Civil engineering

The degree program focuses on how buildings can be technically constructed and what specific characteristics different construction types entail. The areas of responsibility are very diverse: from the construction of single-family homes and the calculation of bridge structures to the design of transportation routes or water supply systems, civil engineers are in high demand in many areas of the construction sector.

In the first four semesters of your studies, you will acquire a broad foundation in all aspects of structural engineering. The curriculum includes: structural design and engineering, mathematics, technical drawing, physics, geotechnics, statics, building materials science, steel construction, timber and masonry construction, project management, and business administration.

After the fourth semester, you can choose to specialize in one of the three areas of focus: construction management and project control, infrastructure planning , or structural design and engineering .

Civil engineering students maintain close contact with architecture students. The aim of this learning model is to achieve a better understanding between the two disciplines, as is also needed in later professional life.

The following is a list of courses. The numbers indicate the number of hours per week or the number of credit points allocated to each subject for each semester. A total of 210 credit points must be earned. Students in the Bachelor's program in Civil Engineering at THM have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad at a foreign university without extending their study period through a "mobility window." A semester abroad is recommended. Information about the content of individual courses and Elective modules can be found in the module handbook.

The detailed study program can be found in the module handbook.

1. Interest in technical issues

Civil engineering deals with the technical realization of buildings. It is therefore important that you have an interest in technical issues, such as structural engineering or statics.

2. Interest in scientific principles

During studies and later in professional life, scientific as well as technical questions are addressed. For example, when dealing with the molecular structure of various building materials, strength tests of a material, or the preparation of a soil report.

3. Good communication skills

The degree program prepares students for a future career in the construction sector. In this industry, it is important to be able to communicate with many different stakeholders (architects, tradespeople, authorities, etc.). Good communication and problem-solving skills are therefore essential.

4. Enjoyment of problem-solving

In the construction industry, there are few off-the-shelf solutions, as the conditions and circumstances of each project are different. Developing individual solutions and employing engineering-like thinking are therefore essential prerequisites for a successful career.

5. Don't be afraid to get dirty

Construction sites can sometimes get dirty. Civil engineers shouldn't be afraid of being out on site from time to time.

Constantin Jantos studied civil engineering at THM and answers the most important questions about studying in this episode of "Quick Questions".

The focus area of ​​construction management deals with project implementation and the control of construction processes. Students learn about various construction methods in order to competently manage projects from conception to completion.
Key aspects include project organization, communication with various stakeholders, cost estimation, and compliance with building regulations.

The detailed study program can be found in the module handbook.

In the infrastructure planning specialization, students learn how to plan, for example, roads, tunnels, water and wastewater supply, but also ports, airports or entire city districts.

Typical questions include, for example, the road layout in a new development area, the dimensioning and laying of sewage pipes, the electricity grid infrastructure or the connection of a region to the rail network.

Infrastructure planners need good communication and organizational skills in addition to their technical and planning knowledge, for example when it comes to negotiations with municipalities.

The detailed study program can be found in the module handbook.

The focus area of ​​structural design and engineering centers on the static analysis and stability of buildings. Students study statics, materials, and the structural characteristics of buildings. Mathematical concepts are central to the calculation of various structural systems.
How does the load-bearing behavior of a wooden building differ from that of a stone building? What special considerations regarding bending must be taken into account in steel structures? What type of foundation is required for a building to meet structural requirements? These and similar questions are addressed in this specialization.

The detailed study program can be found in the module handbook.

From planning work in an engineering firm to project management in a construction company, to conceptual work in government agencies, a wide range of positions are open to you. You can also work as a civil engineer in the field of environmental and infrastructure management.

Typical areas include:

• Construction company, construction management
• Structural engineering
• Hydraulic engineering, water management, wastewater
• transport
• Building informatics
• Spatial and infrastructure planning
• Geotechnical engineering, foundation engineering
• Structural engineering/calculation
• Construction operation/construction management
• Environmental technology

Employment opportunities for graduates can be found, for example, in:

• engineering offices
• Construction companies
• Building material and component companies
• industrial companies
• Public service
• Building authorities
• Research and teaching

Apart from these options, self-employment in a wide variety of fields is also possible.

In the "GettING Started" study program variant, the number of modules in the first semesters is reduced. The program offers students academic support and guidance throughout their individual studies, extending the standard period of study by two semesters.

All information can be found on the Getting Started page.

degree

Bachelor (B.Sc.)

Standard period of study

7 semesters

Accreditation

ASIIN Düsseldorf

Study options

Full-time studies

Main language of instruction

German

Study location

Giessen

Cost

Semester fee

Admission mode

The course is open admission. You only need to enroll within the respective deadline and meet the enrollment requirements to secure a place.

Start of studies

Winter and summer semesters

Bridge courses

Before the start of lectures, THM one-week bridging courses in subjects including mathematics, physics, programming, and chemistry. First-year students can use these courses to refresh their prior knowledge and fill any gaps.

Basic internship

A twelve-week basic internship must be completed by the end of the third semester . It is recommended to complete this internship before starting the degree program.

Enrollment period

June 1st to September 20th (winter semester)
December 1st to March 20th (summer semester)

Application period for international students

Applications are accepted via uni-assist from April 1st to July 15th (winter semester) and from October 1st to January 15th (summer semester)
Further information for international applicants is available from the International Office.

Application

Continue to enrollment