engineering consultancy, engineering contracting, construction management, project planning both in Ireland and abroad. Employed at Masters levels graduates can expect more responsibility, and faster professional progression, earlier in their careers.
Graduates have progressed to career opportunities in a broad range of internationally recognised companies including: Roughan
O’Donovan, Arup, Sisk, Jacobs, RPS, OCSC, Walls, Ward & Burke, and Mott McDonald amongst others.
Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.
Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.
| Trimester | Credits | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Stage 1 Core Modules |
ARCT40030 | Realising Built Projects | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
CVEN40390 | Innovation Leadership | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
CVEN40550 | Structural Dynamics | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
CVEN40610 | Advanced Materials | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
CVEN40770 | Analysis of Structures 3 | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
STAT40690 | Quantitative Methods for Engineers | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
CVEN40600 | Structural Research Project | Year-long (12 months) | 30 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
ARCT40870 | Agency: Design / Build | Spring | 5 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
CVEN40050 | Design of Structures 3 | Spring | 5 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
CVEN40120 | Bridge Engineering | Spring | 5 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
CVEN40210 | Geotechnics 4 | Spring | 5 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
CVEN40500 | Engineering Design Project | Spring | 10 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
MEEN30130 | Energy Systems in Buildings I | Spring | 5 |
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 5 of: SPRING OPTIONS: Select 30 credits of Options in the Spring Trimester. |
MEEN40430 | Professional Engineering (Management) | Spring | 5 |
UCD is strongly committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), embedding sustainability in teaching, research, operations, and community engagement. Sustainability principles are integrated into this programme, ensuring students graduate equipped to address global challenges. UCD’s leadership in this area is internationally recognised, ranking 49th globally and 1st in Ireland in the QS World University Rankings for Sustainability 2024. UCD also leads impactful research in areas such as climate action, clean energy, and social equity, supported by a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy focused on reducing emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering a sustainable campus culture.
Here are the SDGs which align more visibly with this programme:
Graduate Profile - Angelene Dascanio, USA
This Masters is fast-paced, challenging and encompasses the skills required for a career in structural engineering. It includes both general and specialty concepts, for example, I took modules in steel and concrete design, but was also able to take a bridge engineering module to fulfil my interest in that particular field. I was initially drawn to the program because it uniquely incorporates some architecture modules into its curriculum. Also, I found the program framework, 60 credits of coursework and 30 credits of a research project, to be very efficient.
During the academic year I was able to focus solely on my coursework, meet with my professors for extra help, and study for examinations. Then, during the summer, my efforts were placed on carrying out a research project with the guidance of a professor in my field of interest. As an international student (from America), I felt welcomed by the faculty and fellow classmates. I experienced a smooth transition between the material I learned as an undergraduate and the material presented on this Masters. As a whole, the program effectively prepared me with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a structural engineering career.
Please note that UCD offers a number of graduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD graduate degree programme. For further information please see www.ucd.ie/global/scholarships/
The College of Engineering & Architecture also offer scholarships for non-EU students, for more information see: www.ucd.ie/eacollege/currentstudents/noneuscholarships.
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes
General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to MEngSc in Structural Engineering:
| ROWCLASS | Apply to |
|---|---|
| showAudience-audienceEU showAudience-audienceInt | T279 MEngSc in Structural Engineering Master of Engineering Science Full-Time Commencing September 2026 Graduate Taught |
