Civil Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering

Who benefits from the Bachelor's distance learning programme in Civil Engineering at Wilhelm Büchner University?

The Bachelor's degree programme in Civil Engineering at Wilhelm Büchner University is aimed at all those who are seeking a solid academic education in construction engineering and wish to pursue this alongside their career or other commitments. The target group includes professionals and career changers from technical or craft professions who aim to qualify for civil engineering tasks. School leavers who value practical relevance and self-organization also find a suitable offer in distance learning. The course is designed for people who understand technical correlations, are interested in sustainable infrastructure and construction, and want to contribute responsibly to the built environment.

Admission requirements: What do you need to start?

The following formal admission requirements apply for enrolling in the Bachelor's programme in Civil Engineering:

• General university entrance qualification (A-levels) or
• Subject-specific university entrance qualification or
• University of Applied Sciences entrance qualification or
• Any other university admission authorization recognized as equivalent by the Hessian Ministry of Science and Art or
• Successful completion of the university entrance examination (HZP) after two semesters of study

Alternatively, admission is also possible without (subject-related) A-levels if one of the following qualifications is available:

• Master craftsman's certificate, qualification as a business specialist, or successful completion of the engineering examination (each without further entrance examination or aptitude test)
• Completed at least three-year vocational training (grade 2.5 or better), intermediate educational qualification, and at least two years of full-time professional activity

Prior academic or non-academic achievements can be credited for individual modules, reducing both the duration of study and the costs.

Personal requirements for a successful distance learning programme in Civil Engineering include:

• Interest in technical and scientific issues, particularly in mathematics, physics, and construction
• Basic knowledge in mathematics - these can also be refreshed with an optional preparatory course
• Self-motivation and ability to learn independently and organize oneself
• Willingness to familiarize oneself with digital tools and online learning systems such as the digital campus of Wilhelm Büchner University
• Ability to work in a team for project-related work and enjoy communication in online seminars or practical phases
• Sense of practical problem-solving and sustainable development strategies in construction

The programme is designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your needs. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for individuals who want to independently coordinate their career, family, and educational goals.

What do you learn in the Bachelor of Civil Engineering (B. Eng.) at Wilhelm Büchner University?

The degree programme provides you with comprehensive engineering fundamentals, practical skills and methodological knowledge in the field of civil engineering. The structure follows the German Qualifications Framework for Higher Education Degrees and combines basic principles, specific expertise, and projects. Throughout your studies, you will engage with the following components:

• Mathematical, natural, and engineering fundamentals: Mathematics I and II, Technical Mechanics, Basics of Computer Science
• Expertise in construction and infrastructure: Building Materials, Building Construction, CAD, Building Physics, Technical Building Services, Hydraulic Engineering, Hydraulics, Structural Mechanics, Construction Operations, Construction and Contract Law
• Construction Planning and Management: Construction Management, Costing/Bill of Quantities (with lab), Construction Project Management, Building Life Cycle Management
• Infrastructure and Sustainability: Traffic Planning, Urban Water and Waste Management, Digital Tools and Sustainable Construction Concepts, Energy and Environment
• Interdisciplinary Skills: Business Administration, Legal Foundations, Communication, Management, Intercultural Competencies
• Practical Projects and Bachelor Thesis: Engineering Project, Bachelor Thesis with Colloquium, Professional Practical Phase

Your learning journey begins with an introductory project focusing on self-organization, time management, and motivation. Additionally, you benefit from the AI learning assistant KILEA, which is available to help you with any questions around the clock.

Starting from the higher semesters, you choose one of two specializations:

• Structural Engineering: In-depth knowledge of structural design, solid construction, steel and timber construction, statics
• Construction Management and Sustainability: Focus on sustainable construction, construction project management, real estate financing, and the environment

How does the distance learning programme in Civil Engineering at WBH work?

The programme is modular and consists of seven semesters, with mostly five modules per semester. You will work on the content through self-study, supported by multimedia learning materials, e-books, webinars, and digital labs. Each module includes assessment components such as assignments, exams (some online), and oral examinations. You can tailor the pace of learning individually, allowing you to pursue the degree alongside your profession.

• Start of Studies: Anytime possible (no NC restrictions)
• Standard Period of Study: 42 months (7 semesters), free extension of up to 21 months
• Practical Elements: Professional Practical Phase (BPP), Laboratory Sections, Engineering Project
• Flexibility: Personalized learning pace, exams can be taken at different locations or online

Moreover, you can have previous achievements from training, studies, or professional experience recognized, thereby saving time and study fees.

What are your career prospects after completing the Bachelor of Civil Engineering?

With a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (B. Eng.) from WBH, you are well-prepared for various roles in the construction industry. Typical fields of work range from structural design, traffic and infrastructure planning, construction operations and project management, to sustainable construction concepts. You qualify for positions in:

• Structural Planning and Statics
• Construction and Site Management
• Work Preparation, Costing, and Bill of Quantities
• Traffic Planning and Infrastructure Construction
• Project Development and Project Management
• Technical Sales, Project Control, and Public Administration

In the specialization modules, you further refine your profile: either becoming an expert in structural engineering (e.g. in structural design and static calculations) or focusing on construction management and sustainability (e.g. working as a construction project manager, developing sustainable real estate projects).

How and where do you study Civil Engineering at WBH?

The entire study programme is conducted as a flexible distance learning course. This means:

• You primarily study online from home or any location of your choice
• You can utilize various locations for face-to-face sessions, laboratory events, or exams
• The digital campus and tools like the AI learning assistant KILEA support you around the clock

Wilhelm Büchner University is located in Darmstadt but is nationally recognised as a private distance learning institution and has been accredited by numerous accreditation bodies.

Costs and Financing

Tuition fees start at approximately 381 euros per month depending on the chosen payment model.

• Flexible Payment Models: Various monthly models available
• Recognition of Previous Achievements: For every five recognized ECTS credits, one monthly rate is waived
• Funding Options: Tax deductibility, possible BAföG, scholarships, instalment payments
• Free Extension of the study period by up to 21 months

Tip: Check whether you can have modules recognized through work experience or further education to save time and fees.