MSc Advanced Structural Engineering

Tell us a bit about yourself
I studied Civil Engineering in Poland and graduated during 2016, but I never had the chance to work as an engineer. In 2018, I moved to Edinburgh and decided to try a Masters in Engineering. I did it because I wanted to raise my qualification as an engineer, improve my English skills and get a Master’s diploma from a UK University. I chose Edinburgh Napier in 2019 because the Advanced Structural Engineering course was the most appealing to me, and ENU has a great employability rate for their graduates.

What made you decide to study Structural Engineering?
I enjoy Maths, Physics and the rewarding feeling of solving complex problems. Calculating and designing structures is my way of contributing to society and helping others. It’s a great feeling to see structures I have designed in real world, and as an international student I appreciate the fact that mathematics and equations are a universal language that any engineer understands, so there are no language barriers in the workplace.

Has your course given you any practical opportunities?
During my course, I joined the BEX (Built Environmental Exchange) placement, where I got help finding an industrial partner to work with during my dissertation. Thanks to that placement, my dissertation was able to address real industry needs for research. As a direct result of BEX, I also got a scholarship which paid off my student loan. Even though my course only lasted for 1 year, I would recommend the placements and internship opportunities to everyone.

How have you found the facilities? How have you used them?
The Merchiston campus facilities are well equipped, especially the Jack Kilby Computing Centre (JKCC). I used it for general study and to work on my degree assessments very often.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a Civil Engineering course?
The MSc Advanced Structural Engineering course is great. I would recommend it to anyone who would like to understand how the world around you works, and I am confident that you will be fascinated by the course content that’s on offer.