Civil engineering's image in the UK – a 10-year update

For 10 years the authors have monitored the image of civil engineering in the UK, including how it is perceived in schools. A high point was reached in 2008–2009 when there was plenty of work and a shortage of graduates. Since then, economic turmoil has led to redundancies, fewer graduate vacancies and a worsening image – illustrated by a significant fall in applicants for civil engineering degrees. However, the authors believe it is possible to optimise the image through work experience, school visits to universities and interesting television programmes. They conclude that if the profession is to attract highly qualified students, despite hard economic times, it needs to continue its involvement with schools and highlight attractive features.