New advanced structural laboratory for Civil Engineering students
Civil Engineering students at the University of Huddersfield can now make use of an advanced structural laboratory specifically designed for those on the rapidly growing course.
The Structural and Geotechnical Lab is housed in the University’s Laura Annie Willson Building, home to a number of key research facilities, and enables testing and analysis of materials and structures.
The modern facility is designed to strengthen hands-on learning for those students on the BEng and integrated MEng Civil Engineering degree courses at the University, as well as to support research activities.
It is part of the University’s ongoing commitment to providing students with an excellent learning environment supported by the latest technology, and provides enhanced opportunities for practical learning, experimentation and research in the key areas of structures, geotechnics, and materials engineering.
The launch of the lab also comes as Civil Engineering, which was first introduced as a subject at Huddersfield in September 2024, is experiencing significant growth, with first-year student enrolment up by more than 50 per cent this year and a healthy number of applicants to study the subject for the next academic year.
Professor Marco Corradi, the University’s Subject Area Lead for Civil Engineering, commented: “This state-of-the-art facility marks a major step forward in innovation, research, and real-world impact for Civil Engineering at Huddersfield. We’re also thrilled to welcome collaboration with global companies and institutions.
“It’s also an exciting time ahead for Civil Engineering at Huddersfield as we experience significant growth. We now have three years fully active – Foundation Year, Year 1, and Year 2 – and we are moving towards the completion of both the BEng and MEng degrees. In addition, plans are underway to launch an MSc in Civil Engineering in the near future. This growth reflects not only increasing numbers but also a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and academic excellence.”
Dr Nicola Chieffo, Course Lead for MSc Civil Engineering, added: “It’s an exciting new page for Civil Engineering at the University of Huddersfield, having set up an advanced structural laboratory to enable experimental testing and analysis of materials and structures. This facility not only strengthens hands-on learning and continuous training for our students, but also supports research activities, fostering innovation and academic vision for the future.”
Find out more about Civil Engineering at Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield expanded its offer within the Department of Engineering in 2024, with students able to study Civil Engineering at Huddersfield for the first time. The course was designed around the EnABLE learning approach – Engineering in an Activity-Based Learning Environment – where students work in small multi-disciplinary teams to solve real-world engineering problems, to prepare graduates for a career in the sector.
The course itself can lead to potential careers as engineers in the following specialist areas: structural, geotechnical, transportation, water resources, environmental or urban planning.