Railway Engineering BEng

The Railway Engineering programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competence required to design, build, operate, and manage the sophisticated and complex systems that characterise modern and future railway infrastructure. The course addresses the growing demand for skilled railway engineers by combining strong engineering fundamentals with specialist rail-focused knowledge and industry engagement.

The programme covers key areas of railway engineering, including rail systems, signalling, traction, and track engineering. Through hands-on projects and collaboration with industry partners, students gain practical insight into how railway systems are planned, constructed, maintained, and operated. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interfaces between different rail subsystems and how they work together to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable transport infrastructure.

A foundation year is available for students who require additional preparation before entering degree-level study. This year develops essential engineering knowledge and skills, including mathematics, mechanics, basic engineering principles, and professional and academic skills. The foundation year ensures students are well prepared for progression onto the main programme.

In the first year of the degree, students focus on core engineering principles relevant to railway and civil engineering. Modules cover areas such as engineering mathematics, materials, structural concepts, and surveying techniques, providing a strong technical foundation for more advanced rail-specific study.

The second year advances students’ knowledge into specialised areas, including rail engineering systems, geotechnical engineering, and project management. Students begin to explore how engineering decisions are made within complex rail projects, considering factors such as constructability, cost, safety, and environmental impact. Sustainable rail solutions and safety management are key themes throughout the programme.

An optional placement year provides students with valuable real-world experience within railway companies or related engineering organisations. This placement allows students to apply their academic learning in professional settings, develop practical and transferable skills, and build industry networks that enhance employability.

In the final year, students undertake advanced study in railway engineering, including modules focused on rail design, transport infrastructure, and the application of digital technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) for rail projects. The programme culminates in a capstone project, where students work independently or in teams to address a real engineering problem related to railway systems or infrastructure, integrating technical, managerial, and sustainability considerations.