Programme description for Civil and Structural Engineering, Master's Programme (2024–2027)

What do you learn?

Learning outcome

On successful completion of the study programme, the candidate will

Knowledge:

• have advanced knowledge about the construction of buildings, and especially understanding of the consequences in terms of sustainable development

• have great knowledge about the scientific theory and method of construction, materials and sustainability assessments

• be able to apply the knowledge into new areas of engineering sciences

• be able to analyze academic issues based on the subject area's history, traditions, character and place in society

Skills:

• be able to analyze existing theories, methods and interpretations in the field and work independently with practical and theoretical problem solving

• be able to use appropriate methods of research and academic development in an independent way

• be able to analyze and think critically about different sources of information and apply the information in order to structure and formulate scientific argumentations.

• be able to carry out an independent, limited research or development project under supervision, in accordance with the current ethical norms within the field of research.

 General knowledge:

• be able to analyze relevant ethical issues connected to academics, research and professional work.

• be able to apply knowledge and skills in to new areas in order to manage working with advanced tasks and projects

• be able to understand and master the terminology within the subject area in order to write and communicate an extensive independent work

• be able to communicate academic issues, analyzes and conclusions within the field, both with specialists and with the general public

• contribute to innovation and innovation processes

Structure and content

Admission requirements

The admission requirement is a completed and passed three-year bachelor's degree in engineering, within the areas civil and constructional engineering, or mechanical or marine construction, in line with the National Curriculum Regulations for Engineering Education in Norway. Furthermore, the following requirements are set, which in part go beyond the minimum requirements in the national curriculum regulations:

• At least 25 credits in relevant mathematics

• At least 5 credits in statistics

• At least 7.5 credits in physics

The weighted average grade of C or better is required.

Admission takes place in accordance with regulations on admission to studies and courses at the University of Agder https://lovdata.no/dokument/SF/forskrift/2021-11-24-3370?q=uia

General description and profile

The study program will give graduates high expertise in Civil and Structural Engineering. The program will emphasize knowledge of new materials and solutions. The teaching will reflect the wide range of professions graduates can work within, ranging from traditional construction companies to equipment manufacturing for offshore operations. The program focuses on sustainable development. Candidates shall understand the environmental consequences given by the choice of structural systems and materials, and through conscious planning of systems for the management, operation, and maintenance.

The study program is organized for full-time students, but can also be organized for part-time students in work. The specialization project and master's thesis in the last year, opens the possibility for mutual cooperation between the region's business community and students with the desire for specialization in a particular part of the industry.

Teaching methods

A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used: regular lectures, exercises under supervision and project work individually or in groups. Laboratory work is central to the study and included in most courses.

Most of the courses have compulsory projects and excersises as examination requirements. Regarding BYG515 Specialization Project and BYG508 Master's Thesis: For every student/group there will be compulsory guidance meetings.

The master's programme is designed for full time students. For students who want to be part time students there is a possibility to make an individual plan completing the master's degree in 3-4 years.

Assessment methods

The evaluation methods are closely linked to learning outcomes and working procedures of each subject. The plan is for individual assessment in most subjects, but group exam are also used.

There will be various forms of assessment, such as individual written exam, project, or a combination of these. Where the assessment is individual written exam is the prerequisite to sit for the exam that a major project is completed. This is usually performed in a group and under supervision.

Master thesis work is executed primarily in groups. The thesis paper must be presented orally before grading.

All examination assessments are graded.

Internationalization

University of Agder facilitate student mobility through established programs such as Erasmus and Nordplus.

For students who wish to complete part of their studies abroad, it is recommended to leave the master study program in the 3rd semester.

Overview of the universities that have exchange agreements with University of Agder, which is relevant for master students in civil engineering, will be found at www.uia.no student / student.

Requirements for continuing in programme

To start the thesis, at least 45 credits in the student's education plan must be passed before the start of the semester in which thesis will be written. For students who will have a thesis of 30 credits, 75 credits in the student's education plan must be passed. Topics which thesis builds on, must be passed.

Occupational profiles / further studies

The completed Master of Engineering should be able to go directly into professional work as an engineer in various areas. The main employers are consulting engineering firms, contractors, NODE companies and public sector communities and the Public Roads Administration. Master program qualifies students for further study at the doctoral level.

Qualification awarded

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (sivilingeniør).

Evaluation

Study programme evaluation is conducted annually in the programme committee in accordance with the Quality System, section 4.2. Before the meeting of the study programme committee, the student representative may obtain suggestions and ideas from fellow students

Contact person

Programme coordinator Ingrid Lande

mail: post at uia.no

phone + 47 3814 1000

Other information

A compulsory course in Health, Safety and Environment is required for students admitted to the programme.

It is a requirement that all students at UiA have their own portable computer (laptop) for use in teaching and examinations, see Examination Regulations, University of Agder, §12d