Roochie C.

Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?

I chose the University of Surrey for its highly regarded MSc in Bridge Engineering — the only dedicated, well-ranked program of its kind worldwide which perfectly aligned with my initial goal of specializing in this niche field. Although my career progression required a shift to the Structural Engineering MSc after one year, Surrey's reputation for excellence in civil engineering made it the ideal choice.

"I was further encouraged by colleagues from diverse nationalities who are Surrey alumni and have built thriving international careers."

I knew that studying at Surrey would equip me with advanced knowledge and a globally recognized qualification to propel my professional growth.

What are the best things about Surrey and your course?

Surrey’s distance learning platform stands out for its flexibility, enabling me to balance a full-time career with advanced studies by accessing high-quality video lectures and module materials at my convenience. The digital environment is intuitive and offers seamless communication channels with professors and classmates.

"What truly elevates the MSc in Structural Engineering is the faculty - a blend of distinguished academics and active industry professionals who enrich theoretical concepts with real-world case studies, practical scenarios, and current engineering challenges."

This combination ensures a relevant education that directly enhances my professional expertise.

What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?

Studying here as a postgraduate has enriched my professional network through participation in prestigious UK-wide competitions, such as the annual Structural Concrete competition organised by The Concrete Centre, where I worked on a design challenge as part of my coursework. This event provided invaluable opportunities to connect with leading industry professionals, representatives from professional institutions, and academics from across the country.

"Even as a distance learner, Surrey’s strong industry links and virtual engagement platforms have enabled me to attend guest lectures, webinars, and networking sessions that bridge academia and practice."

This vibrant postgraduate community, combined with access to cutting-edge resources and real-world exposure, has significantly enhanced both my technical skills and career prospects.

What are your career plans?

As an established professional in the workforce, I plan to continue along my current career path in structural engineering while immediately applying the advanced knowledge and practical insights gained from Surrey’s MSc program to enhance my performance, tackle complex projects, and deliver greater value in my role. Upon graduation, I intend to leverage this globally recognized qualification to pursue more senior positions within my organization or the wider industry.

"My long-term goal is to progress into strategic leadership roles where I can be responsible for larger scale projects and mentor emerging engineers."

This degree serves as a pivotal step in achieving sustained professional growth and making a lasting impact in the field.

What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?

I strongly recommend Surrey’s MSc to any practicing engineer who is serious about advancing their career. The programme strikes an outstanding balance between academic theory and real-world application, delivered by lecturers who are both leading researchers and active industry practitioners. For those already in full-time employment, the distance-learning format is genuinely flexible yet never compromises on quality. Combining a demanding job (and often family responsibilities) with Master’s-level study requires discipline and careful time management, but the investment on continuous personal development pays off through sharper technical skills, greater professional confidence, and tangible career progression.