Distance learning program Civil Engineering (B.Eng.) – IU International University

👉 The distance learning programme in Civil Engineering (B.Eng.) at IU International University is aimed at individuals with a technical and mathematical interest who wish to study alongside their professional commitments or flexibly alongside other obligations. The course is open to high school graduates, applicants with a technical background, work experience or recognized advanced training courses. The focus is on basic engineering principles, practical specializations – for example in digitalization, sustainable construction, and construction project management – as well as several compulsory practical projects. The programme is flexible in terms of time and location, a six-week pre-internship is required. Admission is granted without a NC (Numerus Clausus). The programme can start at any time, with various scheduling options and online exams providing additional flexibility.

At a Glance

🏫 Provider IU International University, UAS based in Erfurt (Germany)
Studying, anytime and anywhere – according to your own rules: The distance learning at IU International University (IU) not only makes this possible, but is constantly meeting individual learning needs and providing the latest gadgets for a maximally flexible study. The state-recognized bachelor's and master's programs, which can be completed part-time or full-time, are intended to adapt to the students' everyday lives – whether alongside work, during parental leave, or while traveling the world. Self-directed learning has never been easier: from the innovative learning app IU Learn, through the online campus with live formats, to the in-house and thus first AI-based university chatbot Syntea. Currently, there are over 130,000 students enrolled at IU – making IU the largest German university.
📋 Study Format Distance learning program
🎓 Field of Study Technology & InformaticsCivil Engineering
📜 Degree Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.)
⏳ Duration 6 Semesters, Study effort 29 hours weekly
🎯 ECTS 180 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German
📖 Course contents Construction, Introduction to Scientific Work for IT and Engineering, Building Materials Science: Materials, Properties and Sustainability, Mathematics: Linear Algebra, Surveying, Technical Mechanics: Statics, Construction Systems, Collaborative Work, Advanced Building Materials Science and Testing Methods, Mathematics: Analysis, Building Informatics, Technical Mechanics: Elastostatics, Building Physics, Transportation Infrastructure Construction, Construction Business Management, Structural Mechanics, Geotechnics, Fundamentals of Concrete Construction, Law, Fundamentals of Steel and Timber Construction, Urban and Transportation Planning, Building Technology, Waste and Wastewater Management, Building Services Engineering, Building Information Modeling, Hydraulic Engineering, Steel Construction, Timber Construction, BIM Simulation, Practical Project: Civil Engineering I, Practical Project: Civil Engineering II, Artificial Intelligence, Project: Advanced Building Materials Science and Testing Methods, Bachelor Thesis, Elective Modules such as Construction Project Management, Construction Law and Cost Estimation, Digital Planning Tools, Interdisciplinary Field Trip, Designing in Concrete Construction, Designing in Steel and Timber Construction, Architecture and Construction Field Trip, Mastering Prompts, Career Development, General Studies, Special Features: Project Work, Communication and Management Aspects
📚 Electives Construction project management, construction law and cost estimation, designing in solid construction, designing in steel and timber construction, digital planning tools, nodes and stability in steel and timber construction, traffic management, road construction and maintenance, construction management, private and public construction law
👥 In-person sessions numerous virtual teaching events
✅ ZFU Approval The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Civil Engineering under the number 1107120.
📅 Enrollment Anytime
💶 Fees
from 259 € monthly
from 15063 € total
🔗 More Info https://www.iu-fernstudium.de
  • 3 flexible time models from full-time to part-time for every situation
  • interesting specialisations, such as in construction project management or in Smart Building
  • innovative learning concept with IU Learn app and digital lectures
  • incl. 3 practical projects of 150 hours each during the course of studies

Your path to civil engineering: admission, personal requirements, and target group

With your B.Eng. in Civil Engineering, you could work as a project manager in an engineering office, as a construction manager, or as an employee in the building department.

The distance learning course Civil Engineering (B.Eng.) at IU International University is aimed at all those who want to shape future-oriented projects in construction. The focus is on people who have an interest in technology, mathematics, and sustainable solutions - whether you have just completed your (technical) high school diploma, have a technical education or master qualification with professional experience, or are looking to embark on a new career path as a career changer. The course is often chosen by ambitious professionals who want to study flexibly alongside work or family commitments, as well as by prospective students who value a broad engineering fundamental education with practical specialisations.

Admission requirements

University entrance qualification:

  • Direct admission to the Civil Engineering bachelor's program is possible with a general university entrance qualification (A-levels), subject-specific higher education entrance qualification, or vocational baccalaureate.
  • Graduates from Waldorf schools/professional high schools: Vocational baccalaureate may need to be recognized by the authorities (consider federal state).
  • International qualifications: Equivalency assessment according to Anabin by the university.

Studying without a school leaving certificate:

  • With a master craftsman's certificate or recognized advanced training qualification (e.g. IHK business administrator, state-certified technician).
  • With at least two years of recognized vocational training and subsequently at least 3 years of full-time work experience (for unrelated professions, a trial study may be required).

German language skills:

  • For German-language programs, foreign applicants must provide proof of a B2 language certificate (TestDaF, DSH, Telc, ÖSD).

Preparatory internship:

  • Before starting your studies, a six-week subject-related preparatory internship (30 working days) in a construction company or related business is mandatory.
  • Exemptions are possible if equivalent preparatory internships, job-specific trainings, or relevant professional experience are demonstrated (details in the internship regulations of the course).

