Webinar recap: Introduction to the School of Engineering, Geoscience, Infrastructure & Society

We recently hosted an Introduction to the School of Engineering, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society (EGIS) webinar, led by our Enrolment Adviser, Mhairi Bruce. The session gave prospective students an overview of online study at Heriot-Watt, including what to expect, the benefits of choosing us, and practical guidance on support, assessments and progression.

Why choose Heriot-Watt Online?

With over 25 years’ experience in distance learning, Heriot-Watt is a leading, internationally recognised university. We are:

• Ranked 25th in the UK and 3rd in Scotland (Complete University Guide 2026).
• 12th in the UK for graduate salaries (Daily Mail University Guide 2026).
• Scottish University of the Year runner-up, and 1st in the UK and Scotland for building (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026).

Our programmes are designed for professionals balancing study with work and personal commitments. You can apply new skills immediately in your workplace, expanding both your knowledge and your professional network. Many programmes are also industry-accredited.

Our online EGIS programmes

Within the School of Engineering, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society (EGIS), we offer a wide range of master’s degrees delivered fully online. Each programme has its own dedicated cohort of students and academic staff, so you will study alongside professionals with similar interests and career goals.

Current online programmes include:

• MSc Energy
• MSc Advanced Concrete Technology
• MSc Civil Engineering and Construction Management
• MSc Safety and Risk Management
• MSc Petroleum Engineering
• MSc International Marine Science
• MSc Safety, Risk and Reliability Engineering
• MSc Renewable and Sustainable Energy Transition
• MSc Building Services Engineering
• MSc Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying
• MSc Construction Project Management

This breadth highlights the strength of EGIS across engineering, energy, construction, and applied sciences, allowing you to pursue a programme that fits your career path while benefiting from Heriot-Watt’s expertise in your chosen field.

How online learning works

At Heriot-Watt Online, we provide a flexible virtual learning environment (VLE) that allows students to access course materials, lectures, assignments and discussion forums in one convenient location. Key features include:

• No fixed log-in times - you study at your own pace.
• Resources such as lecture notes, videos, e-textbooks and LinkedIn Learning.
• Support from tutors, our student support team and fellow students through forums and informal “café” areas.
• Optional free preparatory courses in digital study and academic skills are available before you begin.

Study commitment and assessments

Each master’s-level course requires around 200 hours of study, with most students completing their programme in three to four years while working full-time. The minimum timeframe is two and a half years, with a maximum of eight years.

Assessment is through online submissions – no in-person exams are required. You’ll download your assessment, complete it within 24 hours, and upload it to the VLE. All assessments are included in course fees, with resits charged separately.

Your qualification and graduation

Our online students receive the same degree certificate as on-campus peers, with no distinction between study modes. You are also welcome to attend graduation ceremonies at any of our campuses in Edinburgh, Dubai or Malaysia.

After graduation

Upon graduating, you will join the Watt Club, the UK’s oldest alumni association, with access to networking opportunities, career support through Grad Futures and a 20% alumni discount on future study.

Watch the full recording

If you’d like to revisit the session or catch up in full, you can watch the full recording here:

Explore our online EGIS programmes

If you’re interested in studying with the School of Engineering, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, here are some ways to get started:

• Browse our programmes: explore the full range of EGIS online master’s degrees and find the one that best suits your career goals.
• Get in touch with Mhairi, our Enrolment Adviser for EGIS, who can answer your questions and guide you through the application process. You can get in touch with her by emailing HWOnlineApps@hw.ac.uk or booking a call. You can also read our recent Q&A with Mhairi to get her insights on studying online.

We’re here to support you at every step, from choosing the right programme to starting your studies.