Additional notes:

  • No numerus clausus: Admission is granted without NC.
  • Start of studies possible at any time, straightforward online application, one-month trial month.
  • Recognition of previous achievements from education, studies, or professional life is possible.

Personal requirements

  • Mathematical and technical understanding: Interest in natural sciences, logical thinking, and pleasure in working with numbers.
  • Analytical skills: Ability to methodically grasp and solve complex tasks - important for planning, construction, and project management.
  • Willingness to learn and self-organization: Motivation for independent learning, discipline, and good time management are crucial in distance learning.
  • Communication and teamwork skills: In construction, a lot of coordination with architects, authorities, construction companies, and project participants is required - soft skills are in demand.
  • IT affinity: Openness to digital tools, online learning environments, and modern examination formats (e.g. video lectures, online exams, Building Information Modeling).
  • Practical knowledge and experience: Practical knowledge in the construction or technical field is advantageous but not mandatory. The mandatory preparatory internship ensures a practical start.

The distance learning course Civil Engineering at IU is ideal for you if you want to take on challenging projects in technology, environment, and infrastructure - whether you are planning your career in an engineering office, in the building department, or as a project manager in the construction industry.

What do you learn in the distance learning course Civil Engineering at IU?

The distance learning course "Civil Engineering" at IU International University provides you with a broad-based engineering education. You will receive in-depth knowledge ranging from basic technical principles to current innovative topics such as sustainable construction and digitization in the construction industry.

  • Mathematical and scientific fundamentals: Central basic subjects such as mathematics (linear algebra, analysis), building physics, and the basics of building materials science are covered.
  • Technical know-how: Modules such as structural engineering, technical mechanics (statics, elastostatics), structural mechanics, geotechnics, and construction informatics prepare you for typical work as a civil engineer.
  • Planning, design, and implementation of structures: You will learn about the planning and realization of construction projects — from structural engineering to construction economics, urban and traffic planning, solid construction, as well as steel and timber construction.
  • Digitization in the construction industry: Topics such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital planning tools are integral parts of the curriculum.
  • Practical and project-based focus: During your studies, you will complete at least three practical projects, each consisting of 150 hours. Many modules include exercises and practice-oriented project tasks.
  • Optional specializations: Throughout your studies, you can choose several specialization modules, such as construction project management, construction law and cost estimation, or digital techniques in construction.
  • Current topics: New technologies, sustainability, resource efficiency, and soft skills like collaborative work are specifically taught.

The programme concludes with the Bachelor's thesis, where you will independently work on a scientific or practice-oriented topic.

Course Structure and Organization: How does distance learning at IU work?

The distance learning course in Civil Engineering is designed to be flexible in terms of time and location. You can enroll at any time and start immediately — there are no fixed semester dates.

  • Three study models: Choose between full-time study (36 months), part-time I (48 months), or part-time II (72 months). You can switch models at any time if your life situation changes.
  • Modular study: Each module typically consists of 5 ECTS and concludes with its own examination (e.g. online exam, essay, or presentation).
  • Digital learning platform: All materials, video lectures, Interactive Books, and the IU Learn app are available to you around the clock. You can take exams online from anywhere — or alternatively at one of the examination centres in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
  • Virtual teaching events: Many modules offer live tutorials, seminars, and exchange opportunities with teachers and fellow students — all fully digital.
  • Practical relevance: Three mandatory practical projects and a six-week pre-internship before starting your studies ensure a close integration of theory and practice.
  • Support system: A broad network of professors, tutors, study advisors will support you individually.
  • Non-binding trial month: Test the programme flexibly for 1 month — costs only occur if you continue.

Due to the flexible structure, you can effectively combine the course with your work or other commitments. Changing the time model is uncomplicated. Semester breaks and cost-free extensions are provided if you need more time.

Your prospects after the distance learning course in Civil Engineering

With a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (B.Eng.) from IU International University, you have broad career options in a future-oriented industry:

  • Project manager: You plan, control, and coordinate construction projects from conception to completion, acting as a link between clients, authorities, architects, and construction companies.
  • Urban, regional, and transportation planner: You develop innovative mobility concepts, design urban spaces, and implement sustainable infrastructure projects.
  • Public sector professional: In the municipal administration, you take on tasks ranging from urban planning to project approval and supervision of public construction projects.
  • Offices & companies in the construction industry: Opportunities exist in engineering firms, construction companies, real estate firms, and specialized offices in environmental planning, building physics or digitization.

With this academically and state-recognized degree, IU provides you with a solid foundation to pursue a technical career, a managerial position, or further studies based on your interests.

Costs & Financing: What expenses can you expect?

The tuition fees for the distance learning course in Civil Engineering at IU depend on your chosen time model:

  • Full-time (36 months): from £399 per month
  • Part-time I (48 months): from £344 per month
  • Part-time II (72 months): from £259 per month
  • A one-time graduation fee of £699 is due at the end of the programme.

All digital teaching materials, the use of the IU Learn app, virtual events, and the online library are included in the price. Online exams are free of charge. On-site exams only incur additional costs if travel is required.

  • Flexible switching: You can switch the time model for free — and if you need more time, an extension of up to 12 months is possible at no extra cost.
  • Trial month & discounts: You can try the programme for free for the first month. There are regular discount promotions — look out for current offers to reduce the monthly fee.
  • Financing & Support: Options include BAföG, student loans, educational funds, or tax-deductibility of fees as business expenses. Recognition of prior learning further reduces costs (£30 per ECTS).
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